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Contents
Features
19 40
The best roadtrips In
the UAE
Your guide to the
Where to watch
Football fever hits the
UAE with our top picks
p51
greatest destinations of where to support
in each of the seven your team in the World
emirates Cup

31 51
50 boredom beaters Shall we dance?
Stay sane this summer The Irish dance
with 50 great things spectacular, Lord Of
to do, from comedy to The Dance, hits the UAE
charity capital

p40
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 11
The round-up
16 99
Salaam
Essential reading
for the month of
Music
Is Chesney Hawkes still
the one and only? We
p62
June, plus a cheeky find out
chat with one of The
Wiggles 102
Club diary
44 All that’s happening in
Win, win, win Clubland this month,
To celebrate our plus one-on-one chat
31st birthday there with Steve Lawler
are a mammoth 31
competitions waiting 105
to be won Travel
Take a long-haul flight
54 to explore beautiful
Films New Zealand
We rate or slate this
month’s films including 113
Toy Story 3, The Hot list
A-Team, Shrek Forever Who’s top dog this
After and The Twilight month in spas,
Saga: Eclipse bars, brunches and
restaurants?
57
Eating out 122
Dinner at the Armani Backchat
hotel, afternoon teas Catboy shares a
put to the test, the best football supporter’s
seafood in the UAE and world of woe
we introduce a brand
new food critic

75
Arts
A new project from
The Third Line gallery,
plus June’s must-see
exhibitions

83
Shopping
p84
Interiors to transform
your home and our
pick of the most
exciting new stores

89
Mind & body
We visit the spa at
Atlantis, try Bikram
yoga and have our
feet nibbled by fish

96

p54
Sport & outdoor
Our own Mr Motivator
answers your fitness
questions

12 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 This month we've been...
Editor-in-Chief
Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
Group Editor & Managing Partner
lan Fairservice
Group Senior Editor
Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae

Editor
Mark Evans | marke@motivate.ae
Deputy Editor
Helen Spearman | helen@motivate.ae
Senior Designer
Sheila Lyn Carino | sheila@motivate.ae Learning to cook, p21
Contributing Editor
Hugo Berger | hugo@motivate.ae
Features Editor
Gareth Rees | gareth@motivate.ae
Editorial Assistant
Karen Sequeira | karen@motivate.ae
Chief Sub Editor
Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae

Contributors
Victor Besa, James Brennan, Louise Browne,
Vikram Gawde, James Houghton, Catherine
Jarvie, Richard Luck, Joseph Maher, Farooq Salik, Hunting
Simon Smedley Taking a trip to the zoo, p24 crustaceans, p27
General Manager

Contributors
Production and Circulation
S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae
Production Manager
Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae

General Manager – Group Sales

Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae
Senior Advertisement Manager
Dale Isaac | dale@motivate.ae
Advertisement Manager
Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae
General Manager, Abu Dhabi
Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae
Advertisement Manager, Abu Dhabi
Darryl Wiley | darryl@motivate.ae

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(including Airmail charges)

JAMES BRENNAN CATHERINE JARVIE CATBOY

Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436,
E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae
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,
E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae
London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road,
London NW1 3ER, UK,
E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae
34,432 copies
June 2009
Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai
We’d like to extend a warm,
What’s On welcome to big
Jim, who this month joins us
as our latest expert column-
ist. The talented wordsmith
earns his crust writing about
food for a host of interna-
tional magazines. He’s also,
more impressively, the Middle
East judge for the Pellegrino
World’s 50 Best restaurants. So
we’re eagerly anticipating his
opinions on the state of the
UAE’s food industry, p67
Having written on art for the
likes of The Guardian, The
Times and The Observer, Cath-
erine’s a lady who knows her
cubism from her surrealism.
When she’s not churning out
quality prose, you’ll find her
in her local gallery eyeing up
paintings and studying sculp-
tures. Don’t miss her take on
the UAE’s art scene, p75
During his illustrious media
career, Catboy has chauf-
feured around arguably
football’s greatest player, Pelé,
for three days, held the World
Cup trophy in his hands, and
filled the 1978 Panini World
Cup sticker album before the
tournament ended. No won-
der he can’t wait for the World
Cup. Backchat with Catboy on
the beautiful game, p122

14 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

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 We're officially part of the Twitterati.

Salaam!
Follow us at WhatsOn_Dubai and
WhatOnAbuDhabi for exclusive
updates on nightlife, restaurants and
more around the UAE. Tweet yourself.

June in not much room

What’s hot June in numbers

UAE film Sum might say
Director Ashraf Ghori is taking UAE film
to the world. The UAE’s first 3D animated
short, Levity – Xero Error Minus 1,
showed at Cannes last month,
having already proved a success

35
in the Gulf Film Festival.
www.youtube.com/xpansecgi
Tap dance taps per second for the

Justin Timberlake
Yes, ladies, the one they call the trouser
snake is heading to the desert this month.
Unfortunately, he’s only in town for the
launch of Givenchy’s new fragrance. Still,
he has to venture outside at some point...
1,479
Guinness World Record held by Lord
Of The Dance creator Michael Flatley.
His Irish dance spectacular hits Abu
Kilometres we travelled in total on Dhabi in June, p51
our road trips to each of the seven
Emirates, p19

Gold
It sounds like something James Bond
171
Total goals scored at the France 1998
villain Goldfinger would own, but the new World Cup, a tournament record. We
ATM at Emirates Palace is definitely real. In- show you the best venues in the UAE
stead of cash, the machine dispenses gold to watch this month’s event, p40

31
nuggets, bars and coins. Only in the UAE.

What’s not
The Picturehouse
We love Reel Cinemas’ alternative movies
home, The Picturehouse. But we also love
popcorn – it’s a vital part of our movie-going
experience. So why is it all food and drink
banned at The Picturehouse? Join our Twitter
crusade to stop this madness.
Gary Rhodes Twenty10
Chef Gary’s second UAE restaurant was
GETTY/GALLO IMAGES, ISTOCK AND GULFPICS
Years ago this very month, What’s
On, the UAE’s oldest and best
45,000,000
The total number of sheep in New Zealand,
magazine, was founded. And to
outnumbering the human population 11 to one.
celebrate, we have 31 cool prizes to
We met some people, and sheep, on our visit to
give away, p44
the country, p105
This month we’re going to…
URBAN CONTEMPORARY ART COOL SUMMER NIGHTS
How would you like a Warhol on your There are few things we love more than

supposed to open at Le Royal Méridien this
month, but the opening has been pushed
back to July. We do not like being made to
wait for our dinner. www.garyrhodes.com
Sex And The City 2
The latest adventures of the fab four may
be partially set in Abu Dhabi, but due to its
risqué content, it looks like it won’t be shown
at the UAE’s cinemas.
wall? No, not a fan of Andy’s work?
How about the graffiti art of elusive Brit
Banksy? Gold-toothed Goldie? Gorillaz’
Jamie Reid? London lad D’Face? Well, you
had better join us at 1X1 Art Gallery this
month where work by all will on display
and up for sale.
Jun 7 to 12, 1X1 Art Gallery, Villa 5, 1023
Al Wasl Road, Al Manara, Dubai. Tel: (04)
3483873. www.1x1artgallery.com
waterslides, but throw in live cooking
stations, entertainment, smaller queues plus
zero danger of burning our feet and we’re
sold. Aquaventure’s Thursday night offering is
great for a few drinks before hitting the lazy
river and enjoying the fireworks.
Aquaventure, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Thurs
7pm to midnight. Dhs150, Dhs120 for children
under 1.1 metres. Tel: (04) 4260000. www.
atlantisthepalm.com

16 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

Five Questions… The Wiggles Guess list
The Wiggles have
made 40-plus
WIN!
TICKETS THE WIGGLES
This is like Dylan playing Deira for
records, November sets
anyone under ten. And we have four
of four tickets to give away, worth
1 is Wiggles Day a total of Dhs3,040. Simply log onto
www.winwithmotivate.com and
answer this simple question.
in New York City What colour is Murray
Cook’s outfit?
and the band has a) Pink
b) Silver
c) Red
a host of celebrity
fans. Playing the UAE this
month, we caught up with
Red Wiggle Murray Cook
Ready to rock the UAE?
Well, the show is fairly eclectic, lots of songs
and high energy. We encourage the children
to be involved by doing the actions from
songs or dancing. If you’re in a rock band
you’re pretty tied to one genre, but one of
the things we can do is play a lot of different
kinds of music.
You tour with a dinosaur, right?
We have Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the
Octopus, Captain Feathersword and Wags
the Dog. And we have dancers too, so there
are quite a few of us on stage. They say not
to work with children and animals but it’s
fine. They are very well behaved.
What about the rest of you? Any big
Wiggles bust-ups?
There are always moments where you
disagree on things. But one of the good
things is the underlying philosophy that we
all agree on, being child centred. We can
usually refer back to that, which cuts down
on a lot of the creative tension.
No? Come on, give us the rock’n’roll dirt.
When we’re touring in the states we’re
on a proper rock‘n’roll tour bus, but we’re
HAKKASAN
With a Michelin star to its
name and a host of A-listers regularly dining
there, London’s Hakkasan is definitely a
celebrity restaurant. And this month a branch
of the cool Chinese is opening at the Emirates
Palace. And with dishes such as Peking duck
with caviar and silver cod with champagne
sauce, at last Abu Dhabi has somewhere to
rival Dubai’s Nobu and Zuma restaurants.
Hakkasan, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu
Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.hakkasan.com
older guys so we’re not hell raisers. We
used to do a part of the show with Captain
Feathersword where he’d sing our song
Quack, Quack in the style of different
performers. James Hetfield from Metallica
was at one of the shows so we did the song
in the style of Enter Sandman. James stood
up and gave us the devil horns salute and
shouted ‘yeah’. Pretty rock‘n’roll, no?
Not bad. You’re bigger than Metallica,
well, with the nippers, anyway. How do
you handle the fame?
Yeah, you do have people stopping you in
the street. Mostly, it’s just parents saying
they like what we do and their kids love us.
It’s not really a problem.
Jun 11 and 12, The Palladium, Dubai, Fri 11am
and 2pm, Sat 11am, Dhs140 to Dhs250. www.
thepalladiumdubai.com
30”X30”
An ambitious project at the
ever interesting Ghaf Gallery this month.
Featuring the work of around 20 national
and international artists, 30”x30” was
conceived as an “open call” to artists keen
to serve up their art to Abu Dhabians in the
same square (the 30x30 of the title) format.
Intriguing.
June 9 to 24. Ghaf Gallery, Al Khaleej Al Arabi
Street, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 665 5332.
www.ghafgallery.com
No less than three famous
people who might be
heading for our sandy
shores
95%
ZANE LOWE
BBC Radio 1’s Mr Music is
fast becoming a John Peel
for our Tweeteration, and it
seems he’s building quite an at-
tachment to our fair desert land. After pop-
ping over to do his thing behind the decks
at Chi’s Sound Of Live gig in April, Zane is
rumoured to have signed a deal for thrice
yearly UAE appearances. We must have
impressed him with our ability to appreciate
quality tunes and ceaseless party spirit. Or a
big pot of dirhams.
www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/zanelowe
85%
JAMIE OLIVER
It seems the Naked Chef is
finally coming to the UAE.
Yep, Jamie Oliver is recruit-
ing chefs and managerial
staff for a branch of Jamie’s
Italian due to open in
Dubai later this year. He’s sure to be in town
for the launch, isn’t he? Pukka.
www.jamiesitalian.com
50%
PAUL MCCARTNEY
Macca is, arguably, the
greatest living musical
figure on the planet. Just
try to ignore Band On The
Run. And a deal seems to
be in the pipeline to bring
the erstwhile Beatle over to Abu
Dhabi for one of those giant concerts only
the capital can pull off. The who’s your
favourite Beatle arguments have already
started at What’s On towers.
www.paulmccartney.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 17
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 THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

THE BEST
ROAD TRIPS
IN THE UAE
Happiness is an open road.
Beg, borrow or steal a hot
motor, stock up on snacks,
line up the tunes and start
exploring, with our pick of
the finest routes the
Emirates have to offer

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 19

THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

RAS AL KHAIMAH
AKA THE GIRLIE DAY OUT
THE TRIP: THE RAINFOREST SPA AT BANYAN TREE AL
WADI
THE ITINERARY restaurant at the resort. The made-to-order of hydro jets target specific points of the
11.30AM – Leave Dubai risotto is the star of the show, but don’t leave body, then dry off on heated loungers.
12.30PM – Arrive at Banyan Tree Al Wadi. without sampling some mini raspberry éclairs. If all of that sounds a little bewildering,
Lunch at Al Waha fear not – you’ll be given a map of The
1.30PM – Head to the spa THE SPA Rainforest, which explains the stations
2PM – Experience The Rainforest Spa fans, listen up. This place couldn’t be and suggests how long you should spend
4PM – Relax and get changed further from your run-of-the-mill hotel at each, totalling around two hours of
4.30PM – Set off offering. In addition to a range of Asian- pampering. Then recline with a chilled
5.30PM – Arrive in Dubai inspired therapies in luxurious treatment lemongrass tea before reluctantly heading
rooms, the Banyan Tree has created The home in a blissed-out state.
THE JOURNEY Rainforest. The first of its kind in the region,
Simple. Head north on Emirates Road (E311), The Rainforest is a hydrothermal experience THE DETAILS
watch out for the speed cameras and come boasting 14 areas, designed to benefit your The one-hour Rainforest Experience is Dhs70
off at exit 119. Turn right at the roundabout body in different ways. You’ll be treated per hour per person and is complimentary
and drive 4km until you see the Banyan Tree to an ice igloo, tropical rain shower, brine for guests staying at the resort. Book a two-
sign. Turn right and drive a further 3km, past cavern, bucket drench, grotto steam and hour spa treatment and receive a free one
goats and camels, where you’ll see low-lying herbal sauna, plus all manner of special hour Rainforest Experience.
Arabian-style buildings behind a grand gate. steams, showers and more. Finish with a Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah.
dip in the vitality pool, where nine types Tel: (07) 2067632. www.banyantree.com
THE CAR
The Audi A5 Sportback is a chic beast that
will roar up Emirates Road. Program your
destination into the sat-nav, flick on cruise
control and watch the landscape whiz by.
We were particularly enamoured with the
rear-view camera for reversing, its beefy
bodywork and an engine that made hitting
120km/h alarmingly easy. The A5 is a head
turner and you’ll be proud to valet it – surely
the ultimate UAE stamp of approval? Put
the windows down and system up. You can
buy one for Dhs179,000 or rent an A6 from
allorent.com from Dhs207 per day, based on
a 30-day lease.

THE MUSIC
Girl power. Laura Marling’s I Speak Because I
Can (Dhs51 from amazon.com) for laidback
tunes and a bit of Metric’s new album
Fantasies (Dhs47 from amazon.com) on the
way home to make sure you don’t fall asleep.

THE FOOD
Skip the Haribo and save your appetite
for lunch at Al Waha, the all-day dining

20 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010


DUBAI
AKA THE CULINARY TOUR
THE TRIP: A WHIRLWIND TASTING TOUR OF DUBAI
THE ITINERARY
9AM – Breakfast at Boulevard Café
11AM – Coffee tasting at Orbis
1.30PM – Cooking lesson and lunch at
Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai
4PM – Gingerbread Cocoon body treatment
at the RitzCarlton Spa
7.45PM – Dinner at Reflet Par Pierre Gagnaire
THE CAR
What better for zipping around in than a Mini?
The cheeky little car-about-town is perfect
for navigating around Dubai’s streets, and
couldn’t be easier to park. Get your hands on
the cabriolet number, and open-air motoring
– albeit with a blast of A/C to combat the June
sun – is a joy. A number of companies hire
Minis for the day, starting from around Dhs600.
www.shortstaydubaicars.com
THE MUSIC
The quirky, punchy, sounds of Northern
Ireland’s Two Door Cinema Club (Tourist
History, Dhs48, amazon.com) are ideal for
fleeing around town. Stevie Wonder’s Songs
In The Key Of Life (Dhs100, Virgin, Mall Of The
Emirates) should finish your day nicely.
BREAKFAST
Start strong with some protein at Boulevard
Café in Old Town. This Parisian-style pavement
café serves up French fare until midnight but
the breakfasts are sublime. We went for les
oeuf a la mode; two eggs in any style, with herb
roasted tomatoes, Provencale potatoes and
chunky sourdough toast (Dhs35).
Boulevard Café, Burj Boulevard, Old Town,
Dubai, 7am to midnight. Tel: (04) 4285923
THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE
THE COFFEE TOUR Traiteur master class, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira,
We have our own coffee roastery on our Dubai, Dhs295. Tel: (04) 6021804
doorstep and they sell caffeine to some of
the finest hotels in the UAE, and even Sheikh THE TREATMENT
Mohammed himself. You can sniff it out on You deserve a nice little lie down after all
their Saturday morning tours at 11am, when that hard work. In keeping with the foodie
you’ll go behind the scenes and even make theme head to the spa at the RitzCarlton for
your own custom blend. the Gingerbread Cocoon treatment. You’ll be
Orbis Roastery, Al Lahbab, Hatta Road, Dubai, scrubbed before a body masque is applied
Dhs50. Tel: (04) 3417789. www.orbisroastery.com then you shower and are treated to a massage.
All with the delicious scent of ginger.
THE COOKING MASTERCLASS Gingerbread Cocoon, RitzCarlton, Dubai
Man, according to the proverb, is what he eats. Marina, Dubai, Dhs750 for 110 minutes. Tel: (04)
Which unfortunately makes certain members of 3994000. www.ritzcarlton.com
the What’s On team beans on toast. The beautiful
Park Hyatt Dubai hotel offers a way out for DINNER
those that are kitchen-challenged, with cooking If you’re going to devote a whole day to food
lessons at Traiteur from head chef Franck Detrait. then the piece de resistance has to be Reflets
Franck is everything you’d expect in a head chef; Par Pierre Gagnaire. And if you’re going to eat
food is his life, he knows the kitchen like the back dinner, eat dinner, don’t be a pansy. Order
of his hand, and boasts the type of French accent the Dhs790 daily tasting menu, sit back
that would make a fried egg butty sound exotic. and enjoy. What you eat depends entirely
Luckily, Franck wouldn’t lower himself to on “the mood of the chef”. You will not be
mess with mere butties – our lesson was in disappointed, we assure you.
how to make the slightly daunting chilled InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 7pm to
avocado and green apple soup with smoked 1am. Tel: (04) 7011128. www.ichotelsgroup.com
salmon and sesame seeds, followed by John
Dory with asparagus.
The lesson itself couldn’t be easier – Franck
and his team have everything laid out, and it’s
a simple case of he does, you do. Granted, his
peeling, chopping and, well, everything else
cooking related is way better than you could
dream of, but it’s fun trying, even if you’ll never
be able to cut asparagus perfectly. Trust us –
it’s a lot trickier than it sounds.
And when your avocados are all peeled,
your apples chopped, limes squeezed, salmon
diced and asparagus cut smaller than it
should be (look, it’s really hard, OK?), the end
result is yours to eat, dished up by Traiteur
waiters. Hopefully, you’ll also take away with
you a newfound skill, but even if you slump
back to the tinned beans and toasted bread
again, you’ll have at least had an afternoon to
remember.
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 21
THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE
FUJAIRAH
AKA MAN AND MOUNTAIN
THE TRIP: FUJAIRAH AND JABAL KARIM, MUSANDAM
THE ITINERARY
7AM - Leave Dubai
8:30AM - Stop for refreshments at Friday
market in Hajar hills
9:30AM - Arrive Wadi Beh
10:30AM - Discover road to Jabal Karim
is impassble
11AM - Attempt to climb smaller peak
2PM - Take the crazy winding road
to Zighy Bay
2:30PM - Lunch at Zighy Bay
4PM - Stop off at Sandy Beach motel for late
afternoon snorkel
6PM - Depart
7PM - Crawl through heavy traffic in
Al Dhaid
8PM - Arrive back in Dubai
THE JOURNEY
One of the best drives. The road to the
Eastern Regions takes you through some
beautiful desert in Sharjah, and later
through the barren moonscape of the
Hajar mountains. Taking the Masafi route
offers some of the best driving roads in
the whole of the UAE, so if you’re itching
to give your sports car a real test, this
is one of the best routes to take. Long
sweeping curves, spectacular scenery
and few good tight bends offer some
challenging conditions a world away
for the straight-as-an-arrow multi-lane
highways.
THE CAR
Land Cruiser Prado VXL. It does the
journey in style, but for off-road, you
may want something more robust. With
less than 1000km on the clock, we didn’t
want to test it too much in the rocky
terrain of Wadi Beh, forcing us to call an
early halt to a trip that would have been
do-able in our beaten up Land Rover.
Matchless, Dubai, Dhs630. Tel: (04) 3559699.
www.matchlessdubai.com
22 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
THE MUSIC THE DETAILS
Get into the wilderness mood with Bukka Getting out into the wilderness does need
White (Shake ‘em On Down, Dhs44, amazon. some preparation, especially if you’re
com), Johnny Cash (American III, Dhs30, exploring the remote wadis. GPS is useful, as
amazon.com) and Wilco’s (Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, the terrain gets very confusing. Wadi Beh can
Dhs35, amazon.com). be a frustrating journey – it’s not accessible
from the Ras Al Khaimah side unless you’re
THE FOOD a Gulf national, so a trip requires a journey
Fresh coconut juice at the Friday market to the East Coast, a border crossing and,
is a must, even if you might as well have the hope that the road is passable, and the
a placard screaming “tourist”. On the coast need to double back on yourself even if it
itself, there’s plenty to choose from. Sandy is. It’s worth it though, offering spectacular
Beach isn’t as cheap and cheerful as it views and a respite from the coastal heat.
once was, but the fish is fresh. Zighy Bay Check online forums such as Middle East
is the real gem, just up the coast. It’s pricey – 4x4 (me4x4.com) for updates. Avoid going
about Dhs400 for two with drinks – but the when heavy rain is expected – it gets very
quality – and location is outstanding. treacherous, and be aware that after the
rains, roads and wadis can be blocked with
THE DRIVE fallen trees, rocks, mud and silt. The beaches
The wadis in Musandam offer some of the are accessible all year round, of course, but
best scenery in the Gulf. The hills are rocky snorkelling and diving is best in the cooler
and exposed, with trails vague at best and months. Watch for those red tides, though
non-existent at worst. Pack plenty of water – – and the occasional tropical storm: Cyclone
and we mean plenty, if you’re venturing out Gonu played havoc with the reefs – and the
in the summer months, even though it’s a hotels – back in 2007.
little cooler than on the coast, the heat can
still get oppressive. Elsewhere on the East
Coast, snorkelling and diving are the main
attractions. Watch out for the ‘red tides’
though. These choking algal blooms starve
the water of oxygen, killing fish, hindering
visibility and basically making the water
a no-go zone. The rarer ‘brown tides’ do
the same, but don’t last as long. On a clear
day, though, the sea life is stunning. Expect
to see turtles, sea snakes, sharks, and all
manner of tropical fish, from huge stingrays
to tiny – and surprisingly aggressive – clown
fish. And if camping under the stars on a
beach or in a barren wadi isn’t your thing,
there are plenty of hotels and resorts to
suit any budget, from the Sandy Beach and
Golden Tulip at the lower end to Zighy Bay,
which offers a remote, chilled out and out of
this world experience.
THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

ABU DHABI
AKA THE WILD ONE
THE TRIP: AL AIN NIGHT ZOO
THE ITINERARY
3PM – Leave Abu Dhabi
5PM – Arrive at the zoo
6.15PM – Watch the African animals
being fed
7PM – Watch the penguins being fed
7.30PM – Watch the birds of prey show
8PM – Walk the Dinosaur Trail
8.30PM – Dinner at Tanjore
10PM – Set off home
Midnight – Arrive home
THE JOURNEY
From Dubai, take the E66, which begins at
the Nad Al Sheba interchange. Keep on this
road for about 120km and you’ll hit Al Ain.
Be careful, there are miles of roadworks,
so watch out for closed lanes. From Abu
Dhabi, simply head out of the city along
Airport Road and follow the E22 for about
140km to Al Ain. When you reach Al Ain, the
wildlife park is clearly signposted on brown
road signs. Just be a bit wary of the city’s
numerous roundabouts as approaching cars
rarely slow down.
THE CAR
As we were off to see some of the world’s
most magnificent beasts, we needed a
beast of a car. And the giant Mercedes
Viano is the elephant of the motoring
world. Despite being a people carrier, the
six-seater was incredibly fast, effortlessly
hitting top speeds. It also ran as smoothly
as a cruise liner cutting through tranquil
waters, nonchalantly gliding over speed
bumps and potholes. And with built in
screens and DVD players in the back the
little ‘uns were amused all the way to the
zoo and back.
Sixt Car Rental, Dhs875. Tel: (04) 2200777.
www.sixt.com
amazon.com) , The Lion Sleeps Tonight (The
Tokens, Dhs45, amazon.com) and Arctic
Monkeys (Humbug, Dhs45, amazon.com).
THE FOOD
The zoo has its own café, which serves
up adequate burgers, shwarmas and the
like. But we recommend hitting one of
Al Ain’s best restaurants, Tanjore at the
InterContinental. The service may be a bit
more relaxed than what you’re used to in the
big cities, but it’s more than made up for in
the quality of dishes, especially those from
the tandoori oven.
THE ZOO
From June to September, the zoo runs its
Wild Nights visitors programme where the
cages are lit up throughout the evening.
As most of the animals sleep during the
scorching summer days, an evening visit
gives you a chance to see the creatures
roaming around their spacious enclosures.
And with more than 4,300 animal and 186
species, expect a long evening of wildlife
spotting. Make sure you arrive by about
5pm, as that’s when feeding time starts
and you can see the animals devouring
their supper. Our favourite was the African
animal enclosure, where giraffes, gazelles,
wildebeest and rhinos gather around a
huge watering hole to eat and drink. It’s as
close as you’ll get to seeing the savannahs
of Africa here in the UAE. While later on in
the evening, the zoo puts on a birds of prey
display, in which eagles, falcons, vultures
and owls fly from one handler to another,
swooping right over your head. Then
round off the trip by visiting the Dinosaur
Trail, where you can see actual-sized,
moving replicas of the giant prehistoric
lizards. It’s a fascinating experience,
although it may give some youngsters
nightmares, meaning it’ll be tough to get
them to sleep when you eventually get
back home.
THE DETAILS
Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, Sat to Thurs, 4pm
to midnight, Fri 10am to midnight, Dhs25 with
Dinosaur Trail entry, Dhs15 without, children
Dhs15 with Dinosaur Trail entry, Dhs5 without.
Tel: (03) 7828188.
www.awpr.ae

THE MUSIC
Animal-related hits. Go for The Beatles’ I
Am The Walrus (Magical Mystery Tour, Dhs45,

24 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

SHARJAH
AKA CULTURE US UP
THE TRIP: THE PICK OF SHARJAH’S MUSEUMS
AND CULTURAL SPOTS
THE ITINERARY
11.30AM – Leave Dubai
Noon – Arrive in Sharjah’s Heritage and Arts
Centre and take a stroll along the Corniche
12.30PM – Gallery hop. Lunch under the
blue and gold dome of the Sharjah Museum
of Islamic Civilisation
3PM – Head to Al Qasba
3.15PM – Visit Shelter at Maraya Art Centre
4.30PM – Time for a quick abra ride
5PM – Set off
5.30PM – arrive in Dubai
THE JOURNEY
Ah, the National Paints roundabout, a
legend in local traffic news. Luckily, come
the weekend the sticky jams are rare so just
follow the signs into Sharjah. The Heritage
and Arts Centre is signposted.
THE CAR
Anything luxe will stick out in Sharjah like
a sore thumb, so keep with the budget
theme and hire a basic model. The cheapest
we could find was a little Chevrolet Spark
for Dhs29 per day with discountcardubai.
com. Or if you want to buy, have a look
on dubizzle.com, we found a white Saab
convertible for only Dhs10,000.
buildings in narrow strip of streets on the
edge of Sharjah Creek. There are many reasons
to head here, from the Sharjah Archaeology
Museum (which offers a great selection of
interactive activities for kids) to the Heritage
Museum. Our picks, however, have to be the
Sharjah Art Museum, home to an eclectic
and impressive selection of contemporary art
(it’s here that much of the Sharjah Biennale is
based) and the largest library collection in the
UAE, the nearby Calligraphy Museum and the
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation. The
latter began life more than two decades ago
as an indoor market, the Souq al-Majarrah.
Now comprising of four huge galleries –
including one dedicated to Islamic Faith and
another to Science and Innovation – it has
become a world-quality museum showcasing
the art and culture of the region.
There are, however, other contenders
to the heritage area’s cultural crown. Al
Qasba, on the edge of Khalid Lagoon, is a
family-friendly arts and culture centre that’s
home to everything from abra rides to a
musical fountain (you didn’t think the Dubai
Fountain was the only one, surely?). It’s also
home to the Maraya Art Centre, into which
Shelter, the Dubai-based multifunctional
arts and events space, has recently
extended its scope. Currently featuring
Bauhaus an exhibition of textile design by
Beatrice Gayer that is heavily influenced
by the early 20th century German art and
crafts movement of the same name. The
gallery is also home to Experiment – A
Contemporary Art Project throughout
June. A multimedia showcase of young
Emirati artists, it’s a rare opportunity to see
indigenous contemporary art both in and
of the UAE.
THE DETAILS
Sharjah Art Museum, Corniche Road, Sharjah,
Sat to Thurs 8am to 8pm, Fri 4pm to 8pm, free.
Tel: (06) 5688222. www.sharjahmuseums.ae.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilsation,
Corniche Road, Sharjah, Sat to Thurs 8am to
8pm, Fri 4pm to 8pm, Dhs10, families Dhs10
and free for children. Tel: (06) 5655455.
www.islamicmuseum.ae
Shelter, 1st Floor, Maraya Art Centre, Al Qasba,
Sharjah, free. Tel: (06) 5560777. www.shelter.ae

THE MUSIC
Get in the Middle Eastern mood with the
awesome Now That’s What I Call Arabia
(Dhs70, amazon.com).

THE FOOD
Keep it cheap and pack a picnic to enjoy
under the blue and gold dome of the
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation.

THE CULTURE
Sharjah is an absolute treat for culture
vultures, the only one of the UAE states
with a dedicated Heritage and Arts area set,
rather picturesquely, in a series of ‘traditional’

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 25

 THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

UMM AL QUWAIN
AK A CRAB HUNTING
EXPEDITION
THE TRIP: FLAMINGO BEACH RESORT
THE ITINERARY
4PM – Leave Dubai
5PM – Arrive Flamingo Beach Resort
5.05PM – Nip to the changing rooms and put
on your swimmers
5.15PM – Sit back under a sun umbrella and
enjoy your complimentary snacks (a beer is just
Dhs15)
6.40PM – Slip on your life jacket, jump in the
boat and head for the mangroves to hunt
7.30PM – Return to shore with your catch
7.45PM – Enjoy a three course meal
culminating in a crab feast
8.45PM – Finish dinner and head for home
10PM – Crab in the fridge and off to bed
THE JOURNEY
From Dubai take Emirates Road, take the
turn for Dreamland and then follow signs to
Flamingo Beach Resort.
www.flamingoresort.ae
THE FOOD
The hotel provides a couple of sarnies and soft
drinks pre-hunt and you’re going to eat your
catch just a few minutes after returning to shore,
so a packet of sweeties for the journey would be
fine. Make sure you offer the driver one.
THE HUNT
You don’t know you’re alive until you’ve stared
into the wobbly black eyes of an angry crab.
You know what’s going to happen. He knows
what’s going to happen. And there’s that
moment – just after you’ve caught him in your
torchlight, just before you ram a spear through
his shell so hard it hits the seabed, throwing up
a cloud of sand – when his eyes are saying, “It’s
OK, you win, I accept my fate like a crab.” The
rush is so great it spurns a savage 45-minute
period of bloodlust (do crabs have blood?),
which left us with the souls of 29 crabs and
three squid on my conscience. The captain
of the small, motorised boat that ferried us
across the turquoise waters to the mangrove
island, where the crabs were rife, has been
taking groups crab hunting every night for
the past 14 years. At 30 plus crabs a night,
Mohammad Ali (for that was his name), has
brought the lives of at least 153,300 crabs
to an end. Don’t be mistaken. This is killing
we’re dealing with. You should know what
you’re getting yourself into. But as you wade
through the waves, eyes pinned to the
seabed, hunting your clawed prey you will be
as close as you can come in the UAE to feeling
like Ernest Hemingway on safari in Africa.
THE DETAILS
Dreamdays Gift Experiences, Dhs339 for two
(including snacks, equipment and dinner).
Tel: 2002080. www.dreamdays.ae

THE CAR
No need for anything fancy here, just
book a run of the mill RTA taxi, sit back
and let somebody else do the driving
for a change. It’s Dhs500 to hire car and
driver for 12 hours. For those in Abu Dhabi
it’s a little steeper at Dhs800. But the
beauty of a taxi is that you can enjoy the
experience fully without worrying about
the journey home.

THE MUSIC
Something classical, like Wagner’s The Ride
Of The Valkyries (Dhs30, amazon.com) or
Queen’s Vultan’s Theme (Flash Gordon, Dhs50,
amazon.com) from 1980s cult hit Flash
Gordon (a What’s On favourite); the image of
a winged Brian Blessed attacking a spaceship
will inspire you to crab hunting glory.

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 27

THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE UAE

AJMAN
AKA UNDER THE SEA
THE TRIP: LEARNING TO DIVE IN AJMAN
ITINERARY
7.40AM – Leave Union Bus Station, Dubai
8.45AM – Arrive at Ajman Bus Station
9PM – Arrive by taxi at Kempinski Hotel Ajman
10AM – Start first diving lesson
4PM – Finish first day’s diving lesson
8PM – Dinner at Hai Toa restaurant
9.30PM – Tenpin bowling a
SECOND DAY
10AM – Start second day’s lessons
4PM – Finish lessons
5.20PM – Get on bus back to Dubai
6.25PM – Arrive back in Dubai
THE JOURNEY
Getting to Ajman from Dubai is seriously easy
and cheap. Just hop on an E401 coach from
Union Bus Station in Deira and the hour-long
(traffic permitting) journey will cost you a
bargain Dhs7. This service runs every 20
minutes every day. If travelling from Abu Dhabi
by bus, you need to get the E100 bus from the
main bus station on Muroor Road and 11th
Street and change at Dubai. This 90-minute
journey will cost Dhs20. The hotel is a ten-
minute taxi ride from Ajman Bus Station.
THE VEHICLE
The Dubai-Ajman bus leaves from Union Bus
Station costs Dhs7. The coach to Dubai from
Abu Dhabi is Dhs15. Crowded but cheap.
THE MUSIC
What better way to get into the chilled out vibe
than some smooth jazz? John Coltrane (Giant
Steps, Dhs30, amazon.com) on our iPod on the
bus journey there and Miles Davis (Kind Of Blue,
Dhs30, amazon.com) on the way back. Nice.
THE FOOD
After an exhausting day, hit the Kempinki’s
Hai Tao Chinese restaurant. There were some
seriously tasty noodles on offer. The hotel also
has a six-lane bowling alley, where you can enjoy
some bar snacks and drinks while knocking
down some pins.
THE LESSONS
As the UAE’s smallest Emirate, Ajman is fairly
limited in the amount of activities on offer to
the would-be road tripper. But what it does
offer is some beautifully clear waters, teeming
with wildlife and shipwrecks, which are ideal
places to scuba dive. But before strapping on
your tank, you have to learn the basics. We
signed up for Blue Planet Diving’s two-day
beginner course, and as the diving centre
is based at the Kempinski Hotel Ajman, it’s
an ideal opportunity to take a quick break
at the hotel. The Professional Association of
Diving Instructors (PADI) accredits the lessons,
meaning that once you pass, you can dive
anywhere in the world up to 12 metres deep.
And, as long as you’re an adequate swimmer,
you should be able to easily pass. They
start with the basics, like putting on your
equipment, cleaning your mask under water
and controlling buoyancy. The first day ends
with an hour-long session in the swimming
pool. The second day is trickier and finishes
with two hours in open water. None of
the lessons were seriously taxing, and the
instructors were incredibly patient and
helpful. If you get the diving bug go back for
the four-day advance course, which grants
you the licence to dive up to 18 metres down.
DETAILS
Blue Planet Diving, Kempinski Hotel Ajman,
Dhs1,500 for two days beginners’ course,
Dhs2,000 for four-day advanced course. Tel:
(06) 7145555, ext 8515. www.scubaajman.com

WIN! A MINI FOR THE WIN! A BMW FOR THE

WEEKEND We loved singing Getta Bloomin’ Move
WEEKEND
Nothing says class like a BMW. In fact, our very own Editor can be seen zipping
On! (Self Preservation Society) from about town in one. For a chance to win a BMW 5 Series from Holiday Autos for the
The Italian Job whilst driving the Mini weekend, log onto www.winwithmotivate.com and answer the following question.
Cooper S around town this month. Which country manufactures the BMW?
Now you can too. For a chance to win a) UAE
this little firecracker for the weekend, b) Germany
log onto www.winwithmotivate.com c) China
and answer this simple question.
Who starred in the 1969 version of
The Italian Job?
a) Penny Lane
b) Michael Caine
c) Ian McShane

28 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

100% Process Black
50 THINGS
TO DO THIS
SUMMER
Take action people. Enough
toasting by the pool and
whinging about being
bored, make this summer
the time you get creative,
get organised and get
out more

BECOME A MASTER CHEF

If your dinner parties are a massive flop,
sign up to these lessons. The friendly chefs
at Bord Eau, our favourite Abu Dhabi
restaurant, aren’t ones for keeping their
recipes to themselves. Twice a month

ILLUSTRATIONS: LOUISE BROWNE

they hold regular lessons for adults and
children, where they teach you the secrets
to knocking up quality European cuisine.
Bord Eau, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Between
the Bridges, Abu Dhabi, Fri 10am, Dhs320
including lunch. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.
shangri-la.com

INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING PHOTOGRAPHY BOOT CAMP BECOME A SUPER SLEUTH

Wannabe Spidermen, and women, can aim
high on the UAE’s newest climbing wall at
Magic Planet in Mirdif City Centre. Open until
midnight, Sky Trail is a top spot for exercising
and mingling with fellow climbers, boasting 13
metres of obstacles to test your Spidey skills.
Sky Trail, Magic Planet, Mirdif City Centre, Sat
to Wed10am to 11pm, Thurs and Fri 10am to
midnight, Price TBC. Tel: (800) 5347873.
www.playnation.me
Kick off a new hobby with an intensive two-
day photography course. You’ll learn the
basics plus some sneaky tricks to impress.
Jun 4 to 5, SAE Institute, Knowledge Village,
Dubai, Dhs2,100. Tel: (04) 3616173.
www.dubai.sae.edu
“Professor Plum, in the library, with the
candlestick.” Enjoy a real life version of Cluedo
this summer with Yas Hotel’s Whodunit
package. You and your friends will be given a
character to play, before trying to track down
the murderer in a mysterious plot that would
leave Hercule Poirot scratching his head.
Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Dhs640 to Dhs880,
including dinner, overnight stay and breakfast.
Tel: (02) 6560000. www.theyashotel.com

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 31

50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
INDOOR KARTING
It might be hot outside, but it’s smokin’ on the
tarmac. Make a day of karting and competing
with your pals at Dubai Autodrome’s indoor
track, which can accommodate 20 people.
The Arrive & Drive package costs Dhs100 for
15 minutes, which includes all equipment and
suits (just be sure to wear closed toe shoes)
but we recommend booking ahead if you all
want to race at the same time.
Dubai Autodrome, Motor City, Dubai, Sun and
Mon 2pm to 10pm, Tue and Weds 10am to
11.30pm, Thurs and Fri 9am to 1am, Sat 9am
to 11.30pm, Dhs100. Tel: (04) 3678700. www.
dubaiautodrome.com
TOUR THE ISLANDS
Take to the seas by jet ski for a guided tour of Snow Pro, 20 per cent off at Avalanche and St
Abu Dhabi’s islands. The trips will take you on Moritz Café, Magic Planet card worth Dhs50
a 50km tour of the remote island that surround and Ski Dubai gift voucher worth Dhs100.
Abu Dhabi, with plenty of time to stop off to
explore the island and have a picnic. The tours Dhs2,500. Tel: (04) 409 4000. www.skidxb.com
take place regularly during the summer.
X-Ventures, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi,
Fri, 9.30am, Dhs350 per hour. Tel: (055) 404500. SKIES
www.x-ventures.ae
LEARN TO SALSA
Ditch the brunches and shape up with Cuban one place to go. iFly, at Playnation in Mirdif City
salsa lessons. Ritmo De Havana run twice
weekly classes for beginners from June 5,
where you and other first-timers will turn
from clumpy-footed cygnets into elegant
swans. Hopefully.
From Jun 5, Ritmo De Havana, Mall of the
Emirates, Dubai, Sat and Tue 9pm to 10pm,
Dhs800 for 12 hours of classes. Tel: (050)
6963520. www.ritmo-de-havana.com
32 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
GO SHOOTING
The Caracal Shooting Club at the Armed
Forces Officers’ Club is the newest and best
shooting club in the city. For a mere Dhs275
they’ll arm you with a pistol, as well as the
know-how to fire it from their expert tutors.
The indoor range is fully air-conditioned
– very welcome in this weather – so with
enough practice, you could be well on your
way to becoming a master marksman.
Caracal Shooting Club, Armed Forces Officers’
Club, Abu Dhabi, Dhs275 for gun rental and 50
bullets. Tel: (02) 4416404. www.afoc.mil.ae
COOK LIKE NOBU
On the first Saturday of each month Nobu’s
oh-so charming Chef de Cuisine Hervé Courtot
can teach you some serious skills. Classes are
limited to 12 people and include a cooking
lesson, three-course lunch and Nobu apron.
Jun 5, Jul 3, Aug 7, Nobu, Atlantis The Palm,
Dubai, Dhs980. Tel: (04) 4260760.
www.atlantisthepalm.com
GO ICE SKATING
Get all nostalgic for those disco days at The
Dubai Mall. The Olympic-sized ice rink plays
host to live DJs so if you fancy a little tongue-in-
cheek fun, Blades Of Glory style, lace up those
skates. Flesh-coloured leotards are optional but
are in no way endorsed by What’s On magazine.
The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai, Mon, Thurs, Fri
and Sat, Dhs75. Tel: (04) 4485111.
www.dubaiicerink.com
UNLIMITED SKIING
Buy a three month pass at Ski Dubai for
Dhs2,500. You can ski as much as you like
and also receive a free locker, two discovery
ski or snowboard lessons for friends, 25
per cent discount at the Ski & Snowboard
Academy, 40 per cent discount voucher for
Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Barsha, Dubai,
TAKE TO THE (INDOOR)
While you may get the same effect at A/C-
blasted cinemas across the UAE, if you want to
actually enjoy a wind tunnel then there’s only
Centre, is a realistic indoor sky dive experience
suitable for everyone over the age of five. It also
makes for cracking people watching, whether
the user is a first-timer or practiced mid-air
somersault-ace. Warning: not recommended
after hitting the food court hard.
Playnation, Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, Sat to Wed
10am to 11pm, Thurs and Fri 10am to midnight,
Dhs195 and Dhs145 for under 13s (peak) or
Dhs165, Dhs125 for under 13s (off-peak), which
includes equipment, tuition and two flights. Tel:
(800) 5347873. www.iflyme.com
IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE
Yoga Tree studios is the capital’s only
dedicated yoga club. And, as all the classes
take place in a cool, air-conditioned villa,
there’s no excuse not to sign up for them
throughout the summer. For beginners, we
recommend the ashtanga yoga classes.
Ashtanga yoga, Yoga Tree, Villa 405/1, 30th
Street, Abu Dhabi, Mon, 8pm, Dhs450 for ten
classes. Tel: (02) 6676579. www.yogatree.ae
LEARN ABOUT THE FUTURE
The Guggenheim and Louvre galleries on Abu
Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island are, unfortunately,
still a few years from being finished. But
in the meantime, the island’s first museum
has just opened. Manarat Al Saadiyat is a
huge gallery space that will host numerous
exhibitions in the coming months. Its first
permanent exhibition is the Saadiyat Story,
which reveals the island’s history and future.
Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi,
10am to 8pm, daily, free. Tel: (02) 4061400.
www.saadiyat.ae
CLEANING UP
Abu Dhabi’s surrounded by important
wildlife sites but, unfortunately, people
dumping their trash over them are seriously
damaging the environment. So why not
help save these sites this summer as well
as improving your sense of self-worth, by
joining the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency’s
regular clean-up operations? It’s easy to get
involved, and will cost you no more than your
spare time to make a real difference.
Al Mamoura Building, Muroor Road, Abu Dhabi,
Fri. Tel: (02) 6934629. www.ead.ae
IMPROVE YOUR ORATORY
SKILLS
The Abu Dhabi Toastmasters club has nothing
to do with learning how to perfectly brown a
slice of bread. In fact, this is a public speaking
club where you’ll be taught how to sound
convincing and confident when addressing
people. Join and you could well be a public
speaking genius by the end of the summer.
Abu Dhabi Toastmasters 1950, every other
Saturday, 5pm, LEED Training Building, next to
Aldar offices, 6th Street, Abu Dhabi, Dhs150 for
a year’s membership. Tel: (02) 6440805.
www.ad1950.freetoasthost.info

GET BEHIND THE WHEEL OF
AN AUDI R8
Every boy (and girl) racer’s dream, the R8 is
actually within your grasp, if only for a day.
Based at Dubai Autodrome, Audi is offering
driving experiences on a number of its
models, to teach UAE drivers about safety on
the roads and try out some key features. The
course runs on selected weekends throughout
the summer.
Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, Fri and Sat, Dhs920 for
half day. Tel: (050) 2834053. www.audidriving.net
TELL US A JOKE
Put your stand-up skills to the test and learn a
few more jokes at the Comedy 101 workshop.
Based at DUCTAC, it covers all aspects of
comedy, including improvisation, character
development, history of the joke, acting,
stand-up, sketch and monologue writing.
Bring your own rotten tomatoes.
DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates, Sat 1.30pm to
2.45pm, Dhs1,000 for a nine-week course,
including one private coaching lesson and a
final show. Tel: (050) 9273621. www.ductac.org
MAKE A QUILT
Stitch and sow yourself a dazzling, colourful
quilt this summer by joining the Abu Dhabi
Quilters Guild. The expert members will
teach everything you need to know about the
art form, from where to buy materials to how
to stitch together complicated patterns.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi,
second Wed of each month 8pm, Dhs100 for year
membership. Tel: (02) 6212130. www.quiltguilds.com
ACT NATURAL
You’re such a good actor that once you get
discovered you’ll probably be more famous than
Robert De Niro, Brad Pitt and Gwyneth Paltrow
put together. In the meantime, why not refine
your talent at these summer classes at Abu
Dhabi School Of Film And Acting?
Abu Dhabi School Of Film And Acting, Muroor
Road, Abu Dhabi, Sun, Wed and Thurs, 7pm,
Dhs11,500 for a four-week course, Tel: (02)
4466442. www.abudhabifilmschool.com
GET FIT
Yeah, yeah we know – it’s too hot to work
out. We’ve made that excuse ourselves but
the team at Original Fitness Company aren’t
taking no for an answer this summer. At 6am
the weather is still pretty fresh so get along
to their boot camp three times a week for a
month and banish the post-brunch bulge.
Original Fitness Co, JBR beach, Dubai Marina,
Dubai, Sun, Tue and Thurs 6am to 7am, Dhs900
for 12 sessions. Tel: (04) 3132081.
www.originalfitnessco.com
DUBAI DANCE FESTIVAL
At the start June, you may spot more long-
limbed beauties around town than usual.
The third Dubai Dance Festival kicks off
with a party at El Malecon, and the dancing
doesn’t stop. There’s a packed programme of
performances and workshops all over Dubai,
so you can sit back and watch or get involved.
Jun 3 to Jun 4, Dubai Dance Festival, The First
Group Theatre, Madinat, Dubai. Dhs175.
Tel: (04) 3666546 www.dubaidancefestival.com
50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
FEED THE BIRDS
One of the highlights of our recent trip to
Banyan Tree Al Wadi in RAK was visiting
the falcons, owls and a gigantic eagle. Don’t
dismiss this as tourist-tastic – it’s actually
a fascinating glimpse into an important
part of local history. Bedouins used to hunt
gazelles with eagles. Eagles! If you want
to learn more there are two courses, held
by their resident friendly expert, covering
handling, training and management, ending
in written and practical examinations. Not
many have that qualification on their CV…
Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras al Khaimah, Dhs850 to
Dhs1,000. Tel: (07) 2067777. www.banyantree.com
IMPROVE YOUR SWING
Every Wednesday throughout the summer,
Abu Dhabi Golf Club is organising a nine-
hole weekly competition that will cost you a
bargain Dhs95 for members, or Dhs195 for
non-members to enter. And at the end of
the summer, the winner will bag a three-
night stay at the classy Gleneagles Hotel in
Scotland, with direct flights included.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi,
Wed 4.30pm, Dhs95 to Dhs195.
Tel: (02) 5588990. www.adgolfclub.com
CHOCOLATE HEAVEN
The Address Dubai Marina is on a mission
to get you to step away from the naff
chocolate, and educate yourself with a
cocoa buffet at Kambaa, where you’ll find
decadent Valrhona desserts. The sweet
treats include fresh strawberries dipped
in melted chocolate, delicate cups filled
with smooth chocolate creams and dreamy
cakes. You can even meet with the pastry
chef and try to steal his secrets, a bit like
Slugworth from Charlie & The Chocolate
Factory.
The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, Thurs and
Fri 6.00pm to 9.30pm, Dhs90. Tel: (04) 4367777.
www.theaddress.com
RUN THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS
Everyone’s a winner with this charity event
from Manzil, which is bringing together
5,000 people to cover 50,000km in 80 days.
You can get fit running or walking 10km at
your nearest Fitness First (gyms open to non-
members who are taking part), while Manzil’s
centre for children with special needs benefits
from sponsorship money. From June 1,
simply pick up a registration form from any
Fitness First or download one from the Run
The World website, hop on a machine and
do your bit. Take as long as you want (up to
three days in fact), then feel the warm glow of
exercise and do-gooding.
www.runtheworld.ae
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 33
50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
SO YOU THINK YOU
CAN DANCE?
Sharmila is one of the UAE’s most popular
dance teachers, so you’ll need to book soon
for her summer workshop at DUCTAC.
Incorporating street jazz, hip hop and musical
theatre, the course culminates in a showcase
so you can demonstrate what you’ve learnt.
Shrinking violets need not apply…
Jun 25 to 29, DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai, Dhs1,300. Tel: (050) 4668793. www.
sharmiladance.com
EAT DATES
With 30 million date trees across the UAE,
date growing is a lucrative business. Every
July, to celebrate the dates ripening, the town
of Liwa hosts a huge date-themed festival. The
event is essentially a huge agricultural show,
with date cookery tents, handicraft stalls and
children’s rides. There’s even a free bus service
from Abu Dhabi’s Marina Mall, leaving at
8am each day.
Jul 17 to 26, Liwa Date Festival, Liwa, Western
Region, Abu Dhabi, 10am to late, free. Tel: (02)
6215300. www.adach.ae
DESERT DAY
From June 1 to July 31 you can escape the city
and head to Bab Al Shams. You’ll get all day
access to the infinity pool and sun loungers,
complimentary camel rides and the falcon
show, access to Sinbad’s Kids’ Club as well as
games and fitness activities.
Bab al Shams, 45 mins from Dubai, 7am to 6pm,
Dhs275 for adults, Dhs150 for children years. Tel:
(04) 8096167. www.jumeirah.com
34 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
BECOME A SCULPTOR
If you’ve ever dreamt of creating a sculpture to
rival Michaelangelo’s David, sign up to these
classes at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture
And Heritage (ADACH) building this summer.
Your expert instructor Svelin will guide you
through the arts of sculpting with clay and
stone. ADACH also runs loads of other art
classes, covering subjects from painting to
photography to jewellery designing.
Al Hosn Fort, Zayed The First Street, Abu Dhabi,
Sun and Tues 10am, Mon and Wed 6pm, Dhs480
per month for eight lessons. Tel: (02) 6576355.
www.adach.ae
BECOME A SHIPMATE
One of the most desirable courses in Dubai,
the Competent Crew course is the first stage
to becoming a sailor. The Dubai Off-Shore
Sailing Club currently has a waiting list but
it’s worth trying your luck and selling your
granny to get on it this summer as they have
dates throughout the summer.
Dubai Off-Shore Sailing Club, Beach Road, Dubai,
Dhs3,500 including breakfast, lunch, evening meals
and snacks. Tel: (04) 3941669. www.dosc.ae
RACE YOUR OWN CAR
If you’ve ever fancied yourself as the next
Lewis Hamilton, throughout the summer
Yas Marina Circuit is offering you the
chance to test your driving skills on the F1
track. You’ll start the day with some driving
tuition before you take your own car on
a few laps of the circuit. And if you have
Dhs7,500 to spare, you can even get a ride
in a two-seater F1 car, with top speeds up to
300km/h. It might just beat our Yaris.
Jun 12 and 25, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, Dhs650 to Dhs1,000. Tel: (02) 4460384.
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
GET INTO FOLK
Expand your musical horizons this summer
with a series of world music concerts being
put on in Abu Dhabi. On June 10, a five-piece
folk group from Kyrgyzstan will be playing
the indigenous music of the nomadic tribes
of the country. And then on June 22, Alim
Qasimov and his daughter Fargana will be
presenting an evening of Azerbaijani classical
music. Both concerts should be intriguing.
Jun 10, Nomadic Music of Kyrgyzstan, Manarat
Al Saadiyat, 7pm, free.
Jun 22, Spiritual Music Of Azerbaijan, Manarat Al
Saadiyat, 7pm, free. (02) 6908207. www.tdic.ae
WATCH A MOVIE FROM A
SWIMMING POOL
We already have enough reasons to love
Desert Palm (namely, conversely, the burgers
and the spa) but this summer brings even
more. Each Wednesday you can pull up an
inflatable chair, grab a bowl of popcorn and
kick back in the swimming pool for a movie
double bill. June’s films include Monsters vs
Aliens, The Hangover and He’s Just Not That
Into You, with family-friendly films starting at
7pm and the less PG at 9pm.
Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, Dubai, Dhs30
includes popcorn, towel hire and pool entry. Tel:
(04) 3238888. www.desertpalm.peraquum.com
LEARN HOW TO WEAVE
This fascinating collection of colourful
Islamic embroidery is still running at the
Emirates Palace’s Gallery One. But the
organisers have also kindly put on a series
of lectures and workshops connected with
the exhibition throughout the summer. For
example, Weaving With Burlap, on June 9 and
16 will show you how to turn the coarse cloth
into stunning artwork.
Until Jul 28, Gallery One, Emirates Palace, Abu
Dhabi, 10am to 10pm, free. Tel: (02) 6908207.
E-mail: artsabudhabi@tdic.ae
CINE SPLASH
If you enjoyed your Wednesdays at Desert
Palm so much you fancy a repeat performance,
then head to Dubai Polo Club on Thursdays.
Great for families, there’s popcorn, candy floss,
grilled food and pizzas that children can make
themselves. The first film starts at 7pm, while
the club caters to older viewers at 9.30pm. Entry
is free for members and the non-members’ fee
is Dhs30, which includes a welcome drink. Call
ahead to find out about forthcoming titles.
Dubai Polo Club, Arabian Ranches, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 3618111
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 50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER

FOR FAMILIES
DUCTAC SUMMER CAMP
Now in its fourth year, this is one of the
most popular art summer camps in Dubai
for children and teens. It features a range
of arty activities including painting and
pottery (six to eight years and nine to 12
years) with five or ten-day workshops
throughout July and August. The cost
includes all materials and equipment.
DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, Dhs900
to Dhs1500. Tel: (04) 341 4777. www.ductac.org

KIDZANIA
Oh, to be young again. In fact, we’d merrily
borrow children for the day in order to gain
access to this fun wonderland. A funderland,
if you will. The ultimate in make-believe, this
scaled-down city encourages children (aged
four to 16) to try out different job roles, from
cashier to fireman. With costumes, money
credits and even mini vehicles, Kidzania is a
great blend of education and entertainment.
Edutainment? OK, we’ll stop that now.
Kidzania, Dubai Mall, Dubai, Sun to Wed 9am
to 10pm, Thurs 9am to midnight, Fri 10am
to midnight, Sat ten am to midnight. Tel: (04)
4485222. www.kidzania.ae
JOIN A SUMMER CAMP
Most hotels run their own summer camps
for youngsters, but we reckon this is the best
one in Abu Dhabi. The Beach Rotana offers
a raft of lessons in arts and crafts, swimming,
martial arts and squash, as well as activities
such as sandcastle making, treasure hunting,
volleyball and kite flying. Even the child with
the shortest attention span won’t be bored.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area, Abu
Dhabi, members Dhs100 per day, Dhs450 a
week, non-members Dhs120 per day, Dhs550
per week. Tel: (02) 6979000
PEEKABOO
Your little ones will have a packed schedule
at Peekaboo this summer, with daily
activities ranging from dance and yoga to
origami and story telling. Camps run five
days a week across three locations in Dubai.
Peekaboo, Ibn Battuta, Dubai Tel: (04) 297949.
Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3470622.
Village Mall, Dubai. Tel (04) 3447122, Sun to
Thurs 10am to 2.15pm, Dhs450 per child per
week. www.peekaboo.ae
DRAMA FOR LITTLE
DARLINGS
Kids Theatre Works will take your aspiring
Hannah Montanas and Justin Biebers off your
hands this summer with their creative camps.
There are two venues (DUCTAC in Mall of
the Emriates and DESS in Oud Metha) and
a selection of weeklong dates, each with a
different them, and every camp ends in a
performance for parents.
Kids Theatre Works, Dhs650 per child per camp.
Tel: (050) 585653. www.kidstheatreworks.com
SUMMER IN THE CITY
Fun City may save your sanity (and work
surfaces) this summer if you’ve got crafty kids
who need a creative outlet. The team has lined
up arts, cooking, science experiments, theatre,
martial arts and even yoga to keep them
entertained. There’s even transportation to get
families to the nearest Fun City branch, which
includes Burjuman, Ibn Battuta, Mercato and
the Arabian Centre.
Fun City, various locations, Dubai, Dhs100 per
day, Dhs350 per week or Dhs1,250 per month.
www.funcity-fec.com
HAVE FUN IN ABU DHABI
The capital’s ultimate boredom buster for
children. The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition
Centre is transformed into five fun-filled
zones, each with a different theme. These
include the Laser Zone, where you can fight
it out with laser guns; Bee Amazed Zone, a
series of physical challenges inspired by the
cult Japanese TV show Takeshi’s Castle; and
the Mad Scientist Laboratory, where you can
learn the secrets of science. On top of this,
the show will feature a visit from the world
renowned New York’s Big Apple Circus, which
will be performing throughout the event.
Sounds brilliant.
Jun 24 to Aug 5, ADNEC, Khaleej Al Arabi
Street, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thurs, 10am to 10pm,
Fri, 10am to midnight, entry price TBC.
www.summerinabudhabi.com

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 37

50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER

GO FISHING for a knockout tournament.

LEARN A LANGUAGE
Plan a trip with a friend to somewhere wild
and learn the language before you go. We
have our eye on Japan, so will be swotting up
at Berlitz with a one-week total immersion
course (approx Dhs9,000). Konichiwa.
Berlitz, Beach Road, Dubai, prices depending on
course. Tel: (04) 3440034. www.berlitz.ae
Once you’re out at sea, the heat is a lot less Abu Dhabi Chess Club, first Thurs of every
intense. So why not charter a boat, grab your month, Al Jazira Club, 15th Street, Abu Dhabi,
rod and see what bites? We recommend hiring 9pm, free. Tel: (02) 4430043.
one of Yas Hotel’s boats. A day trip will take you www.abudhabichess.com
out to some of the Abu Dhabi’s prime fishing
spots, where you can try and hook the Gulf’s GREAT VALUE GOLF
fish, including the legendary blue marlin. Al Hamra is offering some wallet-friendly
The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Fri, Dhs480 summer packages to dedicated golfers. Our
per person (minimum four people). favourite is a mere Dhs399 per month and
Tel: (02) 6560000. www.theyashotel.com includes three 30-minute lessons with a PGA-
qualified pro, unlimited use of the driving range
UNDERWATER LOVE and nine-hole par three course, free equipment
Flee the sun and dive under the waves. The hire on lesson days and preferred rate green
summer is a great time to learn to dive so you fees. Whiz up after work for some swinging fun
can take advantage of those cheapie Ramadan in the evenings. Race you to the range.
deals come August. We recommend Al Boom Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras al Khaimah, 7am
Diving Centre, where you get one Discover to 9.30pm. Tel: (07) 2447474.
Scuba session plus an ocean dive for Dhs550. www.alhamragolf.com
Al Boom Diving Centre, Al Wasl Road, Dubai,
Dhs550. Tel: (04) 3422993. BECOME A CHARITY
www.alboomdiving.com FUNDRAISER
Improve the lives of those who are worse off
BECOME A CHESS than yourself by getting involved with Gulf
GRANDMASTER For Good. The charity organises adventure
Improve your chess skills by joining the Abu trips around the globe to raise money for
Dhabi Chess Club, which meets once a month impoverished people. For example, the
for a few friendly games. And although there charity is still looking for volunteers to climb
are some true chess geniuses among the Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in
members, they’re a friendly and welcoming July. But the Dhs18,000 you’ll need to raise
lot, who’ll be happy to teach you some will definitely occupy the summer months.
winning strategies. And every August, the Gulf 4 Good, last Tue of each month, One To One
club organises an annual chess festival, where Hotel, Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, 7pm.
the world’s chess grandmasters come along www.gulf4good.org

THIS SUMMER WE WILL BE…

MARK EVANS
EDITOR
“Check that out – a brilliant list of
fun, active and brain-
challenging things
to do this summer.
No excuses for
boredom. I,
however, like the
large majority
of the UAE’s male
population, will be
completely ignoring most of that
list in order to spend the summer
screaming at a large TV screen.
I’m talking, of course, about the
World Cup. There’s a host of great
spots in the UAE to watch England
fail miserably at the quarter-final
stage on penalties – I think Barasti
or maybe the Park Hyatt will have
my custom – but make your own
choice, with our handy guide, p40.
HELEN SPEARMAN
DEPUTY EDITOR
“I’ll be heading to Shelter every
Tuesday night in June for their
fashion-themed cinema screenings.
Grey Gardens will
be a highlight.
Drew
Barrymore
dressed up
and acting
crazy?
Yes please.
My main pursuit,
however, will be avoiding football
fever so I’ll mainly be found with the
girls on the air-conditioned patio at
Caramel, ordering lobster tacos.”
Shelter, Road 318, Al Quoz, Dubai,
free for members or Dhs15 for non-
members. Tel: (04) 4345655. www.
shelter.ae. Caramel, DIFC, Dubai. Tel:
(04) 4256677. www.carameldubai.com
GARETH REES
FEATURES EDITOR
“Unlike most
golfers, who
are lazy, I like
to sweat
– buckets
when I
swing a nine
iron. Sweating
makes one feel like a man. So I’ll be
booking a cheeky afternoon or two
off work and taking advantage of Al
Badia Golf Club’s summer golf offer
(until September 30). Just Dhs299
for 18 holes during the week,
including dinner and drinks at the
pleasant Spikes restaurant.”
Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival
City, Dubai, weekdays Dhs179
to Dhs299, weekends Dhs235 to
Dhs399. Tel: (04) 6010111.
www.albadiagolfclub.com
HUGO BERGER
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
“Instead of my usual summer
DVD box set and junk food
marathon, I intend to keep
relatively healthy this year. So
I’ll be signing up to the thrice-
weekly body pump classes at
the Beach Club gym at
the Beach Rotana
Hotel. I’ve been
told that they’re
seriously tough
and guaranteed
to rid you of your
summer paunch.”
Beach Club, Beach
Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area,
Abu Dhabi, Sun, Tues and Wed,
6.25pm, Fri, 9.45am, Dhs35
for members, Dhs40 for non-
members. Tel: (02) 6979000.
www.rotana.com

38 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 F R I D AY 1 6 5
O N E D AY. F O U R R E S TA U R A N T S . O N E P R I C E .

The Chamas Carnival Lunch 12 noon – 3 pm The Belgian Café Brunch 11am–3pm
Braziliant value with salad bar, select cuts of meat, dessert Croissants, orange juice, one house brew and unlimited
and a complimentary exotic house cocktail AED 165. dishes from our special brunch menu AED 165.
Add AED 130 for free flow of exotic drinks. Add AED 110 for free flow of brews.

The Yacht Club Late Lunch 2 pm –6 pm The Buffet Lunch 12 noon –3pm. International buffet,
Order unlimited dishes from our exclusive Late menu, carvery, salads, dessert, juices and local water AED 165.
including a free flow of sundowner refreshments AED 165. Add AED 30 for free flow of house grape beverage.
Add AED 200 for free flow of bubbly. Add AED 100 for free flow of bubbly.

For reservations, call InterContinental Abu Dhabi at 800 423463.

THE 26 BEST PLACES
TO WATCH THE WIN!
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The Red Lion

traditional pub, and you can enjoy

the sunshine and all manner of
giveaways as well. It’s only one
lion, and it’s red, but this may be a
suitable place for England fans.
Metropolitan Hotel, Sheikh Zayed
Road, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3430000.
www.habtoorhotels.com

Sheraton Abu Dhabi
From dynamite BEST FOR…
drinks deals to SPLASHING OUT
fully-fledged sporting CHAMELEON
If watching the games in a
arenas, it’s all on offer seedy pub doesn’t appeal to
as the UAE gears you, we recommend the classy
Chameleon Bar. It’s being
up for the biggest transformed into a sophisticated
sporting event of sports lounge, with two 50in
plasma televisions and a range
the year of World Cup themed bar bites
and cocktails. If you really want
BEST FOR… to push the boat out, hire the
CHEAP DRINKS VIP lounge where your own
SHERATON ABU DHABI butler will serve you bubbly and
Head to the poolside bar, grab a canapés – although prices start
beanbag or an inflatable chair in at Dhs4,000 for the group games,
the pool, lay back and watch all rising to Dhs10,000 to the final, so
the evening games. Dhs195 to make sure you’ve a few dirhams
eat and drink as much as you like tucked away before you book.
throughout the evening. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The
Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Corniche, Bridges, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02)
Dhs195. Tel: (02) 6970224. 6543000. www.fairmont.com
www.sheraton.com
31st Bar & Terrace
BEST FOR…
CHEAP DRINKS
31ST BAR & TERRACE
On match days, a pint of beer at this
cosy, rooftop bar will set you back a
mere Dhs19. And if you think you’ll
be too emotional after the game to
make it home, you can get a room
for as little as Dhs199.
Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi, Airport
Road, Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel:
(02) 6574888. www.holidayinn.com
BEST FOR…
ALFRESCO FOOTY
THE RED LION
It’s not the classiest place in the
city, we know that, but with eight
colossal screens standing proud
in an air-conditioned garden
you can’t really argue. There’s
no better atmosphere in which
to enjoy the footy than that of a
BEST FOR…
VENUE
PARK ROTANA
During the quarter-finals, semi-
finals and finals, the hotel’s giant
ballroom will be transformed
into a footy fan’s dream venue.
The seats will be arranged in an
arena-style, with TV screens in the
centre, while there’ll be waitress
service to keep you refreshed
without missing any of the action.
Park Rotana, Salaam Street,
Abu Dhabi, free.. Tel: (02) 6573333.
www.rotana.com
BEST FOR…
SETTING
QASR AL SARAB
The desert-based hotel will be
showing each and every game of
the tournament at its poolside bar.
And with its stunning backdrop of
the dunes of Liwa desert, there are
few more picturesque places to
catch the action.
Qasr Al Sarab, Liwa Desert, Abu
Dhabi, free. Tel: (02) 8862088.
www.qasralsarab.anantara.com

40 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010


ON THE
BOX
Watch the
beautiful game
the old
fashioned way
Al Jazeera Sports holds the
rights to all the FIFA World
Cup 2010 matches and are
charging Dhs660 for a six-
month package, including the
World Cup.
Tel: (04) 2283600.
www.aljazeerasport.tv
Belgian Beer Café
BEST FOR…
WATCHING
GERMANY
BRAUHAUS
Never write off the Germans
is a common cliché among
commentators during World Cup
broadcasts. And rightly so. The
Germans are always a safe bet
to reach the later stages of the
Cup. And so expect Brauhaus,
the capital’s favourite Teutonic
watering spot, to be a busy old
place during the tournament.
Beach Rotana, Tourist Club Area,
Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02) 6979000.
www.rotana.com
BEST FOR…
MATCH-
DEPENDENT
DISCOUNTS
BELGIAN BEER CAFÉ
As if you needed an excuse to visit
the BBC. Everyone loves it, don’t
they? The serious beer, the saliva
inducing pub grub, the fact that
it’s a bona fide pub – yep, we like
it. And, of course, it’s showing
all the games. During the last 16
category matches a 10 per cent
discount on drinks is applied
every time a goal is scored. Let’s
hope it’s 10-0, then, shall we?
Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, THE ARENA
Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 7012222.
www.ichotelsgroup.com
BEST FOR…
WINNING A BIG
DISCOUNT
LE MÉRIDIEN MAJILIS
It’s being billed as the ‘official VIP lounge, with prices ranging
Majilis for the World Cup’, and we from Dhs400 per person during
are officially quite excited about the group stage to Dhs1,000 for
the chance to fill in the guess
the score card for the chance
to win 50 per cent off upon our
second visit. Something to look
forward to if your team is being
thrashed.
Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud, Dubai,
free. Tel: (04) 2170000.
www.lemeridien-dubai.com
BEST FOR…
COMMEMORATIVE
DRINKING
BELGIAN CAFÉ
Deus Brut is known as the
champagne of the beer world. It’s
fermented for months in special
cellars, before being served in
fancy 75cl bottles. If you feel like
popping a few corks of the stuff
while watching your team win,
you can buy a commemorative
World Cup bottle for Dhs300
at Abu Dhabi’s best European-
style bar.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al
Bateen, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02)
6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com
BEST FOR…
GOING ALL OUT
STILLS BAR & BRASSERIE
On first glance, Dhs1,400 might
seem a fair whack to spend on
watching the World Cup, but just
check out what it buys you at
Stills. The bar’s platinum package
will buy you 50 drinks vouchers,
12 food vouchers, one night’s stay
in the hotel, one bottle of bubbly
and plenty of other World
Cup goodies.
Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Abu Dhabi,
free. Tel: (02) 6563000.
www.crowneplaza.com
BEST FOR…
CHILDREN
(AND PARENTS)
One of several big old venues
vying for your patronage during
the World Cup, The Arena has a
capacity of 600. It’s indoors and
it’s free, but best of all – there’s
a supervised children’s zone so
you can watch the game in peace
and quiet. There’s also a group
the final.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 4068999.
www.jumeirah.com/football
WORLD CUP 2010
BEST FOR…
CHEAP DRINKS
SCARLETT’S FOOTBALL
CLUBHOUSE
Frankly, my dear, I don’t
give a damn. That’s what a
moustachioed fellow once said
to Scarlett O’Hara. Well, we do
give a damn about Scarlett’s,
or to be more precise, Scarlett’s
happy hours, 5pm to 8pm. We
also like the fact it’s Dhs80 for five
drinks on Wednesday, Thursday
and Friday nights, with screens
everywhere for the footy.
Scarlett’s, Emirates Towers, Dubai,
midday to 3am. Tel: (04) 3198088.
www.jumeirah.com/football
BEST FOR…
CHEAP DRINKS
HEROES
The underground pub is a rough
and ready kind of place where
there’s bound to be plenty of
passion on show among the
punters. And with ten per cent
off your bill during the games
and house drinks costing just
Dhs15 during happy hour,
expect it to be packed out and
extra noisy during those vital
World Cup clashes.
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan
Street, free. Tel: (02) 6210000.
www.crowneplaza.com
BEST FOR…
SETTING
AL FORSAN
OK, so it’s located at a luxury
resort in the middle of the desert,
but if you’re after a unique
hideaway to watch the footy at
the weekend, why not Bab Al
Shams? Al Forsan is showing
all the matches, there’s an
unbeatable view of the dunes
and there is 50 per cent off South
African beverages for the full
90 minutes of each match.
Back of the net!
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa,
Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 8096194.
www.jumeirah.com/football
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 41
WORLD CUP 2010
BEST FOR…
WATCHING THE
GAME IN STYLE
THE TERRACE AND THAI
KITCHEN
The Park Hyatt is our favourite
hotel, the seafood platter at The
Terrace offers the freshest seafood
in town and Thai Kitchen is one
hell of a Thai restaurant. With two
footy zones – one at The Terrace
and the other an air-conditioned
balcony for 50 at Thai Kitchen (call
ahead to book) – there’s no better
place to watch the game in style.
Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 6021804.
www.dubai.park.hyatt.com
BEST FOR…
HAPPY HOUR
THE OBSERVATORY
Since Marriott took over at the
Harbour Hotel, it seems like
every hour has been happy hour.
Anyone who’s brunched nearby
will have made their way to The
Observatory to take advantage
of the discounted drinks in the
early evening. Well, during the
tournament it’s a case of happy
hours – plural. From 6pm to 9pm
on match days everyone will have
a smile on their face – providing
their team is winning, that is.
Marriott Dubai Harbour
Hotel & Suites, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 3194795. www.
dubaimarriottharbourhotel.com
BEST FOR…
AFTER WORK
ACTION
EVORY LOUNGE ARENA
Kempinski’s lounge bar is billing
itself as the place to watch the footy
after work, and is offering a range of
complicated discounts. In short, it’s
Dhs190 for six drinks, with groups
of ten given a ten per cent discount
and groups of 20 a 20 per cent
discount. Or, pay Dhs20 entrance
and enjoy 20 per cent off you bill
for evening games. Or Dhs10 will
buy you a 20 per cent discount for
daytime games. Confused? We are.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the
Emirates, Dubai, Dhs10 to Dhs20.
Tel: (04) 3410000. www.kempinski.
com
42 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
BEST FOR…
GOING FURTHER
AFIELD
AL HAMRA GOLF CLUB
If you happen to be in Ras Al
Khaimah, head for Lagoons Sports
Bar, where the winning team
could earn you some serious
drinks discounts. When their first
goal is scored you’ll receive ten
per cent discount, 20 per cent
for the second, and so on and so
forth for the full 90 minutes. If
there is another game later on, the
discount lasts until kick-off.
Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah,
free. Tel: (07) 2447474.
www.alhamragolf.com
BEST FOR…
VENUE
GRAND HYATT DUBAI
There’s Grand Stand seating in
the air-conditioned tent for 450
people at the Grand Hyatt, and
the What’s On team will be firmly
pressed into several of them.
Dhs45 will buy you entry and a
drink and there are various group
packages available.
Grand Hyatt Dubai, Dubai, Dhs45.
Tel: (04) 3171234. www.hyatt.com
BEST FOR…
WATCHING BRAZIL
CHAMAS
Barbecued meat and football.
It’s a combination that we
definitely can’t resist. So what
better way to end a meat-fest
at this Brazilian restaurant by
heading to Chamas’s upstairs
bar to watch Kaka, Robinho
and co show why football’s
known as the beautiful game?
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al
Bateen, free. Tel: (02) 6666888.
www.ichotelsgroup.com
BEST FOR
MATCH ANALYSIS
PARADE RING RESTAURANT
The brand new Meydan Hotel
will be hosting this extra special
World Cup watching experience.
Former Showsports English
Premier League pundits Rob
McCaffrey and Derek Whyte will
be joined by a panel of football
My Bar
players and managers to provide
live match analysis of the
finals’ major clashes. They’ll be
there for a total of 11 matches,
including all of England’s group
games, plus the knockout stages
of the competition.
Parade Ring Restaurant, Meydan
Hotel, Meydan Racecourse, Dubai,
Dhs375. Tel: (04) 4456024.
www.robandderek.com
BEST FOR…
WATCHING SOUTH
AFRICA
NRG
The capital’s only dedicated
sports’ bar is giving itself a South
African themed makeover for
the World Cup. With authentic
snacks and drinks on the menu
and big screens covering every
wall, it’s a dead cert to be the
place where Abu Dhabi’s Saffer
contingent gathers to cheer on
the host nation.
Le Méridien Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club
Area, free. Tel: (02) 6446666.
www.lemeridien.com
BEST FOR…
DRINKS DEALS
MY BAR
This place promises to fill your
stomach, quench your thirst
and be kind to your bank
balance. Eat your way around
the world with the World Cup
menu, offering dishes from the
competing countries, then take
advantage of the buy three get
one free beer offer. If you buy a
bottle of spirits, you’ll receive a
buffet lunch or dinner for two at
The Californian restaurant.
Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3174515.
www.dusitthanidubai.com
Barasti
What’s
On pick
BARASTI BEACH STADIUM
Barasti is really going all
out with an air-conditioned
stadium. Yep, you heard right
– a stadium. The Mega Dome
will be five stories high and
fit 1,200 screaming fans for
each match. And it’s free. The
atmosphere is sure to be the
closest to being at the game
as you will get in Dubai. And
the air conditioning unit is
270 tonnes, for heaven’s sake.
How impressive is that? Of
course we’ll be there.
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach
Resort and Marina, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 3181313.
www.lemeridien-minaseyahi.
com
SHANGRI LA QARYAT
AL BERI
The hotel is erecting a
fully air-conditioned, giant
marquis that will have acres
of seating, a huge TV screen,
bar food and waitress service.
We reckon this could well be
the best place in the capital
to see the goals fly in.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri,
Between The Bridges, Abu
Dhabi, Dhs75.Tel: (02) 5098888.
www.shangri-la.com
 To be in with
a chance of winning

WIN! WIN! WIN!

one of the
31 amazing prizes
on offer visit
www.winwithmotivate.com
It’s our 31st birthday this month so we and register your details.
should really be receving presents. But it’s Good luck!
better to give than to receive, apparently.
So here are 31 prizes you can win

WEEKEND AT CROWNE PLAZA

ABU DHABI
How does a two-night stay at the Crowne Plaza
Abu Dhabi in a suite, with Dhs500 meal
vouchers for both the superb Cho Gao and
Spaccanapoli restaurants sound? Well that's
what we're giving you the chance to win.
Just tell us:
Spaccanapoli restaurant is named after
a street in which city?
a) Napoli
b) Newport
c) Nagasaki
A DINNER AND A STAY AT
YAS HOTEL
SPA AND The futuristic Yas Hotel is the UAE’s most visually
stunning new hotel. Here’s your chance to find
SEAFOOD AT THE this out for yourself with a one-night stay for two
BEACH ROTANA plus dinner in the quality Angar, Atayeb or Amici
restaurants. Just answer this:
If you win this prize, you and three
of your pals could be enjoying Yas Hotel overlooks what?
a spa treatment at the Beach a) An F1 racetrack
Rotana’s amazingly tranquil Zen b) The Amazon Rainforest
Spa, followed by dinner at Finz, c) The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
one of the best seafood places in
Abu Dhabi. Just tell us:
Which of these do you rarely DINNER FOR TWO
see on a fish? AT HAKKASAN
a) Fins The super-chic Chinese restaurant
b) Gills has just opened a branch at Abu
c) Arms Dhabi’s Emirates Palace and we
have a meal for two to give away.
Just answer this question:-
A NIGHT AT SHANGRI-LA AND Which of these meals is not
TRADERS HOTEL likely to be served in a Chinese
The Between The Bridges area is Abu Dhabi’s best restaurant?
entertainment hub. This prize, a night’s stay for two, plus a) Peking duck HOTEL STAY
b) Dim sum
breakfast in both the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri and Traders
hotels, will give you ample opportunity to find this out for c) Hamburgers
PLUS UNLIMITED
yourself. Just tell us: FITNESS CLASSES
What is the name of San Francisco’s famous bridge? If you win this prize, keeping
a) Bronze Fence Bridge fit during the summer months
b) Silver Hedge Bridge should be easy. We're offering
c) Golden Gate Bridge you a weekend stay for two at
the Sheraton Abu Dhabi, plus a
week’s worth of fitness classes
in the hotel’s modern, well-
equipped gym.
To win, just answer this:
Which of these pieces of
equipment are you unlikely to
find in a gym?
a) Treadmill
b) Rowing machine
c) Nuclear reactor

44 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 AN MINI-BREAK IN KERALA
Situated on the banks of a fresh-water lake,
the Zuri Kumarakom resort is one of the most
luxurious retreats in Southern India. With an
award-winning spa, fine dining restaurants and
stunning surrounds, this is a getaway you’ll never
forget. For your chance to win a three-night stay,
all-inclusive (not including flights) at the resort
answer this question:
Kerala is known as:
a) God’s own country
b) Land of the rising sun
c) The Big Apple

A NIGHT’S STAY AT THE BRUNCH

MONTGOMERIE, DINNER AT NINETEEN FOR TWO AT THE
AND GOLF FOR TWO OBSERVATORY
We have a luxury weekend, perfect for golf lovers. The Montgomerie is Brunch at The Observatory at the
mere minutes from Sheikh Zayed Road but is a world from the frantic Dubai Marriott Harbour is a decadent
city with rolling greens, top eateries and a stunning pool. To win a affair; bubbles, cocktail trolleys, oysters
stay for two including dinner at and some seriously impressive views
Nineteen and a round of golf, over the Marina that you can check
tell us: out with telescopes. For your chance to
Which of the following win brunch for two, answer this question:
shouldn’t be used when What is a telescope normally
playing golf? used for?
a) A putter a) Watching telly
b) A nine-iron b) Looking at remote objects
c) A tennis raquet c) Scoping Teletubbies

A DINING MEZZALUNA
EXTRAVAGANZA COOKING CLASS A SUITE STAY
AT THE RADISSON FOR TWO PEOPLE AND DINNER AT
BLU HOTEL Perfect your pasta with Italian chef TEATRO
Marco in his kitchen at Mezzeluna
Check out this amazing prize from We’re huge fans of Teatro,
the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira in the InterContinental Residence the new international
Creek. One hungry winner will get Suites. We have two places in a restaurant at Abu Dhabi’s
Friday brunch for two adults and cooking class (worth Dhs600 each) Park Rotana hotel. And you
two children at the Friday Fun Food for one lucky winner. The class could be winning a meal for
Festival, a two-hour dhow dinner includes breakfast, four-course two, plus an overnight stay
cruise for two people aboard the Al teaching menu and lunch with in a suite room at the hotel.
Mansour Dhow and lunch or dinner paired beverages. For your chance Just tell us…
for two at Japanese restaurant to win, just Which of these is not a
Minato. To be in with a chance tell us: famous theatre?
of winning, answer the following Which of the a) The Globe
question correctly: following is b) The Old Vic
Which creek is the Radisson not a type of c) Wild Wadi Waterpark
WWW.WIN
Blu on? pasta? WITHMOTIV
ATE.COM
a) Dawson’s Creek a) Penne
b) Dubai Creek b) Linguine
c) Jacob’s Creek c) Penguin

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 45

PURE DINNER FOR TWO
INDULGENCE AT EMBER
TREATMENT FOR We’d do bad things for Ember’s
black truffle risotto, and it’s
TWO AT MANDARA only a side dish, so the
SPA winner of dinner for two
One winner and a friend can should be a happy camper.
enjoy a 170-minute Pure The Address Dubai Mall’s
Indulgence treatment at the signature restaurant serves
gorgeous Mandara Spa at The up elegant grills and fine
Monarch hotel. Worth Dhs2,380 wines and for your chance
in total, the treatments include to try it, answer this question
reflex foot ritual, body scrub, floral correctly:
bath and Balinese massage. To be What is black truffle?
in with a chance of winning this a) Meat
pampering package, tell us… b) Fungus
Which of the following won’t c) Fizzy drink
you find at Mandara Spa?
a) Jacuzzi
b) Relaxation lounge
GOLF PACKAGE
c) Kebab shop FOR TWO
PEOPLE
ORIENTAL HAMMAM We have two ‘More Than Golf’
packages to give away. The
RITUAL FOR TWO winner and a friend can play
PEOPLE the 18-hole championship
course at Al Badia Golf Club
Here’s your chance to try a luxurious
75-minute hammam treatment at the spa before enjoying a meal and
at The Palace. Your body will be covered drinks at Spikes restaurant. To
with traditional black soap then you’ll take be in with a chance of winning,
a steam bath before a thorough scrub and answer this question correctly:
soothing massage. To win this treatment What can often be found on
for you and a friend tell us: the bottom of golf shoes?
Which part of the world did the a) Spikes
hammam originate from? b) Wheels
a) The Middle East c) Stiletto heels
b) Australia
c) Antarctica WWW.WIN
WITHMOTIV
ATE.COM

A NOKIA E72
SMARTPHONE
This seriously slick bit of kit is up for
grabs. Worth Dhs1,440 and featuring
email (up to ten addresses), Ovi maps, DINNER FOR SIX AT THE PALACE
QWERTY keyboard, five mega-pixel Arabic restaurant Ewaan at The Palace hosts Layali Ewaan, a Middle
camera and internet, the E72 is an Eastern experience every Monday evening. With live cooking
essential gadget for communication on stations, musicians, henna painting, belly dancing, shisha and more
the go. It also looks very nice. For your you can have a truly Arabian night. If you’d like to try Layali Ewaan
chance to win it, answer this question. with five friends, answer this following question:
What does GPS stand for? Which of these won’t be found at an Arabian buffet?
a) Great Problem Solver a) Falafel
b) Global Positioning System b) Tabbouleh
c) Good Point Sir c) Dim sum

46 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 BRUNCH FOR FOUR AND A
NIGHT IN A TWO-BEDROOM
SUITE AT THE FAIRMONT
Kick off your weekend at one of our favourite
brunches, with a feast for four at Spectrum on
One before enjoying the rest of your weekend in
a stunning two-bedroom suite at The Fairmont.
One very lucky winner can get their hands on
this amazing prize by answering the following
question:
What is the spa at The Fairmont called?
a) Willow Stream Spa
b) Wind in the Willows Spa
c) Islands in the Stream Spa
A SUITE STAY
IN THE SOFITEL
DUBAI JUMEIRAH
BEACH HOTEL
Take a free stay-cation in a suite
at the new Sofitel hotel in Dubai
Marina. The winner will also
receive dinner and breakfast for
two in the AOC French Brasserie
and butler service throughout the
stay. To win this luxury prize, you’ll
have to get this question right.
Which beach is the hotel
situated on?
a) Jumeirah Beach
b) Summer Bay
c) Brighton Beach
TEPPANYAKI FOR SIX
PEOPLE
If you win this prize you can treat five friends to
a teppanyaki experience at Shiba, the Japanese
restaurant at The Meydan. It’s all hot plates, egg
throwing and mountains of delicious fare. For your
chance to win a night of foodie
fun, answer this question:
What colour is the circle
on the Japanese flag?
a) White
b) Black
c) Red
STEAK FOR
FOUR AT PRIME
Prime, the signature steakhouse
at The Meydan, is one of the
newest spots on the block for
meat-lovers. If you and three
friends want to pay this restaurant
a visit for free, then tell us:
Which of the following is not a
well-known steak?
a) T-bone
b) Bull’s eye
c) Rib-eye
DINNER FOR
TWO IN NA3NA3
With surely one of Dubai’s most
unusual names, NA3NA3 is a stylish
Arabic buffet restaurant in The Address Dubai Mall.
There’s an open kitchen grilling meats, vast counters
of fresh salads and enough desserts to bring on a
sugar coma just from looking. For your chance to
dine at NA3NA3 with a friend, tell us:
Which of these is a traditional Arabic dessert?
a) Umm ali
b) Baked Alaska
c) Arctic roll
FRIDAY
BRUNCH FOR
FOUR
Escape the heat at The
Meydan with this prize. You
and three friends can enjoy
brunch (including drinks)
at Farriers restaurant. This
month there is such a thing
as a free brunch. For your
chance to win this fantastic
prize, simply tell us:
Brunch is a
combination of which
words?
a) Breakfast and lunch
b) Breakfast and
munch
c) Breakfast and
crunch
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 47
 THREE NIGHTS IN WWW.WIN
SWITZERLAND WITHMOTIV
ATE.COM

We have a three-night stay

in the gorgeous Tschuggen
Grand hotel in Switzerland up
for grabs. The winner will get
accommodation for two with
breakfast included, access to
the world-famous spa and
use of the Tschuggen Express,
a shuttle service that whisks
you from Arosa to the top of
the mountain in two minutes
(flights not included). For your
chance to win a five-star stay in
Switzerland, tell us…
What’s the name of the Swiss
mountain range?
a) The Alps
b) The Andes
c) The Rockies

BRUNCH, A GOURMET AND A COURSE

MASSAGE AND GOLF WEEKEND AT OF DANCE
STAY AT THE ARABIAN RANCHES LESSONS
HOLIDAY INN GOLF CLUB
Start a new hobby this
summer with these dance lessons
One reader can win a night
for two at the Holiday Inn Abu Combine food and fun with a night’s from www.dreamdays.ae. You
Dhabi, including Friday brunch, stay at Arabian Ranches Golf Club. can choose the style of dance or
a 50-minute massage and drinks Also included is a full English breakfast, switch between Latino, Arabic,
vouchers for 31st Bar. To be in three-course dinner and 30-minute Western, Indian and fusion with
with a chance of winning just golf lessons for two people. To escape eight one-hour classes at the
tell us: city life to the rolling greens, tell us… Nora Dance Studio. For a chance
Which popstar What kind of beans would you to win, tell us:
sang the song find in a full English breakfast? Which of the following is a
Holiday? a) Baked traditional form of Middle
a) Maradonna b) Mung Eastern dance?
b) Madonna c) Kidney a) Abdominal dancing
c) Donatella b) Six-pack dancing
Versace c) Belly dancing

A RELAXING A PAIR OF FINS BRUNCH, BEACH AND BED AT THE

WEEKEND AT LE SHOES INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI
MÉRIDIEN DUBAI Inspired by some of the most
glam destinations in the world,
Spend the weekend in the capital with this generous prize. The winner
will get brunch at the Belgian Café, lunch at Chamas or late lunch at
One reader can spend a weekend
in a new Superior Art & Tech the summer colour collection of the Yacht Club from 2pm to 6pm, including beach and pool access,
room at Le Méridien Dubai, which Fins footwear have names like Rio plus accommodation for two people. For your chance to win this
boasts the latest in comfort Red and Mustique Green. You can marvelous minibreak, answer the following
and technology. Also included get your hands, and feet, on a pair question:
is access to the gardens, three of these stylish kicks by answering Which dish is commonly
temperature-controlled pools the following question. associated with Belgium?
and the Natural Elements Spa. What colour were Elvis’ suede a) Sashimi
For your chance to relax in style, shoes? b) Moules et frites
answer this simple a) Lilac c) Spaghetti carbonara
question: b) Blue
In which area c) Beige
is Le Méridien
Dubai?
a) Graceland
b) Garhoud
c) Byker Grove

48 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

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Programme Includes:
Dune Bashing
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Soft Drinks & Refreshments
Photograph in Local Dress
Henna Painting & Tattoos Dhs. 200/- Per Person
Enchanting Belly Dancing Show Timing: Pick up: 3:00 - 3:30pm - Drop off: 9:00 - 9:30pm
Pick-up & drop-back facility included
Sheesha (Hubbly-Bubbly)
& lots more entertainment throughout the evening

HATTA MOUNTAIN SAFARI

Programme Includes:
Red Dunes Safari & Sand Boarding
Sight Seeing to various scenic locations Dhs. 300/- Per Person
Visit to Carpet Market & Heritage Village
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Chance to Dip or Dive in fresh water pools Timing: 8:00am to 2:30pm
Lunch at 5 Star Hatta Fort Hotel

DHOW CRUISE DINNER

Programme Includes:
Two hours cruising on Dubai Creek Dhs. 150/- Per Person
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Shall we dance?
The Lord Of The Dance
spectacular hits Abu Dhabi
this month. But how did the
Irish dance show conquer
the world? Damien O’Kane,
star of the show, talks us
through it
It started with the Eurovision Song Contest
– the trans-European annual showcase of
mediocre pop songs.
In 1994, Ireland was hosting the event
for the second year in succession, a dubious
honour granted for winning the previous
year’s event.
On the night, as millions of pop fans
from across Europe tuned in, it was neither
Lithuania’s entry, Lullaby For My Beloved
by Ovidijus Vyšniauskas, nor Germany’s
Mekado with We’re Giving A Party who
stole the show.
Even the eventual winners, Dublin
folk singers Paul Harrington and Charlie
McGettigan and their catchy tune Rock
‘n’ Roll Kids, hardly went on to become a
household name, even though it won Ireland
an unprecedented third successive title.
Instead, it was an Irish dance troupe
that precision jigged its way through the
intermission that received the loudest ovation
of the night.
The huge acclaim convinced the show’s
choreographer and lead dancer, the US-born
Michael Flatley, to create Riverdance, a full-
length theatre show based around the fast
kicking dance act.
But, after a sell-out run in London’s West
End, Flatley had an acrimonious split with
the show’s producers and left Riverdance.
Undeterred, he set about creating his own
dance spectacular.
And in 1996, Lord Of The Dance, a
grandiose dance interpretation of Irish
folk tales, was born. It was another global
phenomenon and Flatley regained his crown
as the king of Irish dance.
Some 14 years later the show is still
going strong. It has two different troupes
on tour at one time, has amassed a US$300
million fortune for Flatley and has played
to 60 million people in more than
60 countries.
Flatley retired from dancing in 1998, and
since then the role of Lord Of The Dance has
been played by Damien O’Kane.
“Of course, Michael’s shoes were huge ones
to fill and it was very nerve-wracking on the
first night I took over,” recollects Damien,
who’s in the middle of a seven-month world
tour that will include a three-day stop off
in the capital to perform at the Abu Dhabi
National Exhibition Centre.
“I’ll never be able to beat Michael, but I
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 51
LORD OF THE DANCE

“I’ll never be
able to beat
Michael, but
I think I’ve
made the role
my own and
added my
own technique
and character
to it”
think I’ve made the role my own and added
my own technique and character to it.”
Damien has played the high-energy role
more then 1,000 times, but insists he never
tires of it.
“We’re constantly changing the
choreography and costumes, so when we start
every tour we do something new. And the fact
that I’m on tour with my wife means I always
have a companion with me, so I don’t plan to
hang up my dance shoes any time soon.”
His said wife is Bernadette Flynn, who’s
played the lead female role of Colleen since
the show began.
But surely it must be hard to have your
husband touring, dancing and living with
you?
“Of course we have the odd argument,
every couple does,” admits Bernadette.
“But we never let it get in the way of our
performance. To be honest, if Damien hadn’t
been here with me, I wouldn’t have stuck it
out for so long. It’s hard living out of suitcases
on a tour bus. But it’s also a great life.
WIN!
TICKETS
LORD O
“I’ve danced at places like Radio City F THE TO DA N C E
Music Hall and Madison Square Gardens in We have
five pairs
b re of tickets
New York in front of royalty and presidents. spectacu
lar
at htaking
Irish
to watch
the
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like this? Definitely not me when I started a) The wn as: ll us:
dancing lessons when I was a little girl in my b) The E Ruby Isle
c) The Comerald Isle
small town in County Tipperary.” ncrete Is
le
And with Michael Flatley promising to
step out of retirement and return to the stage
later this year, despite now being aged 53, and
massive tours of the US and Europe planned,
the LOTD bandwagon won’t be slowing down
any time soon.
The same cannot be said for the career of
Ovidijus Vyšniauskas.
Jun 23 and 24, 8pm, Jun 25, 3pm and 8pm,
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Khaleej
Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, Dhs295 to Dhs795.
www.lordofthedance.com

52 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 W LASS IN!
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Knight And Day Shrek Forever After

Knight And Day Shrek Forever Inception

After

WHO? Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Leonardo DiCaprio, Marion Cotil-
Peter Sarsgaard, Maggie Grace, Cameron Diaz, Antonio lard, Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-
Paul Dano, Viola Davis, James Banderas, Jon Hamm, Jane Levitt, Michael Caine, Christopher
Mangold (director) Lynch, Mike Mitchell (director) Nolan (writer/director)

TAGLINE ‘Cruise and Diaz are Knight ‘The Final Chapter’ ‘Your mind is the scene of the crime’
And Day’

ONCE UPON A TIME...
Fugitive couple Miller and June
(Cruise and Diaz) undertook a
globe-spanning adventure of the
sort that might leave even James
Bond feeling a tad discombobu-
lated.
The world’s favourite ogre, having
grown bored with the peace and
seclusion of Far, Far Away, made a
pact with an enigmatic little chap
called Rumpelstiltskin...
In a world where thoughts can
be stolen while the victim sleeps,
‘dream thief ’ Dom (DiCaprio)
finds himself on the run from the
authorities.

IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE
MOOD TO...
Erase all memories of the movie
nightmare that was Vanilla Sky.
Listen to Mike Myers talk in that
not-terribly-convincing Scots
accent of his for the better part of
two hours.
See perhaps the most conceptually
satisfying film since The Matrix.
Not the rubbishy sequels of course,
but the peerless, bullet-time-intro-
ducing original.

WATCH THIS IF YOU Bond-ish action adventure, which Shrek The Third, which wasn’t a Anything else by the blistering Brit-
LIKE... will soon be in short supply now patch on Shrek 2, which wasn’t half ish visionary Christopher Nolan,
that 007’s been handed his march- as good as the superb Shrek. from The Dark Knight to Following.
ing orders.

TOP TRIVIA Before Tom Cruise was cast, the
producers considered Gerard Butler
(300, Law Abiding Citizen) and
Chris Tucker (Rush Hour and, ahem,
Rush Hour 2) for the role of Miller.
Rumpelstiltskin is voiced by Walt
Dohm, co-writer of Shrek The Third
and director of countless episodes
of Dexter’s Laboratory and Sponge-
Bob SquarePants.
Desperate to keep Inception under
wraps, Christopher Nolan wouldn’t
talk about the movie in interviews,
saying only that “it’s a sci-fi thriller set
within the architecture of the mind”.

WHAT’S ON TEN WORD Has the star power to become the It’ll enchant kids but Shrek’s lost his Makes Nolan’s Batman movies look
REVIEW movie of 2010. spell over adults. like Howard The Duck.

RATE OR SLATE? PREVIEW ★★★✩✩ ★★★★★

54 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

Toy Story 3
Toy Story 3 The A-Team
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Michael Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper,
Keaton, Timothy Dalton, Joan Quinton‘Rampage’ Jackson,
Cusack, Whoopi Goldberg, Lee Sharlto Copley, Jessica Biel, Patrick
Unkrich (director) Wilson, Joe Carnahan (director)
‘No toy gets left behind’ ‘There is no plan B’
Woody, Buzz and co were sent to a ‘A crack commando unit was sent
day-care centre when their owner, to prison... for a crime they didn’t
Andy, left for college. Now obliged commit. These men promptly
to fend for themselves, our heroes escaped... to the Los Angeles un-
discover that their new charges derground. Today... they survive as
have next to no respect for toys... soldiers of fortune,’ etc.
Spend more time with Pixar’s great- Revisit that special time when Mr T
est creations to date. pitied fools and point blank refused
to go on no airplane.
Toy Story I and II, plus modern ani- So-so guys-on-mission movies
mated gems such as Finding Nemo, like The Wild Geese and below-par
The Incredibles and Up. movie remakes of hit TV shows
such as Starsky & Hutch.
It took Pixar and their new business When an A-Team movie was first
partners Disney Studios five long mooted way back in 1999, Mel Gib-
years to get a second Toy Story son was the studio’s choice to play
sequel up and running. head honcho ‘Hannibal’ Smith.
At last, the toys are back in town! Alas, this plan doesn’t really come
together.
★★★★✩ ★★★✩✩
The A-Team
Hippie Hippie
Shake
Sienna Miller, Cillian Murphy,
Max Minghella, Derek Jacobi,
Chris O’Dowd, Daniel Mays,
Beeban Kidron (director)
‘From Beeban Kidron, director of
Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason’
There was an exciting time called
the 1960s, during which skirts
became shorter, hair became longer
and three blokes launched an
incendiary magazine called Oz.
See a film that celebrates rock’n’roll
while also profiling one of the most
controversial trials of recent times.
1960s British cinema classics such
as Blow-Up, Alfie, Performance and
A Hard Day’s Night.
Hippie Hippie Shake features cameo
appearances from Tom Goodman-
Hill and Emma Booth as 1960s
luminaries David Frost and Ger-
maine Greer.
OK, but the soundtrack could do
with more music from The Kinks.
★★★✩✩
FILM | NEW RELEASES
The Twilight
Saga: Eclipse
Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart,
Taylor Lautner, Billy Burke, Ashley
Greene, Jackson Rathbone, David
Slade (director)
‘It all begins... with a
choice’
A series of bizarre
killings strained the
relationship between our
heroine Bella (Stewart), her vampire
lover Edward (Pattinson) and her
lupine best friend Jacob (Lautner).
Watch wane-faced teens moon
over one another. Like you can’t
see that anywhere else.
The previous Twilight films, which
turned the near-translucent Rob-
ert Pattinson (aka R-Pattz) into
the pastiest international star since
Marcel Marceau.
Chris Weitz, who directed Twi-
light: New Moon, turned down
Eclipse because the previous pic-
ture took too long to complete.
Heaven for fans, but it’ll leave
newcomers in the dark.
★★★✩✩
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 55
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EATING OUT
p59 Café Chic
p60 Essential... Seafood
p62 Armani
p65 Kazu
p67 The critic
p69 Teatro
p70 Take five

ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 57


Café Chic
Café Chic is now hip
and trendy
We’d heard exciting things were
going on at Le Méridien Dubai’s
Café Chic. So when we received
a press release entitled ‘Café Chic
is now hip and trendy!’ – yep,
it really said that – we laughed
heartily, and then began to worry.
For a start, a restaurant called
Café Chic, by definition, should
always have been hip and trendy.
And secondly, the description was
one small step away from funky.
And funky is bad. Very bad.
Then we received the menu,
and we began to forgive the
cool Gallic cats over there in Le
Méridien’s kitchens.
There are already a slew of
French restaurants in Dubai, most
of which more than cut the Dijon
mustard – shining examples are
Franck Detrait’s Traiteur and
Pierre Gagnaire’s emporium of
culinary wonder Reflets – but
there’s always room for more.
Variety is the spice of life, or in
this case the pan-fried crispy
duck liver of life.
And chef de cuisine Sylvain
Gohier has created a menu that
is both classic and contemporary.
Fresh, but not too experimental.
A list of dishes that doesn’t bore
you or fill you with dread.
Duck liver terrine, half roasted
lobster salad, pan fried frogs legs
(more on those later), lobster
bisque with coral and lemongrass
– salivating over page 59 yet? It’s
certainly the kind of menu that
makes our taste buds perspire.
The restaurant itself is both
hip and trendy, but perhaps
lacking that je ne sais quoi. It feels
a little like it’s been installed in
the hotel’s only available space,
but it’s nice enough, with a lot of
dark wood and a nice cocktail bar
looking out onto a busy terrace
(not for the summer months).
Before we move on to the food
– a warning. Do not order a glass
of champagne. It is, perhaps, one
of the most expensive in the city.
Do order the king prawn ravioli
“There is nothing more
satisfying than the taste of
garlic and white wine on the
tongue and a smattering of
tiny frog femurs on your plate”
with leek compote, Parmesan
and beetroot butter – packed
with flavour – and, of course,
the frog legs. The meat was silky
soft, and there is nothing more
satisfying than the taste of garlic
and white wine on the tongue and
a smattering of tiny frog femurs on
your plate.
Not to mention the seafood
would be remiss. Pan-fried
scallops, tajine of lobster, Atlantic
bass, Meuniere Dover sole and
confit of salmon all sounded
delightful. But it was impossible
to refuse the blend of flavours
promised, and delivered, by
endless slices of blood red duck
breast, stuffed with rich wild
mushrooms and accompanied
by a fresh artichoke mousseline,
green peas with spring onion and
a surprisingly gentle Szechuan
pepper sauce. And the Guinea
fowl breast with hazelnut sauce
was also a triumph.
The After Eight mint mousse was
a tad 1970s and a little too minty
for our palette. What is required is
that most French of offerings – a
cheese trolley. Unfortunately it’s not
really hip these days. Fortunately,
Café Chic is.
Need to know
Location: Le Méridien Dubai
Tel: (04) 2170000
Web: www.starwoodhotels.
com
Open: 12.30pm to 2.45pm
and 7.30pm to 11.45pm
Cuisine type: French
Must eat: pan-fried frog legs
Bill for two: Dhs700
(excluding drinks)
EATING OUT
A taste of
things to
come
Which of these new
restaurants will you
be eating at this
month?
PICCOLO MONDO
BAY
To progress from
International City to a
prime Marina Walk spot
next to the Grosvenor House
Hotel, a restaurant needs to
be doing something right. The
original PM is a local haunt of
ours in the IC – an Aladdin’s cave
of bric-a-brac collected by Iraqi
owner Mr Zaki from 50-plus years
of travelling the globe, shrouded
in shisha smoke and serving
good coffee and decent food.
The new café promises more of
the same.
Marina Walk, Dubai Marina,
Dubai, 11am to midnight. Tel: (04)
4475449
WEST BEACH
BISTRO
The opening of the
Mövenpick Hotel
Jumeirah Beach has
long been awaited by
residents of JBR. And
West Beach Bistro promises
the kind of casual dining beloved
of those who like to walk The
Walk. Chef Jason Wass boasts a
reasonably priced menu, with a
roast rack of lamb just Dhs125.
Gents should check out the Boys'
Night every Tuesday, where wine
is two for one.
Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach,
The Walk, JBR, Dubai, 6.30pm
to 1am. Tel: (04) 4498888. www.
moevenpick-hotels.com
CEDAR LOUNGE
If this new Lebanese
fusion restaurant
is on a par with
Fairmont Bab Al
Bahr's other offerings
– Marco Pierre White
Steakhouse & Grill and
Frankie's – we'll be happy. Expect
unusual takes on classic Arabian
dishes such a vine leaf sushi and
falafel with red berry sauce.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The
Bridges, Abu Dhabi, noon to 3pm
and 7pm to midnight. Tel: (02)
6543333. www.fairmont.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 59
 Essential... WIN!
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MEAL FOR TW ERNIGHT
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SEAFOOD
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giving aw
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and t
gest animal tha
What is the lar ?
lives in the sea
a) Blue whale
b) Sardine
c) Giraffe

Given the UAE’s coastal position, it’s

no surprise to see a host of top class
seafood restaurants throughout
the emirates. Shaiful Bin Kassim
– the chef de cuisine at the Yas
Hotel’s fantastic seafood restaurant,
Nautilus – lets us in on the secrets of
cooking fish, while we pick out our
favourite top five eateries

SHAIFUL BIN KASSIM with olive oil and butter. The

ON…
…THE ESSENCE OF
COOKING SEAFOOD
It’s all about the freshness of
the fish. At Nautilus, we throw
away any fish that’s over three of
four days old. If you have good
ingredients, try and keep it simple.
If you’re cooking a fillet of fish, do
nothing other than cook the skin
side for four to five minutes in olive
oil, then turn over and cook the
other side for a minute. Add some
butter, seasoning and lemon juice
and it’s done.
…KEY INGREDIENTS
Good quality olive oil, butter,
lemon and herbs like thyme, cori-
ander and oregano are essential to
seafood cooking.
…WHICH FISH TO USE
We fly in the best sea bass and
salmon from Europe. But there are
plenty of great fishes you can get
from the Gulf. Everyone knows
hammour, but there are also other
local fishes like Sultan Ibrahim fish
and red snapper that I would also
recommend highly. Always check
the eye isn’t cloudy when buying a
fish. That’s how you tell its freshness.
…HIS FAVOURITE
SEAFOOD DISH
This has to be sea bass, cooked
smoky taste of the fish is simply
amazing.
…CURRENT TRENDS
I think molecular gastronomy
is an exciting development and
we make some use of it in our
restaurant with foams and sauces.
But for seafood, the classical way
of cooking is still the best in my
books. A nicely grilled or pan-
fried fillet of fish can’t be topped.
…WORKING UNDER
GORDON RAMSAY
I worked with him at The Con-
naught in London. We didn't see
that much of him as he only came
in twice a week. But when he was
there, you knew you had get eve-
rything exactly right. He never
lost his temper at me, but I've
seen him do it to other people a
few times and it wasn't pretty
to watch.
…BEST SEAFOOD
RESTAURANTS IN THE
UAE
This one, of course. Apart from us,
I like Sayad at the Emirates Palace,
while Ossiano at Atlantis is also
pretty special. As freshly caught
seafood is so readily available, the
quality is generally pretty high
over here. Even a small restaurant
should serve reasonably fresh and
good quality fish.
NAUTILUS KING PRAWN
WITH SEAFOOD AND
VEGETABLE RAVIOLI
A dish Captain Nemo would have been proud of...
INGREDIENTS
Two large king prawns, 30g prawn, 30g hammour or sea bass,
80g chicken stock, 20g flour, 25g egg yolks, lime zest, 15g baby
corn, 15g asparagus, 15g baby carrot, one tomato, two cloves of
garlic, 20ml cream, 20g butter, 1g saffron, parmesan cheese
PREPARATION
Season the king prawn and grill on both sides. Then glaze in a
hot pan with olive oil, butter, garlic and thyme. For the ravioli:
cut the asparagus, baby corn and carrots into diamonds. Sear the
fish and prawn in a pan, but don’t cook them. In another pan,
sweat the vegetables for three minutes. Then add the seafood
and cook for another three minutes, seasoning with salt, pepper,
lime and thyme. For the pasta dough, mix the flour, salt and olive
oil in a blender, and then stir in egg yolks slowly. Let it rest for 30
minutes. Roll with a rolling pin, add some filling and cut. Boil for
one minute then place it on king prawn. For the foam: sweat a
white onion with thyme leaves. Add chicken stock then reduce
by half, then add grated Parmesan. Season and add cream and
saffron. Boil for five minutes, and then blend in a blender. Pass
through a fine sieve and pour on the king prawn.

60 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010


SEAFOOD
Our pick of the UAE’s seafood restaurants
AMWAJ
ATMOSPHERE Amwaj provides
the calm you would
expect from such an
upmarket and elegant
restaurant.
INTERIOR According to the
rule book (if there
actually was one)
a contemporary
restaurant has dark
wood floors, stiff white
table linen, an open
kitchen, lots of light
and nothing garish or
kitsch. Amwaj has read
it cover to cover.
FOOD A favourite of real
seafood aficionados,
some of the freshest
seafood in Dubai is
to be found on this
menu. And they can
do it all, from snapper
and salmon to sea bass
and swordfish.
LOCATION The Shangri-La sits on
Sheikh Zayed Road –
both central and away
from the crowds.
PRICE It’s reasonable a la carte,
but the Dhs225 set
menu is a drop in the
ocean for fish this good.
WHAT'S ON It re-opens this month
SAYS after some hotel
refurbishments, and
we’ll be the first in.
INFO Shangri-La, Sheikh
Zayed Road, Dubai,
Sun to Fri 7pm to
midnight. Tel: (04)
4052703. www.
shangri-la.com
EATING OUT
HOT
LIST
PIER CHIC OSSIANO NAUTILUS FISHMARKET
Calm and romantic The respectful hush Relaxed sophistication. Flaming woks and
with the lapping of the of a formal fine dining Fairly empty when it steaming pots in the
waves and the sound restaurant. opened, diners are open kitchen brings
of the sea breeze begining to flock to this rustic beachside
whispering in your ears. The Yas Hotel. restaurant to life.
It’s more of an exterior. Ever wondered what Glass-windowed walls A bamboo shack
With panoramic views it’s like to dine under give views over the with fish tanks lining
from the terrace, you the sea? Like Ossiano. nearby marina and F1 the walls and a huge
can take in the lights of Dim lighting and an racetrack, while inside, ice display of fresh
the Al Qasr Hotel and aquarium view that it’s sparse, functional seafood in one corner.
the turquoise waters of allows you to ogle and modern.
the Arabian Gulf. all manner of sea
creatures as you eat
their piscine cousins.
Lots of inventive fish Officially Michelin Imported and locally Fill your shopping
dishes, including oven starred Catalan chef caught fish, beautifully basket with lobster,
roasted Tasmanian Santi Santamaria’s cooked, and served shrimps and fish and
ocean trout with carrot UAE outpost is only with a selection of let the talented chefs
and lobster falafel “inspired by the ocean sauces and purees. transform it into a Thai
(Dhs140) – yes, please. depths”, but in our There are also five feast.
book it’s a darn good different kinds of
fine dining seafood oysters to choose from.
restaurant.
Torches light your stroll For a seafood Yas Island is only 20 Overlooking the
along the pier leading restaurant, you can’t minutes drive from InterCon’s private
to a terrace above the ask for a better location Abu Dhabi and 45 beach, it’s a perfect
calming waters of the than the depths of minutes from Dubai. spot for a quiet,
Arabian Gulf. And if the lost city of Atlantis It’s well worth visiting romantic tête-à-tête.
that’s not enough, you (well, the famous hotel for a night out or a
can add the Burj Al Arab of Atlantis, anyway). weekend break.
into the scene as well.
Around Dhs700 for One starter below Splash out, you’ll easily The average for two is
two. Dhs200. Cheapest drop a grand. Choose around Dhs700.
main, Dhs295. The bill wisely, it’ll be about
for two, Dhs1,000 plus. half that.
One of the most It’s hellishly expensive, Nautilus is a favourite If we don’t visit
romantic environments but one hell of an haunt of sheikhs, Fishmarket once every
in which to wield a fish experience. celebrities and other four weeks, it’s been a
knife in the UAE. VIPs. It’s easy to see why. bad month for us.
Madinat Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm, The Yas Hotel, Yas InterContinental
Al Qasr Hotel, Dubai, Dubai, 7pm to Island, Abu Dhabi, 7pm Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm
1pm to 3pm and 11.30pm. Tel: (04) to 11pm daily. to 3pm, and 7pm
7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: 4261000. www. Tel: (02) 6560600. to 11pm. Tel: (02)
(04) 3666730. www. atlantisthepalm.com www.theyashotel.com 6666888. www.
jumeirah.com ichotelgroups.com
NEXT MONTH… STEAKHOUSES
 EATING OUT

Armani Ristorante
Dubai’s first designer
hotel impresses with
its Italian fine dining
restaurant
The fashion world is all about glitz
and glamour, VIPs, presentation
and pretension – style over
substance. Isn’t it?
OK, so Giorgio Armani can
throw together a top suit, but
what does the man with the tan
know about food?
Well, the installation of eight
food and beverage outlets at
the much-hyped Armani Hotel
Dubai – three of them fine dining
establishments – suggests feeding
his guests, and feeding them well,
is a priority.
The great man is Italian, after
all. And if there’s one thing the
Italians care about even more
than the clothes on their backs,
it’s the food on their plates.
We expected high prices and
showy dishes from the menu at
Armani Ristorante. Instead, chef
Alessandro Salvatico wowed us
with promises of rustic delights
from his homeland – veal liver
bruschetta, seafood soup, ravioli brigade of chefs – mostly fully- turnip tops, was fresh and pretty a mistake. Creamy Gorgonzola
filled with braised beef cheek and fledged Italians – gliding about as a picture. with a kick and magnificently
pappardelle with rabbit ragout the central open kitchen, while And then came the saffron crumbly and salty Parmigiano-
– that although far from cheap, Salvatico himself – accompanied risotto with ossobuco. Bulb Reggiano were the stars.
aren’t impossibly exclusive. by enthusiastic restaurant bright yellow rice blended with Salutations, Signore Armani.
And the restaurant itself is a manager Roberto Di Pierno a superior Parmigiano-Reggiano Armani Ristorante is our new
beauty. One of the chicest in a – hopped from table to table and perfectly seasoned made favourite Italian.
town where chic is a must. Parts peddling his culinary wares. up the best risotto we’ve ever
of this designer property seem Steak tartare – an unusually tasted, while the chunks of
drab, a tad lacking in something burly amuse bouche – was served partially shredded slow-cooked
– furniture, things to fill space – with a sweet pepper sauce and a veal shank in a rich tomato Need to know
and suffering from Mr Armani’s yolky quails egg which impressed sauce – the Milanese ossobuco –
‘minimalist’ style. But Armani us from the off. provided a tangy balance. Location: Armani Hotel
Ristorante’s design is spot on. A Cod brandade, a hearty Herb crusted lamb rack was Dubai
grey stone floor, flesh coloured Ligurian dish, sometimes served as tender as the night. And Tel: (04) 8883888
blinds half raised to reveal a as a spread, was presented as a sweet pink tuna loin with a salty Web: www.dubai.
wonderful view, cushioned delicate heap of shredded salty olive and herb crust, served armanihotels.com
booths with overhanging lamps, cod blended with olive oil on a with spinach purée and sautéed Open: midday to 3pm and
perfect lighting and several bed of buttery, soft polenta. We chaterelles, represented a clever 7pm to 11pm
occupied tables – even at 7pm. scooped it up with a few hunks of synchronisation of flavours. Cuisine type: Italian
And the food, down to earth fresh olive bread. We hear the desserts are not Must eat: saffron risotto
though it may be, was beautifully Another starter, giant pink to be missed, but we couldn’t Bill for two: Dhs850
prepared and presented by the prawns with cannellini beans and resist the cheese trolley. It wasn’t

e thin g the Italians ca re about even more than

“If there’s on it’s the food on their plates”
clot he
theON JUNE 2010 s on their ba ck s,
62 WHAT’S

Kazu
The Yas Hotel’s
understated
Japanese holds
its own against its
much-hyped Dubai
counterparts
Kazu isn’t a restaurant name
that’ll have the paparazzi reaching
for their flashguns.
It doesn’t have a branch in
Beverley Hills or Manhattan, it’s not
owned by a legendary actor and you
won’t find millionaire footballers
or pop stars posing at the bar. In
fact, it’s fair to say it distinctly lacks
celebrity status, despite being based
at the ultra-trendy Yas Hotel, Abu
Dhabi’s futuristic new landmark
stopover. And what better way to
get the glare of publicity shining
on the place than a Japanese
restaurant with a celebrity
following? It worked for Nobu at
the Atlantis in Dubai, right?
Maybe so, but head chef Yu Cao
seems determined to find fame
for his restaurant through its food,
rather than the column inches it
generates in gossip magazines.
Cao, who ironically used to
work at The Bahamas branch of
Nobu, knows that minimalist
simplicity is the bedrock of good
Japanese cooking.
Take his sushi and sashimi. It’s
nothing more than superbly fresh,
well cut fish, quality rice, pickled
ginger and wasabi. Simple, healthy
and tasty.
The dishes from the robotayaki
grill – an old fashioned cooking
technique in which fish and meat
are grilled over charcoal – continue
the theme. We loved the skewered
wagyu simibiyaki beef chunks,
which were glazed with a warm
balsamic vinegar sauce, while
the kohisuji suminiyaki – two
succulent lamb chops doused in a
sweet and intense garlic miso – was
the pick of the menu. They’re small,
so, like us, you’ll probably find
yourself ordering a second serving,
but couple them with the skewered
beef chunks glazed with a warm
“Head chef Yu Cao knows that
minimalist simplicity is the bedrock
of good Japanese cooking”
balsamic vinegar sauce and you’ll
leave happy.
Like the food, the simplicity
continues in the décor. The white,
clinical theme of the hotel is
interrupted by the bamboo rod
screens and the open kitchen in
the centre of the restaurant.
And although Kazu clearly isn’t
on the restaurant world’s A-list
yet, if quality of food is anything
to go by, it surely deserves its 15
minutes and then some.
Need to know
Location: The Yas Hotel, Yas
Island, Abu Dhabi
Tel: (02) 6560600
Web: www.theyashotel.com
Open: 12.30pm to 3pm and
7pm to 11pm
Cuisine type: Japanese
Must eat: kohisuji suminiyaki
Bill for two: Dhs500
EATING OUT
Pachanga
Meat lover? Visit
Hilton Dubai
Jumeirah’s
Pachanga
Churassco night
How many pieces of
meat can you eat in
one sitting? It might
not be a question
you’ve often asked,
but should you ask
us we now know
the answer. And that
answer is, can you
believe, 28 – plus a little
nibble here and there that we
haven’t included.
Our slightly strange meat
conundrum was answered
at Pachanga’s Tuesday night,
Churassco. Churassco is a Brazilian
concept and, as with many ideas
from that part of the world,
involves big chunks of meat which
are delivered in a stream one after
the other. Probably not the best
place to take that vegatarian date.
Carved tableside from a large
metal skewer by one of a host of
jolly Pasadores – the purveyors
of 14 different cuts of beautifully
cooked animal protein – the
supply was seemingly never-
ending, including chicken, all
manner of beef cuts from rib eye
to sirloin, lamb… in fact, you name
it, Pachanga has probably speared
it and is ready to carve you a slice.
It’s extremely busy and while
the live music leaves a little to
be desired, Pachanga is a party,
so expect lots of merriment and
meat. Lots and lots of meat. We’d
advise those hungry for flesh – or
competitive eating, anyway – to
keep Tuesdays free. Just make sure
you’re hungry – 28 is a big number
to beat…
Need to know
Location: Hilton Dubai
Jumeirah
Tel: (04) 3182530
Web: www1.hilton.com
Open: Tues 7pm to 11.30pm
Cuisine type: Brazilian
Must eat: meat, meat and
more meat
Bill for two: Dhs700
(excluding drinks)
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 65
Biryani Festival at Handi
for Aed 99/- per person*
*Subject to 20% service charge and municipality fees

P.O.Box 42211, Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Tel +971 4 2232222, Fax +971 4 2278222, www.tajhotels.com

THE CRITIC
It was once dismissed as the
“stinking whale”. But when the
Danish restaurant Noma topped
the S. Pellegrino World’s 50 Best
Restaurants list a few weeks ago,
it heralded a new order in the
world of gastronomy.
Those molecular morsels
at Ferran Adria's El Bulli and
Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat
Duck were outdone by the
simpler, more natural cuisine of
René Redzepi, whose restaurant
– a converted whale-blubber
warehouse in Copenhagen –
serves only seasonal ingredients
that are locally sourced. Forget
culinary foams and foie gras
frozen in liquid nitrogen, the
long-simmering trend for local
ingredients is now at boiling
point thanks to Noma.
But where does that leave us
in the UAE? Thankfully, in a
much better place than we used
to be. Once upon a time, if a chef
needed a decent tomato he had
to get on the phone to Holland or
Italy. Practically everything worth
eating had to be flown in from
around the globe in what could
be described as the world’s biggest
take-out. But a recent mini
explosion of organic farms, farm
shops and farmers markets in the
UAE might just change all that.
DON'T MISS THE
CRITIC EVERY
MONTH.
NEXT ISSUE...
WHEN
DESIGNERS DO
FOOD
OK, you’re not going to get
your arm ripped off by a flying
cauliflower or have to dodge a
deluge of lettuce shrapnel any
time soon, so perhaps explosion
is the wrong word. But it’s easy
to get carried away with what’s
been happening on the local food
front. Where once the UAE’s
larder for high-quality local food
was as barren and moth-ridden
as Birmingham City Football
Club's trophy cabinet, now there’s
a burgeoning scene for locally
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
sourced ingredients that’s making
excited locavores as flushed as
an organic strawberry.
The Nazwa Organic Farm
off the Dubai-Hatta Road
gained official certification last
year. Now it sells fresh local
produce through its recently
opened Umm Suqeim store,
and makes regular deliveries to
the Arabian Ranches. Mazaara
organic farm in Al Ain grows
such diverse crops as maize,
mangoes and aubergines, and
will be officially opened in the
autumn. Meanwhile, Baker &
Spice restaurant in Dubai’s Souk
Al Bahar set up its very own
farmers' market in April, which
EATING OUT
“THERE’S A
BURGEONING
SCENE FOR
LOCALLY
SOURCED
INGREDIENTS
THAT’S
MAKING
EXCITED
LOCAVORES
AS FLUSHED
AS AN
ORGANIC
STRAWBERRY”
will resume after the summer.
But it’s not just everyday
punters who are benefiting from
the local food movement in the
UAE. Top chefs like Scott Price
at Verre by Gordon Ramsay are
examining local farms with a view
to cutting back on imports and
reducing their carbon footprint.
And since there were no UAE
restaurants on the 50 Best list this
year, perhaps going local is what’s
needed to put the UAE back on
the culinary map. It certainly
worked for the stinking whale.
FOLLOW JAMES' BLOG ON….
www.duguzzle.blogspot.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 67
 modern japanese restaurant and lounge

dubai marine beach resort & spa po box 5182, jumeirah dubai, u.a.e. tel: +9714 346111 fax: +9714 3541023 www.sho-cho.com
souk qaryat al beri (shangri la hotel) po box 95150 between the bridges abu dhabi, uae tel:+9712 5581117 fax: +9712 5581119

Teatro
Cultural differences
are put aside at
the Park Rotana’s
new international
restaurant
In this cosmopolitan country we
live in, in many ways it’s pretty
much a given that restaurants
would want to appeal to people of
various creeds and cultures.
But these admirable sentiments
often lead to disaster. We’ve had
the misfortune to eat in some
restaurants where the food has been
such an insult to the cuisine it's
purporting to be, it's more likely to
start World War Three than unite us
with our fellow man.
Thankfully Teatro is by no
means one of these. In Dubai, its
restaurant at the Tower Rotana
Hotel has been happily serving
for more than a decade and is
something of an institution in
the city.
And its new opening at the Park
Rotana in Abu Dhabi deserves to
achieve the same longevity.
On first glance, it could be
mistaken for an Italian. But the
Italian name and the opera masks
lining the walls are a red herring.
Indian, Chinese, Western steaks,
Thai and Japanese sushi are all
featured in the extensive menu.
That’s not to say Italian food
doesn’t figure large. And the
wood-baked, topping heavy
pizzas were incredibly moreish,
as was the steamed hammour
fillet with a handmade linguini
and doused in a sauce brimming
with halved cherry tomatoes and
herbs.
But the place really comes into
its own with its Asian selection.
The Thai Tom Ka Kai soup – an
intense chicken soup in which
the overbearing flavours of the
chillies were mellowed by the cool
coconut milk – should be the way
to launch your meal.
From the choice of mains, the
Chinese chilli beef was outstanding.
The meat was crisped to a tee and
The restaurant's Italian name
and the opera masks lining
the walls are a red herring
served in a fiery chilli sauce that
delivered a hefty uppercut to our
taste buds.
The dessert menu, unfortunately,
was laden with the clichéd tiramisu
and chocolate fondants. But an
unusual addition was the sweet
miso soup, a creamy, rice-based
soup swimming with wild berries
and marshmallow pieces. Choose
this as a refreshing finale to your
globetrotting culinary experience.
Need to know
Location: Park Rotana Hotel,
Abu Dhabi
Tel: (02) 6573333
Web: www.rotana.com
Open: 6pm to 1am
Cuisine type: international
Must eat: crispy chilli beef
Bill for two: Dhs450
EATING OUT
On the
menu
The UAE culinary
world is serving up
a feast of events
this month
THREE FOR THE
PRICE OF ONE
A few months ago
we enjoyed our first
‘progressive’ dinner at
Radisson Blu Yas Island
– starter in one restaurant, main
in second, desert in a third. Now,
Radisson Blu in Deira is offering an
Asian progressive dinner, giving
you the chance to eat Asian fusion
at Yum, Japanese at Sumibiya and
Chinese at The China Club. We
think it’s a snip atDhs150 for just
food or Dhs220 with beverages.
The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai
Deira Creek, Dubai, 7.30pm to
11.30pm, daily. Tel: (04) 2057333.
www.radissonblu.com
BLADES’ RUNNER
We’re big fans of Al
Badia Golf Club. We
enjoy a round on the
beautiful course, the
five-star changing
room facilities, a juicy
steak at Terra Firma (best
steakhouse in Dubai), even the
odd mocktail on the Spikes
balcony. But not satisfied with all
that, Asian fusion restaurant Blades
has launched a new weekend
brunch (Fri and Sat) – and it’s just
Dhs199. Hole in one.
Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival
City, Dubai, Fri and Sat midday to
3pm, Dhs199. Tel: (04) 7011128.
www.albadiagolfclub.ae
PRECIOUS MOMENTS
OK, there’s good news
and bad news. Bad
news first – Pearls &
Caviar’s cool upstairs
alfresco bar will very
soon be closed down
for the duration of the
summer. Good news, however,
is that the super-cool downstairs
restaurant has just started a Friday
brunch, with freshly cooked
seafood and quality champagne.
That’s our Fridays sorted then.
Pearls & Caviar, Shangri-La Qaryat
Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu
Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 with
champagne, Dhs199 without. Tel:
(02) 5098888. www.shangri-la.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 69
 EATING OUT
TAKE FIVE
Where’s the best place to take your afternoon tea? On
your behalf, we went in search of afternoon delight
BAKER & SPICE
WHAT’S ON THE There’s a need for more
PLATE savoury, though the mini
brioche rolls and vol
au vents were superb.
Scones, cakes, doughnuts
and a chunk of Victoria
sponge to finish things
off. 6/10
WHAT’S IN THE An pot of English
CUP breakfast protected by an
entertainingly kitsch tea
cosy. There were several
appealing alternatives, but
not enough to delight tea
aficionados. 7/10
VENUE One of our favourite
places for spot of
breakfast or lunch at the
weekend. Fountain-side
at Souk Al Bahar and a
commitment to organic,
local produce. 8/10
STAR OF THE A decent cuppa, but it
SHOW is the beautiful scones
with homemade jam and
fresh cream that do it for
us. 6/10
VALUE FOR Dhs145 for two. Not bad
MONEY at all. 8/10
WHAT’S ON SAYS The perfect place to relax
and recuperate after a hard
day on the sand or with
hundreds of shopping
bags in your hands. And it
won’t unduly worry your
accountant, either.
SCORE 35/50
INFO Souk Al Bahar, Old
Town, Dubai, 3pm to
6pm, Dhs145 for two.
Tel: (04) 4252240. www.
bakerandspiceme.com
70 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
KARAT
Four courses with scones
and madeleines to start,
sandwiches, cakes and
then pastries. Portions are
dainty but the choice is
fantastic, and each person
gets their own mini feast.
9/10
Practically all the tea in
China, with a staggering 24
different varieties on the
menu. The caramel tea was
the perfect partner for the
cake course. 10/10
The lobby lounge at The
Address Dubai Mall, but it
couldn’t be further from
the nearby foodcourt
madness. Big chairs and
elegant staff, but not a lot
of atmosphere. 7/10
It would have to be either
the salted caramel and
raspberry macaron, or
the tiny blue-fin tuna
sandwich. 8/10
Dhs125 per person, but it’s
well worth it. 9/10
Gorgeous, gorgeous,
gorgeous. From the
individual tea-warmers
to the glass boxes each
course is served in, this is
a stylish way to spend an
afternoon.
43/50
The Address Dubai Mall,
Dubai., 3pm to 6pm,
Dhs125. Tel: (04) 4388888.
www.theaddress.com
EMIRATES PALACE THE ONE CAFÉ
A tier of three plates
filled with enough food
to last you for breakfast,
lunch and dinner.
Delicious salmon and
beef sandwiches, scones,
pastries and cakes. 9/10
The Emirates Palace serves
23 different kinds of organic
tea, from Moroccan mint to
Darjeeling. We chose Earl
Grey and the fragrant brew
was up there with the best
teas we’ve ever had. 10/10
The café sits in the
excessively decadent
lobby of the Emirates
Palace. If this doesn’t
impress your dining
companion, nothing will.
9/10
We couldn’t get enough
of the crumbly scones,
served with three choices
of jam with some solid
clotted cream. 9/10
Dhs195, but you’d expect
luxury of this level to hit
your wallet harder. 7/10
You can’t get a classier A relaxed afternoon tea
high tea than that served that won’t leave you
at London’s famous The broke.
Ritz hotel. But the Emirates
Palace’s version comes
mighty close.
WINNE
44/50 R 39/50
Le Café,
Emirates Palace, Abu
Dhabi, 2pm to 6pm,
Dhs195. Tel: (02) 6909000.
www.emiratespalace.com
Three plates packed
with sarnies, cream buns,
toasted teacakes and
scones. It’s more than
enough to cure your mid-
afternoon hunger pangs.
9/10
Choose from coffee,
Darjeeling or Earl Grey. You
get a fair-sized pot for all
of the choices, but none
of the beverages were
anything special. 6/10
A nice, cosy café tucked
away above a furniture
store. There’s plenty
of comfy leather sofas
should you want to
lounge around for a few
hours. 7/10
The chocolate fudge cake
was so good we could
have eaten a whole plate
of it. 8/10
Dhs38 for one person
or Dhs60 for two is an
undisputed bargain. 9/10
Sheikh Zayed The First
Street, Khalidiyah, Abu
Dhabi, 3pm to 6pm,
Dhs38. Tel: (02) 6816500.
www.theoneplanet.com
SKY BAR, BURJ AL
ARAB
It’s your classic tier-style
serving, with a mix of
sandwiches on top,
savoury pastries below,
and biscuits and cakes
below that. The whole
thing is then rounded off
with scones and jam. 7/10
You name it, it’s available.
The choice of both teas and
coffee is very impressive
– the black oolong was
outstanding – and the whole
thing starts with a cheeky
glass of Champers. 8/10
High up in one of the
Emirates’ most iconic
buildings. It’s hard not to feel
a little special. Unluckily, it
was one of the mistiest days
of the year on our visited but
still... the Burj rocks. 9/10
Would have been the view,
but thanks to the weather,
we’ll go for the drive up.
7/10
Dhs395 each. Ouch. 5/10
While the food's nice, it's
not life changing – what
you're paying for here is
the experience. Take your
mum when she visits, she'll
love it.
37/50
Burj Al Arab, Beach Road,
Jumeirah, Dubai, 1pm
to 4pm, Dhs395. Tel: (04)
3017777. www.jumeirah.
com
 Vote today for your chance
to win a fantastic five-night
stay in the Maldives, plus
return flights

Vote by SMS and double your chances to win!

Who wins...? You decide! VOTING

STARTS
JUNE 1,
2010

GET INVOLVED, VOTING IS SIMPLE!

1. By completing a voting slip when next dining out at a nominated restaurant
2. By logging onto www.whatsonawards.com
3. SMS the name of your favourite outlets and events along with your email
address to 3908 for Etisalat users* 4478 for du users *
* Dhs3 charge applies for every vote by SMS

THE PRIZE
Relax, replenish and rejuvenate in five-star luxury with a fantastic five-night stay, courtesy of our friends at Four Seasons Resorts
Maldives. You’ll be whisked by speedboat from Malé International Airport to Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, a stunning private island
where you will experience the laid-back Maldivian village life. The island is awash with the delicious scents of bougainvilleas and
frangipani blossoms, and is surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Trying out the renowned Island Spa is a
must. Located on its own private island – a minute’s dhoni (native Maldivian wooden boat) ride from the resort – it offers world-class
treatments to sink you further into island bliss.
Four Seasons will then take you by seaplane to Landaa Giraavaru, situated in the remote Baa Atoll where you will spend three
incredible days. The Island, surrounded by the Maldives’ most breathtaking turquoise lagoon and a vibrant coral reef teeming with
colourful marine life, is every snorkeller’s and diver’s dream. The white sand beaches, delectable culinary experiences and Ayurvedic
spa treatments, create the perfect place for you to continue to unwind while enjoying the phenomenal Four Seasons service. Two
return flights included (Dubai-Malé-Dubai)

OFFICIAL VOTE-PROCESSING PARTNER

PRIZE SUMMARY: Two night stay at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and a 3-night stay at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru inclusive of breakfast for two. This will also include complimentary speedboat transfer (Airport/
Kuda Huraa) and seaplane transfer (Kuda Huraa/ Landaa Giraavaru/ Airport) for two. Two economy return flights included (Dubai-Malé-Dubai).
GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS The competition promoted is open to residents of the Gulf and Levant regions only, excluding employees of Motivate Publishing, its partners in this promotion or any of their affiliates. Entrants must be 18
years old or over. The closing date for this competition is the 10th October 2010. The competition winner will be selected at random from all entries received. The winner will be contacted directly, within two weeks of the competition draw. Motivate
Publishing’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The competition prize is as stated and not transferable. No cash substitute can be provided. Motivate Publishing reserves the right to replace the prize in this promotion with
another of the same or similar value, should the prize for some reason become unavailable. Motivate Publishing reserves the right to alter, amend, or foreclose this competition without prior notice. Advance reservation is required and will be subject to
availability at the time of booking. By entering the competition, you accept the terms and conditions as stated and you give Motivate Publishing permission to add your details to our database, so that we may contact you in future with news, promotions
and information we think may be of interest to you. Should you wish to be removed from our mailing list at any time, you can send an e-mail to marketing@motivate.ae
WHAT’S ON AWARDS

of the
The winners
O n A w ards are
What’s either fill in
you. To te,
vo
voted for by usands of forms that
o
one of the th placed in the
are bein g
onto
staurants, log
UAE’s best re nawards.com
so
www.what S with the
or send a SM s your email
es, lu
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winners’ nam Etisalat users
to 390 r8 fo

Fantasy
or 4478 for
Du users
hs3
SMS costs D

The What’s On Awards – the
UAE’s biggest and most
respected entertainment awards
– hits Dubai this November, and
as always you choose which
restaurants, bars and events take
home the coveted gongs. But
it’s not just the award-winners
that can scoop a prize – this
year, everyone that votes for their
favourite outlets and events will
be automatically entered into a
competition to win a five-night
holiday in the tropical paradise
that is the Maldives. The lucky
winner will be flown from Dubai
to the amazing Four Seasons
hotel on the remote Landaa
Giraavaru resort for two nights,
before spending three nights
on the incredible Kuda Huraa
Island. This truly is a once in a
lifetime holiday that could be
yours, simply by voting in the
2010 What’s On Awards Dubai.
Don’t believe us? Check it out
for yourself…
THE ACCOMMODATION
There can be few more relaxing
hotels in the world than the
two Four Seasons Resorts in the
Maldives. Both are on their own
private islands, giving guests an
authentic castaway experience.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives
at Landaa Giraavaru consists of
102 thatched bungalows and
villas, all overlooking a spectacular
turquoise lagoon with its coral
reef. And with powder soft white
beaches, restaurants and spa, this
is a self-contained paradise for
holidaymakers looking to get away
from the stresses of modern life.
Meanwhile, the Four Seasons
Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
is also based on its own private
island and consists of 96
waterside bungalows. The idyllic
resort resembles an island village,
with shops, restaurants and spas
within walking distance of the
bungalows.
And once you’ve completely
relaxed and unwound, why not
sign up for a diving, water sports
or surfing course?
If this sounds far too energetic,
just recline on a sun lounger or
swim in the warm waters of the
Indian Ocean.
CUISINE
Both Four Seasons hotels are
home to some of the best fine
dining restaurants in the whole of
the Maldives.
The islands have long been a
crossroads for travellers from as
far a field as Europe, Arabia and
India, and the restaurants reflect
their global appeal.
On Landaa Giraavaru, make
sure you eat at Blu. With a
stunning location overlooking
a 2km-long lagoon and beach,
this fine dining restaurant
serves contemporary Italian
cuisine. Meanwhile, alfresco
spot Al Barakat offers a taste of
the Middle East, specialising in
Lebanese and Moroccan food.
Kuda Huraa has equally
impressive dining options, from
the Indian Baraabaru Restaurant
to the classical Italian Reef Club.
BOAT TRIPS
The calm, azure seas surrounding
the Maldives are just waiting to be
discovered. There’s no better way
than on the Four Seasons Explorer
private yacht. The 39-metre, three-
deck catamaran boasts 11 rooms,
all with king-size beds and wall-

72 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010


Islands
to-wall carpeting. There’s even a
dining room on the upper deck.
The vessel is also fitted with
the latest technology, such as
26-inch LCD flat screen TVs and
DVD players in all the rooms and
wireless Internet access.
The boat sets sail from the Four
Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda
Huraa, visiting the remote isles
and atolls of the area. Along the
way, guests can snorkel in the
turquoise waters or simply watch
the world drift by.
WILDLIFE
The Maldives is a nature lover’s
paradise, with a cornucopia of
species inhabiting the islands and
surrounding waters.
The Four Seasons Resort
Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is
just a 20-minute boat ride from
Hanifaru, one of the natural
wonders of the world.
Other islands are enclosed
by huge coral reefs, teeming
with exotic fish, including giant
whale sharks and manta rays. An
afternoon snorkelling through
the reefs will be one of the most
amazing experiences of your life.
Sadly, the reefs are under threat
by pollution and global warming,
so the Four Seasons resorts are
actively involved in replanting
coral to rebuild the battered reefs.
With international projects to
conserve the manta rays, whale
sharks and sea turtles, the islands’
rare wildlife is being given a
massive survival boost.
AYURVEDIC CENTRE AND SPA
Should you want to take
tranquillity to a whole new
level, visit the Ayurvedic Retreat
& Spa at Four Seasons Landaa
Giraavaru. With its own thatched
treatment pavilions and private
gardens
it’s a picturesque and totally
serene getaway.
The centre offers treatments
ranging from a quick 75-
minute massage to a three-day
immersion experience and life-
changing programmes lasting
up to 28 days.
Whatever you choose, you can
be sure the treatment will be of
the highest possible standards.
From therapists who are experts
at unravelling knotted muscles,
to yoga teachers who will share
the arts of stretching, deep
breathing and meditation, you’ll
be pampered beyond belief.
THE ISLAND SPA
Located on its own tiny island
away from the main resort, the
WHAT’S ON AWARDS
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa’s spa is
another must-visit attraction.
The spa’s signature treatments
are amazingly decadent, such
as the Kuda Huraa massage,
which combines Thai pressure
points, Filipino Hilot and
Malaysian urut techniques to
make it the panacea for aches
and pains.
For the ultimate pampering
treatment, treat yourself to
the two-and-a-half hour Sea
Escape Ritual, where you’re
soaked in a seawater bath,
before being covered in a
marine algae body mask.
Those with time to spare
should try the two-day Enchanted
Reef treatment. It’s 48 hours of
seaweed body wraps, coconut oil
and cocoa butter massages, and
yoga sessions. You’re guaranteed
to go away feeling reborn.
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 73
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ARTS

p76 Life in the Projects

p79 Eye on the Prize
THE EMPTY QUARTER

p79 Save the Date

p79 To Market, To Market...
p80 Five to see

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 75

 ARTS

Life in the Projects

As one of the UAE’s most prestigious gallerie
s, The Third Line
art for the past
has been flying the flag for Middle Eastern
erimental new
five years. As they prepare to launch an exp
talks to What’s
project space, co-director Claudia Cellini
k to their roots
On about moving forward while going bac

Tell us about Projects – what were the
thoughts behind setting it up?
The Third Line is five years old now. It’s been
a really thrilling, exhausting, interesting five
years for us. I think when we started out we
had an opportunity for experimentation and
to look at trying to establish our artists and
getting them introduced to the market and
getting a critical cognisance around their
work. Now, five years on I think that we’re
– I don’t want to sound boastful – but we’re
pleased for them and for ourselves. I think
that we’re excited to return to the element
that allows us to go back to experimentation
or maybe a space both for our artists and dif-
ferent, younger members of the community
to participate in.
So in a sense this is an opportunity for
the gallery to go back to its roots?
We’ve thought about expanding and having
more space for a long time, and with the sort
of boom in the UAE and Dubai especially,
everything financially became way out of
our reach; it became too expensive to take
too many chances. The downturn has had a
few benefits in that it’s allowed everybody
to slow down a bit but it’s also allowed us to
look a little bit more creatively at our own
programme and how we’re able to do things.
The first year it’s going to focus on people
working within the UAE – budding artists
making bodies of work that are smaller;
perhaps they’re not ready for a full solo
show; perhaps their ideas are half-developed.
We’re offering a project space that’s perhaps
less intimidating than trying to come up with
something that fills a huge area, but it’s a
place to capture smaller bodies of work
as well.
COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND THE THIRD LINE
them: “This is the space – come have a look
at it. What are you working on now, what are
you wanting to develop? Is it suitable for this
smaller venue?”
Does the development of initiatives like
Projects show that people are becoming
interested in things other than big-name
blockbuster shows?
Yeah, definitely, and maybe there’s something
about reaching different people. If we had five
spaces and a small lump sum of money we
could programme the heck out of it. There
are tons of different artists or ideas to be
represented, it’s just that we don’t have spaces
and we don’t really have grants or any sort of
funding structures to help produce them [in
the UAE] so this is sort of an opportunity for
us to do things on a smaller scale, if you will.
Projects takes place upstairs in The Third
Line’s existing space – why not move
elsewhere?
The area is upstairs, above the main gallery
in what was previously our office space,
which we’ve now moved. It didn’t make
sense to divide up that new space – we
wanted something that would enhance what
we already had. And for visitors, it’s great
to be able to experience two separate things
in one space. We’re even looking now at our
2011 plans and at how some projects that
we’ll slot in there will be able to interact with
the main space and vice versa. I think the
first year will focus on work developed in
the UAE and then after that, we’re not really
sure at the direction we’ll go in; I think we’ll
take direction from what happens over the
next six months. Mainly, we want to see how
it goes from here. When I first met Sunny
[Rahbar, co-director of the gallery] here she
was curating shows that involved local art
practitioners and it still remains a big inter-
est of hers – finding younger talent, finding
really great work that hasn’t had an opportu-
nity to be presented. It’s an exciting time for
all of us.
The Third Line, behind Spinneys warehouse,
Al Quoz 3, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3411367. www.
thethirdline.com

Is it an indication of how the art scene in

the city is developing that there’s room
for such experimentation?
I think so, yeah. I think that part of what we
do there is also for our own entertainment
if you will, so part of it is that we’re really
excited to develop it. The other part is, I think
there’s an interest in seeing more complicated
programming, at least in Dubai, and that’s
quite exciting. We’ve approached a couple of
people that we know make work and said to

76 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 77

Save the date
Yes, we know, November feels
a long way away now, but you
know what it’s like – before you
know it, it’ll be Ramadan, then
five metaphorical minutes later
you’ll be ringing in the New
Year, so better early than not
at all, we say. In that spirit, get
your diary out and make a big
red mark over November 5 to
7 – the just-confirmed date for
the second edition of last year’s
To market, to market...
Eye on the prize
Now, we don’t generally need a reason to visit the
delightful XVA Gallery – their excellent exhibition roster
and cool courtyard is rationale enough. For those of you
who do need a gentle incentive to wend your way through
Bastakiya’s walled alleyways, however, this latest wheeze
from the gallery should get the motivational juices flowing.
The gallery’s current show is a trio of solo exhibitions by
three female artists with very different practices – Dubai-
based US artist Julia Townsend presents her slightly surreal
humorous paintings in Things That Go In, Out, Back, Up And
Around; Suzanne Kanatsiz plays with classical Arabic form More reasons to visit Bastakiya this
in Writing The Written; while emerging Sri Lankan abstract month – head down to the pretty
artist Anoma Wijewardene reflects on nature and the courtyard of the Majlis Gallery
manmade in Earth, Rise Within Us. Presumably it’s the latter before the worst of the summer’s
artist who has inspired the aforementioned incentive to heat kicks in for its Majlis Market.
visit – the chance to win a three-night stay at the boutique It’s not strictly confined to ‘art’ as
Kahanda Kanda hotel in Galle, Sri Lanka. Simply drop your such, but there will be plenty of
business card in when you visit the show and you’ll be in prints and canvases to peruse along
with a chance to win. Sorted. with selected crafts, jewellery and
Until Jun 9, XVA Gallery, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, Dubai, free. Tel: hand-blocked Indian textiles, with
(04) 3535383. www.xvagallery.com
ARTS
hugely successful Abu Dhabi Art.
Last year saw some of the biggest
names in the international art
world bring their galleries and
artists to the fair, alongside the best
emerging work from the Middle
East. With a full programme of talks,
events and exhibitions still yet
to be announced, 2010 promises
to be another winner – let the
countdown begin.
www.abudhabiartfair.ae
cakes and other sweet treats there
to keep the energy levels up while
you browse. And there’s always the
gallery itself to explore, of course,
should you wish to make a morning
or afternoon of it.
Jun 5, Majlis Gallery, Al Musalla
roundabout, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai,
free. Tel: (04) 3536233. www.
themajlisgallery.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 79
 ARTS

Five to see
ÉTHAT
SHIMMERING
BEAST
Not, you might be forgiven
for thinking, an animal of
land or sea, but the shifting,
mercurial essence of our
cities and the echoes of
those who inhabit them as
captured by photographers
Virgilio Ferreira, Mehrdad
Naraghi and Miyuki
Okuyama.
Jun 8 to Jul 4, The Empty
Quarter, Bldg 2, Gate
Village, DIFC, Dubai, free.
Tel: (04) 3231210. www.
theemptyquarter.com

ÑART FOR ALL

Vibrant group show
featuring international
artists from South Africa
to Vietnam as well as India
and Pakistan. Also showing
is Cynthia ‘Reta’ Richards’
latest exhibition of work,
Blooming Artitudes.
ÅDIARY OF THE FUTURE Until Jun 24, Art Couture
Lara Baladi documents the final months of her father’s life Gallery, Al Fattan Towers,
through the ritual and pattern of coffee drinking, the process of The Walk, Jumeirah Beach
which marked seven months of worry, connection and, finally, Residence, Dubai, free.
bereavement. Both restrained and beautiful, this is powerful stuff. Tel: (04) 3994331. www.
Until Jun 10, IVDE Gallery, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, free. Tel: artcoutureuae.com
(04) 3235052. www.ivde.net

ÇCONNECTING HEAVENS
Last chance to catch this group show featuring several of the most
interesting emerging artists from Lebanon. We’re particularly
smitten with Tagreed Darghouth’s glimpse into her culture’s passion
for plastic surgery, but there’s plenty more to see.
May 8 to Jun 15, Green Art Gallery, Villa 23, 51st Street, Jumeirah,
Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3449888. www.gagallery.com

ÅA STORY OF ISLAMIC EMBROIDERY IN

NOMADIC AND URBAN TRADITIONS
We’re just going to keep on plugging this one until you go – now
into its second month, this look at the history and significance of
textiles within Middle Eastern craft and culture is a must-see.
Until Jul 28, Gallery One, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02)
6908207. www.artsabudhabi.ae

80 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

SHOPPING
p84 Interior motives
p87 Temperley London
p87 New openings

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 83

 SHOPPING

You'll be spending more time indoors

as the mercury rises, so take the chance to
update your home with these nifty pieces

84 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 SHOPPING

1. The Rug Company, Dhs2,200 2. Marks & Spencer, Dhs115 3. Marks & Spencer, Dhs110 4. THE One, Dhs249
5. THE One, Dhs599 6. Andrew Martin, Dhs7,250 7. Crate & Barrel, Dhs3,299 8. The Rug Company, Dhs10,570
9. The Rug Company, Dhs8,678 10. Crate & Barrel, Dhs179 11. Crate & Barrel, Dhs29 each 12. Andrew Martin,
Dhs33,357

Stockists: Andrew Martin
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JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 85

WELCOME TO THE 60s!
SMASH HIT BROADWAY & WEST END MUSICAL
HAIRSPRAY is coming to DUBAI THIS SUMMER

BIG HAIR, BIG HEART, BIG HIT!

STARRING
OLIVIER AWARD WINNER
LEANNE JONES
Reprising her critically acclaimed role as
‘Tracy Turnblad’
Laurence Olivier Award 2008 for Best Actress in a musical
Critics Circle Award for Best Newcomer
Theatregoers Choice Award 2008 for Best Actress in a musical

4UE*ULYn3AT*ULY
4UE 4HU*ULYPM
&RI 3AT*ULYPMPM
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“The ultimate feel good show.” - Guardian

“The most happy, funny, sunny show in town.” - Sunday Express
“The musical with everything - a triumph!” - Observer

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 SHOPPING

New
Openings
Which new shops will
relieve you of your
dirhams this month?
AMOUAGE
Much like Marmite, you either
love or hate Arabian scents. For
some, they evoke heady nights
of exoticism, for others, they just
mean a headache. Regardless,
the best come from Amouage,
an Omani fragrance house which
stays true to its local roots, so
you’ll find no celeb perfumes here.
These luxurious, iconic products
make wonderful souvenirs and
a trip to the new store is an
education in itself.
The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Sun to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thurs to Sat 10am
to midnight. Tel: (04) 3308184.
www.amouage.com

BILLIONAIRE ITALIAN
COUTURE
If you’re on the search for high-
end menswear (and by high-end
we mean downright swank) then
Billionaire Italian Couture could be
for you. Far from subtle – what do
you expect from Flavio Briatore?
– the store is full of animal prints,
fine fabrics and belt buckles
emblazoned with ‘Billionaire’. It’s all
very Dubai, and as far from street
style as you can get, but perfect
for a night at Cavalli Club.
The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Sun to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thurs to Sat 10am
to midnight. Tel: (04) 4341223.
www.billionairedubai.com

Temperley London
Alice Temperley, the queen of the British fashion scene, has just opened a branch of her eponymous
boutique in Abu Dhabi. Her colourful hand-embellished evening gowns are the red carpet favourites for
A-listers such as Scarlett Johansson, Sarah Jessica Parker and Charlize Theron. And these frocks, as well
as knitwear, cocktail dresses, shoes and accessories, are all about bringing the feel-good factor back into
fashion. With boutiques in London, New York, LA and Dubai, Temperley’s foray into Abu Dhabi has clearly
boosted the city’s fashion credentials.
Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thurs 10am to 11pm, Fri 2pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6810926. www.
temperleylondon.com

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 87

 THAI MASSAGE BY CERTIFIED * PROFESSIONALS
ΎLJdŚĂŝůĂŶĚΖƐDŝŶŝƐƚƌLJŽĨĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ

TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE

is a full body dry massage which is excellent for
circulation and posture
FOOT REFLEXOLOGY
combines pressure point stimulation with massage
on the feet and legs to re-energise and release
toxins
HERBAL COMPRESSION MASSAGE
combines the Traditional Thai Massage with a hot
herbal compress. Excellent for detoxing the body
and metabolism
AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
is a full body oil massage for relaxation and
tension release
SPECIFIC MASSAGE
is a dry concentrated massage for the back,
neck and shoulders. Herbal balm compliments
this treatment.

This month's special

1 hour Thai Combo Massage
150 dhs Valet
Valid anytime Parking
Bookings essential Available

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SUHYHQWLRQRUFXUHIRUGLVHDVHVDQGGLVDELOLWLHVUHTXHVWLQJLWLVFXVWRPHUVUHVSRQVLELOLW\
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Open everyday

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MIND & BODY
p91 His ‘n’ hers
p92 Slim with us!
p94 Philippine Hilot
massage
p95 Spa Deals

THE SPA ATLANTIS, ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 89

Proud to be Fishing & Cruising Pioneers
Experience the ultimate Thrill & Fun of

DEEP SEA FISHING

& CRUISING
Cruise around the Iconic Burj Al Arab,
The Palm & The World Islands

Onboard Facilities:
Professional skipper and crew
Fishing equipment and bait
Refreshments - Soft Drinks - Fruits etc...
Boats are fully insured
Daily Fishing AED 2800/-
trip 4 hours Exclusive up to 8 Persons
Daily Fishing AED 600/-
trip 4 hours Per Person. Min. 2 Persons.
Sharing Basis
Pick-up and Drop-back facility included

DHOW CRUISE DINNER

Moon Light Creek Cruising
AMAZING MUSANDAM Dibba - Khasab

PROGRAMME INCLUDES: PROGRAMME INCLUDES:

Two Hours Cruising on Historic Dubai Creek Scenic Drive
Fully Air-Condition Lower Deck and Cruising on a Traditional Arabian Dhow
Open Air Upper Deck Diving - Snorkelling & Swimming
English, Hindi and Arabic Music Handline Fishing
Arabic Buffet Lunch and Refreshments
Soft Drinks, Tea and Coffee
Continental & Arabic Buffet Dinner Oman Visa not required for Dibba Tour
Call us for details...

Per Person AED 150/- Per Person AED 380/-

Cruise Timings: From 8:30pm to 10:30pm Timings: From 7:30am to 6:30pm (approx.)
Pick-up and drop-back facility included Pick-up and drop-back facility included

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Tel: 04 2953486 Mob: 050 7022539
Email: alwasl@cruiseindubai.com www.cruiseindubai.com ISO
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
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 MIND & BODY

His‘n’hers
We explore a watery wonderland and discover relaxation at Atlantis

His Hers
AMAZON DEEP
FOREST AQUA CURE

TALK US THROUGH IT... DUBAI GLAMOUR

The menu said exfoliation and
a silt clay wrap followed by
a soak in the tub and a deep
tissue massage. We enjoyed a
hydro bath to loosen us up, an
exfoliating scrub, a seaweed
wrap and a deep tissue massage.
Extremely pleasurable, but they
might want to work on their
descriptions.
THE BEST BIT?
When the lid was closed over
the bubbling hydro bath and I
was left cocooned in steam and
dazzled by colourful lights, I felt
like Sigourney Weaver in her
Avatar pod. And, I assure you, it’s
not often I feel like a hot middle-
aged woman.
ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS?
As my perky therapist slopped
on the seaweed gloop, he uttered
the confidence boosting line,
“you look just like the Hulk… Or
Shrek”. Charming.
RITUAL
HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE TALK US THROUGH IT...
PANTS? First, you can’t help but be
Disposable board shorts. I’d wear wowed by the grand staircase
them on the beach if they weren’t and stunning floating walkway,
so loose around the merchandise. before you’re then taken to an
underwater themed treatment
SLEEP FACTOR? room. Then there’s an almond and
Zero. There’s far too much going coconut body scrub, green tea and
on to snooze. I did daydream about herb wrap, full body massage and
having serious words with John Express Radiance facial.
Lithgow regarding his treatment of
the gingerbread men, mind. THE BEST BIT?
During the wrap you’re cocooned
WHO SHOULD GET in warm towels and treated to a
INVOLVED? head massage – no cold Clingfilm
Shrek, The Hulk, Sigourney or being abandoned for 20
Weaver and adventurous souls in minutes here.
search of soft skin and something
a little bit different. ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS?
I’ve become incapable of staying
HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG? awake during massages. After
Dhs1,020 for one hour and 40 the scrub I was just one smooth-
minutes. skinned narcoleptic.

HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE

PANTS?
Black and papery with elasticated
leg holes. Not a winning look but
comfy enough.
SLEEP FACTOR?
See above. You might be able
to sneak in a little nap in the
relaxation lounge, too.
WHO SHOULD GET
INVOLVED?
This is the ideal treatment if
you’re getting ready for a big
night out – you’ll be fresh-faced,
glowing and feeling like royalty.
HOW MUCH AND HOW
LONG?
Dhs1,380 for two hours and
20 minutes of princess-style
pampering.
The Spa Atlantis, Atlantis,
The Palm, Dubai, 10am to
10pm. Tel: (04) 4261020.
www.atlantisthepalm.com

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 91

 MIND & BODY

FOLLOW MY BLOG ON….

http://dubaidietdiary.wordpress.com

Slim with us!

Our disastrous dieter
turns up the heat
with a month of
Bikram yoga
I could write a litany of excuses.
An ode to procrastination. Justi-
fy. Explain. Defend. But it really
just comes down to this: I moved
house this month and haven’t
tried hard enough to lose weight.
And furniture shopping is much
more fun than running in 36
degree heat. Not to mention how
time-consuming playing house
is – have you ever been to the
DEWA office?
Unfortunately, I can’t see the
diet situation getting better –
living with two other people can
force you to up your game a little
on the healthy food front, but
now I’m going solo I have visions
of eating golden syrup off a
spoon and surviving on toast. If
no-one sees it doesn’t count.
However, in the name of
research, I started Bikram yoga
at Club Stretch and it has kept
me sane during the dark days
of waiting for IKEA to show
up. The ‘hot yoga’ sessions were
attributed to Madonna’s frankly
terrifying arms so I was looking
forward to checking out my
fellow classmates and their veiny
limbs. There were, of course, a
smattering of super-bendy types
but it wasn’t as intimidating as
you’d think. It was, however, as
hot as Ravi’s in August in the
studio.
Each class lasts 90 minutes
and you are taken through 26
postures and two breathing

exercises – standing then on the time is swift though, and most

mat. It can’t be over-emphasised
how difficult it is to focus, bal-
ance and use strength in the
43 degree heat. Also, I have
what the French call ‘il y a du
monde au balcon’ (translation:
the whole world on the balcony
or, if you prefer, a large chest)
and some of the postures are
near impossible. My favourite
is number 13 – Savasana, or
‘corpse pose’. This involves lying
on your back while mentally
pleading with the instructor to
open the studio door just an
inch so some delicious cool air
can creep in.
The point of the heat is to
warm your muscles properly
so your flexibility is increased
and you’re less likely to injure
yourself. It’s also an efficient way
to tick ‘taste own sweat’ off your
bucket list. Yes, you sweat. A lot.
After the first class I had to sit
in the car with the AC on for 20
minutes before I felt physically
capable of driving. Recovery
people (thankfully myself in-
cluded) get a great natural high
afterwards, with sleep patterns
improving and skin looking
brighter too. That may be due
to the fact you neck water like a
parched possum.
What was particularly surpris-
ing was the addictive nature
of Bikram, and I found myself
thinking about classes a lot, drag-
ging friends along and chirping
about ‘how amaaaaazing you feel
afterwards’ only to get glower-
ing looks as sweat dripped of the
ends of their noses. It’s a little
cultish and something I would do
again – maybe taking instructor
Brian’s suggestion and doing a ‘30
Day Challenge’ with a class every
day for a month. In the mean-
time though, there are boxes to
unpack.
Club Stretch, Al Mina Road,
Satwa, Dubai, Dhs70 per class or
Dhs100 for a week of unlimited
classes (first-timers only). Tel: (04)
3452131. www.clubstretch.aw

92 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010

 For more information or to make a booking, please contact our Reservations Department on 02 509 8630
or email reservations.slad@shangri-la.com
 MIND & BODY
Philippine Hilot Massage
The ancient arts of
healing from the
Philippines makes
its debut at the
Shangri-La Qaryat Al
Beri’s Chi Spa
Over in the Philippines, the
manghihilot was a part-mystic-
cum-part-doctor type who, until
the advent of modern medicine,
was the go-to guy for pretty
much any illness.
Using a combination of
chanting, herbal concoctions
and massage, he was, suppos-
edly, able to identify and cure
whatever ailed you. The Chi
Spa’s interpretation of this
traditional massage may have,
thankfully, ditched the chanting
and spiritual side of the treat-
ment, but it’s still based on the
manghihilot’s tried and tested
technique of massaging various
pressure points dotted around
your body.
Fisho Fish Spa
Feeding the fish – with your feet – at
Wild Wadi
94 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
Fish Spa? What’s this all
about?
Feet cleaning using live fish.
I’m sorry, feet cleaning using
what?
Live fish. It couldn't be simpler.
After giving your feet a thorough
clean, roll up your trousers and dip
them into a tank full of tiny fish.
What on earth would that do?
Well, once in the water, dozens
of toothless Garra Ruffa swarm
around your toes and begin to
nibble away at the dead skin.
Wow, that sounds weird.
Well, the sight of your feet
disappearing in a cloud of little
black fish can be a bit unnerving,
but that’s nothing compared to
the tickling sensation you feel
when they start to do their thing.
Thankfully this soon subsides and
“Think of it as reflexology on
your whole body, rather than just
your feet,” our masseur Dev tells
us as we arrive.
So, using coconut oil to in-
crease the heat from his hands,
Dev gets to work on us. This is far
from being one of those sublime-
ly relaxing massages where you’ll
drift off into a peaceful slumber.
Expect a bit of pain as the thera-
pist prods and kneads away at
your flesh. But it was worth it.
Lower back pain has always
been our Achilles heel, so to
speak. And so Dev spent 30 min-
utes digging his thumbs into the
small of our back and massaging
the surrounding area. It hurt a
bit, but afterwards all traces of
our spine problems had appar-
ently been eliminated. Only time
will tell whether this has been a
long-term fix to our backache,
but so far so good.
Chi Spa, Shangri-La Qaryat Al
Beri, Abu Dhabi, Dhs700 for 90
minutes. Tel: (02) 5098888. www.
shangri-la.com
what’s described as a micro-mas-
sage, which is sort of like an ever
so slight electric current pulsing
through you feet and lower legs,
replaces the awkward tingling.
Is it relaxing?
It is quite relaxing, really, despite
the fact you're sweating it out in the
middle of a crowded water park.
How long does all this take?
The fish are done in about 15
minutes and the results are in-
stant. Your feet feel smoother and
softer, with almost all of the un-
sightly patches of tough old skin
being eaten away. The fish also
clean out the pores on your feet,
removing dead cells and improv-
ing blood circulation. Bonus.
Fisho Fish Spa, Wild Wadi, Dubai,
Dhs40, Dhs30 for children. Tel (04)
3484444. www.fisho-spa.com
 Exclusive
Spa Deals reader
offer!
Your guide to the best discounts
in Spa Land this month

Take this page to Natural Elements spa at Le

Meridien Dubai and you’ll get 50 per cent off
the High Performance Facial treatment (usually
Dhs650 for 90 minutes) and the Deluxe Manicure or
Pedicure (normally priced at Dhs180 and Dhs200).
For more information, call the spa on (04) 2170000

AL ASALLA SPA
Take an aromatic journey at Dubai Ladies Club this month. Choose
the Decleor massage that best suits your needs (choose from
Relax, Flow, Detox or Tonic) and you’ll get a free 15-minute paraffin
wax treatment for your hands, plus ten per cent off Decleor
products. The massages use acupressure to soothe and invigorate
and costs Dhs695 for non-members (two hours and 15 minutes).
Al Asalla Spa, Dubai Ladies Club, Beach Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3499922

LIME SPA
Freshen up with the spa at Desert Palm. During June you get
a free 30-minute Anne Semonin body exfoliation when you
experience the earth clay cocoon treatment (Dhs480) and can
enjoy complimentary access to the swimming pool and fitness
studio when you book any spa treatment.
Lime Spa, Desert Palm, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3238888

THAI PRIVILEGE SPA

The ladies at TPS have gone discount crazy. As part of Dubai
Summer Surprises, from June 17 you’ll get a whopping 50 per
cent off spa treatments and 30 per cent off
salon services. Plus, from June 1 to 16, if
you book two spa sessions you’ll get one
free at this Al Wasl Road hideaway.
Thai Privilege Spa, 1047 Uttamah Villas,
Al Wasl Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3489679

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 95


SPORT & OUTDOOR
Mr Fitness
Our resident exercise guru
James Houghton answers your
health and fitness questions.
I’ve just started going to the gym and
I would like to get my body, especially
my arms, in good shape. Could you
recommend a few exercises that
would help a beginner?
Adam, The Greens, Dubai
As you are new to the gym, I would sug-
gest that you begin with a higher volume
of repetitions and a lower weight, a phase
of strength endurance. This will allow
your connective tissue (muscles, ligaments
and tendons) to adapt to the new stresses.
You should also experience some pretty
good strength gains in the first few weeks
as your neurological system will become
more efficient at the new patterns you are
using, so don’t be afraid to increase the
weights accordingly. As for exercises, look
to bicep curls, hammer curls and reverse
curls to hit the different muscles of the bi-
ceps. For triceps, dips, if you can manage
them, are awesome as well as lying tricep
extensions and to add a bit of definition to
the shoulders, lateral raises and overhead
presses will do the trick.
It’s getting hot outside – is it safe to do
my normal twice-weekly laps of Safa
Park with the temperature creeping up?
Sunil, Jumeirah, Dubai
As long as you are used to running in the
heat then I would say that continuing to
do so in the heat of the summer is safe. It
is important though that you ensure your
PROUDLY OPERATES
www.rmalhospitality.com L info@rmalhospitality.ae
96 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
body is properly hydrated and that your
balance of electrolytes remains intact.
One little trick to make sure you hydrate
properly is to weigh yourself before you go
out for your run and then again when you
get back. The difference in weight (likely
to be a few pounds) will be the amount
of fluid you have lost whilst training. For
every pound lost aim to consume 16 fluid
ounces or about half a litre of water and
you should remain properly hydrated.
I’m a 30-year-old man who is pretty fit
(I did the RAK half marathon without
much bother) but I have a bit of a gut.
What’s the best way to shift it? Sit-ups?
Darren, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Firstly, let me congratulate you on complet-
ing the RAK half marathon. However,
contrary to popular belief endless amounts
of sit-ups are not going to shift the gut. I
would look at the type of training you are
doing and whether it is conducive to fat
loss. As strange as it sounds, marathon
training doesn’t tend to be particularly ben-
Souk Madinat
Jumeirah, Dubai
04 366 5646
Got a fitness
question for
James?
E-mail
otivate.ae
editor-w @m
o
eficial, if fat loss is your goal. Look to add
more resistance training into your workout,
perhaps alternating upper and lower body
exercises with relatively short rest periods.
Another aspect to address is your nutri-
tion. Fat storage around the gut tends to be
linked to insulin sensitivity as well as high
levels of the hormone cortisol. Make sure
that you are consuming foods low on the
glycemic index and that have a low glycemic
load as well as getting to bed at a reasonable
time and having a good nights sleep.
What essential bits of fitness kit do I
need in my gym bag?
Karina, DIFC, Dubai
To answer this question I’ll give you three
of the essentials that I tend to carry around
in my gym bag. Number one is my foam
roller. I use this pre and post-workout for
mobility and regeneration work and to
ensure that I release any restrictions that
I may have, which could limit my ranges
of movement in training as well as lead to
injury. Think of it as a quick and simple
massage technique. Second, I have my
skipping rope, which I use for active iso-
lated stretching. It is also an excellent tool
for warming up as well as conditioning.
Finally, I have my post workout nutritional
drink, which usually consists of a mixture
of carbohydrate and protein in a 2:1 ratio in
order to maximise and speed up the body’s
recovery process from training.
What Mr Fitness James Houghton
doesn't know about staying healthy
isn't worth knowing. In his seven
years as a personal trainer, he's
helped West End actresses lose the
pounds and worked with the Arabian
Gulf rugby sevens team to keep them
in peak condition.
Al Fattan Towers
Dubai Marina
04 399 8993

Sports shorts
News to make you sweat
Just the ticket
The fast cars, the yachts, the beautiful people
as well as some amazing after-show concerts
from the likes of Aerosmith and Beyoncé
made the inaugural Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix
the undoubted sporting highlight of 2009.
And on November 12, the F1 machine hits
Abu Dhabi again for three days of thrilling
qualifying and racing. Tickets have gone on
sale this month. But if want to make sure you
don’t miss out on the action, you better buy
yours quick smart as last year the
tickets, especially the cheaper
ones, sold out in days.
Nov 12 to 14, Yas Marina
Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi,
Dhs1,400 to Dhs3,400.
Tel: (02) 4460384. www.
yasmarinacircuit.com
WHATSONADOUTLINE.indd 1
Get fit quick
What with our hectic
social schedules, we all
know how hard it is to
find time to fit in an hour
or two in the gym. That’s
why a new health centre
in Abu Dhabi is so appealing.
The Concept 10:10 technique claims to be
able to keep you fit with just 20 minutes of
exercise per week. Apparently, it works by
using regular gym exercises, such as lifting
weights, but done at an extra slow pace.
We’ve just signed up, so read next month’s
issue to see if it really is too good to be true.
Maskar Al Nahayan Commerical Complex, next
to Emirates National School, Muroor Road, Abu
Dhabi, Dhs499 for four sessions. Tel: (02) 4298567.
www.concept1010.com
SPORT & OUTDOOR
ISTOCK
Paintball for less
Who doesn’t like nailing their pals in the
particulars with paint during a summer
weekend? There’s always one friend, though,
who gains an advantage by splashing out
on loads of balls. Even up the score at Al Ain
Paintball, where the 30 per cent summer
discount (until end of August) will allow you
to buy all the ammo you need. It’s Dhs200 for
full protection and 500 balls. We’ll be back.
Al Ain Paintball, Al Ain. Tel: 0507439648/
0507732818. www.alainpaintball.com
5/16/10
JUNE 2010 1:54:16
WHAT’S ONPM
97
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MUSIC
lik to se e th
e burg e one
drinks foers at a BBQ. T and only are se
r yo u o win a lling
winwith a n V
motiva d yours, log oIP table and
te.com nto ww
fo a
In whic llowing qu d answer th w.
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top theid The One an
UK cha d Only
a) 1066 rts?
b) 1991
c) 1815

Still the one and only

Pop star Chesney
Hawkes had a
huge hit with The
One And Only
back in 1991. But
what has be been
doing since? We
found out from
the man himself
ahead of his Du-
bai gig at Chi this
month

1991. America and its allies

were busy trying to liberate
Kuwait in the Gulf War, most
of Eastern Europe was busy
trying to liberate itself with
the collapse of the Soviet Un-
ion and the LAPD was busy
trying to liberate Rodney
King of his senses.
In the UK and the US, a
pop sensation was busy doing
some liberating of his own, as
young Chesney Hawkes – a
mere slip of a thing at 19-
years-old – began his assault
on the music world, with the
track The One And Only.
“That particular period
of my life was like being in
the eye of a storm,” says a
still remarkably fresh-faced
Chesney looking back. “It
was a conveyor belt of mad-
ness, going from concert
venue, to radio station, to
© Gap 2010

airport. There were always

crazy fans everywhere I went.
“I GOT INTO GRUNGE
I look back at footage of that MUSIC AND STICKING
now and it’s like watching a
cartoon character.”
MY FINGERS UP AT THE
CROWD.
GETTY/GALLO IMAGES

The song was, of course,

a huge success; topping the
charts in the UK and reach-
IT WAS MY ANGRY THE DUBAI MALL | DEIRA CITY CENTRE 
MERCATO | BURJUMAN | MIRDIF CITY CENTRE 

PERIOD”
ARABIAN CENTER | MARINA MALL 
ing number ten on the US AL WAHDA MALL | AL JIMI MALL

Billboard charts, meaning for

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 99

 again now and you will defi-
nitely hear it in Dubai.”

a brief period in 1991 Ches-
ney Hawkes – while perhaps
not the most rock‘n’roll of
musicians – was hot property. 1991, none of them, unfortu- the Marvellous Mechanical
“I wouldn’t want that now,” nately, particularly successful. Mouse project, produc-
he says earnestly as he chats
to What’s On prior to his
upcoming appearance at the
ever-popular Cheese night
in Dubai. “I’m quite a private to chart. The only single
person and I like my life now. released from his follow up
Of course, I enjoyed it then.
I was 19 years old, a young
boy, and I took advantage of
the rock‘n’roll lifestyle that
any young kid would have
© Gap 2010
GETTY/GALLO IMAGES
dreamed of.”
The singer went on to re-
lease three further singles in
I’m a Man Not A Boy reached ing music he describes as,
27 in the charts, but Secrets
Of The Heart only managed
57 and Feel So Alive failed
long player, Get The Picture,
charted at 63 – and Chesney
Hawkes didn’t put out an-
other album until 2002’s Stay But this last tour was nice
Away Baby Jane.
Despite the temporary
resentment towards his biggest
hit, Chesney didn’t fall out of
love with music, and can now
be found dividing his time
between personal appearances,
such as this month’s visit to
Chi@The Lodge, and writing
– he’s penned songs for the
likes of Caprice, Hepburn, A1,
Jennifer Paige and Tricky.
“My day job these days is
writing and producing for
other people,” he says chirpily.
“I work with lots of different
people – at the moment it’s
Sean Rumsey, a finalist on the
UK TV talent show The X-
Factor a couple of years ago.”
And he’s still working on
his own music, too. Since Stay
Away Baby Jane in 2002, he
has released one other album,
Another Fine Mess in 2005,
toured constantly and started
“Quirky, interesting sounds,
electronica”, and released the
EP Me, My Mouse And I.
“I’ve just finished an acous-
tic tour, just me and a guitar,”
he says. “Most of my gigs are
big student union things,
which is great fun, obviously.
because I got to do my music

“When you’re young you and have people appreciate

THE DUBAI MALL | DEIRA CITY CENTRE  Hawkes is not just the one
MERCATO | BURJUMAN | MIRDIF CITY CENTRE 
ARABIAN CENTER | MARINA MALL 
AL WAHDA MALL | AL JIMI MALL
What’s on
Chesney’s
iPod?
THE TUNES
“I’ve discovered this band
called Broken Bells. It’s
Danger Mouse’s new
project with the lead singer
from The Shins. It’s brilliant.” period of seven years where I
THE VERDICT
An awesome album.
Proving that Chesney
and only, but a pretty cool
guy in our book.
haven’t experienced any- just the songs.” And that’s
thing terrible. You haven’t what Chesney Hawkes cares
experienced the downsides so about – the songs. Still, there
you take what comes at you,” must be a part of him that
declares Chesney, knowingly. wishes, ‘if only…’ we ask?
“When I put that record out “No, I’m quite happy right
and it went to number one,
I thought ‘brilliant, let’s put
now,” he says, chuckling. “For
the Dubai gig I’m bringing
another one out, I’m sure it’ll my brother along. So it will
do the same’.” be acoustic with my little
But it didn’t. So how did he brother on drums.”
feel about that song after the
relative failure of his follow-
ing efforts? “I went through a NEED TO KNOW
Jun 11, Chi @ The Lodge,
didn’t play it,” he says. “I be- Al Nasr Leisureland,
came a bit of a shoe gazer, got Dubai, 8pm to 3am,
into grunge music, turning Dhs100, free before
the guitar up to 11, kicking 11pm, ladies free
my amplifier and sticking my before midnight. Tel:
fingers up at the crowd. It was (04) 3379470. www.
my angry period. chesneyhawkes.co.uk
“But,” he says, “we’re friends

100 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010


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Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, Tel: 04 701 1128, restaurant.reservation@ichdfc.ae

 CLUB DIARY
Fight for your right to party
8
WEEKLY
Ali Mak @ Glow
Shef Codes and Mass Ramli join the king of
Virgin Radio for a night of urban tuneage.
Sanctuary, Atlantis, The Palm, Jumeirah,
Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free. Tel:
(04) 4260561. www.sanctuarydubai.com
10
Tiefschwarz @ Ill Communications
Electro-tinged fun from the German
siblings.
Rooftop, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to
3am, Dhs100, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050)
7258277. www.ohmrecords.com
David Craig @ Relax@12
Funky house and electro beats at the cool
rooftop bar.
Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late, free.
Tel: (02) 6545138. www.aloftabudhabi.com
11
Mr Mr @ Audio Tonic
It’s four years since the electro fest that is
Audio Tonic night first hit 360˚ bar. Join
regulars Mr Mr, Vas Floyd, Raxon and Julian
Jinx for a party to remember.
360˚, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm
to 2am, free. Tel: (04) 4068769. www.
platinumlist.ae
WEEKLY
Step On @ Home
Dubai’s only weekly indie night serves up a
dose of guitar-based fun.
Chi @ The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai,
8pm to 3am, Dhs100, free before 11pm,
ladies free before midnight. Tel: (04) 3379470
10 DJ Chad Phunk @ Relax@12
WEEKLY
UK-born spinner DJ Chad Phunk has
performed at London’s Pacha, as well
as playing on the same bill as house
legends such as Judge Jules and
K-Class. Now a regular at Abu Dhabi’s
clubs, here’s his top ten tracks for this
summer
1. Hey Hey (Tom De Neef Remix) –
Dennis Ferrer
“These huge vocals will be sung on
every dance floor throughout the UAE
102 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
18 Barry Fratelli @ SYNF
With his Brit award-winning band, The
Fratellis,on an extended break, bassist
and Scotsman Barry Fratelli (AKA Barry
Wallace) tells us about DJing, Dubai
and how the band has ‘definitely’ not
split up
We heard The Fratellis had split?
No, no. We never said we were splitting
up. That’s the thing, it was the press
this summer. This tune will
be massive.”
2. El Ritmo – Grant Nelson
Label
“Everyone’s loving this
Latin-influenced house
track at the moment, as it
has a real carnival feel.”
3. Track A – Da Sunlounge
& Inland Knights
“A cool remix of an
underrated De La Soul
classic, which bounces
along nicely.”
4. Sax Lover – JamFunk
“There’s sax, sax and more sax in this
funky dance floor filler.”
5. Still In Love (Joey Negro Love
Symphony Mix) – AC Soul Symphony
“Joey Negro turns this 1980s soul classic
by Rose Royce into a soulful, funky house
masterpiece.”
6. 99 (Tim Green Remix) – Cassius
“This piece of classic French house is
that decided to call it that. The band are
still very much together, we’re just not
working on anything right now. We all
want to go and do our own thing. I’m
in the process of putting a new project
together.
Tell us more.
It’s probably a departure from The
Fratellis, but it’s in the indie-alternative
vein. I’m not going to turn around and do
reinvented for 2010. Expect me to play
this to death over the summer.”
7. Add Suv (Armand Van Helden
Remix) – Pharrel Williams and Uffie
“A huge chunk of disco funk from
hip hop legend Pharrell and French
electro queen Uffie. AVH has turned out
another classic.”
8. Back Home – Chocolate Puma
featuring Colonel Red
“Big beats, infectious vocals and a sax
riff mean this will have you piling onto
the dance floor to.”
9. Devil Walking – Mark Knight
“It’s all about the disco grooves this
summer and this remix of another
1980s track is another current favourite
of mine.”
10. Latin Thing – Tommy Largo
“One for the Latin lovers out there and
guaranteed to get the ladies up and
dancing throughout the summer.”
Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late,
free. Tel: (02) 6545138.
www.aloftabudhabi.com
some mad jazz experiments. I’m pretty
secure in my position. I’m a bass player,
I’m a musician and I have no desire to
be a frontman or anything like that.
Getting this new project off the ground
is my main priority, and doing some
more DJing.
And what can we expect with a
Fratelli behind the decks?
It’s definitely more of a mod, indie rock
vibe. There’s a lot of Motown as well
and I play plenty of soul. Just the kind
of music I’m influenced by, from the
1960s onwards. I would certainly say if
you’re expecting to hear Girls Aloud you
probably shouldn’t come.
Is DJ Barry a regular guise for you?
I’ve always done it on and off. It’s
another aspect to things. I just get to
enjoy playing other people’s music. It’s
definitely not my number one priority,
but it’s an outlet to do something
different. Up until last year, when my
daughter was born, I was doing two or
three a month. Now I’m getting back
into it.
Is this your first visit to Dubai?
I was supposed to come out in April,
but the ash cloud spolit my plans.
It was quite disappointing, actually,
but you can’t argue with nature and
volcanoes. Everybody tells me the UAE
is a beautiful place and I’ve got some
extended family out there as well, so
it will be nice to catch up with them.
I’m over there for three days. I’ve never
been one for turning up somewhere,
doing the gig and then leaving. I like to
get out and see what it’s all about.
Alpha, Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud, 9pm
to 3am, Dhs100. Tel: (04) 34479479
WEEKLY
Native @ Sanctuary
Sanctuary residents Rod Lee Winters and
Aaron Bryan drop commercial house.
Atlantis, The Palm, Jumeirah, Dubai, 9pm
to 3pm, free. Tel: (04) 4260561. www.
sanctuarydubai.com
Evil Nine @ SYNF
Brighton breakbeat duo bring a slice of
Fabric to Alpha.
Alpha, Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud, 9pm to
3am, Dhs100. Tel: (04) 34479479
WE ARE: Circus @ Catwalk
Underground and tech house from
Afroboogie and Charl Chaka
Golden Tulip, Al Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am,
free. Tel: (04) 3417750
Black Label Party @ Cubes Lounge
A winning combo of house music and
cocktails at the small but perfectly formed
club.
Cubes Lounge, One To One Hotel, Abu
Dhabi, 9pm to 2pm, free. Tel: (055) 6560801
17
Claude VonStroke @ Ill
Communications
Who’s afraid of Detroit? The minimal
techno master is still looking for an
answer.
Rooftop, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to
3am, Dhs100, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050)
7258277. www.ohmrecords.com

24
GETTY/GALLO IMAGES
M.A.N.D.Y. @ Ill Communications
Andre Pulse @ Life
World cup themed party with the
Brazilian spinner.
Sanctuary, Atlantis, The Palm, Jumeirah,
Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free.
Tel: (04) 4260561. www.sanctuarydubai.
com
Mark Pickup @ Relax@12
Do you like deep house with a
smattering of vocals? Pickup is for you.
Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm
to late, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. www.
aloftabudhabi.com
18
Space Ibiza Pool Party @ Sundowner
Don’t forget your swimmers for this Yas
Island pool party from the legendary
Space
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Yas Island,
Abu Dhabi, 2pm to 11pm, Dhs120,
ladies free until 4pm. Tel: (02) 6563000.
www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi
Cruise Boat Party @ En Vogue
Ahoy there me hearties! Weigh anchor
for this commercial house party on
the water
Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to
1am, Dhs150. Tel: (055) 6560801
DJ Said Mrad @ Yacht Club
Oriental beats.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen,
8pm to 2am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888
24
M.A.N.D.Y. @ Ill Communications
‘Oh, Mandy.’ No, it’s not Baz Manilow.
It’s Berlin’s electro house duo Patrick
Bodmer and Philipp Jung.
Rooftop, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai,
10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free
before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.
ohmrecords.com
ZEBRADISKO @ Sanctuary
Please extend a very warm welcome
to the new Sanctuary residents.
Sanctuary, Atlantis, The Palm,
A TABLE PLU
Break beat
this month. duo Evil Nine hit Alpha’s
passes for yo lay your grubby mitts SYNF
winwithmot and five friends visit w VIP
What numbe estion.
July 2 Sixth Anniversary
@ Peppermint Club
WHAT'S ON PICK
We get personal with house DJ
Steve Lawler as he prepares to join
DJ Chus and Hernan Cattaneo in
celebration of Peppermint Club’s
sixth anniversary
You’ve visited Dubai a few times.
Where do you like to hang out
when you’re here?
Buddha Bar in Dubai is amazing.
The Armani Hotel Dubai recently
opened. Are you an Armani
man?
Ha, no, I can’t say that I am. Not my
style at all, sorry.
You must travel quite a lot. What’s
WIN!
YOU AND FIS DRINKS FOR
V
FOR EVILENFRIENDS
INE
To
u on
ivate.com ww.
following qu and answer the
r follows 9?
a) 12
b) 76
c) 10
Jumeirah, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100,
© Gap 2010
ladies free. Tel: (04) 4260561. www.
sanctuarydubai.com
Battle of the DJs @ Relax@12
DJ Stew Magoo takes on DJ Chad
Phunk in a house war.
Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm
to late, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. www.
aloftabudhabi.com
Funk D’Void @ Audiotonic
Scottish house DJ with resident Mr Mr.
Alpha, Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud,
9pm to 3am, Dhs75, ladies free before
midnight. Tel: (04) 34479479
25
Ace of Spades @ Cubes Lounge
One for the ladies. The fairer sex drink
free bubbly until the clock strikes 12.
Strictly guest list, text names quoting
the word ‘ace’. Ace, eh?
Cubes Lounge, One To One Hotel, Abu
Dhabi, 9pm to 2pm, free. Tel: (055)
6560801. www.onetoonehotels.com
the most impressive thing you’ve
ever done on a plane?
Now that would be telling.
Oh. Do you travel first class?
Always, with the amount we travel
it couldn't be any other way.
What’s the most interesting item
you have in your bag?
My laptop, I couldn't leave home
without it now.
Mac or PC?
Mac.
What’s on your rider?
Vodka, Tequila, Dom Peringnon,
soft drink mixers, water, potato
chips, fruit platter.
What’s your secret to success
with the ladies?
Ha, I’m engaged to be married.
That’s why I’m lucky, because I
found my soul mate.
Dinner or a movie?
Dinner.
Flowers or chocolates?
Chocolates
Looks or personality?
Personality.
Vinyl or CD or digital?
Digital.
Money or power?
Money.
Fame or respect?
Respect.
What’s the strangest thing ever
to happen to you at a gig?
I had a machete blade pulled out
on me in Guadalajara in Mexico
once, which was pretty scary.
What’s currently on your iPod?
Everything… except trance and THE DUBAI MALL | DEIRA CITY CENTRE 
electro house. MERCATO | BURJUMAN | MIRDIF CITY CENTRE 
Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, ARABIAN CENTER | MARINA MALL 
9pm to 3am, Dhs100 to 150. Tel: (04) AL WAHDA MALL | AL JIMI MALL
2955153
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 103
 TRAVEL WORLD
TRAVEL

Vibrant city:
Auckland’s skyline
[Inset] Deep water:
Pools at Maori Bay
ISTOCK

Land of the Long White Cloud

You may know New Zealand is known by the
it better for its people who live there as Godzone.
remarkable scenery, As in God’s own country – a refer-
ence, largely, to the beauty and
but New Zealand’s rich variety of a land that features
major cities offer everything from boiling mud and
volcanic geysers to snow-capped
more to the visitor mountains, perfect sandy beaches
than somewhere to and dense native bush.
pass through on the It is for all this that most
visitors come. The chance to ex-
way to the land of perience the near other-worldly
the hobbits and orcs landscape that captured millions
of imaginations in Kiwi director
Peter Jackson’s Lord Of The Rings
trilogy; the chance to ski before
breakfast and be on the beach by
lunchtime, as the popular cliché
goes. The gateways to all this –
the cities that accommodate most
of New Zealand’s four and a half
million citizens – tend to remain
just that: places to pass through
en route to the ‘real’ NZ.
To miss them, however, is to
miss a trick. New Zealand’s major
cities may not offer the high-rise
excitement of a New York, Lon-
don or Paris. But they tell their
own rich story of a young, vibrant
culture and its unique dual
history of Maori and European
heritage. Spend a few days in each
of them and you’ll learn more
about NZ and its people than
any white-water rafting, bungee-
jumping adventure, the ‘typical’
New Zealand holiday, could hope
to impart.

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 105


PHOTOGRAPHER: HOLGER LEUE
CITY OF SAILS
With over a third of the coun-
try’s overall population, its most
densely populated city, Auckland,
is the obvious place to start on a
city-sider visit to NZ. Nicknamed
the City Of Sails, it quickly be-
comes apparent why – boats of all
descriptions bob in the harbour,
from two-man pleasure craft to
huge, ocean-going liners.
The waterfront is also the
stepping off point to the islands
that dot the Hauraki Gulf around
which Auckland sits. Must-sees
for visitors are Waiheke, a lush
piece of the tropics only 30 min-
utes from the city that has become
as well known for its award-
winning wineries and restaurants
as it is for its beautiful beaches,
PHOTOGRAPHER: NICK SERVIAN
and Rangitoto, the arid volcanic
island, the iconic outline of which
forms the backdrop to almost
every one of the city’s waterside
views.
Heading into the city itself
there are the usual attractions of
“New Zealand’s major cities may
not offer the high-rise excitement of
a New York or Paris. But they tell their
own rich story of a young, vibrant
culture and its unique dual history of
Maori and European heritage.”
Where to stay
WELLINGTON
InterContinental
Treat yourself to a Club Room
for views over the harbour
from the private club lounge,
free Internet access and
complimentary evening
drinks and nibbles, and airport
transfers. Perfect.
From NZ$255. www.
intercontinental.com
TRAVEL | NEW ZEALAND
Remote wilderness:
NZ South Island
AUCKLAND
Sky City Grand
Luxury five-star in the heart of
the city, adjacent to Sky Tower –
the tallest freestanding structure
in the southern hemisphere.
From NZ$195. www.
skycityauckland.co.nz
The Quadrant
Dubbed “Auckland’s hippest
hotel” – need we say more?
From NZ$120. www.thequadrant.
com
city art gallery, currently located
on Lorne Street while the main
gallery undergoes a major facelift,
and the impressive Auckland
Museum (worth a visit for its set-
ting alone in the rolling vales of
the Domain). But you could just
as easily while away the whole of
your stay café-hopping around
three of Auckland’s coolest
central suburbs, Parnell, New-
market and Ponsonby. The latter,
particularly, carves an essentially
cool groove. Bars such as the
Chapel (chapel.co.nz) typify the
area’s quirky-but-hip feel while
sleek Italian restaurant Prego
(prego.co.nz), a little further along
Ponsonby Road, pairs style with
substance in a venue that’s been
packing in the city’s chicest punt-
ers for over two decades.
Auckland’s cool-with-a-twist
style even extends to its ac-
commodation. For all the sleek
glamour of the Sky City Grand
(it’s pretty impressive opening
your blinds of a morning to the
sight of an adrenaline-junkie
tourist hurling themselves from
the top of the adjacent Sky Tower
in a static line jump that, at 192
metres, is the country’s high-
est – no mean feat in the country
that invented bungee jumping as
we know it), What’s On’s prize
for the city’s hippest temporary
residence goes to the Quadrant
(thequadrant.com). A sleek apart-
ment hotel next to lovely Albert
Park, the place is all slick white
walkways and funky grooves with
stays that come in packages, such
as the Rock Star and Weekender.
ISTOCK
CHRISTCHURCH
The Heritage
Hotel
Located right on
Cathedral Square,
the Old Government
Building has been
lovingly restored to offer five-
star comfort in one of the most
beautiful settings in the city.
From NZ$170. www.
heritagehotels.co.nz/
christchurch
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 107

On the up:
Wellington Cable
Car ride
PHOTOGRAPHER: IAN TRAFFORD
THE WINDY CITY
Wellington has so much to offer,
it’s very hard to leave. The city is
the country’s capital and home
to its parliament (housed in a
building affectionately known as
the ‘beehive’ due to its layered,
circular structure). Located at the
southernmost tip of the North
Island, Wellington sits on the
Cook Strait, the narrow stretch of
water that connects the Tasmin
Sea on the west with the South
Pacific Ocean on the east and is
one of the most dangerous and
unpredictable stretches of water
in the world. Blustery is not the
word.
One of Wellington’s greatest
attractions is its size. Compact by
any standards, it’s easy to navi-
gate entirely on foot – from the
pretty colonial wooden houses
TRAVEL | NEW ZEALAND
of Thorndon and Oriental Bay to
ISTOCK
the boutiques and cafes around
Lambton Quay, riding the rickety
cable car up to Mount Victoria
for some leafy respite before
heading back down to enjoy the
shabby chic shops, bars and res-
taurants around Cuba Street.
The star attraction in this town,
however, is Te Papa (‘Our Place’
in Maori) Museum (tepapa.govt.
nz). A comprehensive and detailed
overview of the nation’s history
from before the first Maori settlers
to the present day, it covers six
PHOTOGRAPHER: TE PAPA MUSUEM
floors and several thousand
Seat of power: years of the country’s
The Wellington culture. It’s interactive
Parliament Building and slick, but you may
[Inset] Past be are better entranced
revealed: by the quirky delights
Te Papa Museum of the Museum of Wel-
lington City & Sea in
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 109
 TRAVEL | NEW ZEALAND
English style:
Christchurch
Cathedral
ISTOCK
the old Bond Store five minutes
walk along the waterfront where
the permanent collection tells the
city’s history through some slightly
kitsch exhibits.
ENGLISH ROSE
Christchurch couldn’t be more
different. Set slightly inland,
next to the flat expanse of the
Canterbury Plains, a river (the
Avon) runs through it. Its large
central Cathedral sets the tone
for a city that is rich in the
18th century architecture that
contributes heavily to its reputa-
tion as the most ‘English’ of NZ
cities. There is, however, a fairly
PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID WALL
110 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
The Insider
WELLINGTON
Take the ferry over to the
tiny island of Eastbourne. An
easy 20-minute ride away
from central Wellington, it
plays host to a handful of art
galleries and cafes. Perfect for
whiling away an afternoon.
For something more physical,
check out a Sevens rugby
game at Westpac stadium
– Wellingtonians take their
national game very seriously.
www.metlink.org.nz; www.
westpacstadium.co.nz
bohemian vibe at work here – the
Arts Centre (artscentre.org.nz)
and neighbouring Dux pub and
restaurant offer arts, craft and
live music. Visit on the weekend
if you can, when the square that
joins the two venues is taken over
by a bustling market.
From here, it’s a short hop to
Hagley Park, a huge, flat piece of
green that roughly cuts the city in
two. Here you’ll find everything
from a public golf course and
cricket pitches to one of the city’s
crown jewels – the lush botanic
gardens (the don’t call this the
Garden City for nothing). Then,
drop into Christchurch Art Gallery
AUCKLAND
Don’t miss the chance to
‘race’ NZL 40, a spectacular
catamaran that competed in the
America’s Cup, one of yachting’s
most prestigious challenges.
Alternative thrillseekers may
want to bungee from the
harbour bridge. Or how about
visiting a magnificent beach
such as Muriwai? With black
sands and amazing surf, you’ve
never seen anything like it.
www.sailnz.co.uk; www.bungee.
co.nz
(christchurchartgallery.org.nz) and
fall in love with the stark abstrac-
tion of one of the country’s most
famous 20th century artists, Colin
McCahon.
Culturally sated, jump on the
tram to the slick boutiques in
and around High Street – the
upmarket eclecticism of World
(worldbrand.co.nz) is a winner –
before moving on to Sol Square, a
vibrant quarter overflowing with
bars and restaurants, including
the Fish & Chip Shop, a paean to
all things Kiwi with quirky, 1960s
decor and delicious food. If this is
city life Kiwi style, you may never
want to leave.
CHRISTCHURCH
The killer 5am start aside,
a hot-air balloon ride is a
Christchurch must-do, offering
views all the way to the
snow-capped Southern Alps
and the farms, pine forests
and patchwork beauty of the
Canterbury Plains. Later, try
whale and dolphin watching at
Akaroa or a gentle punt on the
river Avon. Landlubbers might
prefer a visit to a local winery.
www. ballooning.co.nz; www.
fourcorners.co.nz
Need to know
How to get there:
Emirates fly to NZ daily, from
Dhs 6,325 (to Auckland) and
Dhs6,245 (Christchurch)
Currency:
NZ$1 = Dhs2.57
Visa:
A free, three-month visitor visa
is issued to most nationalities
(including UAE and British) on
arrival. Passports must be valid
for at least three months.
Up in the sky:
Canterbury Plains
ballooning
 Experience the atmosphere
– experience Mawal
Enjoy a night of excellent food and atmosphere when you visit Mawal

Belly Dancing and

traditional singers every
evening from 11pm

Enjoy a night of excellent food and

atmosphere when you visit Mawal
Serving a variety of authentic Lebanese dishes.
Enjoy mouthwatering mezzeh, fresh fish and a great variety of grills.
We serve freshly baked bread, delicious salads and
a range of vegetarian dishes.

Every Night is a PROBABLY THE

special night at Mawal BEST LEBANESE
Open 7 days a week RESTAURANT
Lunch 12:30pm - 3:30pm OUTSIDE
Dinner 8pm - 3am LEBANON

Make your reservation today on:

Abu Dhabi (Hilton) 02 681 2773
Dubai (Al Bustan Rotana) 04 282 6530
Dubai (Al Murooj Rotana) 04 321 5050
THE HOT LIST
THE TEN BEST BRUNCHES, BARS, RESTAURANTS AND SPAS THIS MONTH

Key
*
–
New entry

Non-mover
„ Up

‰ Down

p114 Brunches
p116 Bars
p118 Restaurants
p120 Spas

JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 113

 THE HOT LIST BRUNCHES
OUR PICK OF THE BRUNCH BUNCH
Le Vendome Brasserie
1 Elements –
There’s a healthy buzz, but it
isn’t too rowdy, so civilised
ATMOSPHERE
brunchers won’t have their
meal ruined.
All the international cuisine
bases are covered – including
FOOD
Arabic, Japanese, roast meats
and Indian. And the dessert
section is truly amazing.
Need a cheeky post-brunch
cocktail? Head to the nearby
LOCATION
Chameleon Bar.
BEST FOR
Special occasions, where a
few glasses of bubbly is what’s
required.
Dhs399 with alcohol, Dhs222
PRICE
without. Expensive, but it does
include Moët et Chandon.
If you’re looking for a touch
WHAT’S ON
of class on Friday lunchtime,
Elements is your man.
SAYS...
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Be-
tween The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
11.30am to 3pm
Tel: (02) 6543000
www.fairmont.com
114 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
2 LeVendome
Brasserie –
A sophisticated and well-
behaved crowd means this isn’t
the brunch to go wild at.
Truly superb food, such as
chilled lobster tails, oysters and
royal strawberry cheesecake. All
of it is first-rate.
If the seven-star luxury of the
Emirates Palace doesn’t impress
people, nothing ever will.
Impressing those who need to
be impressed.
The Dhs565 includes Laurent
Perrier rosé champagne, wines
and beers, but you have to pay
for quality.
This is where Abu Dhabi’s jet set
come to brunch.
Emirates Palace, West Cor-
niche, Abu Dhabi
12.30pm to 3.30pm
Tel: (02) 6907999
www.emiratespalace.com
Al Fanar
3 Sofra „
Chilled with a capital C. Sofra
brunch is a great way to unwind
after a hard week at the office.
From Arabic lamb roasts,
through Moroccan tagines to
sushi, eating here is a culinary
trip around the world.
The Shangri-La – very much
the decadent out-of-town hotel
– that’s handily surrounded by
other bars and restaurants.
All and sunder. The vast
restaurant is spacious enough to
accommodate all.
Dhs220 for unlimited wine and
soft drinks. About average for
Abu Dhabi’s brunching scene.
Everyone. It’s peaceful enough
for families and lively enough
for a knees-up with your mates.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri,
Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
noon to 4pm
Tel: (02) 5098888
www.shangri-la.com
4 Chamas ‰
It’s lively, with legions of
waiters dashing around slicing
meat directly onto the hungry
diners’ plates.
On arrival, you’re handed
a two-sided card. Turn it to
green to keep the meat com-
ing, turn it to red when you’re
ready to explode.
You’re no distance from two
great bars, the Yacht Club and
Belgian Café, and after all that
meat you’ll need a calming
drink.
A special celebration with a
group of friends, none of whom
are vegetarian.
Dhs165 with one cocktail is
good value, but if you want to
down drinks you could notch
up a hefty tab.
There’s no better brunch for
meat lovers. And on Friday,
they also add seafood to the
menu.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi,
Al Bateen
1pm to 3pm
Tel: (02) 6666888
www.ichotelsgroup.com
5 Al Fanar –
Al Fanar has a reputation
as a party brunch, but a few
families have been known to
brave it as well.
The emphasis is on seafood. Try
some of the delicious oysters
and lobster tails.
Avoid if you have a fear of
heights, as the revolving restau-
rant is 31-storeys up. But you’re
guaranteed some astounding
views from up there.
A memorable brunch in a truly
unusual restaurant.
Dhs220 with wine. It’s in the
middle of Abu Dhabi’s brunch
price graph.
Great views and good food. But
be prepared for a party vibe
later on.
Le Royal Méridien, Khalifah
Street, Abu Dhabi
12.30pm to 3pm
Tel: (02) 6742020
www.starwoodhotels.com

Yacht Club
6Yacht Club ‰
One of Abu Dhabi’s best bars also
hosts one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest
and best brunches.
There’s an a la carte menu consist-
ing of mostly noodles and sushi
dishes. But you can order as much
as you like.
With its views over the boats
bobbing in the InterCon’s private
marina, there’s a resort feel to
the place.
Taking up your whole afternoon.
As the Yacht Club brunch finishes
at 6pm, it drifts perfectly into an
evening out.
The Dhs165 includes only one
drink, so can get a bit pricey if you
try too many cocktails.
We love the Yacht Club and we love
this brunch.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi,
Al Bateen
2pm to 6pm
Tel: (02) 6666888
www.ichotelsgroup.com
7 One To One „
One of the capital’s busiest
brunches. But it’s spread over
three restaurants so you won’t feel
hemmed in.
A trio of restaurants with three
different cuisines – Oriental food
from Wokcano, steaks from 180z
and international from Resto.
The restaurants are stacked on
top of each other, so expect some
stair climbing if you want to refill
your plate.
Groups of friends who want to party
without breaking the bank.
Dhs200 with alcohol and Dhs140
without. Pleasantly affordable.
Most weekends this brunch is
sold out. Best to book early or
you’ll be disappointed.
One To One Hotel, Al Nahyan,
Abu Dhabi
noon to 3pm
Tel: (02) 4952000
www.onetoonehotels.com
THE HOT LIST BRUNCHES
ARTS
HOT ON
LS Plaza
THnsEBrunHchE, CrEowne
11 Garde
Abu Dhabi ch,
Shine Brun
12 Ri And
se
u Dhabi
eraton Ab
Sh ng Asia,
Brunch at Ji
13 Oriental aza Yas Island
Crowne Pl symetri,
Brunch at As
14 Skewered Blu Yas Island
Radisson ,
cht Brunch
15 Shuja Ya
éridien
Le Royal M
Chamas
8 Belgian 9 Rosebuds – 10 Pearls &
Brunch „
Expect the clatter of a friendly pub There’s a friendly, family feel at
Caviar
*
A relatively new brunch, so it’s
lunch. Rosebuds, enhanced by the lively not teeming with diners yet. But
sounds of a Cuban band. expect this to change once word
gets out.
From meatballs to mussels, it’s the From steaks, to curries, to pasta and Mountains of seafood all
kind of hearty grub that’s associ- seafood. Whatever your tastes are, prepared to your liking at a live
ated with the Belgian Café. It’s a la you won’t feel left out. cooking station.
carte, but you can order as much
as you like.
The Belgian Café is so convincingly Brauhaus and Trader Vic’s, two of Pearls & Caviar’s waterfront loca-
European in style it’s easy to forget Abu Dhabi’s best bars, are right tion has great views of the Grand
you’re in the Middle East. next door. Mosque.
Whether you’re after a full on Fun for all the family – the kids Seafood fanatics.
party or just a quiet meal with your will love the resident clown and
friends, you won’t feel out of place. face-painter.
Dhs165 will get you tons of food The Dhs174 includes one glass of Dhs299 with champagne, Dhs199
and one beer. Not excessively beer or wine, so it’s not the most with other drinks. On the upper
expensive. raucous brunches out there. end of the scale, but bubbly’s
included in the bill.
If you haven’t tried the BC’s chips We hear Rosebuds might be closing Summer’s here, meaning the
and mayonnaise you haven’t lived. for a refit soon, so enjoy this brunch upstairs terrace bar is probably
Order some now. while you can. off limits to all but the brave, but
P&C’s still worth a visit.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Beach Rotana, Tourist Club Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri,
Al Bateen Area, Abu Dhabi Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
1pm to 4pm 12.30pm to 4pm 1pm to 4pm
Tel: (02) 6666888 Tel: (02) 6979000 Tel: (02) 5098888
www.ichotelsgroup.com www.rotana.com www.shangri-la.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 115
MARCH
 ARTS
HOT ON
EH
THha EELStana
THE HOT LIST BARS us, Beach Ro
11 Brau
12 Oceans,
Le Royal
Méridien
Souk Qarya
13 Sho Cho, ri
t
Al Be nd
THE FINEST FOR BEVERAGES AND BITES tana Yas Isla
14 Y Bar, Ro Yas Hotel
r,
15 Rush Ba

Left Bank Heroes

1 Left Bank „ 2 Belgian

Café „
3 Relax@12 „ 4 NRG
* 5 Heroes
*
ATMOSPHERE

Lively and friendly.
Bustling, with groups of all
ages enjoying the European
hospitality.
It’s only been open a few
months, but it’s rapidly gaining
a reputation as one of Abu
Dhabi’s best and busiest bars.
As the capital’s only dedicated
sports bar, it’s wall-to-wall punt-
ers on big match days.
Heroes is packed to the rafters
at weekends. There’s a fog of
smoke in the air and sweat
dripping off the walls as the live
band churn out rock classics.

You’re in the Souk Qaryat Al The InterCon, one of the capi- Perched on top of the Aloft Le Méridien Hotel’s seen better In the Crowne Plaza’s basement,
LOCATION

Beri, Abu Dhabi’s entertain- tal’s best hotels. Hotel, the bar has command- days, but does have it’s share of just yards from two quality new
ment hotbed. ing views over the whole of rough and ready bars and good restaurants – Cho Gao and
Abu Dhabi. value restaurants. Spaccanapoli.

Mingling and catching up European style after work During the week, the relaxed Sports fans. As well as the Singing along at the top of your
BEST FOR

or a few drinks to launch a drinks that turn into dinner vibe makes it a perfect date plentiful TV screens, NRG’s one voice to some Guns ‘N Roses.
night out. and a night out. venue. At the weekend, there’s of the few bars in the capital to
more of a party going on. have pool tables.

Drinks are on the pricey side, Some of the more unusual Fairly cheap and cheerful. The drinks are cheap, the bar Cheap and cheerful. But you’ll
PRICE

but not as expensive as some beers will set you back more food tends to be a bit pricey. have to queue to get your
other options. than Dhs50, but the food is drinks.
reasonable.

Left Bank has the best bar food With its new brunch and cool Panoramic city views and This is the bar to watch all Heroes lands back in our
in the capital. It’s affordable and European atmosphere, Belgian lively earlier evening atmos- the action at the 2010 FIFA Hot List during the summer
WHAT’S ON

delicious. Café is a great bar, period. phere make this a great start- World Cup. months, as it’s the best place to
ing off point for your weekend escape the searing heat.
SAYS...

night out.

Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Be-
tween The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
Sat to Wed 7pm to 1am,
Thurs and Fri 7pm to 2am
Tel: (02) 5581680
www.emiratesleisureretail.com
InterContinental Abu Dhabi,
Al Bateen
6.30pm to 12.30pm
Tel: (02) 6666888
www.ichotelsgroup.com
Aloft Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
National Exhibition Centre,
Khaleej Al Arabi Street
5pm to 2am
Tel: (02) 6545000
www.aloftabudhabi.com
Le Méridien Abu Dhabi, Tour- Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi,
ist Club Area, Abu Dhabi Hamden Street
4pm to 1am noon to 1am
Tel: (02) 6446666 Tel: (02) 6210000
www.starwoodhotels.com www.crowneplaza.com

WHAT’SON
116 WHAT’S ON JUNE
MARCH 2010
2010

Trader Vic’s
6 Third
Avenue
*
Third Avenue’s the hub of the
Khalidiyah area’s social scene, so
expect it to be packed most nights
of the week.
For residents in exclusive Khalidi-
yah area, it’s right on the doorstep,
but it’s a trek for everyone else.
An English pub feel, without the
accompanying rowdiness.
Mid-range.
Third Avenue’s a great place to
escape from the summer sun. Plus,
with its wall-to-wall TV screens,
you won’t miss any of the World
Cup action.
Sheraton Khalidiya, Zayed The
First Street, Abu Dhabi
noon to 1am
Tel: (02) 6666220
www.sheratonkhalidiyaabud-
habi.com
7 Stills „
The sleek black leather chairs and
the lengthy bar create a classy city
pub feel.
The Yas Island complex of hotels
has plenty of bars and restaurants
to make your lengthy journey here
worthwhile.
A pint and a pie.
You won’t feel you’re being hard
done by here.
We spotted England cricket legend
Freddie Flintoff here last month.
If it’s good enough for the big all-
rounder, it’s good enough for us.
Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi
noon to 12.30am
Tel: (02) 6563000
www.ichotelsgroup.com
Yacht Club
8 TraderVics ‰
The pounding Samba beats from
the live band and the flow of cock-
tails creates a Latino party vibe.
The Beach Rotana has some of the
best food and beverage outlets in
the city. Rodeo Grill steakhouse and
Brauhaus bar, to name just two.
If slurping on a fruity cocktail
is your idea of a good night out,
then this is the place for you.
Your bar tab might eat into your
overdraft if you have too many
cocktails.
Don’t miss the superb bar food,
which is cooked in a wood smoke
oven.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist
Club Area, Abu Dhabi
12.30pm to 3.30pm and 7pm to
11.30pm
Tel: (02) 6979000
www.rotana.com
THE HOT LIST BARS
9 Chameleon ‰
Chic, small and intimate, with low-
level lighting and cosy alcoves.
The sparkling new Fairmont Al
Bahr is the perfect location for this
glamorous new bar.
Lovers of fine champagnes. Cha-
meleon has the widest range in the
city – 15 in total.
Beers are cheap, wines, cocktails and
bubbly aren’t.
For the mother of all sugar
rushes, try the signature candyfloss
cocktail.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between
The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
6pm to 3am
Tel: (02) 6543333
www.fairmont.com
MARCH
ARTS
10Yacht Club ‰
Calm early on, but the nightclub
vibe kicks in later on when the
resident DJs hit the decks.
Downstairs at the InterCon and
just a short stumble from the
Belgian Café – another of our
favourite bars.
A bit of posing in your designer
clothes at the weekend.
Reassuringly expensive.
Yacht Club’s terrace is it’s main
selling point, but only the very
brave would venture out in
this weather. So it’s time to get
reacquainted with the bar’s cool
indoor area.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi,
Al Bateen
12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm to
1am, Thus and Fri 7pm to 2.30am
Tel: (02) 6666888
www.ichotelsgroup.com
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 117
 ARTS

THE HOT LIST RESTAURANTS

THE ELITE OF THE EATING OUT SCENE
Chamas

Kazu

1 Bord Eau „ 2 MPW Steak- 3 Toki „ 4 Chamas ‰ 5 Nautilus „

house & Grill ‰
A sophisticated restaurant You’ll rarely find an empty Toki welcomes Japanese food Jammed with hordes of raven- Chic and sophisticated. The
with an equally sophisticated table at Marco Pierre White’s fans in their droves. You’ll ous carnivores. luxury yachts bobbing away in
ATMOSPHERE

clientele. It’s busy, but calm and English restaurant. struggle to get one of the the nearby marina reminds you
relaxed. private dining rooms without this is an exclusive dining spot.
booking first.

Oil paintings and art deco style The dim lighting, dark-stained Relatively small, with black Modern and spacious, with With its gleaming white walls,
INTERIOR

lamps deck the marble walls, wood walls and leather chairs walls and black leather chairs, the aromas of charcoaled meat neon lights and minimalist
while chandeliers hang from create a cosy, intimate dining there’s a definite cool Japanese drifting through the air. furniture, Nautilus looks like
the ceiling. It’s grand without venue. feel to the place. the set of a 1970s sci-fi flick.
being gaudy.

Chef Jean Hurstel’s brasserie British favourites such as fish A massive menu that may Meat, meat, meat and more The mains are all about
menu is packed with faultless and chips and Lancashire appear overwhelming to sushi meat. Teams of waiters run superbly fresh fish, served with
European cuisine. We can’t get hotpot share the menu with the novices. Don’t worry – the help- around delivering cuts of steak, a variety of purees. And king
FOOD

enough of the celeriac and fois finest steaks in the capital. ful staff will point you in the chicken and lamb to your plate. among these is the halibut with
gras soup. right direction. a swirl of courgette sauce.
LOCATION

The Between The Bridges area The glitzy Fairmont Bab Al You’re near to the Hemming- The InterCon isn’t that close With a tranquil, waterfront
is Abu Dhabi’s entertainment Bahr is the ideal location for way’s complex, a collection of to any other hotels, but has location, you won’t find a more
epicentre, boasting a slew of Abu Dhabi’s first celebrity cheery, if slightly dated bars enough bars and restaurants to romantic dining spot that this.
great bars and restaurants. endorsed restaurant. and pubs. stop you from wanting to leave.

We paid Dhs700 for a three- Expect to pay Dhs800 for two Expect to pay around Dhs200 Dhs600 for two and worth every Your meal for two people will be
PRICE

course meal for two on our people, but you won’t feel short- per person, sans lubrication. dirham. approaching the Dhs1,000 mark,
last visit. Good value for such changed. Good value for money in our but it’ll be money well spent.
great food. books.

The restaurant has just The culinary legend that is With constant newcomers on As well as being a meat-lover’s Abu Dhabi has its share of
WHAT’S ON

introduced an excellent new Marco Pierre White would Abu Dhabi’s Japanese food paradise, Chamas also has the quality seafood restaurants,
summer menu, elevating it to never let a restaurant bearing scene, Toki still holds out as best salad bar in the capital. but Nautilus is the winner in
this month’s top spot. his name be anything but our favourite capital sushi spot. our books.
SAYS...

the best.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Be- Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche InterContinental Abu Dhabi, The Yas Hotel, Yas Island,
Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi tween the Bridges, Abu Dhabi 7pm to 11pm Al Bateen Abu Dhabi
6.30pm to 11.30pm 7pm to 1am Tel: (02) 6814151 7pm to midnight 7pm to 11pm
Tel: (02) 5098888 Tel: (02) 6543333 www.hilton.com Tel: (02) 6666888 Tel: (02) 6560600
www.shangri-la.com www.fairmont.com www.ichotelsgroup.com www.theyashotel.com

WHAT’SON
118 WHAT’S ON JUNE
MARCH 2010
2010

Ushna
6 Ushna „
Chic and sophisticated, but defi-
nitely Indian.
Earth-coloured walls and warm
lighting create an inviting
atmosphere.
If you’re after searing hot curries
to put a sweat on your brow, head
elsewhere. Ushna specialises
in delicately spiced and refined
Indian food.
You’ll be spoilt for choice for stylish
and sophisticated bars and restau-
rants at the Souk Qaryat Al Beri.
Dhs500 for two might sound
expensive for curry, but not for
fine cuisine such as this.
Ushna has sidled into the already
crowded Indian restaurant market
and emerged as champion. It’s by
far the best in the city.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Between
The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
12.30pm to 11.45pm
Tel: (02) 5581769
www.cplmg.com
HOT ON
THE H EELSbi
ia, Abu Dha
11 Sardin
Country Club Rotana
rill, Beach
12 Rodeo G Emirates Palace
na,
13 Mezzalu Beach Rotana
14 Indigo,
15 Angar, Th
Hotel
7 Etoiles ‰
Early doors, there’s a calm ambi-
ence. Later on, the nightclub vibe
begins to kick in.
The height of luxury, with chande-
liers, marble walls and fine silver
cutlery. Remember, Etoiles is in the
world’s most expensive hotel.
Generous portions of top-quality
European cuisine.
With its bars, museums and gal-
leries the Emirates Palace is a day
out in itself.
Surprisingly cheap considering
the surroundings. A meal for two
shouldn’t cost more than Dhs500.
Etoiles is a rare but winning com-
bination of a fine dining restaurant
and nightclub under one roof.
Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
noon to 3pm and 7pm to
11.30pm
Tel: (02) 6907999
www.etoilesuae.com
e Yas
8 Kazu
* 9 Finz „
Lively, with the large open kitchen
and sushi bar in the centre power-
ing the restaurant.
Like the rest of the Yas Hotel, it’s
minimalist and modern, while the
rows of bamboo rods are a nod to
the Far East.
The sushi’s superb, but it’s the
succulent meats and fishes from
the robatayaki grill that are the
standout dishes.
Once you reach the sticks of Yas
Island, you’ll find there are more
than enough bars and restaurants
to have made the trip worthwhile.
You can quite easily enjoy a
satisfying three-course meal for
less than Dhs500.
Kazu has recently introduced a
better, bigger menu, which gives it
a well-earned spot in our Hot List.
The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi
12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm
Tel: (02) 6560600
www.theyashotel.com
THE HOT LIST RESTAURANTS
ARTS
The waterside chalet has a peace-
ful and romantic vibe.
There’s a nautical theme all right,
with fishnets, lobster baskets and
shark skulls adorning the walls.
Choose one of the a la carte
dishes, or the catch of the day in a
variety of sauces. It’s all good.
The beachside chalet is a romantic
little dining spot. Plus you’re with-
in sight of Brauhaus and Trader
Vic’s, two of our favourite bars.
Expect your wallet to be Dhs700
lighter after a meal for two here.
The chefs at Finz live by the
mantra that you can’t really go
wrong if you use the freshest fish
and fine quality ingredients.
Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi
12.30pm to 3.30pm and 7pm
to 11.30pm
Tel: (02) 6979000
www.rotana.com
MARCH
Mombasa Grille
10 Mombasa
Grille ‰
Not too busy, not too quiet.
About right.
The spears, masks and animal
skins that line the walls look like
props from a Tarzan movie, but
it creates an authentic African
atmosphere.
From African ostrich steaks to In-
dian curries, they’re all done with
aplomb at Mombasa Grille.
Why not hit our number one
Abu Dhabi bar, Left Bank, after
your meal? It’s a short stroll away.
You can get away with a three-
course meal for two for less than
Dhs500 if you want.
A rare example of an interna-
tional restaurant that isn’t a jack-
of-all-trades, but master of none.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Sun to Thurs, 3pm to 11pm,
Fri, noon to 3pm and 6pm to late,
Tel: (02) 5581868
www.mombasagrille.ae
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 119
 THE HOT LIST SPAS
THE DADDIES OF THE HEALTH AND LEISURE SCENE
1 Anantara
Spa –
These are the best therapists
THERAPISTS
in town. They’re the sworn
enemies of knotted muscles.
When the treatments are
called names like Diamond
MENU
Ritual and Gold Facial, you
can expect them to pretty
luxurious.
A palatial spa, set in its own
THE SPA
wing of the hotel. Inside, it’s
decorated in mosaics and
gold leaf.
You wouldn’t expect the treat-
PRICE
ments to be cheap, and they
aren’t. Most are near the four-
figure mark.
Golf fans should try the
WHAT’S ON
specially designed golfers’
massage to rid you of the
aches and pains picked up
SAYS...
while knocking the dimpled
ball around.
Emirates Palace, West Cor-
niche, Abu Dhabi
10am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 6909000
www.emiratespalace.com
WHAT’SON
120 WHAT’S ON JUNE
MARCH 2010
2010
2 Zen Spa „
They’re totally committed to
your comfort. They’ll ask your
opinion of the temperature of
the room and the music being
played.
A vast range of treatments, plus
each month an innovative new
one is added to the menu.
Clean and spacious, with
separate lounging areas for guys
and girls.
It’s a five-star hotel but they’re
still reasonable. For example,
the aromatherapy massage costs
Dhs348 for an hour.
Try the new signature treat-
ment, which combines
Thai massage, acupressure and
aromatherapy. Calling it relax-
ing is a huge understatement.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist
Club Area, Abu Dhabi
10am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 6979000
www.rotana.com
Chi Spa
3 Chi Spa „
The predominantly Nepalese
masseurs are a quiet bunch.
They’re not ones for small talk.
Tons of choices for men and
women. The new Filipino Hilot
massage is a must.
A total of ten treatment rooms,
all decorated with dark wood
walls, giving a Tibetan Buddhist
temple vibe.
The Chi Spa is one of the more
costly out there, but you’ll feel
you’re getting your money’s
worth.
We recommend booking a
Chi Balance treatment, which
is based on ancient Chinese
healing techniques.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri,
Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi
10am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 5098888
www.shangri-la.com
4 Serenity Spa
* 5Club
Hiltonia Health
They’re friendly, welcoming
and genuinely concerned about
giving you just the treatment
you want. They also really seem
to like their jobs.
They have the full gamut of
massages, plus a few unusual
ones thrown in there. The Aroma
Massage, which combines body
exfoliation and a deep tissue mas-
sage, was our pick of the bunch.
Although it’s located above a
shop, this Renaissance-style spa
is deceptively big. with separate
rooms for facials, massages, Mo-
roccan baths and hair styling.
Treatments are reason-
ably priced. Dhs450 for the 90
minute Aroma Massage is worth
every fil.
You could quite easily walk
past Serenity Spa without
seeing it. However, it’s a hid-
den secret that deserves to be
found, as it’s the best female-
only spa in the city.
Serenity Spa, above Paris
Gallery, Zayed The First Street,
Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
10am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 6778880
www.uae-parisgallery.com
Anantara Spa
& Spa ‰
They’re an international bunch,
coming from afar a field as
South Africa. But they’re all
incredibly polite and charming.
A wide-ranging menu, includ-
ing waxing, manicures and
luxurious packages.
A small, intimate spa that’s
located at the far end of the
Corniche, where traffic jams are
a rarity.
The Tropical Bliss massage costs
Dhs695. And as you get two
masseurs rubbing you down it’s
very good value.
A nice, friendly spa that ticks all
the right boxes. Head here for a
quick lunchtime rubdown.
Hiltonia Beach Club, Cor-
niche, Abu Dhabi
10am to 9pm
Tel: (02) 6924324
www.hilton.com

Zen Spa
6 The Spa ‰
Everyone in this spa works extra
hard to make you feel welcome
and relaxed.
All the treatments use the
exclusive Aromatherapy range
of products.
There’s a functional feel with
minimalist décor and dim
lighting.
We’d say it was mid-range. We
paid Dhs450 for a 90-minute
purifying facial and back
massage.
Don’t leave the building without
trying out the Jacuzzi. It’ll
round off a couple of hours of
pleasure.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas
Island, Abu Dhabi
9am to 9pm
Tel: (02) 6562000
www.radissonblu.com
THE HOT LIST ARTS
SPAS
HOT ON
THtaEra SpHa,EQE LS
asr Al Sarab
11 Anan rt
Desert Reso ub & Spa,
& So ul H ealth Cl
12 Body ach Hotel
Al Raha Be s,
Orient al Spa & Fitnes
13
, Al Bateen
32nd Street tness,
Health & Fi
14 Le Club bi
en nium H otel Abu Dha
Mill Spa,
15 Man/Age l
Marina Mal
Eden Spa
7 Eden Spa ‰ 8 Sharinas 9 ZenZu – 10 The Lounge ‰
Wellness Spa „
They’re all knowledgeable, but Unobtrusive and knowledgeable. Silence is golden at ZenZu as the A crack team of hairdressers and
therapist Fe has been there for 15 therapists aren’t really into their masseurs. They’re all friendly
years and is a bona fide genius small talk. and polite.
when it comes to massages and
facials.
With a spa, hamman and hair From waxing to blow dries, Shari- A small, but well-selected menu The whole spectrum of treat-
salon, it’s extensive to say the least. nas covers all the treatment bases to that includes Thai, Swedish and ments – from haircuts to ham-
make ladies look better. Chinese massages. mam baths – to make dishevelled
guys look good.
The huge relaxation pool is the It’s based in a huge villa in Khalifa The spa is clean and modern. But It’s located in a large villa, that’s
centrepiece of this bright and A, a decadent escape from the hectic there are some major roadworks centrally located but, crucially, has
airy spa. pace of city life. around the Al Diar Regency Hotel, ample parking.
so best to get a taxi here.
The Spa Prestige Moisturising It’s all slightly cheaper than the Dhs80 for a 30-minute massage. Dhs240 for a full body massage
Facial will set you back Dhs660. equivalent in a hotel spa. A bargain. isn’t going to break the bank.
About mid-range for the capital.
Try the ultimate pampering Up there with the best ladies-only Book massages before 2pm on We’re confident that this is the
experience. It’s one of the best spa. A great place to head to for a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday and best male-only spa in the capital.
treatments we’d ever had. Honest. girls’ day out. you get an extra 15 minutes free.
Le Méridien, Tourist Club Corner of 35th and 62nd Street, Al Diar Regency Hotel, Markazi- Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu
Area, Abu Dhabi Khalifa A, Abu Dhabi yah, Abu Dhabi Dhabi
9am to 11pm 9am to 9pm 10am to midnight 11am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 6446666 Tel: (02) 5562601 Tel: (02) 6714411 Tel: (02) 6677377
www.starwoodhotels.com www.sharanisspa.com www.aldiarhotels.com www.thelounge.ae
JUNE 2010 WHAT’S ON 121
MARCH
 Backchat
It is upon us once again. A solid month
of uninhibited worship, screaming at TV
screens in bars, nodding approvingly as
producers get their cameramen to focus
on hot Brazilian women in the crowd
and going to work each day with a pretty
bad headache.
I am, of course, talking about the planet’s current form or chances but I will be there
greatest sporting spectacle, the FIFA World
Cup. Four years ago I was there. I had three
of the best days of my life in Dusseldorf,
soaking up the electric atmosphere,
wrapping my arms around people from
all over the world, kicking balls through
the streets with strangers, celebrating
their victories as if they were my own and
generally feeling a unity with my fellow
man that I’d never felt before. It was
unforgettable.
Then came match day for my team, England. white shirts, resembling charging stallions,
I stood in the stadium at Gelsenkirchen,
watching Portugal break the hearts of an
entire country, all of us knowing that the
chances of England ever winning a penalty
shoot-out were practically non-existent.
Don’t miss next month’s What’s On...
100 things to do in your city for Dhs100 or less
122 WHAT’S ON JUNE 2010
with Catboy
is destined to look like their strip has been
painted on. The last time England
looked like this was 1982, when the
kits were aerodynamic but the perms
were anything but.
Now, from an athletic point of view, I can
totally understand the thinking behind the
design aesthetic. Nothing for opponents
to grab. Less drag. It makes total sense.
However, at every single game that is played
during the World Cup, there are more than
The pain I felt afterwards was akin to being 50,000 people in every stadium and millions
dumped by someone you love. I wandered the in bars, homes and arenas around the world
streets, alone, teary-eyed, feeling empty and watching these matches and every single
lost. It was over and there was nothing I could one of us wants to wear our team’s shirt.
do about it. The problem is most of us don’t look like
Now, four years later, I’m going to do it professional footballers. We like to think
all over again. I have no idea of my team’s we do when we kick a ball around with
our mates on Tuesday nights but the truth
with everybody else, yelling profanities, is, we’ve got 20kgs of ‘good times’ round
chanting and generally having a blast. I our waist that cannot be disguised in a
even bought my replica England shirt (red, tight football top. My shirt is so tight small
obviously) months ago in preparation for children have been using the material across
the event. This brings me onto something my belly-button as a trampoline.
that I noticed creeping-in during the last So here’s my advice for potential shoppers
tournament that seems even more prevalent when choosing your replica kit this
this time around… Tight shirts. summer… Add two XXs to your normal
I’m sure everyone remembers seeing size. It’s depressing, it’s embarrassing
current champions, Italy, prancing around the at the checkout, but at least when
pitch in Germany, wearing skin-tight blue or your team scores and you raise your
arms in celebration, your nipples will
muscles rippling beneath lycra. They looked remain covered.
amazing, right? Even the most red-blooded
man can admit that. Catboy presents The Catboy & Geordiebird
This time around, everyone seems to have Breakfast Show, weekdays on Dubai 92.
taken note. Every competing nation’s team www.dubai92.com