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  admin 2:22 pm on February 22, 2012 View Post & Comment  

  Call of the wild 

  The Arabian Peninsular is home to a myriad of unique animals, many of which can be seen at the emirate’s zoos and wildlife parks

  

  Arabian Wildlife Park

  Arabian Wildlife Park
  Take a safari through the 4,200-hectare Arabian Wildlife Park and spot some of the region’s most endangered animals, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle and Arabian mountain gazelle.
  Taking up approximately half of Sir Bani Yas Island, the nature reserve is home to several thousand free-roaming animals, including predators and scavengers such as the cheetah and hyena.
  On the safaris, visitors take a seat in the back of open 4x4s and keep their eyes peeled. Fortunately, many of the animals are in abundance and live in herds so it is not hard to spot them. Even the cheetahs have tracking devices attached to their collars so the guides know where to find them.
  The cheetahs were introduced to the island as part of a conservation programme and while they were brought up in captivity, they have been taught to hunt and fend for themselves.
  Visitors can also take mountain bike tours through the wildlife park, or go snorkelling to explore the underwater world.
  Where: Sir Bani Yas Island
  When: Daily. Nature drive takes two and a half hours
  Price: Wildlife safari AED100, free for under sevens
  Contact: 02 8015400 or http://www.desertislands.com

  

  Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

  Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
  Get up close to one of the UAE’s most cherished animals at the world’s first public veterinary centre dedicated exclusively to falcon care.
  The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital opened in 1999 and has treated more than 42,000 patients, most from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. It has since expanded to become an avian hospital for all birds, a boarding facility for falcons and other pets, a shelter for stray cats and dogs, and more recently one of Abu Dhabi’s most recommended tourist attractions.
  Visitors can join the two-hour Falcon World Tour to discover more about the bird on the UAE’s national emblem. They will visit a museum and hear about the falcon’s role in Bedouin culture, falconry and the good work done by the hospital. Visitors can also hold, touch and feed a falcon as well as take photographs.
  Where: Near Abu Dhabi International Airport
  When: Sunday to Thursday at 10am and 2pm. Bookings essential
  Price: AED170 for adults (AED220 with lunch), AED60 (AED80 with lunch) for children aged five to nine
  Contact: 02 5755155, info@falconhospital.com or see http://www.falconhospital.com

  

  Al Ain Zoo

  Al Ain Zoo
  Set against a backdrop of the stunning Jebel Hafeet mountain, Al Ain Zoo is home to 4,300 animals, 30 percent of which are considered threatened.
  The wildlife park has an emphasis on creatures from the Middle East and Africa. In fact some of its key attractions are white lions, white tigers and other big cats as well as the Arabian oryx and sand gazelle. In addition to the animal attractions, there is a children’s garden, playground and picnic areas as well as restaurants and kiosks.
  Among the unique experiences at the Al Ain Zoo is giraffe feeding, which allows visitors to get up close to these magnificent creatures as they feed on carrots, lettuce and other tasty treats. The feeding takes place five times a day next to the Reptile House.
  There is also an impressive bird of prey show in the evenings giving visitors the opportunity to watch falcons, eagles, owls and vultures demonstrate their extraordinary hunting skills.
  Where: Al Ain
  When: Daily 9am to 8pm
  Price: AED15 for adults, AED5 for children
  Contact: 03 7828188 or see http://www.awpr.ae

   

  

  Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre

  Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre
  This animal attraction on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi has become a breeding centre and orphanage for sick and confiscated animals, including a number of big cats. Here visitors will find cheetahs, tigers, lions, caracals, leopards, serval cats and jaguars.
  The centre is not a zoo, but rather a facility dedicated to the care, rehabilitation and health of animals. It still however, conducts one-hour guided tours for visitors to get a rare, up-close glimpse of these predators.
  As well as big cats, the centre is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, monkeys, tortoises and reptiles.
  Where: Mussafah Al Ain Truck Road
  When: Monday to Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm
  Price: AED45 for adults, AED35 for children under 12
  Contact: 050 6144024, 050 7218169 or email wrsmuts@emirates.net.ae

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  admin 12:24 pm on February 14, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Abu Dhabi ( 17 ), Al Ain, heritage   

  History and heritage in Al Ain 

  With 17 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Al Ain is the ideal place to learn more about the emirate’s past
  Words by Amanda Tomlinson

  

  Hafeet Tombs. Picture: Abu Dhabi Authority for Tourism and Culture

  Abu Dhabi emirate is a land of contrasts. Its capital city is the nerve centre with ultra-modern buildings, embassies, spacious malls and opulent five-star hotels. Al Gharbia (Western Region) is a nature lover’s paradise with towering red sand dunes, camel festivals, desert islands and date farms.
  Al Ain, in the Eastern Region, is the cultural heart, a place where tradition features prominently in everyday life, the home of the country’s forefathers and a place where visitors will find 17 UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites.
  The sites were added to the prestigious international list last year in a first for the UAE. The cultural sites are of geological, archaeological and historical importance and include the stunning Jebel Hafeet mountain, bronze and iron age sites of Al Hili, tombs of the Bida Bin Saud area and the oases with their falaj irrigation system.
  Inclusion on the list puts Al Ain alongside well-known international sites such as the Great Wall of China, Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

  Heritage Heartland
  Al Ain is a well-preserved city with an abundance of forts and oases. It has been given the title ‘the garden city’ because of its multitude of green areas, but it is also the cultural and heritage heartland of the emirate.
  Its history dates back several thousand years and archaeological investigations have revealed that the area has been continuously inhabited since the late Stone Age period. Archaeological sites and artefacts have been found dating back to the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Hellenistic pre-Islamic and Islamic eras, while there is also evidence the city traded with major cultures in the north (Mesopotamia and Persia) and the east (India and Pakistan).
  Why not take a trip back in time and visit these historical sites?

  Jebel Hafeet
  This area contains over 500 graves, with Bronze Age cairn tombs. It dates to a period between 3200 and 2700 BC, also known as the Hafeet Period or the Hafeet Cultural Horizon. The tombs and their contents revealed Al Ain’s role at the crossroads of Mesopotamian trade.

  Falaj
  During the Iron Age, the inhabitants of Al Ain began using the falaj, a system that enabled water to be transported from the mountains to the plains. It led to the construction of permanent settlement sites along with agriculture. The oldest falaj, which  dates back to 1000 BC, is located at the Hili Archaeological Park. To see more examples of falaj, visit Al Ain Oasis.

  Forts
  Visitors will see numerous forts in Al Ain, which along with many other historic buildings such as towers, mosques and private palaces and residences, are reminiscent of the pre-1960 period before oil was discovered.
  The beautiful Al Jahili Fort, which is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s first president, was built in 1891 to defend the city and protect palm groves. It now houses a permanent exhibition of work by British adventurer Wilfred Thesiger, who crossed the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) in the 1940s. The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage also holds the annual Al Ain Classics music festival in the grounds of the fort.

  Natural beauty
  As well as its cultural significance, Al Ain’s natural attractions include the desert, oases, date palm plantations, wadis and mountains.
  The city’s six oases have sustained the region as far back as the 2nd millennium BC and remain an active element of the city today. The harvesting of dates and other crops continues to be preserved and is passed down through generations.
  To discover the natural beauty, visit Al Ain Oasis or Green Mubazzarah at the foot of Jebel Hafeet.

  Museums
  To learn more about the history of Al Ain, a visit to the city’s museums is a must. Al Ain National Museum is divided into two main sections – ethnographical and archaeological – and provides an overview of the country’s traditions and culture as well as information on the people who inhabited the area up to 8,000 years ago. As well as artefacts, there is also an interesting collection of photographs showing Abu Dhabi in the 1960s.
  Al Ain Palace Museum was once the home of the late Sheikh Zayed and the hub of the city’s political life. Visitors will find a collection of portraits of the royal family, a family tree showing the sheikh’s lineage and a classroom where the children of the ruling family were privately educated.

  Moving forward
  While 17 sites have so far been added to the World Heritage List, ADACH is actively restoring and preserving many other sites of cultural significance. Work is under way to preserve several fortresses and historical places, including the Jahili mosque and fortress and the Bin Hadi House in the Hili Oasis.
  Work is also being carried out to revive the original uses of many buildings, such as the old traditional market in Al Qattarah. Many will also be used for new purposes in a bid to integrate the buildings into the infrastructure of the city.
  So why not take a step back in time and explore the heritage heart of the emirate. With the UAE having recently celebrated its 40th year, it’s the ideal time to discover how far the country has come.

  
  

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  admin 7:17 am on February 9, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Alain, dubai ( 27 ), Dupont, Lagerfeld, leather, lighter, luxury ( 3 ), pens, president, smoking   

  The lighter side of luxury 

  By Scott Birch

  

  Mon Dupont by Karl Lagerfeld

  On a glorious day in Dubai, out on the terrace of The One & Only Royal Mirage, ladies are lunching and the affluent are enjoying afternoon tea. Nothing unusual there. Then at another table, a rather dashing French gentleman is holding court surrounded by enough ladies to make up a netball team. Again, nothing so unusual there. But one thing did seem amiss.

   

  Unless I was very much mistaken, all of the eight were smoking – the gentleman toking on a Clint Eastwood-esque cigarillo, the ladies daintily pulling on Gauloise (or so I would like to think). It was exactly as I had expected. After all, the contingent were in Dubai with the luxury Parisian brand ST Dupont, who specialise in, amongst other things, lighters.

   

  ST Dupont has been around since 1872. One hundred and forty years later, and after a few false starts, the brand is now focused on four main pillars which it calls the Art of Living – writing instruments (that’s pens to you and me), lighters, leather goods and accessories.

   

  

  Alain Crevet, president of ST Dupont

  Alain Crevet is the cigar-smoking, rock guitar-playing president who has helped to turn ST Dupont around after some lean years and an ill-fated departure into men’s ready-to-wear.

   

  Going back to basics, Alain has brought the brand back to life and refocused attention on its strengths. And the brand itself is strong, particularly in the Middle East, where it has been operating for 60 years.

   

  Alain and his netball team are here to showcase the latest products, aimed squarely at the female market and with a celebrity designer par excellence behind them. Karl Lagerfeld, the genius currently behind Chanel and Fendi, has created luxe lighters with a distinctly feminine feel (they look like lipsticks) and unique pens in the shape of his trademark fan.

   

  Recently launched in Europe, this is the Middle East debut of the Mon Dupont range before Alain heads to Asia with his Lagerfeld loot.

   

  

  Lagerfeld's sketch for the Mon Dupont pen

  An engaging, affable and refreshingly ‘cool’ president, Alain waxes about the wonderful lighters that are the ST Dupont signature and also the reintroduction of their bespoke luggage factory after a 65-year hiatus.

   

  Interestingly, the last piece of the small production line in 1947 was a wedding gift for the future Queen Elizabeth II of England. The first piece produced at the new factory was an identical wedding gift for Prince William and Kate Middleton last year, at the request of President Sarkozy. Happy coincidence.

   

  Steeped in history, with a clear focus and some handsome luxury items, expect to be hearing more about ST Dupont, especially in the pages of Concierge magazine.

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  admin 6:47 am on February 7, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Abu Dhabi ( 17 ), Juan Amador, restaurants ( 9 )   

  Gourmet dining in Abu Dhabi 

  As the city hosts the annual Gourmet Abu Dhabi festival, its culinary credentials are set to be further boosted with the launch of restaurants by Gary Rhodes and Juan Amador
  Words by Amanda Tomlinson

  A mark of a world-class city is its level of culinary offering. London, Paris, Tokyo and New York, to name just a few, have some of the best restaurants on the planet with the biggest culinary stars serving the city’s elite.
  For some, the Middle East may not immediately spring to mind as a gourmet destination, but for years Dubai has been attracting the cream of the world’s Michelin-star and celebrity chefs. With Nobu Matsuhisa, Marco Pierre White, Pierre Gagnaire, Jamie Oliver, Gary Rhodes, Gordon Ramsay, Vineet Bhatia and many more making their presence felt in the emirate, it’s little wonder that they are now setting their sights on Abu Dhabi as they expand their empires.
  Marco Pierre White was one of the first to see the potential in Abu Dhabi. He opened Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill and Frankie’s – a collaboration with famed jockey Frankie Dettori – at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr in 2009. A year later Hakkasan, a high-end Chinese restaurant from a well-known Michelin-star stable, opened at Emirates Palace, while world-renowned glamour hotspot Cipriani launched at Yas Yacht Club at the end of 2010.
  But the stakes are being raised this year with three-star Michelin chef Juan Amador launching his debut Middle East restaurant at the Park Rotana during this month’s Gourmet Abu Dhabi and British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes setting up shop at the soon-to-open St. Regis Abu Dhabi.

   

  

  Amador Restaurant & Cellar

  Master gastronomer
  While Amador Restaurant & Cellar is Juan Amador’s first restaurant in the region, it’s not his first foray in Abu Dhabi. He has been a regular guest chef at Gourmet Abu Dhabi, which will be held throughout the city’s top restaurants from February 8 to 23, and his restaurant’s opening on February 9 is sure to be a highlight of the two-week culinary festival.
  The son of Spanish parents, Amador was raised in Germany and is famed for his Spanish-influenced molecular gastronomy. His innovative techniques bring unique flavours, aromas and special combinations of temperature and texture to his creations. He was awarded three Michelin stars for his restaurant Amador in Langen, Germany, and was also named ‘best chef’ in 2007 and 2008 by Bertelsmann restaurant guide. He promises that his new restaurant will not disappoint. Instead he believes it will raise the bar among Abu Dhabi’s haute cuisine options.
  “The restaurant will serve a combination of European and Arabic cuisine and mix a variety of cultures, flavours and aromas. It will combine characteristics of my existing cuisine and also what I learned about local tastes, products and ingredients when I visited [Abu Dhabi in 2011],” says chef Amador.
  “Abu Dhabi is now full of great restaurants, but I think our Spanish-influenced avant-garde cuisine can have a very positive influence on the emirate’s culinary scene,” he adds.
  The restaurant will house two sections – one for formal dining, which can accommodate between 54 and 88 covers, and an informal tapas cellar with capacity for 77 guests. The decision to split the restaurant made business sense, he says, particularly with Park Rotana’s location close to government and commercial centres.
  “Daytime custom provides any restaurant with substantial revenue, so it was important to find a way of incorporating a casual, relaxed setting within the restaurant and that is why we settled on the tapas cellar concept,” the chef explains.
  “The cellar will remain open in the evening, but we expect the main restaurant to come to the fore when the sun goes down.”

   

  

  Hakkasan

  Star attraction
  Well-known UK celebrity chef Marco Pierre White – who handed back his three Michelin stars when he retired from the kitchen – may have been one of the first big names to stamp his mark on Abu Dhabi, but following closely behind was internationally famous Hakkasan, which opened in June 2010. The world-class luxury Chinese restaurant launched in London’s West End in 2001 and was later awarded a Michelin star. Owned by Abu Dhabi property investment company Tasameem, the Hakkasan group has expanded to include not just London and Abu Dhabi, but also Miami, New York, Dubai and Mumbai, with London’s Michelin-star dim sum restaurant Yauatcha also in its stable.
  While few realise the extent of Hakkasan’s Abu Dhabi connection, the restaurant has become one of the hottest locations in the city, elevating dining to a new level of luxury. The ultra-modern, 165-cover restaurant has a private entrance in the east wing of Emirates Palace and constantly attracts a stream of the city’s most discerning diners.
  At the culinary helm is Lee Kok Hua, who previously worked at Hakkasan London under head chef Tong Chee Hwee for five years. Kok Hua’s menu has been designed for the UAE market, while still featuring Hakkasan classics such as Peking duck with Royal Beluga caviar, steamed dim sum platters and grilled wagyu beef with King soya sauce.

   

  

  Juan Amador

  Going gourmet
  While this month sees the much-anticipated launch of Amador Restaurant & Cellar, visitors will have the chance to sample creations from some of the best chefs in the world at Gourmet Abu Dhabi from February 8 to 23.
  Among the top names is festival regular and three-star Michelin chef Bruno Mènard, a firm believer in ‘neo-classic’ French cuisine. His Tokyo restaurant, L’Osier, is consistently awarded the highest accolades and has been voted one of the 10 best French restaurants outside of France. He will be hosted by Bord Eau at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri.
  The list of guest chefs is a star-studded affair with 26 Michelin stars between them, but there are also stars of a different kind. Tipped to be one of the biggest draws is Australian chef and judge of the hit TV series Masterchef Australia, George Calombaris, who will host two dinners and a masterclass.
  Also enlivening the Gourmet Abu Dhabi experience is Venetian cartoonist Ennio Marchetto. After performing at the Edinburgh Festival he became something of a cult hit, achieving massive critical acclaim. He has since performed in over 70 countries from Singapore to Mexico and will entertain guests at the Comedian Night with international masterchef William Ledeuil on February 9 at the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi.
  And of course, Juan Amador will showcase his delectable cuisine at the Park Rotana hotel from February 14 to 17. He will also host a culinary masterclass on February 15 and a château dinner with Domaine du Pegau on February 18.
  Park Rotana’s director of food and beverage Prem Calais is excited by what Amador will bring to Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene. “Abu Dhabi now boasts a number of top-end restaurants providing exceptional innovative concepts and creating a diverse selection for customers compared with two decades ago,” he says.
  “Amador Restaurant & Cellar will be the first of its kind in the country. We have a three-star Michelin chef, known to be one of the leaders of avant-garde cuisine, combining culinary influences from different cultures, creating dishes with almost scientific precision.
  “Amador Restaurant & Cellar will elevate the culinary scene to a whole new level yet again.”

   

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  admin 1:43 pm on January 30, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: dubai ( 27 ), yacht   

  Sail away 

  With the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, year-round sunshine and 800 kilometres of coastline, Dubai is the perfect place to jump aboard a luxury yacht and take in the magnificent sights from a different perspective. Witness the breathtaking size of the Palm Jumeirah from the aquamarine waters, sail around The World development or take a tour past the buildings of historic Dubai Creek and watch the city illuminate as the sun goes down.

  

  Lap of luxury
  The superyacht has become today’s symbol for the rich, powerful and influential and the UAE is home to more than its fair share of the gleaming multi-million-dirham floating palaces. In 2006 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE, added a superyacht called Dubai to his breathtaking fleet. Featuring eight decks spread across a 551-foot length, this gargantuan beast of the sea can accommodate 115 people, has numerous restaurants, bars, a whole deck of suites, pools, Jacuzzis and a helipad among its facilities. The lavish interior design work is the talent of Platinum Yachts and it cost more than US$300 million (AED1.1 billion) to complete. At one point the Dubai was the largest yacht in the world, but it was overtaken in 2010 by Russian businessman Roman Abramovich’s largest superyacht Eclipse.

  

  Plan an escape
  While it might not be possible to charter yachts on such a large scale, there are plenty of breathtakingly impressive models which will undoubtedly please those looking for the crème de la crème of the boating world. A plethora of sailing options and activities are available and all meet a variety of requirements.

  First Yacht, based in the heart of Dubai Marina, offers exclusive use of yachts to individuals or groups and sails daily. With crafts that range from 43ft to 88ft, each vessel is professionally crewed to offer a luxurious and safe charter experience. For those in a large group, it’s the perfect opportunity to privately charter a yacht for up to 38 people and to take in the sites of the coastline. Alternatively you can opt for something smaller, such as the 43ft Silver Craft, which has a maximum capacity of 10 and can be hired for a minimum of two hours.

  Visitors can arrange to take their own food and beverages, however First Yacht can arrange anything from canapés and cocktails to a fivecourse gourmet meal. Many yachts have an on-deck barbecue, which guests can use themselves or have a bespoke menu prepared for them by the boat’s chef.

  

  Yachts can be chartered for a couple of hours or even days, with many of the bigger boats offering luxurious cabin facilities with ensuite bathrooms. Aim to set sail in the early evening to catch the beautiful colours of the sunset before darkness falls over the city. The dazzling lights of the city skyline make for an incredible scene. Let your imagination run wild as private charter experiences can be tailored to please even the most discerning guest and fulfil the most outlandish requests.

  For more high-octane passengers, First Yacht also offers the opportunity to hire the Sea Rocket boat – an offshore racinginspired catamaran adapted for fast offshore tours. Alternatively book in for something a little more sedate, such as a sea fishing trip or a private dinner cruise.

  Art Marine is the largest marine hospitality company in the region and caters to corporate clients as well as individual guests. For something truly different, try the romantic dinner cruise while the sun sets over the Arabian Gulf. A private chef will prepare a gourmet five-course dinner as the lucky couple enjoys some quality time together on the water. Or for a trip aimed at pampering, Art Marine’s wellness and relaxation cruise serves healthy cocktails and fresh fruit before anchoring at a lagoon inside Palm Jumeirah where you can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment of your choice. For those in a sporting mood, fishing competitions can be arranged with team-branded clothing, trophies, certificates and prizes. You can even have the catch of the day cooked fresh for you aboard a yacht.The possibilities are endless.

  Want moor?
  There are several marinas in Dubai where yacht owners can moor their boats. Festival Marina, which is located in Dubai Festival City, is a Mediterranean-inspired marina with 78 permanent berths, state-of-the-art facilities and quayside mooring for yachts between 10 and 35 metres in length. This Riviera-style setting is also home to an abundance of fine eateries. From five-star French cuisine in the form of Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, to low-key waterside alfresco dining, there is something to suit every palate.

  On the Deira side you’ll find the Dubai Creek Marina. Complete with chandlery, workshop and boat repair yard this marina, located in a historically rich area, boasts 121 berths. In the heart of Dubai Marina, the Dubai International Marine Club offers berthing facilities for 300 yachts and the Marina Yacht Club has in excess of 500 walk-on walk-off berths in four stunning locations within the Dubai Marina development. With a buzzing community feel and spectacular views this is one of the most desirable spots in the city.

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  admin 1:33 pm on January 18, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Burj Khalifa ( 2 ), dubai ( 27 )   

  Sky-high Dubai 

  Two years ago and seven years after excavation work began, the Burj Khalifa opened with a dramatic ceremony that was shown live around the world. The world’s tallest building at 828 metres, it shattered the previous record by 320 metres and may never be beaten.

  

  Burj Khalifa

   

  Officially opened by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, the tower was originally called Burj Dubai but was renamed Burj Khalifa after the president of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

  “This great project deserves to carry the name of a great man,” said Sheikh Mohammed. “Today, I inaugurate Burj Khalifa.”

  More than just a building, Burj Khalifa is a symbol of progress and an icon for the modern Middle East.

  Mohammed Alabbar, chairman of developer Emaar, described the Burj Khalifa as “the Arab world’s tribute to the art and science of modern engineering and design. Burj Khalifa symbolises the aesthetic unison of many cultures – from Arabia and the rest of the world.”

  Simply, the Burj Khalifa is stunning and an essential sight and experience for all visitors to Dubai.

  

  Burj Khalifa - New Year 2012

   

   

  Realising the dream

  Building something as impressive and groundbreaking as the Burj Khalifa required bold thinking and solid science.

  Before work even began, the feasibility of the project needed to be analysed. The architects and construction teams were in unchartered territory and many factors had to be taken into account and tested – from the effect of the wind to the change in air pressure and temperature at altitude.

  Shaped at the base to resemble the hymenocallis desert flower, the Burj Khalifa has a Y-shaped structure which provides greater stability. The final height of the building was a closely guarded secret, with even the engineers admitting they did not know the final height that would be achieved.

  “We weren’t sure how high we could go,” said Bill Baker of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the building’s structural engineer. “It was kind of an exploration… a learning experience.”

  As building work progressed, the Burj Khalifa became the world’s tallest building in 2007 and still the construction continued. News emerged that it would be at least 700 metres tall and few even considered that 800 metres would be possible.

  At the height of construction, more than 12,000 workers from 100 countries were on site every day. In total, 22 million man-hours went into creating the tower.

  The results are there for all to see and for the select few to savour. At the base of the Burj Khalifa is the Armani Hotel Dubai, which takes up concourse level to level eight, as well as two higher floors – levels 9 to 16 also house the luxurious Armani Residencies.

  From 45 to 108, private residences enjoy fabulous views of the city’s skyline, from the world’s most exclusive address. Most of the remaining floors are used for corporate suites, with the notable exceptions being the fine-dining At.mosphere and the observation deck.

  View from the top

  

  View from observation deck

  Dubai is a jaw-dropping city with many landmark buildings and developments to admire. Now you can see them all from one place – At the Top.

  Located high on the 124th floor and with 360-degree panoramic views, this observation deck not only provides stunning vistas but also insight into the construction of the city as well as the tower in which you are standing.

  The journey begins on the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping complex at the base of the Burj Khalifa). From this reception area, a travelator trip takes you through the emirate’s recent history. It’s then time to hop inside the super-swift high-speed elevator, which travels at a rate of10 metres per second all the way to At the Top. Throughout the journey to the top, visitors are entertained by a multimedia presentation of the exotic history of Dubai and the marvel of the Burj Khalifa.

  Once at your destination, special binoculars allow you to spot Dubai’s famous sights, as well as provide a virtual journey through time, showing the city as it was. Tours generally last an hour but visitors can take their time. Souvenirs are available at the gift shop but you are already going to take away unforgettable memories of this manmade marvel.

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  admin 10:29 am on January 16, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Abu Dhabi ( 17 ), sailing ( 2 ), yachts   

  A water Wonderland 

  With the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, year-round sunshine and 800 kilometres of coastline, the UAE is the perfect place to jump aboard a luxury yacht and take in the magnificent sights from a different perspective. In Abu Dhabi there are more than 200 islands, an abundance of marine life and sandy white beaches to explore. Sightings of dolphins, turtles and birds are common and occasionally even rare dugongs are spotted. There is rarely a day that isn’t sunny and with calm seas and gentle breezes, there is no better way to spend your time in the emirate. There are many ways to enjoy the water in Abu Dhabi, whether it’s chartering a luxury yacht, setting off on a sailboat, joining a dinner cruise or an organised sightseeing trip. And for those who already have a yacht, the city’s marinas are nothing short of world class.

  

  Charter a yacht
  In Abu Dhabi, visitors can charter everything from a small motor yacht for just a few people to a 280-foot luxury vessel for up to 150 people, with 18 cabins and all the mod-cons one would expect, such as Jacuzzis, plunge pools, formal dining areas, bars and a fitness centre. Of course, there’s everything in between so all that needs to be determined is your itinerary, the number of guests, whether catering is needed and whether to include optional extras such as jetskis or snorkelling and diving equipment. Art Marine has yachts for charter for anything from one hour to one month and all that’s needed is 24 hours’ notice to arrange it. Guests can choose from a range of menus covering everything from soft drinks and snacks to canapés, or for a more personalised touch an onboard chef is available. Yachts, which vary in size from daytrip boats to large vessels, can accommodate two to 25 people. Art Marine is based at Yas Marina. Belevari Marine can organise charters on a range of vessels from luxury yachts to speed boats and even traditional Arabian dhows. Visitors can choose from a private charter where they dictate the itinerary, or join a group cruise to watch the sun set over the Arabian Gulf and take in the city skyline at night.

  

   

  Set sail
  If the Volvo Ocean Race has you yearning for the sun on your face and the wind in your sails, then Abu Dhabi is the place to be. Nothing quite beats slicing through the water with the only the sound of the wind flapping the sails and the waves lapping the hull. There is no noisy engine, just a beautiful clear sky, fresh air and the wide blue yonder. If you’re joining a group day trip, or have arranged a crew to do the hard work, there is no need to pull up your sleeves and work up a sweat, but often that’s the best part. Abu Dhabi Charters offers three-hour trips aboard its vessel, Swan 42, with cruises setting sail in the morning, afternoon and sunset. Dusk in Abu Dhabi is particularly spectacular as the huge red sun dips behind the Arabian Gulf, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of colours. Private charters can be arranged and allfemale crews are available.

  

  Want moor?
  There are several marinas in Abu Dhabi where yacht owners can pull in. Yas Marina opened in 2009 with 143 berths. With fivestar concierge services and berths adjacent to Yas Marina Circuit Formula One racetrack boasting unique views, the rich and the famous have made their way to this location to enjoy the annual Grand Prix. The marina can accommodate yachts up to 66 metres in length and up to 150 metres on the pontoon adjacent to the Yas Marina entrance. Abu Dhabi’s newest marina opened last year at Emirates Palace. Managed by Art Marine, Yachts Marina can accommodate up to 186 vessels, while yacht owners enjoy the facilities of the luxurious hotel including the gym, pool and spa. Members can take advantage of its prime location on the western side of the hotel in a private bay and are able to sail straight out of the marina and on to the open sea. There is also separate berthing for eight superyachts. Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club offers 170 berths on the Corniche, the perfect location for accessing the centre of the city, while the InterContinental Abu Dhabi Marina, one of the emirate’s most picturesque, has 191 berths, 24-hour security and a members’ car park. With more than 40 marinas expected to open in the emirate over the next two decades, ideal weather conditions and ample areas to explore, Abu Dhabi is well on its way to becoming a major sailing and yachting destination.

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  admin 7:19 am on January 11, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: dubai ( 27 ), restaurants ( 9 )   

  New in town 

  New year, new dining scene. Concierge rounds up Dubai’s hottest new haunts.

  Words by Catherine Langley

  The Ivy

  Famed as the UK ‘meet & drink’ for A-listers, next to Buckingham Palace, The Ivy is probably the most photographed address in London. Fortunately, we’re pleased to report that while The Ivy Dubai has all the culinary dynamism and atmosphere of the London-based haunt, it boasts a more intimate feel than the celebrity-filled alma mater.

  Located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, The Ivy Dubai ticks all the boxes when it comes to décor, service and menu. The trademark wooden panels and stained-glass windows are in place, while the bill of fare reflects the traditionalism of the London branch. Delicious signature dishes such as seared foie gras, herb-roasted lamb rack and shepherd’s pie are unforgettable and the staff, who are known for their attention to detail, are on hand to give you a detailed report of any dishes on the menu. The mains are particularly mouth-watering, but we recommend you save some space for dessert because the crème brûlée, baked Alaska and banana sticky toffee pudding all pack quite a punch on the culinary scale.

  For those who would like to take a taste of The Ivy home, The Ivy Cookbook is available from the restaurant for AED195.

  

  The Ivy

  Location: The Ivy, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
  Try: Dover sole
  Open: Sat-Wed 12 noon to midnight, Thu-Fri 11.30am to 11.30pm
  Tel: 04 3198767

  Toro Toro

  Seasoned carnivores can enjoy a feast of meaty delights at celebrity chef, Richard Sandoval’s newest culinary spot, Toro Toro. Perched over two floors with a view of Dubai Marina, this Pan-Latin dining experience borrows tastes from a variety of locations including Buenos Aires and São Paulo. Choice mains include the rocoto releno, which is beef stuffed baby pepper, prepared with mozzarella cheese and rosemary potatoes; chorizo empanada – a pastry dish with beef chorizo; and cheese and the pollo estofad, which is better known as braised chicken with green peas, carrots and chipotle-tomato sauce.

  The décor is as mesmerising as the menu. Striking burnt orange tones are complemented by the open kitchen and pillared candles, which add a touch of drama. An eye-catching floor-to-ceiling fireplace cultivates a warm and welcoming feeling, which goes a long way to explaining why Toro Toro is always such a hive of activity.

  After your meal don’t forget to take a seat by Cachaça Bar, where you can enjoy everything from the classic margaritas to the Latin favourites like Fresatini (vodka, strawberry and lime) and Latin Love (rum mixed with raspberry, coconut and pineapple).

  

  Toro Toro

  Location: Toro Toro, Grosvenor House
  Try: Picadillo empandada
  Open: Sat-Wed 7.30pm to 2am, Thu- Fri 7.30pm to 3am
  Tel: 04 3998888

  Table 9 by Nick and Scott

  Scott Price and Nick Alvis are the latest gastro geniuses to burst onto the Dubai food scene. Having scooped the Best Newcomer prize at this year’s What’s On Awards, the British-born chefs, who met in Claridges’ kitchen in 2004, are at the helm of Hilton Dubai Creek’s newest signature restaurant, Table 9 by Nick and Scott. Named after the number on the chef’s table, at which guests can opt for a menu exclusively designed for them by the heads of the kitchen, the new menu features 28 dishes with a European theme.

  With a markedly relaxed ambience – hand-pottered crockery and homemade menus are two of the trademarks – it’s impossible not to feel at home in this trendy Bur Dubai-based eatery. The menu is engaging with mouthwatering starters such as pig trotter served with a cucumber marmalade (tastier than it sounds), lobster with crackling and mango, and chicken with foie gras, hibiscus and prunes. The mains, which are all priced at AED100 per plate, are equally sumptuous. Try the sea bass, which is served with winkles and oregano butter, or the quail, which comes with a delicious truffle terrine, artichoke and broccoli. A top notch dessert menu includes old favourites with a new twist, such as liquorice meringue and clementine and Nick’s apple pie and custard.

  Raoul, the sommelier, is on hand to pair each course with tipples from the extensive wine menu, which includes 50 types of wine available by the glass. Ultimately, Table 9 offers elegant cuisine with a chilled out setting, which is sure to be a recipe for success.

  

  Table9

  Location: Table 9, Hilton Dubai Creek
  Try: Pork belly
  Tel: Sun-Fri 6.30 to 11pm
  Open: 04 2271111

  Terra Firma Steakhouse

  Situated next to the picturesque Festival Marina on Dubai Creek and taking its spot at water level, the InterContinental Dubai Festival City’s newest restaurant, Terra Firma, serves succulent, juicy steaks as well as a variety of other delicious dishes. Specialising in Australian Blackmore wagyu, the only hardship about dining at Terra Firma is the tough time you’ll have making your order. Simply put, everything looks amazing.

  However, a great starting point is the tasty half dozen oysters, which are served with your choice of chilli, lemon parmesan or bread crumbs. Alternatively if you really feel like spoiling yourself, select the beluga caviar, which is served in 30g portions. For the main course the Blackmore wagyu striploin is a top choice, as is the grade five tenderloin. Those with a sweet tooth will find themselves in a world of indecision once more when it comes to dessert because both the baked American cheesecake and the warm apple and nut cobbler (served with flavoursome buttermilk ice-cream) promise to tickle the tastebuds.

  Finish off the night with a shisha on the restaurant’s idyllic outdoor terrace. You can puff away on a selection of exotic flavours including apple, strawberry and blackberry.

  

  Terra Firma Steakhouse

  Location: Terra Firma Steakhouse, InterContinental Dubai Festival City
  Try: Grade 5 Australian wagyu beef
  Open: Daily 7pm to midnight
  Tel: 04 7011111

  Hakkasan Dubai

  A lavish retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, award-winning Cantonese fine dining phenomenon Hakkasan is one of Dubai’s newest culinary haunts. Located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, this elegant eatery has an appetizing menu, which has been carefully fashioned by chef de cuisine, Pang Pin Lee. Pang, who previously worked at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, has brought more than 10 year’s experience to the role and unsurprisingly the bill of fare is filled with delicious dishes such as grilled wagyu beef and Peking duck.

  The opulent décor, which was designed by famed concept interior designers, Gilles & Boissier, feature two private-dining rooms and two semi-private sections, as well as the Ling-Ling lounge, which is stylishly decorated in black, gold and white.

  An outside terrace surrounded by a wall of vegetation is also available for alfresco diners.

  

  Hakkasan Dubai

  Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers
  Try: Steamed dim-sum platter
  Open: Daily 6pm to 2am
  Tel: 043848484

   

  Vôi

  Located at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on the edge of Palm Jumeirah, this elegantly decorated restaurant is the gem in Palm Jumeirah’s crown. From the glitzy mirrored columns to the flashy chandeliers, Vôi exudes old-style glamour and is reminiscent of French colonial Southeast Asia. For those who prefer to dine alfresco, check out the scenic outdoor terrace, which has charming views of the pool and beach. However, be aware these favoured spots are awarded on a first come first seated basis, so make sure you arrive early.

  Start your meal with a delicious Hanoi mojito. Made with sweet basil and lemongrass, it’s a fresh take on the original cocktail, but one that will undoubtedly be received well, thanks to its refreshing flavour.

  A fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, head chef Phuong Mai, who has over twenty five years of culinary experience, has done a marvelous job of crafting and developing the extensive menu.

  If you’re new to Vietnamese dining, try out the Vôi Experience, which is a set menu of six dishes. The fried net rolls explode with flavour and the freshly made Vôi bread is unforgettable.

  

  Vôi

  Location: Vôi, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
  Try: French scallops
  Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm
  Tel: 04 4530000

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  admin 12:16 pm on January 10, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: Abu Dhabi ( 17 ), restaurants ( 9 ), taste   

  Catch of the day 

  With Abu Dhabi’s location on the coast, who could resist a deliciously fresh seafood meal in one of the city’s finest restaurants?
  Words by Amanda Tomlinson

  

  Nautilus

  Nautilus

  Enjoy unrivalled views of berthed luxury yachts, Yas Marina and the Yas Yacht Club at Nautilus thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass along the marina-facing side of the restaurant.

  It’s not just the view from the restaurant of this ultra-modern hotel that is the winner. Under the guidance of a new executive chef Michel Jost, who has worked in restaurants at luxury hotels in Switzerland, Spain, South Africa and Greece, Nautilus has seen a few changes.

  Chef Michel and UK-trained chef de cuisine Satish, who is originally from Mumbai, have fine tuned and extended the menu offering a greater selection of Champagne, including an indulgent 22-carat Champagne rosé. The raw bar offers two types of French farm oysters and three types of premium caviar.

  The selection of appetisers has increased and the warm dishes have been divided into two styles: Mediterranean and Pan-Pacific. Recommended starters include crab cocktail or signature scallop, while the grilled surf and turf gets the tick of approval.

  Also getting the thumbs up is new restaurant manager Xavier Lignac who brings Michelin-star experience to the restaurant and places great emphasis on staff knowing the menu inside out.

  With delicious fresh seafood, beautiful marina views and friendly efficient service, an evening at Nautilus is bound to be special.

  Where: Yas Viceroy, Yas Island
  When: Tuesday to Sunday 7 to 11pm
  Contact: 02 6560600

  

  Finz

  Finz

  Perched over the water in a wooden hut, this romantic sea-food restaurant has a boardwalk terrace that’s perfect for outdoor dining.

  Whether taking in the views of the glistening Gulf waters or observing the growing Abu Dhabi skyline, by day or night Finz is one of Abu Dhabi’s favourite restaurants.

  The menu features all manner of seafood dishes, but perhaps one of the most recommended is the salt-crusted sea bass for two, which comes with lobster and tarragon sauce, seasonal vegetables, baby potatoes and rice. The mixed seafood grill platter is also popular.

  The seafood is sourced from all over the world. The sea bass is from Norway, the Dover sole from European waters, the sako tuna comes from the Philippines, the oysters are from France and the catch of the day is from the local fish market.

  The wine list is extensive, while the service is friendly and attentive. There are few better ways to enjoy a seafood meal than overlooking the water, with a gentle breeze of mild sea air.

  Where: Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
  When: Daily 12.30 to 3.30pm, 7 to 11.30pm
  Contact: 02 6979000

  

  Fishmarket

  Fishmarket

  In a hut overlooking the beach and the Arabian Gulf, sits Fishmarket, a restaurant where diners choose their ingredients and have the chefs prepare it the way they like.

  In the seafood section, guests can select from fat juicy scallops, Omani lobster, oysters and mussels, squid, shrimp and tiger prawns and an array of crabs sourced from around the world. Each can be grilled or fried and served with sauces, such as lemon and garlic, or sweet chili.

  In the fish section, the choice is extensive. There is sea bass, red hammour, sultan ibrahim, tuna, salmon, shark and more. Diners can then choose vegetables, salad, noodles and rice and decide how they would like the meal cooked. Staff are on hand to help with selections and also advise on the best sauces.

  Once diners have ordered, they can enjoy views of the Gulf through the large windows, watch the chefs in action or admire the aquariums around the restaurant.

  Fishmarket is ideal for those who like the freedom to choose how their meal is prepared. The seafood is fresh and tasty, the restaurant is lively with friendly and helpful staff and the view shows Abu Dhabi at its best.

  Where: InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen
  When: Daily 12.30 to 4pm, 7pm to 11pm
  Contact: 800 423463

  

  Sayad

  Sayad

  Taking its name from the Arabic word for fisherman, Sayad at Emirates Palace is a modern seafood restaurant with an aquatic feel.

  The turquoise lighting and clever use of glass give the restaurant an aquarium-like ambience, which sits perfectly with its menu of ocean delights.

  The seafood at this fine-dining restaurant is prepared using mostly European cooking principles, while modern techniques are employed at times to improve the taste or texture of the food.

  Highlights include the octopus carpaccio served with pickled peach, potato confit and a peach and tamarind dressing, or the sweet corn velouté, which is sweet corn soup served with king crab and curried popcorn. The seafood is sourced from Australia and Europe, particularly France and Norway.

  Situated on the ground level of the hotel, the restaurant offers views of the beach and marina. There is a terrace for al fresco dining and three private dining rooms, each accommodating up to eight diners.

  Where: Emirates Palace, Ras Al Akhdar
  When: Daily 6.30 to 11.30pm
  Contact: 02 6909000

  

  Pearls & Caviar

   

  Pearls & Caviar

  A firm favourite on Abu Dhabi’s dining scene, Pearls & Caviar never fails to impress.

  The venue’s exclusivity and luxurious surroundings are evident from the name alone, but it’s a theme that carries throughout the restaurant.

  Overlooking the water and the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Mediterranean seafood restaurant exudes class. It is coloured in pewter tones with Arabic touches. There’s an intricate mosaic tile pattern on the floor, white tablecloths and comfortable leather chairs.

  Guest chef Jean Paul Lourdes, from the Shangri La Hotel, Toronto, has designed a special menu that shows flair and creativity, while incorporating some local delights.

  For a starter, try the scallops roasted with coffee and cardamom with salted milk curd and medjool dates, or the puree of pattypan squash, sautéed Gulf shrimps, bitter orange and pomegranate.

  For mains, it’s hard to beat the Chilean sea bass, garlic ravioli, sour grapefruit essence, beef marrow and juice of young tarragon.

  Where: Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri
  When: Daily 7pm to midnight
  Contact: 02 5098555

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  admin 12:53 pm on January 9, 2012 View Post & Comment
  Tags: dubai ( 27 ), dubai mall, SHopping ( 2 )   

  The Dubai Mall welcomed 54m visitors in 2011 

  The Dubai Mall has reported an incredible annual footfall of 54 million in 2011.

  

  The Dubai Mall, Grand Drive

   

  Putting the numbers into perspective, the mall quoted the fact that New York welcomes 50.2 million visitors each year, Las Vegas 39.2 million, and Los Angeles 26.3 million people.

  

  The Dubai Mall, Waterfront Promenade at New Year

  The Dubai Mall is the world’s most visited shopping and leisure destination, assisted by a host of attractions that include its almost-one-kilometer high neighbour– The Burj Khalifa, indoor aquarium and marine zoo, Olympic-sized ice rink and worlds largest musical fountain.

  With leading brands choosing to operate their flagship stores at the mall, retail sales across the 1,200 outlets were boosted by an average 35 percent.

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