TIME TRAVELLERS

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admin 12:47 pm on April 24, 2012 View Post & Comment

TIME TRAVELLERS

Last month watch aficionados from around the
world united for the annual Baselworld event in
Switzerland. Concierge shines a light on the
hottest new watches making their way to Dubai

The scenic city of Basel was brought to life last month as the world’s most prestigious watch and jewellery fair, Baselworld, got under way. A vibrant centre of knowledge and exchange for watch enthusiasts and industry experts, the trade show was attended by the crème de la crème of the horology community along with 1,815 exhibitors showcasing all the latest developments from the world of watch making.
Baselworld is always a roaring success and this year was no exception with over 100,000 people from 100 countries descending on the Swiss metropolis for the exhibition. The attraction? Simply put, no other event offers such a comprehensive overview of watch trends and innovations.
During the eight-day extravaganza, eminent watch brands from 41 countries united to showcase their exceptional products and an international buzz was felt throughout the six halls of Baselworld Palace exhibition centre.
Concierge jetted to Basel to report on some of the best new launches.

Spacemaster Z-33, Omega

Best of Basel
Perpetual calendar watches, which automatically track and display the day, date and month are currently among the most popular complications on the market. As you might expect, right at the forefront of that development is Patek Philippe. Reinforcing its reputation as one of the most prestigious brands in the world, the Swiss manufacturer unveiled the Reference 5204, which is a newly designed split-second chronograph. The innovative new watch is based on the company’s previous chronograph, with the only difference being that this impressive new model has a mechanism for split-seconds and works with the aid of an innovative split-seconds isolator. Despite the minimal modification, the new edition was rumoured to be one to watch at this year’s event.
On that note, Rolex fans will be pleased to hear that the ‘Big R’ proved it is still at the top of its game with an assortment of innovative pieces, including the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller. Built with an annual calendar that operates in two time zones the Sky-Dweller is the timekeeper of choice for international travellers. Having caved to the big-watch zeitgeist, this model measures in at 42mm but packs quite a punch style-wise as it is available in white, yellow and everose gold. Other showstoppers included a legendary model that has enjoyed unequalled recognition since its launch in 1963 – the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona. Offering even more of the enchantment for which it is renowned, this 18-carat yellow-gold bracelet is decorated with an array of sapphires in rainbow colours.

Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller, Rolex

Another highlight came in the form of the L-evolution Chronograph Flyback à Rattrapante from Blancpain. This new addition to the collection has a power reserve of 40 hours and combines carbon-fibre and cutting-edge technology which reflects Blancpain’s strong commitment to GT racing. It is also equipped with a column wheel that guarantees precise pusher control, as well as a vertical coupling-clutch that avoids any unwanted jerking of the hand when the chronograph is activated.

L-evolution Chronograph Flyback a Rattrapante, Blancpain

Nostalgia was the name of the game for Omega which showcased signature pieces like the Seamaster Planet Ocean. A new addition to the Seamaster Planet Ocean collection was the Ceragold, which is distinguished by a ceramic bezel and 18-carat red gold hands. Another bright star of Baselworld 2012 was the Omega Spacemaster Z-33. Inspired by space travel, this quartz-movement marvel is manufactured from grade-five titanium and features brushed, polished and sandblasted highlights.

Seamaster Planet Ocean, Omega

Omega wasn’t the only leading light because French fashion brand Hermès also dazzled with a selection of creative masterpieces. Famed for unveiling unique pieces (who could forget the ingenious TimSuspended watch, which won the coveted ‘Best Men’s Watch Prize’ at the Geneva Watch Grand Prix in 2011?) the latest triumph to spring from the house of Hermès is the Calibre H1837. The timepiece has a unique movement crafted by Vaucher Movement Manufacture exclusively for Hermès, which features an oscillating weight adorned with the Hermès H logo decoration. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the calibre offers 50 hours of power reserve.

Calibre H1837 movement, Hermes

Another French manufacturer to win plaudits at Baselworld was Breguet, which maintained its 211-year commitment to craftsmanship when it offered the Classique Chronometrie 7727. Crafted from soft rose gold, the timepiece comprises the manufacturer’s latest innovations and like its predecessor, the Type XXII chronograph, it oscillates at a frequency of 10Hz. This is the first time that such a high frequency has been applied in a non-chronograph and the purpose is to improve the watch’s precision.

Classique Chronometrie 7727, Breguet

Historic Russian brand Fabergé, which is new to the region, stole the show with the Agathon Regulateur Rose Gold and Hazel Enamel. One of a limited edition of 25, this intricately designed timepiece is perfect for collectors. Showcasing traditional watchmaking skills through a skeletonised guilloché engraved movement, which is visible under sapphire glass, the silver guilloché dial is inserted with a white gold motion work plate, embellished with guilloché and white enamel. With a 38-hour power reserve, this exquisite watch is finished off with a stylish alligator strap.
A splash of colour greeted the offerings from Glashütte which put a fresh spin on a past favourite. Taking inspiration from the 2007 Lady Collection, the Lady Serenade is characterised by intricate rose-gold lines across the white mother-of-pearl dial. Launched this year, an elegant blend of haute horology, luxe couture and elegance define this timepiece.

Lady Serenade, Glaschutte

Retail revelry
While Baseworld offers an impressive selection, Dubai is not far behind and many of the styles and shapes that dominated the shows at Baselworld will shortly be making their wayto the emirate. “Dubai is well known for being a business and leisure tourism platform,” says Luc Perramond, CEO of La Montre Hermés. “As far as watch retail is concerned, the potential in the UAE is significant and from 2009 to 2011 there was a substantial increase, with a growth of 56 percent Swiss watch exports to the UAE.”
Added to this, the emirate attracted more than 9.3 million visitors in 2011 and approximately three quarters of those stated shopping as one of their main activities. With Dubai’s standing as a prime market for luxury watches, and a wide variety of landmark shopping malls peppering the city, connoisseurs need only look to the shelves of Dubai’s finest boutiques to discover the new innovations in timekeeping. The latest and greatest designs are currently hitting the stores making it the perfect time to update your timepiece.
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admin 12:00 pm on April 10, 2012 View Post & Comment

Abu Dhabi after dark

As Abu Dhabi continues to gain momentum as one of the world’s hottest business and leisure hubs, Concierge highlights what there is to do once the sun goes down…
Words by Emily McCarrick

Abu Dhabi skyline

From fine dining and the arts, to fun-filled adventure and historic tours, Abu Dhabi is no less impressive a destination as day turns to night. If anything, this is when the city comes to life. The magical sound of the sundown call to prayer draws worshippers to mosques across the emirate while the ever-growing expat white collar workforce leave their desks behind for a night in one of the city’s many five-star restaurants or bars. But eating out isn’t where it ends. There is much more to the evening hours in Abu Dhabi than the inside of the city’s impressive array of hotels.
A tour of the emirate’s fabulous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must for anyone keen to learn more about Islam and admire the jaw-dropping architecture while for those yearning for history, Heritage Village has it all.
Sports fans and families in search of entertainment for lively children should take a trip to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The fastest rollercoaster ever created is just the tip of the iceberg.
More sedate sports lovers are equally catered for after the sun sets. An evening round of golf is the perfect way to work up an appetite before a traditional dhow dinner cruise along the Corniche. Throw in a spot of shopping at the malls and souks and your trip to Abu Dhabi is complete.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
If a busy day has left you in need of spiritual enlightenment, an evening tour around Abu Dhabi’s magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will soothe your soul. The mosque is open until 10pm every night and there is no fee for visitors. Guided tours are also available on Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and are a great way to learn about Islam, the mosque and its importance to the people of Abu Dhabi. The evenings are an ideal time to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as the strategic lighting is simply stunning, so don’t forget your camera. If there are a few of you going, it’s wise to book ahead to make sure that one of the guides can accommodate you. Also, be aware that this is a place of worship and you must dress and behave accordingly. Call 02 4416444, email tour@szgmc.ae or see http://www.szgmc.ae for more information.

Heritage Village

Heritage Village
For those in search of history and a story to tell about the origins of Abu Dhabi, an evening visit to Heritage Village is a must. The gardens alone are worth the trip but a look behind the scenes at the re-created souk and Bedouin encampment, complete with camels and goat-hair tents, provides a fascinating insight into the Abu Dhabi of the past. It’s also possible to watch craftsmen at work weaving on traditional looms, blowing glass, beating brass and making pots. It’s a far cry from the slick city Abu Dhabi has become. If you’re lucky, the craftsmen will share their skills and may even offer the chance to try them out. There’s also a little spice shop where you can buy herbs and handmade soap for gifts.
Call 02 6814455 for more information. Open every evening from 5 to 9pm.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
If you like your evening entertainment to include a bit of adventure head out of town to Yas Island for a night at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The world’s largest indoor theme park is open until 8pm from Tuesday to Sunday and includes everything from the 240kmh rollercoaster (the fastest in the world) to children’s favourites like the Junior GT, a driving school which allows them to motor along mini roads of their own. History buffs can also look back in time at the origins of the Ferrari brand or find out more about its Italian homeland. There are also plenty of shopping options for visitors less interested in car-based pursuits and numerous cafés to stop for dinner or a drink. Ticket prices are based on height. Children under one metre can enter for free on general entry tickets while general tickets for visitors under 1.5 metres are AED165. Those above 1.5 metres will pay AED225. Premium tickets cost AED265 for visitors under 1.5 metres and AED325 for 1.5 metres and above. For more information, call 02 4968001 or see http://www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Al Dhafra Dhow

Dhow dinner cruise
If you’re looking for a romantic way to spend an evening, while still soaking up the local culture, the Al Dhafra Dhow cruise is the ideal solution. The traditional dhow cruises along the Corniche between 9 and 11pm while guests enjoy a traditional set menu of mixed seafood, meats and salads as well as drinks and desserts, served with a generous helping of warm Arabian hospitality. Local staff can also help identify historic landmarks along the way. The set menu for the dinner cruise costs AED225 or half price for children. It’s advisable to book before 5pm on the day to secure your table as it’s a popular activity. Call 02 6732266 or 02 6732288 for more information.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club

Night golf
A round of night golf is a great way to enjoy the evening and work up an appetite for dinner. Two courses in Abu Dhabi provide evening tee off.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club offers visitors nine-holes on its award-winning 27-hole course, which plays host to the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship. For AED275 with a convenient last tee time of 9pm, golfers can play on the same course as greats such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Lee Westwood. Bookings can be made up to 12 days in advance. Call 02 5588990, email golfreservation@adgolfclub.com or see http://www.adgolfclub.com for details.
Abu Dhabi City Golf Club also offers golf after dark with tee times until 8.30pm. The nine-hole course, which is in the centre of the Abu Dhabi race course, is one of the most convenient in the city. Nine holes start from AED145, while 18 holes costs AED270. Call 02 4459600, email office@adcitygolf.ae or see http://www.adcitygolf.ae for details.

Abu Dhabi Mall

Malls and souks
You will have heard about, or maybe experienced, the joys of shopping in Dubai but an evening of retail therapy in Abu Dhabi can be a far more organic experience. The city’s infrastructure makes it possible to walk between shops, in particular the traditional souks on Mina Road, which open in the evening from 7pm until midnight. The same goes for the Gold Souk on 4th Street.
More traditional mall lovers in search of well-known designer brands are equally well catered for on a night out in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Mall (02 6454858, http://www.abudhabi-mall.com) houses over 200 shops and is open until 11pm every night while Marina Mall (02 6818300), the largest in the city, is the perfect place for an evening shopping spree.
If you fancy something traditional, with modern amenities and dining options nearby, try The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri (02 5581670, http://www.soukqaryatalberi.com), Abu Dhabi’s modern take on traditional Arabian shopping. You can even grab a water taxi to whisk you off on a tour if you want to take the weight off your feet.

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admin 5:36 am on April 8, 2012 View Post & Comment

STYLE PARADE

Take the reins this season with a mixture of bold colours and spring accessoriesDress Erdem at Saks Fifth Avenue
sunglasses Tom Ford
bangles Furla
ring BCBG Max Azria

Emma wears:
Dress Marc by Marc Jacobs
watch Montblanc
earrings Dolce & Gabbana

Patrick wears:
Trousers Dolce & Gabbana
jacket Ermenegildo Zegna
belt Hackett
tie Giorgio Armani
watch Montblanc

Patrick wears:
Shirt, jacket and trousers all Rick Taylor at Boutique 1
belt Dsquared at Saks Fifth Avenue
sunglasses Tom Ford

Emma wears:
Dress Carolina Herrera
watch Montblanc

Patrick wears:
Shirt Hackett
trousers Ermenegildo Zegna

Emma wears:
Skirt Michael Kors
blouse Diane von Furstenburg
necklace Matthew Williamson
sunglasses Roberto Cavalli
watch Montblanc

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admin 1:17 pm on April 2, 2012 View Post & Comment

New kids on the block

From stunning beachfront locations and sky-high positions to exotic cuisines and innovative menus, Abu Dhabi’s latest restaurant openings are boosting the city’s culinary credentials
Words by Amanda Tomlinson

18°

There’s nothing quite like a swathe of new restaurants to whip up a feeding frenzy in Abu Dhabi. Dining out is a popular pastime in the emirate and residents of all nationalities are quick to try the latest and greatest offering on the city’s culinary scene.
The past few months have not only introduced new restaurants to the city, they have risen the bar even further with their creative cuisines and unrivalled locations.
One of the most prominent new additions has been that of Amador Restaurant & Cellar at the Park Rotana. The menu, which is described as avant-garde cuisine, features unique combinations and interesting techniques and is overseen by Juan Amador, who has three Michelin stars.
Spectacular views are the main drawcards for 18° (pictured) at the Hyatt Capital Gate and Quest at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. Quest is perched high above the city on the 63rd floor and serves excellent pan-Asian cuisine, while 18° has one of the city’s most unique locations in a world record-breaking building.
If these restaurants have some of the best views, then the Park Bar & Grill and 55&5th, The Grill definitely have the most exclusive location, the stunningly beautiful Saadiyat Beach.
And lastly, Agadir at The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa is one of the city’s only Moroccan restaurants and offers an authentic experience for those looking for a taste of the Maghreb.
The city is poised for even more new restaurants in the coming months as hotels by luxury groups such as Sofitel, Anantara and St. Regis get set to launch.

18°

18°
Boasting some of the best views of Abu Dhabi, 18˚ sits proudly in one of the city’s most unique buildings, Capital Gate. It takes its name from the angle of the tower’s lean – 18 degrees – and is positioned on the floor where the structure starts to tilt. In fact, with this 18-degree slant, Capital Gate leans four times more than Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, giving it a world record.
The cuisine served here is described as eastern Mediterranean, covering the best of Italian, Turkish, Syrian, Lebanese and Greek. Italian chef Ivan Musoni says the style of eating is also typically eastern Mediterranean, with guests encouraged to order a few dishes for the table and share.
“We want our guests to be able to experience a little bit of everything, especially because our menu focuses on five different regions. We want to take them on a journey across all countries,” chef Musoni says. With delicious meals, friendly service and unrivalled views, a meal at 18° is sure to impress.
Where: Hyatt Capital Gate
When: Daily 6 to 10.30am, noon to 3pm, 7 to 11.30pm
Contact: 02 5961140

55&5th, The Grill

55&5th, The Grill
Taking its name from the address of the world’s first St. Regis hotel property, St. Regis New York at the corner of 55th Street and 5th Avenue, this classic grill and lounge has one of Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive addresses.
With a backdrop of the city’s most beautiful location, Saadiyat Beach, the signature restaurant has an American feel with high ceilings, dark wood and leather chairs.
On the menu guests will find a variety of meat and seafood, including slow-cooked Welsh lamb loin, Maine lobster cassoulet and lightly smoked Scottish salmon. The degustation menu has proven particularly popular and wine pairings by 55&5th’s sommelier is also available.
The restaurant is ideal for an intimate meal for two, but equally suitable for a business dinner. Choose from the large outdoor terrace, the main dining area or two private dining rooms with seating for six or 14 people.
Where: St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort & Spa
When: Daily 7pm to midnight
Contact: 02 4988888

Park Bar & Grill

Park Bar & Grill
The warm, welcoming setting of the Park Bar & Grill is enhanced by the friendly and attentive service, not to mention the comforting food. With a focus on seafood and steak, served with an Asian touch, the menu is as extensive as it is enticing. Make a selection from the large seafood display, which features fresh fish and shellfish, and have the chefs prepare it to your liking, or go for something tried and tested such as tender, juicy and flavoursome Australian wagyu beef. For a more exotic flavour, the slow-cooked Asian-style beef short ribs with choi sum and tamarind sauce is sure to impress.
The open kitchen dominates from its central position, giving diners the opportunity to watch the chefs in action preparing the meals. The dining areas, which are positioned around the central kitchen, are intimate with dim lighting, while the red feature light at one end is a stand-out design element.
Those who arrive early should enjoy an aperitif on the rooftop of Beach House, which offers stunning views of the white-sand Saadiyat Beach, while the upstairs bar at The Park Bar & Grill is the ideal place to cap off the evening.
Where: Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel
When: Daily 7pm to midnight
Contact: 02 4071234

Quest

Quest
There is more to this 63rd-floor restaurant than stunning views, although the views of the city, Corniche and Arabian Gulf are definitely a huge draw.
The biggest surprise is the food. A quick glance at the menu may lead diners to conclude that the dishes are simple Asian fare, but nothing is as it seems. Whether it’s foie gras with popping candy or a dessert that looks like coconut, but is actually frozen melon with tapioca pearls, every dish comes with a surprise. The raspberry chocolate cake arrives buried under a raspberry foam and is laced with popping candy. A salad is disguised as a plant. Every bite is bursting with flavour.
The culinary team, headed by Singaporean chef Benjamin Whatt, are so eager to please that they can be spotted observing diners through the kitchen window to make sure they are enjoying the meal.
With excellent food and an unbeatable location, Quest is a must for any visitor looking to sample the best Abu Dhabi has to offer.
Where: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
When: Weekdays noon to 3.30pm, daily (except Sat) 7 to 11.30pm
Contact: 02 8115666

Amador Restaurant & Cellar

Amador Restaurant & Cellar
February’s opening of Amador Restaurant & Cellar elevated dining in Abu Dhabi to a whole new level. Overseen by three-star Michelin chef Juan Amador, a German of Spanish origins, this new hotspot has attracted a lot of attention, not least because of the unique food combinations and preparation techniques.
The restaurant is split into two sections – a tapas cellar for casual dining and drinks, and the main restaurant for a more complete dining experience.
In the tapas bar, guests will be surprised by the interesting and unusual food combinations and techniques. Try the incredibly tasty mieral pigeon with purple curry, or the Gin Tonic Nitro, a gin and tonic foam stirred in liquid nitrogen to create a frozen texture on the outside with a soft centre. Amador selected this palate cleanser because Spain is the world’s largest consumer of gin. It is made with his favourite premium brand, Gin Mare.
The desserts are equally unique, with combinations of white chocolate and truffle, or a bite-sized wasabi-flavoured white chocolate wrapped in thin beetroot candy.
As well as à la carte options, a seven-course degustation menu is served in the main restaurant. It gives diners the chance to really discover the avant-garde cuisine and can be enjoyed with wine pairings. A word of warning though – go with an open mind and willing palate. This isn’t a restaurant for those with bland tastes. As Amador says: “My food should stay in people’s minds.”
Where: Park Rotana
When: Tapas cellar 4pm to 2.30am, restaurant 7 to 11.30pm
Contact: 02 6573333

Agadir

Agadir
Guests who dine at Agadir know they’re in for the real deal as every staff member, including chef Hakim Benadi, is from Morocco.
The menu, inspired by the mystery and allure of the Arabian Nights, blends Arabic and Mediterranean cooking styles, creating meals that evoke the flavours and fragrances of the Maghreb.
Sample the spectrum of Moroccan cuisine from fresh breads and traditional tagines, to chargrilled meats and couscous. A range of vegetarian dishes is also available.
The restaurant embodies the essence of Morocco with flickering lanterns and distinctive décor to give an intimate ambience. In the cooler months, guests can dine on the terrace and enjoy an extensive selection of shisha overlooking the greens and fairways of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
Where: The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa
When: Daily 7pm to midnight, Friday and Saturday 1 to 3pm
Contact: 800 04413232
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admin 6:13 am on March 28, 2012 View Post & Comment

City of culture

The emirate’s cultural scene is gaining momentum and events such as the Abu Dhabi Festival help to support and nurture the local community
Words by Claire Malcolm

While headline-grabbing developments such as Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District are setting the tone for the emirate’s cultural future, the arts are already flourishing at grassroots level with community choirs, theatre groups and artists collectives quietly doing their bit to support Abu Dhabi’s bid to become an international cultural capital.
The desire at the highest levels of government to introduce a permanent international cultural element to Abu Dhabi is reflective of the mixed bag of nationalities that paint, sing, sculpt, act and create at all levels; but organisations like the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and are also spearheading the race to preserve traditional cultural activity as well as nurture new local talent.
This month’s Abu Dhabi Festival, with its banner theme of ‘Connecting Cultures’, brings together some of the world’s best known artistic talent as well as giving a number of homegrown groups the chance to shine as the emirate plots its roadmap towards an arts-focused future.

Emirates International Peace Festival

Watch, listen, appreciate
The city will echo to the sound of music this month and into April with the line-up of events for the ninth edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival taking place at key venues around the city.
Acclaimed UK theatre company Globe Education at Shakespeare’s Globe will present A Midsummer Night’s Dream and a specially adapted production of Richard Sheridan’s The Rivals will feature emerging Emirati acting talent from the Resuscitation Theatre.
Visual art showcases include an exhibition of calligraphy by renowned Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy at the Ghaf Gallery while cultural insight comes in the form of puppetry, with a Sharjah-based traditional Hakawati troupe of actors bringing to life the mythical characters of Arabia.
Raga-flamenco sitar star Anoushka Shankar, Russian violin virtuoso Maxim Vengerov and Naseer Shamma – Iraq’s oud master extraordinaire – will take festival visitors on a global musical journey. And jazz lovers will enjoy a night with Natalie Cole, as she makes her Middle East debut.
Dance also takes centre stage with a unique set of performances, from Shaolin monks blending kung fu, tai chi and contemporary dance to the UK’s Royal Opera House, which will premiere its production of Beloved Friend by Sir Ronald Harwood, which also features dancers from the Royal Ballet.
Outside of the festival frenzy, Abu Dhabi still has plenty to offer visitors. A growing number of art galleries are springing up across the city, from Lebanese self-taught artist Salwa Zeidan’s international arts showcase to the popular Ghaf Gallery – co-owned by Emirati artists Mohamed Kanoo and Jalal Luqman – which offers wall space to new local talent.
The Fanaan art collective, a group of nine mixed-nationality locally based artists, also holds regular exhibitions at locations around town, while out on Saadiyat Island, Manarat Al Saadiyat offers an insight into the future of art in the emirate and hosts a rotating calendar of exhibitions.
Popular culture is the order of the day at Yas Island, which has hosted huge international DJs and chart-topping groups such as Coldplay, Metallica and the Scissor Sisters, while pop icon Madonna is set to brave the summer heat for a June 3 concert .
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admin 12:39 pm on March 25, 2012 View Post & Comment

Horses and Heels

Facing race-day fashion dilemmas? Let Concierge lead
the way with the hottest trends for the Dubai World Cup

Fashion is big business in Dubai. This is, after all, the town that made a festival out of shopping. From home-grown designers making their mark on the world stage to international big hitters clamouring for retail space, the emirate is bucking the trend and flourishing amid international economic downturn by remaining resolutely fashion fabulous.
But style in Dubai means far more than retail therapy. It’s about being seen and nowhere more so than at the Dubai World Cup, which is the hottest event of the emirate’s hectic social calendar.

Visitors flock to town in their thousands and this year organisers promise that the event will be better than ever with the addition of the Dubai Gold Cup – a move that will increase the race card to nine events with overall prize money of US$27.25 million. However for many of the 50,000 visitors who jet into town for the Dubai World Cup, the day is less about horses and more about fashion. But with an abundance of luxury brands and high-end labels at our fingers tips, where is a person to start when it comes to selecting the perfect race-day outfit?

Let the games begin
Three-times Jaguar Style Stakes judge Kelly Lundberg is a woman in the know on all things fashion related. “The key is to plan early,” explains Lundberg, as she gears up for the big day. “Leaving shopping to the last minute often results in selecting something just for the sake of it. This is never a good move, especially for an outfit that needs to be fabulous enough to take the scrutiny of a day at the races.”
So, with early planning in mind, what styles should shoppers opt for this year if they want to be on trend and race ready? “Pastels are huge at the moment,” explains Lundberg, “and great for a spring event. Pick plain colours rather thanpatterns.” Lundberg also suggests opting for an ensemble that is as comfortable as it is classy. “I want people to look relaxed as well as stylish and pulled together,” she says.
Founder of fashion blog http://www.superfabme.com, Natascha Hawke agrees. “Dubai can be scorching in March so go for dresses in light fabrics like organza, silk and cotton to keep you cool. For classic comfort that still carries the wow-factor, look to Lanvin where you’ll find the ultimate range of grown-up race-day dresses.”
If you’re looking for something a littler bolder, Hawke recommends florals. “Floral prints are big news and look great for daytime dressing. Look to the feminine but fashion-forward floral organza dresses by Christopher Kane and the impossibly pretty, sheer floral pleats by Erdem and Nina Ricci for the best of the bunch.”

And if you’re looking to rock the silhouette of the season, it looks like waists are in. “Nipped-in waists paired with full, below-the-knee skirts are the dress shape of the season seen at Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Diane Von Furstenberg,” says Hawke. According to Hawke, accessories are also an important part of crafting the perfect race-day look. “I suggest starting with the dress, then building on the look with a selection of carefully chosen accessories.”

Hats off
The Dubai World Cup is one of the few events on the Dubai social calendar that requires ladies to wear hats, so it’s normal for attendees to go all out. This season wide-brim hats with feather-finish are popular as are brightly coloured fascinators with mesh and bow detail. Renowned French milliner Murmure by Spirit has created a selection of haute couture and luxury ready-to-wear designs which take their cue from this season’s hottest catwalk trends.

Dubai World Cup

Best foot forward
Footwear also presents its dilemmas as much of the day is spent pacing the greens. “Make sure that your shoes are comfortable,” says Lundberg. “You will be in them all day and hobbling is not a good look. If your shoes are new, wear them around the house beforehand with a pair of socks on to stretch them. Nothing looks worse than a girl struggling in heels – especially on grass.”

Hawke agrees that comfort is the name of the game but race goers need not sacrifice style. “Wedges are incredibly on trend and are really the only way to go if you’ll be anywhere near the grass. Alternatively nothing looks more elegant than some pretty flats. Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo both have amazing selections which are perfect for race day.” Now that you have your fashion bases covered, the only quandary left is which horse to back on the day.
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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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