UAE DHS15
Divas @ Cho Gao Marina Walk Gather your Divas and join us for evenings full of great flavours and satisfying sips as we beat the midweek blues in style. The tunes? Fresh. Drinks? Free flowing. Mood? Bangin’ good. Every Wednesday | 20:00 to 23:00 AED 99 for ladies inclusive of free flowing house beverages For reservations, please call 800 423 463 or 0565332273
CONTENTS FEATURES
HERE FOR THE THRILLS ADRENALINE-PUMPING ACTIVITIES TO TRY P18 14 MAMSHA GUIDE
14
How to eat, pamper, shop and sunbathe your way around this sizzling new area on Saadiyat
28 ALFRESCO DINING From waterside dining to rooftops with prime city views, check out What’s On’s favourite places for outdoor dining during Abu Dhabi’s wonderful autumn season
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CONTENTS COVER
REGULARS 10 Yalla! Quick fix of news
12 UAE Famous Reif Othman
62 Last-minute staycation Why The RitzCarlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach is the perfect tropical beach escape
37
Cover: Sheila Deocareza
Stay in touch
33 CONSUME
54
35 EAT WhatsOn.ae Our stunning website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.
Excellent Afghani cuisine at Nolu’s, and Niri, a new homegrown Japanese concept. Plus, a look at what’s in store this Abu Dhabi Culinary Season
39 BARS Ray’s, at the top of Conrad Etihad Towers, is our ‘bar of the month’
Page 40
40 LOCK IN PICS A look back at last month’s epic What’s On Lock In finale
43 CULTURE
44
44 AGENDA
46 FILM
Unmissable art events to attend in November
Kristen Stewart plays Princess Diana in Spencer; Lady Gaga dazzles in House of Gucci; Will Smith stars in tennis smash King Richard; and an all-star cast in Chloé Zhao’s Eternals
50 4_What’s On
50 REGIONAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Meet the next local music sensation: Anees
56
53 ACTIVE 54 COOL GYMS Our favourite boutique gyms in the capital
56 TRAVEL What to eat and where in New York City
What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Dubai is also available on the App Store.
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A NEW GENERATION OF LUXURY
Al Bateen Marina, P.O. Box 127799, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T +971 2 208 0000 reservations.auh@editionhotels.com www.editionhotels.com
11.21 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice
HEAD OF CONTENT – WHAT’S ON Laura Coughlin laura.coughlin@motivate.ae DEPUTY EDITOR Elise Kerr elise.kerr@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Lauren Fletcher lauren.fletcher@motivate.ae JUNIOR ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar aarti@motivate.ae SENIOR VIDEO EDITOR Surajit Dutta surajit@motivate.ae CONTENT CREATIVE ARTIST Joachim Guay joachim.guay@motivate.ae WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi firoz@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae JUNIOR DESIGNER Remy Thokchom thokchom.remy@motivate.ae
CONTRIBUTORS
Iain Akerman; Liz Totton; Harriet Shephard GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar sunil@motivate.ae ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran binu@motivate.ae PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto venita@motivate.ae
CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne anthony@motivate.ae PUBLISHER David Burke davidb@motivate.ae GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia varsha@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae DIGITAL SALES DIRECTOR Sabir Khodabux sabir.khodabux@motivate.ae
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6_What’s On
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6 reasons why FUTR World is an unmissable Abu Dhabi experience one of the first people to enjoy an exclusive all new flavour from Baskin Robbins.
IT’S INFLUENTIAL You can meet genuine international content creators including beauty star Abby Roberts and Nintendo Girl who’s managed to rack up over 20+ million TikTok followers between them. You can also interact and gain insight from conversations Grace Beverley, Hadia Ghaleb, Darin Al Bayed and the UAE’s very own Lowi Sahi.
W
ith event capacities back up to 100 per cent in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi’s upcoming FUTR World is going to be an absolutely massive capital phenomenon. As part of its edge-surfing manifesto, FUTR World brings with it three distinct experiences to Abu Dhabi, there’s FUTR Festival — an ensemble of huge name music acts that includes WizKid; FUTR Live that will bring to life exciting brand, activations like the Museum of Ice Cream in a regional first and interaction opportunities with popular social creators and influencers; and FUTR Summit, a collection of talks from some of the finest minds in retail, business innovation and entrepreneurship. The event is taking place at Manarat Al Saadiyat, between 9 to 11 December, 2021. Tickets are priced from just Dhs129 onwards and are on sale now via tickets. virginmegastore.me
IT’S GOT A BANGING SOUNDTRACK Headliners for FUTR Festival include rap and afrobeat icon, WizKid (whose recent hit Essence ft Justin Beiber & Tems was the first by a solo African artist to chart in the top ten of the US Billboard Hot 100), he’ll be joined by talented singer/songwriter Alicai Harley amongst other big hitters.
IT’S A LITTLE THING CALLED FASHIONABLE, SWEETIE IT’S EXTREME Red Bull BMX rider, Viki Gomez will be putting on a dazzling extreme sports display as part of FUTR Live; catch a discussion on ‘Breaking Boundaries’ from homegrown UAE figure skating pioneer Zahra Lari; and there’s even a chance to get a free makeover from Ruuby, London’s award-winning beauty delivering service.
IT’S INSANELY INSTAGRAMMABLE Take for example the installation by The Museum of Ice Cream (1 of 15 immersive experiences including Benefit Cosmetics & NASA!) — this New York resident will be making its Abu Dhabi debut, and it is a double scoop of Insta-candy.
IT’S GOT THE BEST FOOD ADVENTURES FUTR Tastebud has a range of innovative food brands and concepts to wrap your palate around. Meet taste creators such as MOB Kitchen, the London-based food platform offering convenient and accessible, ultra-tasty recipe ideas. Pitch them questions, taste their creations and grab some pro tips from their inspirational story. You’ll also find food truck experiences from the region’s most talented homegrown chefs creating an exclusive ‘FUTR dish’ never served before, and become
FUTR trendsetting DNA runs right through all of its events. That’s part of what it is. But the demonstration of that on-mode positioning is possibly most clear, in its fashion installation. This includes a larger than life walk in wardrobe, displaying sustainable material led by the queen of fabrics, Tiffany Loy; plus a smart mirror and AR experience! If you think that’s innovative, wait until you experience the beauty, wellness, food, fitness, entertainment, retail & travel showcases!
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Current rules for Abu Dhabi events include requirements to show an Alhosn Green Pass (which itself requires the individual to be fully vaccinated), and to have had a negative PCR result within 96 hours of accessing the venue. Manarat Al Saadiyat, 9 to 11 December, 2021. Tickets are priced from just Dhs129 onwards and are on sale now via tickets. virginmegastore.me
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EDITOR’S LETTER
A GOOD FRIEND OF MINE...
... a former UAE resident – is back in town. She’s been away quite some time, and, needless to say, things have changed. Some of her favourite stomping grounds have gone – including the Mad nightclub she was once politely asked to leave – replaced by brand new developments. Islands that were once uninhabited have been urbanised into exciting neighbourhoods, while new hotels have arrived faster than a Land Cruiser speeding down the E11. If the landscape has changed dramatically, then the fun to be found within it has positively skyrocketed. Should my old mate want to (she won’t), she could spend a weekend scaling the world’s tallest climbing wall, on safari, or ziplining across a theme park. She could get a sweat on inside a boutique spin class (not a chance), enjoy a new cultural exhibition (still no), or eat her way around a new seaside neighbourhood (maybe, if there were doughnuts involved). Some things haven’t changed, however. A world of adventure still awaits in the desert, from fat biking to the classic off-roading (her previous driving attempt saw her lose control of the buggy, sending her spiralling over a huge dune). The beach remains a go-to place for sun worshipers and thrill seekers with watersports galore although her alabaster skin’s not made for the UAE sun. This month, we present our guide to all kinds of Abu Dhabi adventures, from fun to the downright thrill-seeking (best not, pal). And whether you’re a long-time UAE dweller, newbie, or even a returning hero, we’ve something for everyone... even my ol’ mate. Enjoy the issue.
Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi facebook.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi instagram.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi tiktok.com/ WhatsOnDubai
What’s On_9
BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN NOVEMBER
SECRET PARTIES BRUNCH AT W ABU DHABI
When: Every Friday This was already one of the most popular weekend culinary appointments in the capital, but now thanks to Secret Parties, the buzz has levelled up the ‘juicy’ ratio. a W Abu Dhabi, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs279 with soft drinks, Dhs379 with house drinks. Tel: (02) 656 0000, @wabudhabi
CHECK IN TO WARNER BROS. HOTEL
When: November The first Warner Bros. branded hotel opens next to its theme park on Yas Island, where you’ll find brilliant exhibits, including a Friends fountain, curated props from the studio’s movies, and room service delivered by Bugs Bunny. q @thewarnerbros_ad 10_What’s On
JIU-JITSU CHAMPIONSHIP
When: November 13 to 16 The world’s greatest grapplers descend on our capital for the 13th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. q ajptour.com
AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL MCINTYRE
When: November 26 The UK’s leading comedian is rescheduled to perform at Etihad Arena on November 26, supported by Paul Tonkinson. q etihadarena.ae
CINEMA IN THE PARK
When: November 14 and 28 Free movie screenings return to Umm Al Emarat Park. This month’s highlights are Soul (Nov 12) and Boss Baby 2 (Nov 18). q ummalemaratpark.ae
RAG’N’BONE MAN
When: November 26 Brit sensation Rory Charles Graham, AKA Rag’n’Bone Man, returns to the UAE, performing live at the Coca-Cola Arena. Tickets start at Dhs145. q coca-cola-arena.com
DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP
When: November 19 The world’s greatest golfers do battle at Dubai’s Jumeirah Golf Estates for the prestigious DP World Tour Championship, the grand finale of the Race to Dubai. General admission is free. q europeantour.com
ADNOC ABU DHABI MARATHON
When: November 26 The annual 42km marathon returns to Abu Dhabi. Too much pavement pounding for you? There are 10km, 5km and a 2.5km options, too. q adnocabudhabimarathon.com What’s On_11
REIF OTHMAN THE F&B GOLDEN BOY
U
AE Famous is a What’s On page focusing on people out there making the scene. They’re out there around town, shaping the UAE into what it is, creating the culture, food and life around us. We asked them what’s good in the UAE. We asked them what’s bad in the UAE. We asked them to tell us more, more, more about their wonderful selves…
Right Reif, we’ve lost track. How many restaurants do you have now in the UAE? We have three Reif Japanese Kushiyaki restaurants in the UAE – two at Dar Wasl Mall, which includes The Experience, my chef’s table 12_What’s On
journey here in the UAE with multiple awards and highlights from Burj Al Arab, Zuma and Play to The Experience, and more recently, my own familyrun and self-funded business that we opened a few months before the pandemic hit us. Despite that, we’ve grown the company, and look to expand internationally. It’s never a straight road whenever you drive, but it’s also nothing I couldn’t overcome. I always look forward to new opportunities, never turning back. I have always been a workaholic who lives and breathes cooking. It’s also because I really love my work, and I find that it re-energises me. Being a chef-cum-restaurateur is what I want to do, day in, day out. Recently you were given the Golden Visa. What did this recognition mean to you?
“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A WORKAHOLIC WHO LIVES AND BREATHES COOKING” concept – and one at Time Out Market. In addition, I have consulted on the menu for Ikigai, Moonslice and Mimi Kakushi. We’re opening our first international RJK restaurant, a franchised operation in Cairo this month.
Both myself and my family have called Dubai our home for the last 12 years, and along with our business expansion plans, we are committed to the UAE longterm, so the Golden Visa recognition is the icing on the
Is there one that has your heart? The OG, and my first baby, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki in Dar Wasl that we opened to queues at the end of August 2019. You have become one of the city’s brightest F&B stars. How’s that journey been? What? Really? If it is, thank you. It’s been a 12-year
cake. An absolute honour. To champion a cuisine, in my case mostly Japanese and broader Far Eastern, one has to innovate constantly, something that requires dedication and hard work. You were the first to bring the Wagyu sando to Dubai, and many followed. Does that irritate or flatter you? I’m actually happy and super flattered. The Wagyu sando has been a global phenomenon for a while now – and you do always need to taste the real sandos in Japan to understand the process. I first introduced it to The Experience [at Play] in 2017 and then created a different version for Reif Japanese Kushiyaki in 2019, sparking a Dubai trend, which I will happily take credit for. And they do say “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” What do you love about the UAE? The way the UAE handled the pandemic is commendable, and as a result we are one of the few countries in the world where business is booming for all stakeholders. They have shown so much love to us, there’s no reason not to love it. Do you reckon Dubai is your forever home? Dubai is definitely home for now. My wife and kids are happy. We are thriving. I have established my own business here to give back what they have given us. It’s a muchoverused phrase here, but Dubai really is the land of opportunity. q @reifo.kee | @reifkushiyaki
Above: Reif Japanese Kushiyaki
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ABU DHABI LAUNCHES
JUBILEE CULTURAL PASS GIVING YOU ACCESS TO MORE THAN 50 ATTRACTIONS
A
s part of its celebrations to close out the UAE’s ‘Year of the 50th’, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is putting together an extravaganza of cultural events, shows, workshops, festivals and entertainment to complement the Emirate’s already rich network of heritage attractions. To help you access these, and other happenings in the capital, the DCT has launched a special ‘Jubilee Cultural Pass’, priced at just Dhs50 (those under 18 get in free with accompanying pass holders). Pass holders are entitled to either free-of-charge access to attractions such as Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans, Al Ain’s Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa, Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Jahili Fort, and Qasr Al Muwaiji, or heavily discounted entry to key Abu Dhabi cultural gems, such as 50 per cent off Louvre Abu Dhabi admissions. It also unlocks special F&B deals, and access to workshops and learning experiences.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
The full calendar of events is still being finalised but will include annual heritage events such as Al Ain’s Traditional Handicrafts Festival, the Al Hosn Festival, which features The Day in the Palace exhibition, a classic car parade, and Scents of Qasr Al Hosn events. There will be a number of live performances returning to Cultural
Foundation, including grand musical displays by the Wiener ConcertVerein chamber orchestra and the Accademia Teatro Alla Scala. The Cultural Foundation will also host three exhibitions – Al Mujamma, the history behind the Cultural Foundation told through new works commissioned by three Emirati artists, Experience Mars – an immersive family-friendly experience
celebrating the country’s impressive adventures in space, and Mohamed Chabâa (1935–2013) – investigating the important pieces from Moroccan contemporary art. There are special exhibitions, too, at Louvre Abu Dhabi, Al Jahili Fort and competitions offering grants to local artists and writers helping to build a sustainable creative pathway for the next 50 years.
FOR AN UPDATED LIST OF DEALS AND PARTICIPATING ATTRACTIONS, AND TO BUY THE TICKET, VISIT JUBILEEPASS.ABUDHABICULTURE.AE
How to eat, pamper, shop and sunbathe your way around this sizzling new area
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M A M S H A A L S A A D I YAT
HEAD FOR
Elevenses
Coffee Architecture A fabulously elaborate artisan cafe, you’ll find rare and wonderful coffees like V60, Chemex, Ibrek and Safe Haven in amongst the usual suspects. Built around the foundations of ‘Detailing, Experience, Minimalism, and Light’ its perhaps a bit too hipster for some. But we love the place for its community orientated values, skilled baristas, quality beverages and outrageously delicious brownies. a Sat to Wed 9am to 10pm, Thu to Fri 9am to midnight. Tel: (0)2 554 4467, @coffee_architecture
HEAD FOR
B reakfast
Alkalime Describing itself as a ‘wellness restaurant and mindful space’, every aspect of Alkalime is organic, natural, sustainable and designed to make you feel good. The Instagrammable interior is filled with cute hammocks, plants and trailing vines, while everything from the nut milks to the vegan cheese is homemade. We’re yet to try a dish that isn’t tremendous, including the perfectly poached eggs with flavoursome avocado and the gorgeous ‘Wake Me Up’ iced latte. Boasting its own remote working space, it also hosts community events like talks and yoga sessions. Not just the healthy queen of Mamsha, Alkalime is a revolution. a 9am to 10pm. Tel: (0)54 449 1547, @alkalime_uae What’s On_15
M A M S H A A L S A A D I YAT
Ethr Design & Coffee Intriguing and minimalist, Ethr crafts items that reflect the stories of the UAE. Known for its super-cool phone cases and other ethical leather accessories that are decorated with intricate maps of our beloved seven emirates, they also make fragrances, jewellery and more. If you’re not in a hurry, you can always linger a while and absorb the creative vibes with a fancy coffee and slice of photoready date cake. a 10am to 11pm. Tel: (0)50 580 1892, @ethr.ae
HEAD FOR
Retail
therapy
SOUL BEACH HEAD FOR Frolic around one Sunbathe whole beautiful kilometre of sessions Saadiyat’s precious bright blue waters and soft white sands without shelling out on a pricey pool package. The entry fee gets you a sunbed and umbrella and you’re allowed to bring your own food, drinks, games and even speakers. Providing a budget day out that makes you feel like you’re living the high life, it’s a mega popular spot that somehow never feels too crowded. Facilities include an onsite café (but remember there are endless dining options out on the palmfringed boardwalk), showers and toilets. Dig out your cool box and sticky bats, beach season is here. a Weekday: Adults (Dhs50). Weekend: Adults (Dhs75). 6am to sunset. Whatsapp: (0)50 929 0936. @soulbeachsaadiyatisland
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HEAD FOR
TEN 11 Beach
Lunch
Chilled and casual, TEN 11 Beach is at its most lively at the weekend, when the place is buzzing with friends catching up on the week’s events. Offering a shaded outdoor terrace just steps from the beach entrance, the menu is quite frankly enormous. The coffee options alone are almost overwhelming, while the food spans pasta, pizza, wraps, sliders and more. We find that the breakfast burrito works wonderfully at any time of day and, if you’re trying to be good before donning your cossie, there are lots of tasty salads too. a 7am to midnight. Tel: (0)50 567 4735, ten11cafe.ae
Tara Rose Salon
HEAD FOR
Pampering Craving a bit of self-care after being out in the elements all day? Founded by a British Abu Dhabi resident and entrepreneur, this pretty hair and beauty salon is renowned for its expert stylists and topstandard treatments. Every guest always departs with a new sense of confidence, while every little detail, from the excellent refreshments to the vegan, all-natural products, make you feel utterly relaxed. This is Tara’s third location and she doesn’t look to be slowing down. a 9am to 8pm. Tel: (0)2 564 7746, @tararosesalon
ANTONIA
HEAD FOR
Dinner
HEAD FOR
Aperitivo Famous time amongst Abu Dhabi foodies for his time as head chef at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort’s chic coastal Italian, Simone Federici recently dared to go at it alone and the risk is definitely paying off. Informal, retro-inspired and specialising in classic, unpretentious Italian dishes, his new restaurant is so busy that it’s stopped taking reservations for weekends. Using techniques passed down from his grandmother, Simone ferments his pizza dough for 72 hours and bakes it in square tins, just like they do in Rome. Grab a slice or two to devour with a glass of grape at sundown. But make sure you eat it with your hands only, Italian style. a Noon to 11pm. Tel (0)2 667 2554, @antonia. pizza
Niri Restaurant & Bar Watch out Zuma, Niri’s Japanese food is next level good. Authentic as anything you’ll find on the streets of Tokyo but delivered with a contemporary twist, it’s a welcoming foodie hotspot that aims to remove boundaries and frivolous formalities. A true breath of fresh air and another homegrown triumph, it specialises in sushi, sashimi, robata grills and more. Check out our review on p37. a Noon to 11pm. Tel: (0)2 546 8886, @niriabudhabi What’s On_17
FEELING DARING?
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FEELING DARING?
1
The OCR Park From Spartan Arabia to Tough Mudder, Abu Dhabi loves an endurance race. The biggest permanent obstacle course in the UAE features eight intimidating hurdles, challenging you to scramble over 10-foot walls, run up 45-degree inclines and take on various other gruelling tests that require perfect teamwork and sheer determination. The trial option lets you join in one of the group fitness classes for free. a Hudayriat Island, daily 4pm to midnight, 6am to 10am on weekends. From Dhs100. Tel: (0)2 691 0259, ocrpark.com.
2
Outdoor paintball
Gritty and dirty, this shoot-em-up game transports you to a derelict, desert war-like scene filled with old barrels and wrecked vehicles. You can customise your spine-tingling adventure to suit the plot line of choice, and we guarantee it will leave you buzzing for days. a Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Khalifa City A, daily 2pm to 11pm, from Dhs95. Tel: (0)2 656 5656, alforsan.com.
What’s On_19
FEELING DARING?
3
Fat biking
Leave the tarmac behind and swap road biking for a fat biking trip over the mighty dunes of Al Wathba. The 4.8in tyres are perfect for climbing and descending the undulating sand, while the views across the peaceful landscape, including the ethereal Al Wathba Fossil Dunes (made famous in Star Wars: The Force Awakens) are truly amazing. An unforgettable heart-pumping adventure and an exhausting workout, all in one. a Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi. @alwathbahotel.
4
CLYMB Abu Dhabi
Taking on the world’s biggest indoor skydiving chamber (31 metres high), and the region’s tallest indoor climbing wall (42 metres), requires a steely nerve. However, spectators can enter for free so you can always check out the scariness levels beforehand. There’s nothing quite like hovering on a blast of air to get the blood pumping, while the rock climbing walls around the corner are extremely good fun. If you make it to the top, you’re a braver sort than us. a Yas Island, daily 8am to 8pm. Dhs120 (climbing) Dhs235 (skydiving). Tel: (600) 51 11 15. clymbabudhabi.com.
20_What’s On
5
Driving around Yas Marina Circuit
So, you’ve watched the pros race around Yas Island’s most famous landmark and you may have also looped it on a bicycle. Now it’s time to take on the iconic turns in a swish Aston Martin GT4. The dream gift for any petrol head, hurtling around the bends and pretending to be James Bond (while following a full safety briefing) is totally thrilling and ridiculous fun. a Yas Island, daily 9am to 11pm. From Dhs1,840. Tel: (0)2 497 9000, yasmarinacircuit.com.
6
Dune bashing in the desert Nothing is as exhilarating as screaming yourself silly and careering over enormous sand dunes in a 4x4. Feel your heart stop as you plunge over the end of a golden bank or see your passenger window suddenly become submerged in a blanket of sand. A great one to surprise your visitors with. a Various operators, including desertrosetourism.com.
7
Parasailing over the Gulf It’s time to bring those convincing childhood flying dreams to life. Let a speedboat drag you along as you soar 500 feet in the air over the bright blue Gulf and take in the views of the city skyline. Stimulating yet relaxing at the same time, it’s an incredible journey. a Abu Dhabi Corniche, daily from Dhs200. Tel: (0)54 308 7070, abudhabiparasail.com
What’s On_21
FEELING DARING?
8
The High Ropes Park at Circuit X Not for the faint-hearted, feel your adrenaline levels soar as you attempt 31 hair-raising obstacles from 10 metres high, a 100m zip line, a 50ft climbing wall and a 13m free-fall jump. Just try not to look down. a Hudayriat Island, Thursday to Saturday 4pm to midnight, Sunday to Wednesday 5pm to 11pm. From Dhs35. Tel: (0)2 691 0302, circuitxuae.com.
9
The Liwa Loop
The three-second countdown to Yas Waterworld’s most extreme ride will be the tensest moments of your life. Just as you’re considering backing out, the floor of the narrow tube drops away beneath you and you plummet down into the abyss. After a series of disorientating loops (you’re braver than us if you can keep your eyes open), you land back to reality with an undignified splash. It’s utterly terrifying, totally brilliant and, thanks to the powers of GoPro, a YouTube sensation. a Yas Waterworld, daily 10am to 5pm. From Dhs270. Tel: (0)600 511 51, yaswaterworld.com.
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10
Ferrari World’s zipline and roof walk
Never mind the rides, the real excitement at Ferrari World takes place outside the park gates. The jaw-dropping 400m zipline shoots straight through one of the rollercoaster loops, while the bracing roof walk takes you 50m above sea level and past the biggest Ferrari logo in the world. A 600m stroll has never been so exciting. a Yas Island, daily noon to 8pm, from Dhs125. Tel: (0)2 496 8000, ferrariworldabudhabi.com.
11
Dragon boating
OPENING AGAIN SOON
WAKEBOARDING Shooting around the edges of the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi’s most precious area of natural beauty, whilst being dragged behind a boat at break-neck speed is an electrifying experience. The most skilled and fearless souls can rev up to 25mph and throw in some acrobatic twists and turns, but Wake Evolution also offers coaching for beginners, plus two-day camps that let you learn to ride the clear waters with other adventure-loving friends. a Wake Evolution, Eastern Mangroves Marina. Reopening Oct 2021. From Dhs300. (0)50 306 5612, wake-evolution.com.
Competitive dragon boating is huge in Abu Dhabi. Racing in long, narrow boats along with up to 19 teammates provides the most incredible adrenaline rush (and an amazing shoulder workout). The Desert Dragons are just one of the many teams who are currently recruiting. a The Eastern Mangroves. @desertdragonsad.
What’s On_23
The red carpet is rolled out as Madame Tussauds Dubai opens on Bluewaters
I
t’s probably the only place in the world where you can take a picture with the Queen, have a chat with Vin Diesel, and get knocked out by Muhammad Ali in one day. The home of famous fun, Madame Tussauds – and its several outposts around the globe – is one of the world’s leading attractions, where you can meet and take selfies with all your fave celebrities in one building. Okay, maybe that’s not quite true. They’re just waxworks, after all. But considering they look so real,
you’ve still got a small chance of convincing your friends and family that the photo of you hugging David Beckham is legitimate. Nowadays, it’s almost considered an honour to be invited for a sitting at Madame Tussauds, where you’ll have around 250 measurements taken, before being immortalised in wax and added to a room of famous historians, world leaders, celebrities, and criminals. What’s On_25
HOUSE OF WAX Madame Tussauds Dubai Finally, after years in the making, world famous attraction Madame Tussauds Dubai officially opened its doors last month and, like its outposts across the planet, visitors have a unique opportunity to take photographs with 60 global stars from a number of fields, including sports, movies, politics and more, as well as 16 figures from the Middle East. Marking the 25th version of Madame Tussauds, the Dubai edition of the celebrated wax figure attraction is the first of its kind in the GCC. There are seven rooms in total, including the leaders and royals room, fashion zone (complete with catwalk), film area, media zone, Bollywood, sports room and the A-list party zone.
Queen Elizabeth II
How can I buy tickets? You can buy tickets from the Madame Tussauds Dubai website. Prices start at Dhs135 for adults, Dhs110 for children aged three to 11, while under threes are free. The attraction is open from 12pm to 8pm (last entry 7.45pm) from Sunday to Thursday, and on Friday, Saturday and public holidays it’s 10am-8pm (last entry 7.45pm).
Kareena Kapoor Khan
Shah Rukh Khan
Salman Khan
WHO WAS MADAME TUSSAUD? Madam Tussaud was born Marie Grosholtz in 1761. Her mother was the housekeeper of famous waxmaker, Philippe Curtius. He taught Grosholtz all there was to know about the art of wax sculpture. It turned out she had a natural talent for the craft and was invited to join the Royal Court in Versailles to tutor art to King Louis XVI’s sister. She sculpted perfect waxworks of many notable figures of the time, including Francois Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin. Rumour has it that shortly after the onset of the French Revolution, Grosholtz began creating plaster casts of beheaded victims of public executions. Creepy. Then after a stint in prison, Grosholtz
eventually left France and toured across Europe, showcasing her collection of decapitated waxworks. In 1795, she married Francois Tussaud, and her travelling show became, as it’s known today, ‘Madame Tussauds’. She then settled London, expanded to full body waxworks and opened a business showcasing her historical and royal figure waxworks. After her death in 1850, her grandsons continued her legacy, moving the attraction to its current site on Marylebone Road. Sadly, the museum was burnt down during a fire in 1925, where over 300 of Tussaud’s original waxworks were destroyed, but it was rebuilt and remains one of the UK’s most popular attractions.
a Madame Tussauds Dubai, Bluewaters, Sun to Thur 12pm to 8pm, Fri & Sat 10am to 8pm, Dhs135. madametussauds.com
26_What’s On
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Abu Dhabi is once again alive with the sound of outdoor sound systems. So, if you’re in the mood for some lazy weekday sundowners, starlit rooftop banquets, seafront shmoozing or on-terrace brunching, this is our pick of the best Abu Dhabi alfresco experiences 28_What’s On
ALFRESCO SEASON
01 Annex This sophisticated terrace venue is a chic pick for afterdark fun. Enjoy marina views, a roaring fire pit, and some ‘Annex-t’ level theme nights. Wednesday is ladies’ night with three hours of limitless sips for the ladies for Dhs128. Thursdays are all about that Motown and soul tip, with smooth grooves and two hours of unlimited mixology for Dhs195. And on Fridays, it’s an evening brunch ‘shook’ by the rhythms of Cape Town’s buzzing soundscape – the Amapiano brunch, from Dhs288. a Annex, The Abu Dhabi Edition, Al Bateen Marina, Wed from 7pm to 1am, Thur and Fri 7pm to 4am. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @annexabudhabi
04 BRICK
02 Belgian Café Belgian Café squares up as a cool Côte d’Azur character, despite its landlocked namesake. And those traits transfer seamlessly into its ‘Santé to the Weekend’ brunch (from Dhs225), which delivers a well-executed feast filled with Euro-flavours, seafood towers, the venue’s signature mussels and live cooking stations. Taking place on the venue’s roomy terrace, the whole thing feels appropriately intercontinental. a InterContinental Abu Dhabi, , b. Tel: (800) 423463. abudhabi.intercontinental. com/belgian-cafe
03 Balcon This poolside courtyard positively vibrates with zenlevel chill. Hemmed by cabanas, and floating lanterns, it’s a bar with more than a few reasons to choose as your gang get-together spot of choice. There’s the shisha, the fine-dining tapas plates and the daily 6pm to 9pm free flow beverage package that costs just Dhs115. a Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Al Mina Street, Al Zahiya, Tourist Club Area, open daily 5pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 818 4888. tsogosun.com
We do so love an evening brunch with a breeze and the rooftop soiree at Aloft Abu Dhabi’s Brick on Thursdays provides just that. It’s set to the sounds of live acoustic music and takes place every Thursday, with dishes coming straight from the venue’s signature brick ovens. The brunch lineup includes such culinary delights as slow-cooked rib eye, four-cheese pizza, cedar plank-cooked salmon and, for the final flourish, campfire s’mores... all from Dhs235. a Brick, Aloft Abu Dhabi, National Exhibition Centre, daily 5pm to midnight. Tel: (052) 837 0047. @brick.abudhabi
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ALFRESCO SEASON
05 Buddha Bar Beach This outpost of the global vibe emporium has a privileged Saadiyat seaside appointment and it’s all bout the beach chic. It features the brand’s signature on-trend soundtrack, luxurious shore view lounge area, and a menu that dances playfully between east and west. Buddha Bar Beach has two seatings for its Friday Nikkei Brunch (from Dhs325), an afternoon session and an evening one, both are accompanied by Latin beats and fuego Japanese-Peruvian eats. a Buddha Bar Beach, The St Regis Sadiyaat Island, Mon to Wed 5pm to midnight, Thu to Sat midday to midnight. Tel: (02) 498 8888. @buddhabarbeachabudhabi
07 Cooper’s This British pub has been a capital favourite for years and although its chiefly known for its prowess as a sports spectating hub, the gloriously shaded outdoor space makes for perfect daytime merrymaking. There’s a daily midday to 8pm happy hour with select beverages from Dhs23, a bucket-load of combo deals and the Friday brunch with gastro pub grub classics and DJ Danny on the decks, has packages from Dhs210. a Park Rotana, Park Rotana Complex Road, near Khalifa Park, daily noon to 2am. Tel: (02) 657 3317. @parkrotana
08 Hakkasan
06 COVE ABU DHABI This barefoot wonderland has a packed weekly schedule of beachfront entertainment. Amongst them there’s Bijoux (Dhs500) on Mondays — an extravagant seven-course fine dining menu, with a thrilling cabaret-esque collection of live music and glittering theatrics. Tuesday are dedicated to live music with the Unplugged sessions. Featured artists include Jay Abo, Dina Stars, Aston Wylie, and Clarita de Quiroz and there’s a bottomless drink package for Dhs199. And things get a little caliente under the collar on Wednesdays with Little Havana. Latin sounds, Latin food and an unlimited drinks package for Dhs199. a Cove Beach, Makers District, Al Reem Island. Tel: (056) 39 87895. @covebeachabudhabi
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Up on the roof of Abu Dhabi’s ultra-luxe hotel, Emirates Palace — sits Hakkasan, an elite Cantonese restaurant with big ‘night out’ energy. Their terrace space offers dreamy Corniche skyline views, big soulful sounds and mood lighting that is quite frankly an absolute mood of its own. To pair with the electric ambiance, there are night brunches, and deals on craft mixology and dim sum. a Hakkasan, Emirates Palace, Corniche Rd W, daily 6pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 690 7739. @hakkasanabudhabi
12 WET DECK
09 Iris Known for its exquisite Yas Marina views and full-throttle F1 parties, this popular little spot has sophistication sewn into its genes. And with the outdoor terrace open once more, now is the time to experience the venue in its purest, most elegant form. The modern, international Friday brunch is pretty good value too, with packages starting at Dhs190. Out out? The after brunch package includes three hours of free flowing house sips for Dhs150 a Yas Marina, Yas Island, Tue to Thur and Sat to Sun 6pm to 3.30am, Fri noon to 3.30am, closed Monday. Tel: (055) 160 5636. yasmarina.ae
10 Stars ‘N’ Bars We’re unofficially obliged to start this entry with a rowdy ‘Yee-haw’ and a slap of the thigh, because this bar is a super-sized slice of apple pie Americana. This President of the United States of Sports Bars comes with a dizzying collection of 76 HDTVs, a retro arcade wall, pool table and of particular interest to this round up — a rootin’, tootin’, late night breeze-shootin’ shaded terrace with views of Yas Marina’s boating swag. They also have great deals on weekend roasts (Dhs99), Tuesday 2-for-1 deals, a lads’ night on Saturdays, a quiz night on Mondays, and their Friday ‘Marina Brunch’ begins at Dhs199. a Stars ‘N’ Bars, Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Wed noon to 1am, Thur to Fri noon to 2am. Tel: (02) 565 0101. @starsnbarsad
W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is a whole on-key vibe, so it follows that their pool complex would be the preferred pool-adjacent lounging space for the capital’s discerning dip connisseurs. Their Sunday to Friday deals ‘Daydream at Wet Deck’ deal is just Dhs150 per adult and you get the full amount back to drop on food and drinks. Relax in sublime supine between midday to 8pm, with a Wet Deck welcome pack that includes a bottle of water, ice lollies and access to those luxurious purple cushion loungers. Pulse is their Thursday night session with big beats and submerged seats and comes with a three hour beverage package (ladies Dhs150, gents Dhs200). And ‘Soak it Up Saturdays’ also come with their own daytime drinks deals (ladies Dhs160, gents Dhs220 for three hours). a W Lounge, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. Tel: (02) 656 0000. @WAbuDhabi
11 The Green The Green is a ‘pop-up pub garden’ on the grounds of Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, offering live entertainment seven nights a week. During the week, between Sunday and Thursday, the timings are 4pm to 1am, whilst on Fridays and Saturdays you get an extended 11am to 1am stint. On Fridays, experience Music Fest with live music from David Howard, Kevin Carey & Friends. Saturday at The Green come fully Dominic Toretto approved, being as they are, for the family. The 11am to 3pm FamJam session includes access to giant bouncy castles, interactive kids’ games and a serenade from The International Playboys’ lead singer, Nicola Warwick. a Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Al Mushrif, Shakhbout Bin Sultan St, Sun to Thu 4pm to 1am, Fri and Sat 11am to 1am. Tel: (056) 112 2072. @thegreenabudhabi What’s On_31
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EAT + DRINK + SHOP RATING FOOD A+ to CVIBE Family Friendly Party Casual Romantic Fancy PRICE (FOR TWO) Up to Dhs249 Dhs250 to Dhs749 Dhs750+
PA G E 37
A homegrown triumph Tasting the goods at Niri Restaurant & Bar NOLU’S p35 RAY’S BAR p39 LOCK IN PICS p40 What’s On_33
C O N S U M E
EAT // REVIEW
NOLU’S
Afghan cuisine meets the sunshine state for the new branch of this What’s On Award winner f you’ve lived in Abu Dhabi for a little while, chances are you already know Nolu’s. With four branches now scattered around town, Nolu’s has been delivering its clever Afghan-California fusion cuisine to diners since 2012. But it’s newest branch in Khalidiyah may be its most inspired yet. It’s the same menu, of course, but the décor is airy, bright and eclectic with a fun origami bird theme. You feel healthier just by walking in. If you know Nolu’s, you know that the food is simple but with complex flavours and served in generous portions with a flair that highlights the freshness of the ingredients rather than soaking them in a slurry of unctuous sauce. Its breakfasts are an amazing way to start the day. We opted for the anti-aging and protein blast smoothies. While we can’t vouch for how true they are to their
I
names in terms of effectiveness, they are delicious, replete with a bevy of fresh fruit and unique ingredients, including raw cacao. But we can’t leave without trying the Afghani specialities. For some background, the owner Marjon Ajami, was born in Afghanistan but moved to California with her family. They were restauranteurs so she was effectively born into the business. Her signature dishes are many, but we opt for the Afghani dumplings, mantou and ashak (beef and vegetarian). They are modest dumplings but their complex stuffing and sauces are bold and vibrant. You will need some of the signature bread (divvied out generously) to lap up all the beef ragout or yoghurt sauce. We left no trace that these dumplings ever existed.
We opted for salads as mains, a superfood bowl and the Nolu’s Salad, because the dumplings and bread were quite filling. Plates arrived brimming with colourful beetroot, kale, roasted squash, sugar snap peas, avocado and red cabbage. Tart and sweet pomegranate seeds danced on the tips of the greens and made these rainbow salads feel nourishing. We can’t wait to return for a burger or simply linger for hours on a WFH day in one of the birdcage-like seating areas with our laptops and a green juice. VERDICT: Nolu’s newest incarnation in Khalidiyah is a win for groups who are more or less palate curious and/or healthyish eaters. At the same table, you can discover decadent Afghani delights and chutneys, or sip a healthy and satisfying green juice, while another digs into one of the most succulent burgers in town. Turns out you can have it all at Nolu’s and feel great afterwards. a Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi daily, 9am to 11pm. Tel: (800) 66587. @nolusrestaurants RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� A Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������
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C O N S U M E
EAT // NEWS
Abu Dhabi Culinary Season returns
What to look out for during the capital’s favourite flavour fiesta
A
bu Dhabi Culinary Season is back with a packed schedule of events, tastings, special menus, thrilling discounts, celebrity chef encounters and in-depth tours through the city’s best restaurants. Various events have been planned over the course of the cuisine-scene carnival, which will be laying out an ever-evolving spread of gastrowizardry. Talking about the launch, HE Ali Hassan Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing at DCT Abu Dhabi said: “Following two years of evolution and growth, this year’s Abu Dhabi Culinary Season promises to cement Abu Dhabi’s standing as a must-visit destination for global ‘Gastronomads’, thereby supporting local establishments by generating footfall and revenue, and contributing to the emirate’s overall success in the tourism sector.”
Here are three events to look out for… 01
02
Chef Renzo Martin
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Time for table
When: Until November 27 Back for another delicious little lap of the foodie fest is Chef ’s Table. Here you get access to limited-time set menus, crafted by the creme de la cheffing creme of the city’s top restaurants, including LPM, Coya, Villa Toscana, Hakkasan, Buddha Bar and Beirut Sur Mer, at affordable prices.
For the love of craft
When: TBD Emirati cuisine will be put in the frame with The
Craftmanship Dinner, which is being held at Louvre Abu Dhabi in partnership with elite catering outfit Gaggenau. 03
The big top
When: Until January 30, 2022 Get ready for something you’ve never tried before, (vertiginously) high tea set to the backdrop of grand circque acrobats, all in the huge, appropriately spectacular lobby of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. q abudhabiculinary.ae
C O N S U M E
EAT // REVIEW
NIRI RESTAURANT AND BAR
Next-level dishes from the land of the rising sun e’ve not been shy about our love for the new beachfront foodie district, Mamsha Al Saadiyat (just look at our feature on p14). The destination on the northwest corner of Abu Dhabi’s ‘cultural district’ has culinary galleries for a reasonable spread of world cuisine, and today, we’re paying Japan a flying visit. Niri Restaurant and Bar was originally located at Yas Mall, but like the cherry-petalled sakura, it really seems to have blossomed in the fresh sea air. It’s a handsome venue, neatly replicating a modern Osakan izakaya. The interior is dominated by, appropriately enough, a mock cherry blossom tree in full bloom. There’s a long sushi bar, and sleek wooden finishes throughout. The wardrobe of the serving staff follows that same hemisphere-straddling stance, with kimono-inspired uniforms. We’re drawn to the theatrical cheffing going on behind the sushi bar, so pull up a stool to get a better view of the precision knifework. Within moments, a plate of pickles is delivered alongside a happy serving of kismet. There’s a lunchtime special on, Dhs99 for two select courses and a drink. A quick scan of the menu confirms that this is a scandalously good deal, so much so in fact that we’re immediately catfished by the offer to double up on starters for an extra Dhs20. With the kitchen busy preparing starter number one, the spinach nasu goma, Niri’s sushi chef begins the delicate dissection involved in plating our order of hamachi usuzukuri.
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Uniform, buttery-veined slices of yellowtail are arranged in a sort of sashimi mandala and covered in a ponzu-sesame dressing. Over and over, round and round, the just-marinated hamachi takes our palate on a joy ride that swerves between lanes of subtlety and intensity. The marbled mouthfuls of yellowtail, are rich but made a handsome partner to the tart ponzu sauce. It’s the other starter though that snatches the entreé crown. A tower of blanched spinach folded into roasted aubergine, a simple concoction but heavy on those round autumnal mouthfuls. Our choice for main course also attracts a small supplimentary charge of Dhs20 (there are however five other options that do not), the miso suzuki, which despite
sounding like the model name for a mid range hatchback, is an certified G-Class on the plate. A plump and puffy grilled fillet of seabass is served alongside a shiro miso mirepoix, and white rice. You get a good meaty heft with the fish element of this dish, and a charred umami that cascades down through the miso mirepoix pairing. Our sole taste-based note is one of personal preference — the miso mirepoix sauce is a little overpowering, but comes conveniently served on the side. Verdict: Chewing on the last few moments of our time at Niri, we’re persuaded that this restaurant is an excellent addition to the Saadiyat dining scene. It makes a respectful bow to haute Japanese cuisine and steps well beyond the well-trodden paths of sushi and ramen restaurants in the capital. The fact that it’s licensed for adult drinks offers another way to enjoy the venue, a choice spot for seaview sundowners alongside some next level nibbles. a Mamsha Al Saadiyat, daily to 11pm. Tel: (02) 546 8886. @niriabudhabi RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������AAtmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������
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MEET THE CHEF
CHEF YOSUKE MATSUOKA Meet the man at the helm of Tori No Su’s re-opening I have very fun memories of my first job as a chef. It was at a small fusion French restaurant in Osaka. My master chef was strict, but I loved it because everyone had so much passion. We’d arrive at the restaurant at 10am and finish at 10pm, working six days a week, and then every night we’d all go out and party. Being a chef has taught me that everyone has a different preference and standard. It’s an obvious quality but the most difficult to manage. Winning lots of awards over 25 years has not been my proudest achievement. It was my dream to live all over the world. I’ve lived in seven countries working as a chef. I’ve experienced so many cultures and made good friend everywhere. That’s what I’m most proud about. The dining scene in Abu Dhabi is getting bigger, with more exciting concepts coming to town. Even at Tori No Su, our guests want to see new things on the menu. That’s why we have chef ’s specials to ensure a guest’s experience is never the same each time they visit. Last day on earth? My last meal would be Wagyu sando, the Tori no su ramen, and mochi ice cream. a Conrad Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, Wed to Mon 7pm to midnight. @torinosu. conradetihadtowers
BAR MONTH O F
Ray’s Bar
T H E
Is it really an ‘elevated bar experience’? We arrive at the arching columns of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers just after dusk on an autumn Friday night. As the sun’s last light lingers low on the horizon, we ride the elevator to the 62nd floor. The carriage slows to a stop, a tinnySiri clone announces our arrival and the scuffle-board sounds of a lively night spot sluice throw the opening elevator doors. We’re here at Ray’s Bar, a venue that, on first impressions, could have been quantum-teleported, atom-by-atom, from Manhattan’s Lower East Side. There’s a vein of polished urbanity running right through it. It’s civilised and sophisticated, but somewhere below the surface, there’s something altogether more edgy. An element of that Big Apple buzz comes from the neon blue statement lighting and, in no small part, those other twinkling city lights in the virtiginous view beyond the yawning windowscape. As we scan the seating nooks, there’s an exciting mix of clientele. We could imagine big handshake deals being done here, (signoff for ‘the Johnson account’), then, just a few tables along, a pair of newly signed
imaginary rap hopefuls toast to their fictional success. It’s not pretentious, though. Ray’s passes all kinds of vibe checks, it just doesn’t care about slowing down to get the result. There is an apothecary of blended mixology on offer, whisked up by skilled bartenders with steady hands. We sample a pair of signature ensembles — aromatic, profiled, it is faultless alchemy. It is the perfect place for a date night, too. The ambient DJ-spun soundtrack fills the space, but whether sitting at the long sleek bar or one of the sofas, the volume permits deep courtship-brand conversations. And although the menu is a little limited, mainly nibbles with a few more substantial sandwiches, in this hotel you’re only ever a short stroll away from a catalogue of other A-List dining options. Verdict: We love the network of alfresco haunts in the capital, but sometimes you yearn for more traditional nights. And Ray’s is an important part of Abu Dhabi’s entertainment identity, and is without a doubt one of our favourite. a Level 62, Conrad Abu Dhabi, W Corniche Road, Tue to Sat 6pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 811 5666. @raysbarabudhabi What’s On_39
LOCKED AND LOADED
In October, What’s On took over Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers for our 2021 finale
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n what was the fastest-selling Lock In of all time, our allocation of 50 rooms flew off the shelves for Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Hardly surprising really given the property’s calibre. It is one of the emirate’s most prestigious hotels, instantly recognisable by the iconic columns reaching up from their privileged perch on the Corniche. The extravagance continues inside with a collection of A-list dining venues, decadent rooms and an expansive pool and beach complex. This really is a top tier staycation, and it gave us great pleasure to be able to share it with our friends. To relive that glorious, two-day event again and again in our minds, we put together some of the best photos from that weekend. 40_What’s On
What’s On_41
Exclusive paintings, sculptures and photography from award-winning international artists. Photograph by Greg Newington
Sculpture by Armin Shahhosseini
Painting by Andrew Vicari
ART + THEATRE + FILM + MUSIC
PA G E 44
Art attack
Unmissable culture events this month FILM p46 REGIONAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT p50
THE AGENDA Our pick of the top culture-related events this month around the UAE
ABU DHABI
For more cultural plans happening in the UAE, visit whatson.ae
/EXHIBITION/
Modernisms: Iranian, Turkish, and Indian highlights from NYU’s Abby Weed Grey Collection The museum-gallery re-opens its doors this month with this exhibition packed with prints, drawings, paintings and sculptures, all of which were collected by Abbey Grey during her trips to Iran, India and Turkey. Visitors will find the collector’s personal letters, journals, invoices, catalogues, invitations, and photographs from the Abby Weed Grey Papers in the NYU Archives. November 15 to Feb 5, 2022 a The NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Art Gallery, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)2 628 4000. nyuad-artgallery.org/ 44_What’s On
/EXHIBITION/
Warehouse421 Two exhibitions can be seen at Warehouse421 this autumn. As We Gaze Upon Her is an exhibition that attempts to expand the notion of women that is often constrained by social, cultural, and existential
insecurities and So Different, So Appealing offers a parodic light on the strategy used by real estate to conjure up human desire. Throughout November a Warehouse 421, Zayed Port, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)2 676 8803. warehouse421.ae
CULTURE
DUBAI /MUSIC DANCE/
AND
Riverdance at Expo 2020
Photo: Getty
Grammy Award-winning music and dance performance, Riverdance, will be gracing the stage of Jubilee Park and Al Wasl Plaza at Expo 2020 Dubai in November. Riverdance is celebrating 25 years of success with this unique 25th Anniversary Show that will include Arabic culture and influences. From November 4 to 27 a Expo 2020 Dubai, ireland.ie/expo and expo2020dubai.com
/PERFORMANCE/
Andrea Bocelli, Believe World Tour The world-famous tenor is returning to Dubai with his Believe World Tour. The concert will feature many of Bocelli’s beloved timeless ballads and operatic masterpieces. November 8 a Events Arena, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai. Prices start from Dhs750. Tel: (0)50 768 6418. mpremiere.com /THEATRE/
The Play That Goes Wrong Murphy’s Law wreaks pandemonium at this play within a play at The Junction. It’s the opening night of Whodunnit - Murder at Haversham Manor and unfortunately, things go wrong… very wrong. It’s mayhem at every turn and all the cast, crew and director can do is try their best to make it to the end. Theatregoers can expect a non-stop funny ride from start to finish. November 18 to 20 a The Junction, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 338 8525. thejunctiondubai.com What’s On_45
CULTURE
FILM
Kristen’s royal role
NEW RELEASES
Photo: Getty
Kristen may be best known for her role the Twilight series, but her filmography extends far past the franchise, starring in movies like Into The Wild, Panic Room, and the Charlie’s Angels reboot. This month, she takes on the role of Princess Diana in Spencer, one already tipped for Oscar nods. On the reception of Spencer “It’s a little nerve-wracking. I hope everyone’s happy with it. Sometimes you have to just cancel out the noise, and just have your own fantasy – I hope somewhere she’s watching.” On preparing her voice to play Diana “She’s so bubbly and buoyant. Something about the California accent sort of falls flat like a brick and she’s like bubbles. Lightening up was the focus for me.” On her opinion of Diana “The idea for someone to want to make others feel good, while personally feeling so bad, and be so generous with her energy, well we haven’t had many people like that in our history.” On fame “The most photographed woman in the entire world. I have tasted a level of that personally but nowhere near that monumental symbolic representation of an entire country.” On how Spencer differs from other biopics of the Royal Family “The movie doesn’t provide any new information. It imagines a feeling, and my impression can only be my own. Diana was a woman that wanted to build connection, and I hope this movie bridges gaps. There’s nothing salacious about our intention.”
46_What’s On
★★★★
Spencer
DIRECTOR: Pablo Larraín CAST: Kristen Stewart, Jack Farthing, Timothy Spall, Sean Harris
A devastating portrait of a Princess Hit Netflix series The Crown has proved beyond any reasonable doubt that we, the viewing public, love a little nose around in the dramatised private lives of the British royal family. And the regal voyuer stories don’t get more emotive than that of Diana, Princess of Wales. Kristen Stewart takes on what could be a careerdefining role here (in fact, the noise out of the Venice Film Festival is that it will almost certainly lead to a first Oscar nod for Stewart), the ill-fated ‘commoner’ that married into the aristocracy, weathering tabloid rumours of affairs and impropriety, and who ultimately met a tragic and untimely death. This film, written by Steven ‘Peaky Blinders’ Knight, focuses on the events that occur in the 1991 Christmas celebrations at Sandringham, a pivotal ‘make or break’ moment in the lives of those concerned. Our pick for top lip-biting ‘no they didn’t’ moment in the trailer: “Will they kill me, do you think?”.
ETERNALS
★★★★★
DIRECTOR: Chloé Zhao CAST: Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Kit Harington, Salma Hayek, Angelina Jolie First of all, a standing ovation to Marvel for managing to get Academy Award-winning Chloé Zhao in the director’s chair, an odd flex yes, but we can’t wait to see what the storysmith behind Nomadland and The Rider does with a comic book space odyssey. In
Ghostbusters: Afterlife
Photo: Marvel Studio
House of Gucci
Eternals
Marvel lore, The Eternals are an immortal alien race who were put on earth 7,000 years ago to protect humans from the Deviants. The murderous hellspawn variety, as opposed to the creepy internet dude subset. Our biggest takeaway from the trailer, is that jangly spellbinding vortex of Dr Strange-esque CGI, this will be a spectacle. If and how the film tackles the ‘multiverse’ fallout from the Disney+ Loki series, remains to be seen but having a whole movie devoted
to these fundamental characters right at the opening of MCU Phase Four, sets up the possibility of a genuinely thrilling trajectory for the saga storyline. The cast is pretty impressive, too, including a Game of Thrones set reunion for Winterfell’s most famous sons, Richard Madden and Kit Harington.
HOUSE OF GUCCI
★★★★★
DIRECTOR: Ridley Scott CAST: Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Salma Hayek, Al Pacino, Jared Leto The tumultuous tale behind the production of this movie neatly parallels that of the story it’s telling. Work began back in 2006, with Ridley Scott locked in as director and Angelina Jolie and Leonardo DiCaprio rumoured to star. Three director swaps and multiple actor shifts later, Scott found himself back in charge of a cast that included Adam Driver playing Maurizio Gucci, Lady Gaga as Patrizia Reggiani and a
virtually unrecognisable Jared Leto as Paolo Gucci. The story is built around the real life family behind one of high fashion’s most powerful dynasties. We’re robed in mink and whisked through three decades of love and revenge, passion amd betrayal, cat walks and Karama knockoffs, culminating in the tragic murder of Maurizio Gucci. From the trailer, the wardrobe collections look to be all you might hope for in a film about Gucci. The cast is another glittering ensemble with Lady Gaga in particular delivering some mesmerising lines.
GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE
★★★★
DIRECTOR: Jason Reitman CAST: Paul Rudd, Finn Wolfhard, Carrie Coon, Bill Murray Let’s be clear, we did not hate the female-led 2016 reboot of the classic sci-fi comedy, Ghostbusters. The Kate McKinnon, Melissa What’s On_47
CULTURE McCarthy and Kristen Wiig felt like the forbidden triangle of a comic ouija board. That being said, the fact that this 2021 movie is a straight sequel to the two original 1980s Ghostbusters film, has got us dribbling a little bit of anticipatory ectoplasm. It has some strong spirit DNA — a cast featuring the vampirically youthful Paul Rudd and Finn Wolfhard (of Stranger Things fame, and this trailer has big Stranger Things vibes), retro gadgets, rumours of role reprisals and a trailer that teases Zuul-esque appendages. But will it all get messy with two separate timelines and a sequel dropping more than 30 years after the movie it’s supposedly following? Not if you follow Egon’s first rule of Ghostbuster club: Never cross the streams.
CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG
★★ ★★
DIRECTORS: Walt Becker CAST: Jack Whitehall, Darby Camp, Sienna Guillory, John Cleese Clifford The Big Red Dog has been adapted from the children’s book series of the same name. Why? Because that’s what we do now. No childhood memory is sacred. Truth be told, we learnt very little from the two-minute trailer that could not be gleaned from the two seconds it takes to read the title. Clifford is a dog, a red dog in fact, and one that is unsually large. In the trailer we’re subjected to an incidental ‘giant slobbery puppies do the darndest things’ montage, some ‘smell the wind’ acting from comedy legend Jack Whitehall, but very few hints 48_What’s On
about the actual plot. We can crack that code, though. It will almost certainly follow the ‘films about children and unsual creatures’ formula — where a hunter/scientist/ government/evil corporation wants to steal the creature for a trophy/experiment/ profit. Spoiler alert, they won’t get away with it, and everyone except the parents dragged along to watch this will live happily ever after.
KING RICHARD
★★★★★
DIRECTOR: Reinaldo Marcus Green CAST: Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton Not Shakespeare, and certainly not a tragedy – King Richard is a crucible story, watching over the genesis of two all-time sporting greats. It’s also a story about, and in fact
Clifford The Big Red Dog
named after, a dedicated, visionary father and his role in taking young Venus and Serena Williams and shaping them into the players they’re destined to become. The biggest, ‘we’re not crying, you are’ moment in the trailer? “You’re not gonna just be representing you, you’re gonna be
representing every little black girl on Earth” – “I’m not gonna let you down” – “How could you?” We all know Will Smith loves biopic roles that give him an opportunity to tug on our collective heartstrings, and if this is served correctly... it could be one of his best character portrayals yet. King Richard
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CULTURE
Music that’s good for the soul
Flash Entertainment continues its Regional Artist Spotlight initiative to champion regional music talent
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ebanese-Palestinian independent singerrapper Anees strongly believes that music is meant to heal. It’s with this mantra in mind that makes him focus on creating music that he says is “good for the soul…” How did you first get into music? I was raised in a musical home. Growing up, we had a tiny house, but a third of it was a space we called the ‘music room’. I think I had no choice but to get into music. I was immersed in rhythm and melody from day one. But my artistry started when I was 15 years old and I tried freestyling for the first time. The thrill of stringing rhymes and melodies together on the fly was a life-changing feeling. There was no going back. Ever since, music has been my therapy.
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How would you describe the music that you make? My music is genre-less. I don’t fit into any single box. I have a fusion of pop, hip-hop, R&B, soul, and a number of other genres. But aside from the ‘sound’ of my music, I would say that the tone is best described as ‘healing music’. I make music from my soul to connect with yours. That’s the sort of music I love most, so that’s the music I feel called to create. Who are the artists, or people, who inspire you? Too many artists to name but let’s choose five: Lauryn Hill, India Arie, John Mayer, Jim Croce, and Immortal Technique. Outside of music,
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my inspirations are my loved ones, my family, and my closest friends. But in truth, anyone who has the courage to choose to follow their heart inspires me. Dreamers inspire me. People who defy fear inspire me. What are your latest musical successes? This month, we hit five million total streams on Spotify – that was wild. I just started releasing music last year. So, we have come a long way in a relatively short period of time. I also just released a an R&B song What lovers do, that was a major goal of mine. Stepping even further out of the ‘box’ and creating a whole new sound was a big win.
What is your creative process like? My creative process almost always starts with freestyling. I like to let my creative impulse lead the way. I’ll sit down, maybe with a beat, maybe in silence, and record myself as I spit out melodies, hooks, and verses. Then once I’m done, I’ll listen to the recording and pick my favorite nuggets of gold. From there, I’ll sit with my lyrics, sometimes for months. I’ll massage them until they tell the story that feels right. It feels like writing a novel. I want the narrative to be served. What has been the biggest obstacle of your career? Fear. The fear of time,
from inside your heart before it can be shared. My latest release What lovers do dropped in October. It’s a song about burning romance. I know what it feels like to love someone deeply and to pray that the feelings are mutual, so I made an R&B song about that emotion.
“I LOVE WHAT I DO. FOR THAT REASON ALONE, I’M A SUCCESS” judgment, and success. Whenever fear creeps into the picture, only bad things follow. In my more anxious moments, I tend to let my fears take the wheel. Finding a way to remove fear from the creative process, or at least ignore fear, is an ongoing challenge for me. Once I overcome that obstacle, I think my greatest, most beauitful work will come out. What is the highlight of your career so far? Having the strength to listen to my heart and defy my fears. That was the greatest decision I’ve ever made, second only to marrying my wife. Whatever numbers, awards, or recognition comes is up to God, but the fact that I am a full-time artist is something I’m immensely proud of. I love what I do every day. For that reason alone, I am a success.
Where have you performed? I just performed at MusikFest with my brother Zach Matari. It felt amazing to share the stage with someone who I genuinely care about as an artist and a friend. That’s has to top the list for me. But to be honest, it was my first ever live performance, so it wins by default. But in 2022, we are hitting festivals and touring non-stop. It’s time to go meet my fans in person. What are your latest releases? What is the story behind them? In April, I dropped Slip, a love song about my wife. It’s playful and passionate. It’s the story of our love. In July, I dropped Drunk on myself, a self-love song. This song speaks on the importance of loving yourself first. I wrote it to remind my listeners that love must emanate
Which one of these releases is your favourite and why? I’d say that What lovers do is my favourite for two reasons. One, because it is the latest release. I try to stay as present-minded as I can be. Whatever song I am currently focused on is going to get my favour. But it’s also simply my best work. It’s so much more dynamic than my previous songs. It’s got groove, texture, passion, melody, and punch. I feel I evolve as an artist with every song, and What lovers do is proof of that evolution. Are you working with any other artists right now? Yes. But I have to keep that information DL for now. Once we’re ready to announce those collabs, I know my fans will be thrilled. I’ve been blessed to connect with incredible artists who I admire. Social media has really opened those doors for me, so shoutout to my followers who continuously tag artists in my posts. I can promise this: 2022 is going to be a year of collaboration for me.
blessing and I’m forever in awe of its splendor. Once I’m a truly global artist, I will buy a farm and spend my days surrounded by the colours, sounds, sights, and scents of Earth. What does your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you? I am absolutely humbled to be featured on the Regional Artist Spotlight. I feel honoured to showcase and I hope I can bring peace, joy and love to everybody who finds my art through this Spotlight. As an independent artist, gaining exposure to a global audience is a dream come true. I don’t take this opportunity lightly. It’s a blessing. I am forever grateful to y’all for deeming me worthy of your time, your attention, and your focus. What is your top 5 afterparty playlist? 1. What’s Luv? – Fat Joe ft. Ja Rule & Ashanti 2. Back Then – Mike Jones 3. Kiss Me – Sixpence None The Richer 4. Gone – Nsync 5. What Lovers Do – Anees q @RegionalArtistSpotlight; @aneestherapper
What is your passion outside of music? Nature. I love the trees, the birds, the bees, the clouds, the water, the baby blue skies and the sounds. I think our planet is our greatest What’s On_51
R EA D TH E STO RY O F A YO U N G B OY' S
J OU R N EY TO BEC O M IN G A S U PER H ERO. . . B O O K
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SPORT + WELL-BEING + TRAVEL
PA G E 56
Bite of the Big Apple A New York food guide BOUTIQUE GYMS IN ABU DHABI p54 What’s On_53
A C T I V E
SPORT // BEST BOUTIQUE GYMS
Let’s get physical
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The best boutique gyms in Abu Dhabi 01
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Crank
Erth
Chic boutique fitness outfit, Crank Abu Dhabi recently opened its doors at Sheikha Fatima Park and has been putting the city’s fitties through their paces from the jump. The brand offers 45-minute programmes of intense cycle fitness, getting riders to incinerate those kcals in churning sprints and endurance climbs, all in the glow of distinctly midnight rave ‘art lighting’ aesthetics specially designed for the studios. And, importantly, the soundtrack rocks. Crank operates an innovative ride ranking system (if this thought fills you with dread, you are free to opt out), which allocates points according to your pedal power and torque settings, and then puts you on a leader board at the front of the class. In the Dubai locations, they offer Shape and Stretch classes, which don’t seem to be available in Abu Dhabi just
Etizan, the colossal fitness complex at hotel Erth (formally known as the Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel), probably doesn’t qualify as boutique. The recreational hub is legitimately stacked with an Olympic range of sporting activities, including a 3,500 sqm gym, tennis courts, multiple football pitches (including a fully FIFA-certified 11-a-side pitch), a boxing studio, martial arts space, an eight-lane-indoor-tournament-spec pool, facilities for gymnastics, aerobics, squash, bowling, track and field, volleyball, basketball, shooting and Jiu Jitsu. But something they do offer is everybody’s fave new court sport, padel tennis, with rental from Dhs240. a Erth, Khor Al Maqta, gym day passes from Dhs151, padel court rental from Dhs240, football pitch rental from Dhs504. Tel: (02) 497 5229. etizan.ae
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yet – fingers crossed for the future. Pro tip: they give new riders a discounted trial session, but be careful, once you Crank, there’s no turning back. a Sheikha Fatima Park, 8.30am to 7.30pm from Dhs60 for trial. Tel: (04) 321 2095. @crank.uae
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F45 This Aussie-born cult fitness brand has a reputation for fierce but fair workouts, with dramatic conditioning results. The classes combine a mixture of HIIT sessions, functional training (which is where the ‘F’ comes from in the name), circuit training and a cool-down period where you lock your trainer in the eyes and mouth obscenities at them (Okay, that last part is entirely optional). Each 45minute class is designed to burn fat, build muscle, improve functional form, torch up to 1,000 calories, make you sweat through your eyeballs and dry wretch over a bin, at least the first time. There’s no doubt that this outfit changes lives. It physically vibrates with positivity and community, it gets results fast and comes with a threeday free trial. a Zayed Sports City, Main Football Stadium, Dhs105 per class, unlimited month pass for Dhs1,100, discounts for multi-month purchases. Tel: (056) 332 3113. F45_training_zayedsportscity
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Motion The hugely popular Dubai cycling studio, Motion, recently opened an Abu Dhabi location on Al Reem Island. Part of the brand’s success has been built on the fact you can burn up to 1,000 calories per ride. The intense workouts have candlelit sessions (which sound deliciously trippy), women-only options, and R&B backed classes – all lead by an expert team focused on keeping you motivated and pushing harder. a Office 461, Floor 4, Wafra Square building, Al Reem Island, cycling classes from Dhs50 ( for first ride). Tel: (055) 8530 0836. motion-cycling.ae
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Punch Yeah circuits are fun, but have you ever tried launching your fists into an indestructable punch bag for 50 minutes while a plasma storm light show goes off all around you. *Ding ding*. Step into the
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Strike Fitness
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gym/ring for HIIT, classic and ladies-only sessions at Punch, and fight yourself fit. More than just a spot of fisticuffs with an inanimate sack, these HIIT workouts obviously work on your overall fitness and focus on you knocking that ‘UAE stone’ clean out. The classic classes go deeper into the skills and techniques behind the gentleperson’s sport of pugilism, tightening up your footwork, jab combos, and defensive postures, as well as helping you develop strength, speed and agility. a Punch Boxing Club, Zayed Sports City, Dhs100 for one class (newbies get two for one), and it’s Dhs800 for an unlimited month pass. Tel: (02) 666 9717. @punchuae
This flex squad help you get those gains on the grains — they’re offering tickets to the sun show as well as the gun show, and a wide range of fitnness classes (from as little as Dhs60) on the Corniche beach. There are expert-led sessions in yoga, BoxStrike, calisthenics, HIIT, muay thai, circuits and boxing, all in the glorious, wall-less dojo of the great outdoors. You’ll find them at Al Bahar at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, next to Abu Dhabi Marine, so if you fancy doubling down on that alfresco flexing, you’ll find a comprehensive selection of watersports activties just a short walk away. a Al Bahar, Abu Dhabi Corniche, single class rates from Dhs75. Tel: (050) 303 2594. @xstrikeuae
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A C T I V E
A bite of the
The ‘Key to NYC’ health pass has opened the city – and its phenomenal dining scene - to vaccinated travellers from some countries, including the UAE. Here’s exactly why the 13-hour trip is worth it, and where you should be eating…
Roberta’s Pizza
Bushwick and South Williamsburg Now nearly 15 years old, Roberta’s has managed to become and remain the definition of a hipster Brooklyn restaurant. The original spot in Bushwick is a grungy compound of a space. The newest branch in South Williamsburg is lighter, brighter and more modern. But you don’t go to Roberta’s just for Brooklyn people-watching or the décor. You go for the wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza, like the famed Bee Sting, with sopressata and hot honey. q @robertaspizza
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Photo: Getty
Big Apple
Grand Banks Hudson River Park
On a warm evening at golden hour, there is no better place to be in Manhattan than aboard Grand Banks, a celebrated oyster bar on the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker. Showcasing wild-caught and sustainably harvested east and west coast oysters, and perfectly executed nautical-themed cocktails, it’s easily one of the best foodie experiences to enjoy in the city. q @grandbanks
Via Carota West Village
ABC Kitchen Flatiron
Jean-Georges Vongerichten may be a major celebrity chef with a worldwide empire of restaurants, but he’s also one of the OG titans of the New York fine dining scene. And among his dozen Manhattan restaurants, ABC Kitchen has stayed the epitome of Downtown New York dining since it opened in 2010. The menu is organic, local, and sustainable, and it’s the sort of place where sightings of every celebrity from Martha Stewart to Kanye West are a weekly occurrence. q @abckitchen
Katz’s Delicatessen Lower East Side
This romantic, walk-in, no-reservations West Village restaurant is down to earth yet delicious. It is an exercise in anticipation; one where waiting is just part of an experience. Carnivores will find satisfaction in a hearty bowl of wild boar ragu pappardelle. Much of the menu is plant-based, too, and many will delight in minty artichokes with homemade aioli, and the simple, salty cacio e pepe you’ve been dreaming of. Probably while waiting to get a table to eat it. q @viacarota
If New York had a flavour, it would be pastrami. And Katz’s is the undisputed pastrami king of NYC. This sprawling LES institution has been serving thick-cut, meltingly tender pastrami on rye since 1888. Take an order ticket at the door and go straight to the counter where a row of gruff guys cut meat to order. Also, remember to tip them, and do not, under any circumstances, lose your ticket. q @katzsdeli
Smorgasburg Williamsburg
After a year off due to the pandemic, NYC’s iconic outdoor food market reopened its locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, but we think its flagship location in Williamsburg at the Marsha P Johnson State Park every Saturday is the best. There are more than 50 vendors in attendance, so making a decision on what to eat is the ultimate conundrum, but you can’t really go wrong. We suggest a cup of multicoloured baos (@maosbao), a couple of Korean rice hotdogs (@ohkdognyc), and a watermelon juice, served in a whole watermelon (@johnsjuice). q @smorgasburg
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A C T I V E
TRAVEL // NEW YORK CITY
WHERE T O S TAY DINING AT MO LOUNGE
Mandarin Oriental New York Central Park
The conventional route with hotels – as with most buildings – is to 01 start from the bottom up. The ground floor. This well-established wisdom is, thankfully, eschewed at the Mandarin Oriental New York, which occupies floors 35 to 54 02 of a tall skyscraper off of Columbus Circle. Thankfully, because their lofty perch brings with it views of Central Park, the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline that can only 03 be described as breath01 MO Lounge 02 Hudson taking. Rooms are River View Room 03 New impressive, with Art Deco dishes at MO Lounge touches mixing nicely 04 Hotel Lobby with hints of Asia; subtle creams and beiges alongside the occasional splash of colour of Asian artwork. Marble bathrooms further the luxurious feel, while flat-screen TVs – with the usual myriad of frenetic US channels – both in the bedroom and the bathroom bring a touch of homely familiarity.
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The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly that incredible view, and with floor-to-ceilings windows flooding the vista in, it’s hard not to spend your entire stay simply stood, staring out. Rooms rates start at USD745 (Dhs2,763) for the Hudson River View Room. q mandarinoriental.com
Just in time for our stay, Mandarin Oriental, New York unveiled new dining experience, MO Lounge, and announced the appointment of Chef Toni Robertson as F&B Director. Located on the hotel’s 35th floor, MO Lounge offers an all-day menu of elevated comfort food and well-crafted cocktails while providing spectacular views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. Standouts include the mushroom charsiu featuring oyster mushrooms with Chinese BBQ sauce, pickled radish, and whipped almond cream; wonton noodle soup with chicken and shrimp wonton, char siu pork, poached eggs, shitake mushroom, and bok choy; and NY steak bites with black garlic truffle butter.
TRAVELLING TO NEW YORK – HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 01 A New York ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is required for entry into New York, and must be completed online at least three days before travel. Print your approval
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document. Visit, esta.cbp. dhs.gov. 02 Print your vaccination certificate. You will need to show proof of vaccination to dine inside anywhere across New York City.
03 All international arrivals are required to present a negative PCR test, no older than 72 hours. 04 To return to the UAE, you’ll also need to present a negative PCR test, no older
than 72 hours. Test centres are open across New York and cost approximately Dhs570. Visit, alliance. health.
Discover the serene, ethereal desert landscape through this beautiful collection of images
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“My wish is to offer different frames of reference that transport you to a place that is suspended between reality and your imagination.” A N T H O N Y
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F I N D T H E B O O K AT A L L M A J O R R E TA I L E R S A C R O S S T H E U A E A N D O N B O O K S A R A B I A . C O M
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WIN!
A SHARK WALKER EXPERIENCE FOR TWO (WORTH DHS1,240) Enter now for your chance to experience the thrill of walking with sharks inside the 10-million-litre tank at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. You and your guest will wear an oxygenated helmet that allows you to breathe underwater, as you explore one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, which is home to over 400 sharks and rays, including the world’s biggest collection of sand tiger sharks. Best of all, your instructor will film your whole experience using his GoPro, so that you can share your experience with friends and family.
q For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win
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WIN!
DINNER FOR FOUR AT BLA BLA Experience a VIP culinary journey at The Restaurant inside Bla Bla and be one of the first in Dubai to try its fantastic new menu. With Italian and Japanese dishes such as tuna tartare, lobster ravioli and pan-seared halibut, you and your guests are in for a real treat at this JBR hotspot where you’ll each enjoy a threecourse menu and bottle of vino to share. If you’ve yet to visit, Bla Bla is a fantastic shoreside venue
situated at The Beach, Opposite JBR, with 20 bars, two restaurants and beach club, where guests are spoilt for choice for the ultimate day-to-night experience. So good in fact, that it just won Best Newcomer at the What’s On Nightlife Awards 2021. High praise, indeed.
q For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win
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LASTMINUTE TRIP Here’s why The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach is the tropical beach escape you need to try this month Few places in the UAE really offer supreme privacy quite like The RitzCarlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. Made up of 32 exclusive private villas with private pools, the boutique hotel offers a wonderful escape just 90 minutes from Dubai.
The location Close to Al Marjan Island, Al Hamra Beach feels like a very secluded area, yet conveniently located only a short five-minute drive away from shops and amenities. The drive from Dubai feels very fast, and the arrival experience begins with a five-minute boat ride to the welcome jetty. Technically, the hotel isn’t on an island, but this clever tactic sure makes it feel that way.
The look and feel Villas are lined up along a winding path, surrounded by high white walls and an abundance of greenery to create a completely private setting. The beach is vast and peaceful, and guests can enjoy a range of water sports, including kayaking. The resort is long, so if your room is at the far end, you’ll need to call the buggy to get to the restaurant or lobby.
The rooms The villas are inspired by Bedouin tents – if Bedouins had impeccable taste and were partial to chic monochrome furniture. We stayed in an Al Shamal Ocean View Villa, which has a large four poster bed complete with sheer white curtains facing a black and white leather storage unit from where a flat screen TV rises out. There’s a large 62_What’s On
“AL HAMRA BEACH IS THE TYPE OF RESORT WHERE YOU REALLY ESCAPE FROM THE WORLD...” bay window with a spacious reading nook, and a tray set up on arrival for us to DIY our own cocktails. Every inch of the space oozes luxury and all details have been considered to make guests feel at home.
The facilities Al Hamra Beach is the type of resort where you really escape from the world, so expect to spend the majority of your stay in your villa. It comes with a private pool, outdoor shower and bath tub, as well as a long path leading towards the beach, and a sundeck at the end to watch the sunset. The pool is perfectly chilled, and reaches a depth of 1.3 metres so you can properly submerge and relax, before making your way to the cabana to sunbathe. An Instagrammable floating breakfast was served not long after sunrise, on a wicker tray that balances on the water with a
selection of exotic fruits, eggs, coffee, pancakes, French toast and more.
The restaurant The resort has just the one restaurant, Shore House, a nautical themed all-day diner serving a variety of international dishes. Well presented and tasty, the food is clearly an important focus for the team, ensuring that the menu includes something for everyone, from pasta and risotto to steak and seafood.
The room rates A night in the Al Bahar Tented Villa during November starts from Dhs5,013, including breakfast, beach access and private pool. a The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach, Vienna Street, Ras Al Khaimah. Tel: (0)7 204 8888. ritzcarlton.com
REV UP YOUR RACE WEEKEND Steal the scene and live it up trackside at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. Feel the thrill as racecars swoosh by while you party at the capital’s ultimate luxury playground – are you ready to Rev Up?
For reservations wrevup.com 02 656 0000
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