Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 1



                       The Foodie’s Guide to                                        A journey through   the gastronomic   delights of Dubai        

 Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 2

Foreword by renowned chef and restaurateur Gary Rhodes

“Dubai is such a great place and somewhere I feel very much at home and comfortable. When the opportunity arose for me to open Rhodes Mezzanine at Grosvenor House Dubai, I didn’t hesitate to say yes and I’ve not looked back since. It’s such a great destination to get away and experience a unique Arabian adventure. One of my favourite places is actually the spice souk where fragrances and aromas of spices and seasonings will surround you. Holidaymakers are able to pick up a huge variety of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, incense and also nuts that are imported from all over the Middle East which are fantastic to include in the simplest of recipes. The spices are sold straight out of large open sacks and as well as being an incredible place to visit, it is a great place to get fantastic foodie souvenirs for friends and family.” Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 3

Introduction

Ian Scott, Director UK and Ireland for Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing

“Welcome to the Foodie’s Guide to Dubai! We at Dubai Tourism have created this guide to give you the chance to see just some of the fantastic culinary sensations on offer in the emirate. Dubai has a thriving gastronomic scene which both visitors and locals enjoy. We wanted to share what’s on offer so people know where best to go to suit their own foodie tastes when visiting Dubai and also give people the chance to recreate some of the delicious food at home.

Dubai’s rich cultural background, and indeed the many different nationalities and people that the emirate plays host to today, means that for holidaymakers Dubai is a fantastic foodie destination that can cater to every culinary need. From gastronomic excellence courtesy of Michelin Star chefs, to the delicious traditional delicacies of local restaurants, there’s something to cater for all tastes.

From local Arabian dishes, to Chinese and Indian, Mexican and Australian, European and even North Korean, Dubai caters for a huge range of international tastes, meaning holidaying food fans don’t have to travel far to sample cuisine from all corners of .” Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 4

A thriving metropolis for culinary excellence, ‘The Foodies Guide To Dubai’ will give you just a taster of the amazing delights on offer. Packed full of delicious recipes and restaurant recommendations the guide also offers top tips from the head chefs of some of Dubai’s restaurants including:

• Gary Rhodes, Mezzanine of Grosvenor House • The Ivy at Towers • The Rivington Grill in • Al Iwan at • Al Khayal at Hotel

We know from speaking to holidaymakers that food is a key factor when choosing a destination to travel to and people want choice both from the kind of food they can pick from, through to the price they want to pay. We also appreciate it can be difficult for families looking to choose where to take a break, especially if the kids are fussy eaters or you worry that there won’t be enough activities to keep the little ones entertained. To help showcase the extensive family offering the emirate has, we’ve added the below symbol to act as a guide on what in particular are stand out destinations for the family.

We hope you enjoy the gastronomic journey this guide will take you on and that it inspires your culinary choices both at home and on your travels. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 5

Grosvenor House – modern British cuisine in a dazzling setting

Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes and supporter of our Foodie Guide, brings the best of modern British cuisine to the Middle East, served in one of Dubai’s most stunning restaurants, Rhodes Mezzanine.

Price: £90/€103 for a three course menu for one excluding alcohol Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 6

Seared Spiced Scallops and Prawns with a pink grapefruit, avocado, mango and cucumber salad

[SERVES 2] INGREDIENTS PRAWN DRESSING Scallops halved 150g Chopped prawn shells Tiger prawns left over from peeling 2 tablespoons of sea salt 100g Shell on prawns, chopped 1 tablespoon mild curry powder Peeled zest of 1 lemon Pink grapefruit segments, 6 White peppercorns, cracked cut into small pieces 1 Bay leaf Avocado diced 1 Lemon juiced Cucumber diced 2 Cubes brown rock sugar Fresh mango diced ½ Pint olive oil Salt and pepper Method

For the dressing: Heat 1-2 tablespoons olive oil with the shells, claws and chopped prawns, lemon zest, peppercorns and bay leaf, cooking very gently – only simmering for a few minutes. Add the lemon juice and sugar cubes, once the sugar has dissolved add the remaining oil. Bring to a simmer and cook, infusing for 8-10 minutes, removing the bay leaf and peppercorns before blitzing in a liquidizer to break down all the shells. Pass through a fine sieve and season. Finish with a little squeeze of lemon juice.

For the salad, mix together a generous tablespoon of each of the diced avocado, cucumber, mango and grapefruit and season with salt and pepper, drizzling with the prawn dressing.

Grind in a pestle & mortar the salt and curry powder and use to season the prawns and scallops before sautéing in olive oil and butter. Place a prawn and scallop on a skewer, drizzling each skewer with prawn dressing. Serve with the salad. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 7

Other delicious restaurants available at Grosvenor Hotel Dubai

Indego – Michelin-starred Indian food

A contemporary Indian restaurant spear-headed by Michelin-starred chef, Vineet Bhatia. From the delicious marbled chocolate samosa with fresh berry rabdi, to the fresh lobster with spicy marsala sauce with mushrooms, Vineet’s passion for the exotic is evident.

Toro Toro – turning up the heat with some South American spice

Toro Toro is a dramatically decorated destination with an incredible floor-to-ceiling fireplace located at the edge of the marina. The setting provides the perfect backdrop for famed chef Richard Sandoval to offer an unbelievable Pan-Latin dining experience. With dishes from Buenos Aires to São Paulo, the fiery tastes of Latin America are thriving in the heart of Dubai. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 8

One of the world’s most iconic gastronomic names in Dubai

The Ivy, Dubai is situated in the heart of Dubai’s business district in The Boulevard of the luxurious and iconic Jumeirah . Serving lunch and dinner, this world famous restaurant offers a brasserie-style menu with a selection of Ivy classics.

Prices: £48/€55 per person for three courses excluding alcohol Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 9

Simon Conboy, Head Chef

Simon, Head Chef at The Ivy recommends visiting the fish market near Dhow Harbour, Al Meena while in Dubai which is a traditional shopping experience for early risers. Ensure you arrive before 6.30am and wear old shoes and clothes as it’s not somewhere to go if you don’t want to get involved.

The fish, meat and produce souq at Al Istigal/Al Nasr Street, is perhaps better for those who want a more gentile experience, but again the best bargains and freshest produce are snapped early so make sure you’re there before 8am. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 10

Beetroot and Persian Feta Salad, with mint, pomegranate and cucumber

INGREDIENTS [SERVES 4] 160g Creamy Persian feta cheese 2 Cucumbers 20g Picked watercress 4g Mint 5g Chives - cut into 1 inch sticks 10 Baby beetroot - roasted with thyme and olive oil

For the dressing ½ A garlic clove The juice of one lemon 125ml Extra virgin olive oil 1 Sprig of thyme 2 Shallots, halved 50ml Water 2g Honey Freshly ground salt and pepper to taste

For the garnish ½ A pomegranate 10g Toasted sliced almonds Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:33 Page 11

Method

Peel the cucumbers and cut into three inch lengths, then slice thinly lengthwise, until you reach the seeds, do not use any slices containing seeds. Cut the cucumber into 1cm wide strips, place in a colander and season with salt to remove any water. After twenty minutes, pat dry and mix with the watercress and herbs.

Remove the leaves from the top and the roots from the bottom of the baby beetroot and place in a tray with the thyme, olive oil and a little water. Cover with tin foil and roast in the oven until cooked ‘al dente’. Allow to cool naturally then wipe off the skin. Heat the grapeseed oil in a frying pan over a low heat and fry the almonds until golden brown. Wipe off any excess oil on a paper towel.

To make the dressing, whisk all ingredients together and season with the freshly ground salt and black pepper, then keep to one side. Cut the beetroot in half lengthwise and arrange on the plate, then crumble the feta in large pieces around and drizzle over a little dressing.

In a bowl mix the herb, cucumber and watercress. Mix with a little dressing and season with freshly ground pepper. Add to the plate and garnish the salad with pomegranate seeds and the toasted almonds. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 12

Downtown Dubai - authentic British food in a relaxed environment, great for all the family

Rivington Grill is located in Souk Al Bahar in the Old Town with stunning views of . The restaurant brings authentic British flavours to the Middle East with its internationally acclaimed hallmarks of quality and simple food and drink. The décor and design are minimalist and simple; white clothed tables, reclaimed style light fittings, wooden paneling, whitewashed walls, a traditional dark wood bar and modern artwork. An all-day casual dining concept serving lunch and dinner, Rivington Grill is great for families and holidaymakers looking for a relaxed yet delicious meal.

Prices: £15/ €17 for a 2 course menu(excluding alcohol) £17/ €19 for a 3 course menu (excluding alcohol) Valid from Sunday – Thursday 12pm to 4pm Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 14

Jumeirah Beach Hotel - Arabian delights in an opulent setting, perfect for a lavish foodie experience

Lebanese hospitality at the wonderful Al Khayal restaurant offers customers a warm greeting and the finest of Arabian flavours. With lavish interiors and inviting majilis-style seating, the restaurant is a truly Arabian experience. The charm is not only its delicious food and lavish Arabic design, but also it’s warm and impeccable service which makes a dining experience at Al Khayal a truly memorable one. With a great kids menu the restaurant is also a great place for children to try new and exciting foods. A live Lebanese band serenades guests with traditional Arabic tunes accompanied by an authentic belly dancer, making this foodie destination more than just a dining experience.

Prices: Average price of a meal (excluding drinks) is £40/€46 excluding alcohol Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 15

Maurice Fitzgerald, Executive Chef of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Al Khayal, gives an insight into what he loves about Dubai as well as some tips for recreating the traditional dishes of Dubai at home

“Dubai is a fascinating country with many areas of great historical interest including the huge array of traditional souks and the banks of the Creek – in fact Dubai was originally built on the banks of the Creek with a lot of trading taking place in the 1900’s with other Arabic countries.

My top tip when it comes to sourcing the best ingredients is only to use the freshest products, in particular when it comes to using spices and herbs - this makes the finished product taste so much better.” Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 16

Houmous [SERVES 2] INGREDIENTS 140g Chickpeas 6g Parsley leaves 90g Tahini 80ml Lebanese olive oil 4g Garlic 4g Paprika powder 7g Salt 2g Bicarbonate of soda 5g Lemon salt 2g Chopped parsley

Method

Soak the chickpeas overnight with the bicarbonate of soda.

The following day, wash the chickpeas thoroughly and then place in a large pan of boiling water. Before the chickpeas are completely cooked, remove a handful of them to be used later as garnish. Keep the heat on the remaining chickpeas until they are cooked thoroughly, then wash them again to remove the skins. The whole cooking process takes around two hours

Once completed, put the chickpeas in a strainer and then add some ice at the top to help chill the mix. Once this has chilled, put the chickpeas in a blender with the garlic, then mix until it resembles the texture of houmous. Add the tahini, salt, lemon salt and blend until you achieve a velvety smooth texture.

To ensure it retains its flavour, keep in the fridge for a few hours, and then dish it up.

Garnish with paprika, chopped parsley and the remaining chickpeas in the middle. Then add the parsley leaves and a splash of olive oil. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 17

Fried Kebbeh

INGREDIENTS [SERVES 2] 180g Top side of Beef (minced) 250g Brown Burgol (cracked wheat) 400g Minced lamb 10g Mint leaves 250g Red onion, chopped 40g Fried pine nuts 5g of each (white pepper, Arabic spices, cinnamon powder & cumin) 10g Salt 40g Corn oil 40g Tomato and lemon slices 20g Lolo rossa lettuce 80g Finely chopped romaine lettuce Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 18

Method

Dough preparation Wash the burgol (cracked wheat) with cold water and then strain. Once done, add all the minced lamb, 100g of chopped onion, mint leaves, white pepper, salt, cinnamon powder and cumin. Mix all together thoroughly in a mincer using the coarse cutter setting with some ice cubes. Keep in the fridge whilst preparing the rest of the food.

Filling preparation Sauté the rest of the onion with the oil until it turns a golden brown. Then add the already prepared minced lamb and mix until cooked. Once that’s sizzling, add in the fried pine nuts, salt and the rest of the spices. Mix all together until cooked through and then strain.

Finishing touches Take 35g of the dough and open it up with your finger, add some of the meat filling, and then close it again. Repeat this process with the remaining dough. Deep fry the mixture and dough, and then serve on a platter of chopped lettuce. Don’t forget to garnish with tomato and lemon slices too. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 19

Arabian delights in an opulent setting, perfect for a lavish foodie experience

In the heart of the world’s tallest building, flanked by golden columns and next to the opulent lobby fountain is Al Iwan, a dining destination where you can enjoy a taste of the finest Arabic cuisine.

With spectacular sea views during the day, Al Iwan is transformed into an intimate dining room by night, with luxurious tables and flickering candles.

Prices start at £60/€69 for lunch and £68/ €78 per person for dinner excluding alcohol Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 20

Emad Fares Zalloum, Al Iwan chef gives his top tips and recipes on how to create a delicious and luxurious Arabian dish

“My top tip for sourcing the best ingredients when creating the dishes is to take advantage of the spices that are easily available at the spice souk in Deira.

When it comes to recreating archetypal Arabian dishes when you’re back home, make sure you add fresh mint and spring onion to your Tabbouleh salad. For Fattoush, (a Levantine bread salad made from toasted pieces of pitta bread), add sumac powder and pomegranate molasses – this will intensify the flavours. Also, add lemon and crushed ice to your houmous creating a delicious refreshing texture.” Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 21

Chicken Kofta with Mushroom Sauce

INGREDIENTS [SERVES 2] 200g Minced chicken 50g Fresh tomato 20g Fresh zaatar (a Middle Eastern mix of oregano, thyme, sesame seeds and other herbs) 10g Thyme 10g Garlic 10g Lemon zest 10g Salt 10g White pepper 10g Black pepper 10g Cumin powder 50g Wild mushroom 50g Fresh white mushroom 10g Vava beans (or broad beans) 20g Butter 30g Akkawi cheese (a soft white brie type cheese) 20g Cheddar cheese 1 Thin slice of baked potato Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 22

Method

Sauce preparation Put the butter in a small pan and cook half the quantity of the wild and white mushrooms. Add salt, white pepper and black pepper with a little water, and boil for 10 minutes. Afterwards, put it in a blender and mix well. Then cook the rest of the mushrooms and the vava beans with butter for 3 minutes.

Chicken kofta preparation Finely chop the tomatoes, thyme, garlic and zaatar, and add to the lemon zest, salt, cumin powder, black pepper and mix it together. Take 100g of the minced chicken and mould it into a ball creating a hole in the centre. Stuff the hole with Akkawi cheese and close it up tightly. Once this process has been repeated with all the chicken, put it in the oven until golden brown at 1800c. Once cooked throughout, take it out of the oven and put the cheddar cheese on the top.

Presentation Put the mushroom sauce at the bottom of a deep plate. Then put the chicken kofta on top and pour the sautéed mushrooms and vava beans around the edge. Garnish with a thin slice of baked potato on the top. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 23

Aubergine Kebbeh [SERVES 2] INGREDIENTS 100g Aubergine 20g Mint leaves 100g Mixed peppers 30g Walnuts 30g White onion 50g Fresh tomato 20g Spring onion 20ml Grenadine molasses 20g Mint leaves

Method

Kebbeh stuffing Cut the aubergine into small cubes and fry on a medium heat. Finely chop the mixed peppers, white onion, spring onion, mint leaves, tomato and walnuts, and then add the grenadine molasses and salt. Once completed, mix all together and heat right through.

Kebbeh dough Soak the crushed wheat in water for 15 minutes. Mix the minced beef with the crushed wheat, onion, mint leaves, cumin powder, white pepper, and salt and crush all together into a dough. Take 40g of the kebbeh dough, make it into a ball with a hole inside, and then close it in an oval shape with pointed ends. Deep fry and cut it into two pieces. Then stuff it with the stuffing you prepared earlier.

Presentation Arrange the pieces on an oval plate and garnish it with the pomegranate seeds and mixed herbs. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 24

Fish Seyadiyah

INGREDIENTS [SERVES 2] 1kg Hammour fish (grouper) 10g Black pepper 500g American rice 20g Cumin powder 1kg Sliced onion 10g Cinnamon 100ml Olive oil 500ml Fish stock 50g Pine nuts 50g Butter 20g Cooking salt 50g Flour

Method

Boil a pan of hot water and add the cinnamon, salt, cumin and black pepper. Then fry the fish in another pan of olive oil until it turns golden and then add it to the hot water that has previously prepared. Use the same oil used for the fish to fry the onions until they turn a golden colour; once cooked add the onions to the boiling water. Once the fish is cooked through, separate from the water and pass the liquid through a colander to separate the onions – don’t throw the water out though.Use some of the same water to cook the rice and set aside the rest to use for preparing the sauce. Prepare a dark roux (using the flour and butter quantities above) combining on a medium heat until the mixture turns a dark blonde colour. Once it’s the right colour, start adding the remaining water stirring it in gently until all is combined and heated through. When it is ready add the lemon juice before taking it off the heat. Presentation After removing the bones from the fish, plate the rice and add the fish on top of the rice, decorated by spreading the fried onion and pine nuts on top. Add lemon slices to top off the dish. Serve the sauce on the side. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 25

Additional restaurant ideas that won’t break the budget

Dubai’s foodie scene is not just for big spenders, there is something for every budget. For holidaymakers looking for a tasty treat that’s great value for money there are plenty of options from a wide range of different cuisines. The following restaurants all offer great food for a great price giving visitors to the emirate the chance to sample the gastronomic delights of Dubai without breaking the budget. Karachi Darbar - Deira This buzzing restaurant serves tasty, great value Pakistani food. Prices from £/€ 5 - 20 Tel: +971 4 267 3131 Japengo Cafe - Souk With a chic interior and warm ambience, this friendly multi-national restaurant specialises in Sushi but also offers a delicious array of Chinese, Italian and Arabic dishes. Prices from £/€ 10 - 20 Tel: +971 4 341 1671 Fibber Magee - Sheikh Zayed Road A typically Irish delight, this lively establishment serves home comfort food from beef and potatoes braised in Guiness, to classic bangers and mash. It’s not gourmet, but stick around and soak up the atmosphere with the band from 10pm. Prices from £/€ 10 - 40 Tel: +971 3 332 2400 Planet Hollywood - Wafi City Mall The restaurant’s movie themed brunch is a kid’s dream. Open noon until 3pm there is an assortment of Western dishes as well as activities like face painting and cinematic attractions to keep them occupied. Prices from £/€ 30 Tel: +971 4 324 4777 Delhi Darbar - Karama, Deira Naif, Satwa & A friendly canteen-type eaterie with tasty dishes including vegetable palak paneer and chicken tikka masala. Prices from £/€ 10 – 40 Tel: +971 4 235 6161 Ravi - Satwa With a long list of Punjabi dishes on offer, this is a fantastic restaurant offering excellent cooking without a large price tag. Prices from £/€ 5 - 10 Tel: +971 4 331 5353 Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 26

Cafe Heaven

Lime Tree Café- Jumeriah Beach Road, , Al Quoz and Media City. A haven to escape the hustle and bustle of busy city life, this chain has a variety of dishes from bulging lunch wraps to shepherds pie. Don’t forget to try their delicious deserts though, Lime Tree’s car rot cake is legendary! Prices from £/€5 - 20 Tel: + 971 4 349 8498 MORE Café - Al Murooj, , Gold and Diamond Park, Festival City, , Mirdif City Centre, , Dubai Financial Centre. Available all over Dubai, MORE is a great chain that offers a menu of western dishes. Prices from £/€5 – 10 Tel: +971 4 263 3113 Friday Brunch Friday brunch is something of an institution in Dubai and there are fantastic restaurants and cafes that offer delicious brunch dishes - widely available from 12pm until 4pm.

Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai The brunch on offer gives customers an array of Northern Italian dishes. With an open kitchen and a wood-burning oven it’s great for a casual, relaxed Friday treat. Prices from £20/€24 Tel: +971 4 317 2222 Beachcombers - Jumeirah Beach Hotel Based on the edge of Dubai’s white sandy beach at Jumeirah, Beachcombers offers delicious Pan-Asian cuisine you can enjoy as you soak up the panoramic scene of the beach and Burj Al Arab. With a special kids menu also available it is a great place for all the family too. Prices from £29/€35 Tel: +971 4 406 8999 Certo - Radisson Blu, This award winning restaurant offer superb food, from homemade antipasti to wood-fired oven foods. Choose from a wide variety of speciality olive oils on offer to add something special to your dish. Try not to be too distracted by the six metre tall wine tower in the restaurant though! Prices from £20/€24 Tel: +971 4 366 9111. Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai With three kitchens and another working solely on desserts, it’s no wonder this is an award winning restaurant. Based at Park Hyatt Dubai, the native chefs prepare a range of delicious Thai dishes. Prices from £33/€39 T: +971 4 317 2222 Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 27

Family Friendly Restaurants

Beach Bar & Grill - One&Only Royal Mirage With views overlooking the Palm Jumeriah island, the Beach Bar & Grill’s European menu in the day is perfect for an informal bite to eat with the children. Positioned between the lush gardens and golden s and it’s fantastic to ensure the kids are kept entertained. Prices from £/€10 - 40 T: +971 4 399 9999

Sezzam - Kempinski Mall of the Emirates The three open kitchens at Sazzam create a vibrant atmosphere, and the restaurant also boasts entertainment areas including clowns and games which are great for children. Located overlooking the slope and snow park it’s perfect for grabbing a delicious dish whether it’s a fresh from the oven pizza or dim sum, there’s something for everyone. Prices from £/€79 for a family of four (2 adults, 2 children). Children under 6 years dine for free. T: +971 4 409 5999

Baker & Spice – Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai This popular restaurant has a European heritage, with a Middle Eastern twist creating a unique and exciting menu which even the fussiest of children will enjoy. Set on a cooled terrace, the restaurant boasts views of the beautiful Dubai Fountain at the base of Burj Khalifa. Prices from £/€8-10 T: +971 4 4252240

Johnny Rockets - Dubai Marina, Jumeriah Beach Road, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Mall of the Emirate Perfect for children who are craving an American style lunch or dinner, the menu caters for both adults and children with traditional hamburgers. Prices from £/€10 - 40 Check website for various location telephone n0s

The Noodle Room – Jumeriah Beach Residence For children who are open to sampling cusine from beyond Europe, experience a taste of the Orient with delicious Asian food on offer. Prices from £/€10 - 40 T: +9714 4270442 Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 28

Destination Dubai

Dubai is not just about the fantastic food, the destination offers holidaymakers a whole lot more.

From family fun adventures and great value activities to unbeatable romantic spots, Dubai has something to make it an extra special holiday experience for everyone.

Desert Safari – family fun for all ages!

Discover a true Arabian adventure during a desert safari tour. Take to the rolling dunes in a 4x4 as you slip, slide and bash through the desert. Camel riding is also available as well as sand boarding or skiing for daredevils looking for an extra adrenalin rush. Once you have played in the desert dunes there is time to stop and watch Dubai’s beautiful sunset stretch over the spectacular emirate plains The desert adventure will end with an entertaining evening of henna tattoos, belly dancing, shisha and an Arabian feast under the night time sky. Prices start from £50/€57 per adult & £45/€51 per child Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 29

At The Top

The iconic and inspiring highlight of Dubai!

The stunning Burj Khalifa is an architectural masterpiece and the world’s tallest building standing at 828m high. Your journey will begin on the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall, where you’ll make your way through a multimedia presentation about the tower. The ‘At The Top’ experience starts when you are whisked up 124 floors in a high speed elevator arriving at the observation deck where you will see spectacular views of Dubai’s landscape. Surrounded by hotels, shops and entertainment options, Burj Khalifa is the centrepiece of Downtown Dubai and not to be missed.

Prices start from: £17/€19 per person for adults £15/€17 for children (4-12) and infants go free.

Do book your experience beforehand though as prices increase on the door. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 30

Dubai Fountain

Romantic and opulent, the perfect honeymoon spot

Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, experience the world’s largest dancing fountain in front of The Dubai Mall. With daily performances, the fountain shoots water jets as high as 500ft, (equivalent to the height of a 50-storey building), to a musical accompaniment of both Arabian and European music including Sama Daubi, Baba Tetu and Andrea Bocelli. With over six thousand superlights, the fountain is 900ft long and visible from over twenty miles away making it the brightest and one of the most beautiful spots in the Middle East.

This fantastic display is free of charge to enjoy and takes place every evening at half hour intervals. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:34 Page 31

Dubai Creek

Authentic, affordable & fun!

For a cheap, convenient and eye opening way to move between Deira and , take advantage of the wooden abra boats. With the dividing Dubai into two parts; Deira on the north side and Bur Dubai on the south, it has become a popular way of travelling for both locals and tourists looking to avoid the busy roads. Take the abra across the creek to enjoy the fantastic views and soak up the sights of Dubai’s merchant dhows while making your way between some of Dubai’s most popular tourist spots including the souks and .

Prices start from less than £/€20 per person. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 32

Jumeirah Mosque/SMCCU

An insight into the rich cultural heritage of this Islamic destination

The Jumeirah Mosque, built in the medieval Fatimad tradition, is a landmark of Dubai city and the only mosque open to the public. The building is a tribute to modern Islamic architecture and gives tourists the chance to learn about Emirati culture and religion in a relaxed environment by attending one of the four weekly sessions run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Attendees are also offered the opportunity to take part in a traditional breakfast or lunch in the ambience of the SMCCU’s Bastakiya house, a typical wind tower house in one of the oldest emirati neighbourhoods in Bur Dubai. This is a fantastic way to absorb and gather further understanding, while chatting with your emirati host about UAE culture, customs and religion. The kitchens are run by the Directors mother’s house so you won’t be disappointed! Mosque tours run Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am. Ladies need to be covered - long skirts/trousers, long sleeves, hat/scarf for the head. Gentlemen need to wear trousers and either a T-shirt or shirt. Prices start from around £/€2 per person. The breakfast is hosted every Monday and Wednesday at 10am, and lunches are hosted every Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm. Advance booking is recommended via phone; +971 4 353 6666 or email; [email protected]. Prices start from around £/€12 for breakfast and £/€14 for lunch per person. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 33

Falconry

Try your hand at this authentic Arabian activity

Falconry is a symbol of the Arabian Gulf’s heritage and the Holy Koran itself includes a falconry-related verse that permits falconry as a hunting method. 50 per cent of the world’s falconers exist in the Middle East and Arab region.

The philosophy behind the hunting tradition is that it teaches patience, endurance and self-reliance, as well as bravery which can be learned from the falcons. Being able to take part in this special part of Arabian history is a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about this tradition. Falconry experiences vary from just watching the birds, to a more in-depth course which will give you a chance to handle and learn to fly falcons.

Prices from £40/€46 per adult but vary across Dubai Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 34

Shopping

Shop till you drop in some of the most famous shopping centres in the world that cater to all budgets

Dubai is a shopaholic’s paradise with a vast selection of shopping experiences from the world’s most luxurious brands to intimate and traditional spice and gold souks. Boasting the world’s largest shopping centre, The Dubai Mall is located in Downtown Dubai and home to every imaginable fashion brand around the world. At the base of Burj Khalifa, the mall not only boasts a huge array of shops but also has fantastic children’s activities such as The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, SEGA Republic, Dubai Ice Rink and KidZania to provide endless kids entertainment. Other popular fashionista hot spots include Deira City Centre, one of Dubai’s first shopping malls and still one of its most popular shopping destinations. For more luxury shopping, BurJuman has one of the finest selections of high-fashion brands such as Saks, Louis Vuitton, Dior and Chanel. Located in Bur Dubai it’s not just for those with deep pockets though, with brands such as BHS and other popular high-street stores also available. Mall of the Emirates is also a great experience with the precinct themed around a traditional Arabian souk. With department stores including the largest Harvey Nichols outside the UK and the Middle East’s largest Debenhams, there is something for everyone, regardless of budget. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 35

If you are after a more authentic shopping experience, Madinat Souk (at Madinat Jumeirah) should be visited to soak up the fantastic architecture and atmosphere. Shoppers are able to wander through the traditional style Arabian souk, past wind towers, lantern lit hallways and narrow waterways. If you get hungry and thirsty during your shopping trip there is an excellent selection of restaurants and bars on hand to enjoy.

If that wasn’t enough, Dubai Duty Free offered at the airport is currently the largest single airport retailer in the world and offers passengers travelling to, and through Dubai, a vast selection of goods including fashion brands, alcohol, perfume, make up and cigarettes. We’d advise you to double check current customs allowances back home though to ensure you’re within the legal restrictions. For further information see: UK - www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs or, IE - www.revenue.ie/en/customs/leaflets/pn1878a.html Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 36

Souks

An authentic Arabian shopping experience

Although local souks are located on both sides of the creek, as a striking contrast to the modern urban shopping malls the souks in Deira are not to be missed. Most commonly accessed via the Dubai creek in an abra, some of Dubai’s oldest trading areas are located here and have a bustling atmosphere, as well as a wide selection of goods available from the famous gold merchandise, to spices, traditional cloth and local souvenirs.

The Gold souk is the most famous in Dubai and has endless streets lined with stores offering gold goods. In addition to gold, shoppers are able to lust over diamonds, rubies, emeralds, opals, pearls and amethysts that line the windows in decorative displays. What makes this souk particularly special and worth a visit is the fact that gold prices are among the lowest in the world as well as having no sales tax to push up the price. If you’re looking for something bespoke, the gold shops also offer a custom made service for special requests.

Running adjacent to the gold souk, food lovers shouldn’t miss out on the Spice souk. The heady fragrance of all the spices bombard you as you stroll through the narrow streets, past open hessian sacks overflowing with exotic spices such as saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, as well as a range of other spices. Not only is the souk a fantastic experience to wander around and test out your haggling skills, it also makes a great place to buy aromatic spices to take home for friends and family.

Visiting the souks in the evening offers a very special experience as they are at their busiest with local shoppers coming out to haggle for bargains. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 37

Dubai Fact File

The basics Currency: Dirham, written as Dhs or Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Approximately £1 = 6 Dhs and €1 = 5 Dhs. Telephone code: From Britain/Ireland, dial 00 971 (for the UAE), followed by 4 (for Dubai), then the seven-digit number. Time difference: UTC +4 hours. Flight time: UK or Dublin to Dubai is around seven to eight hours. Visas: UK and Ireland passport holders can obtain a free 30-day visa on arrival at the immigration desk, with a 30-day extension possible at the immigration office. Passports must be valid for six months beyond your date of entry. Working: The weekend in Dubai is Friday and Saturday.

Getting around Taxi: Taxis are two a penny in Dubai and it is a great way to get around. They can be flagged off the street, or alternatively there will undoubtedly be a stand outside the nearest mall or hotel. Taxi rates begin from 10 AED or around £/€2. Public Transport: If you’re travelling on a tight budget and taxis seem a little extravagant, Dubai has invested heavily in public transport which includes a very clean, convenient and comfy bus and Metro service – don’t forget the abra across Dubai Creek too. The bus is great for travelling along Jumeirah Beach Road and the Metro for going on shopping trips, as it connects shoppers between many of the best malls, including Mall of the Emirates and the City Centre. For further information on tickets, timetables and routes visit www.rta.ae.

When to go Dubai is an all year round destination, with guaranteed sunshine drawing over 8 million tourists every year. The most popular period to travel is during Europe’s cold winter months with tourists looking to take advantage of the attractive October to May temperatures ranging from between 22°C and 30°C. During the hotter summer months from June to September, it can be cheaper to travel to Dubai however the temperatures can rise into the 40°C’s. The temperatures shouldn’t put you off though as there is an abundance of fantastic activities to keep you busy in air conditioned venues ensuring you keep cool. Also, with temperature controlled pools and outdoor souks open into the cool evenings it ensures you’ll not miss out on anything. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 38

Dubai – Know Before You Go

DO respect local customs and traditions Dubai is one of the world’s most pioneering destinations – a cosmopolitan home to over 150 nationalities. However, it also has a rich Arabian heritage. DO enjoy a drink and dance Dubai has hundreds of licensed restaurants, pubs and clubs where drinking and dancing is enjoyed. It is home to some of the world’s most recognisable names in dining (as featured within this booklet) and entertainment, as well as other authentic, local venues. Remember you need to be 21 or over to drink legally in Dubai and alcohol abuse, drinking in non-licensed areas or being drunk in public are not tolerated, making it altogether a very enjoyable night out for all. DO check your medication before your trip Like most countries, narcotic drugs are illegal in Dubai. The emirate has a clear policy helping it retain an unrivalled reputation with one of the world’s lowest crime rates. Guidelines exist to ensure visitors’ and residents’ safety. Some medications do appear on the Government of the , Ministry of Health’s list of restricted and controlled medicines. This includes various over the counter medications such as those containing Codeine. For a trouble free visit, if you are travelling with any of the listed medications, carry a doctor’s note or prescription, keep medicines in original packaging and only take an appropriate quantity for the duration of your trip. For further information go to www.moh.gov.ae. DO behave yourself in public Dubai wants every visitor to enjoy their stay. Of the millions of people who visit each year, the vast majority have a trouble free stay and thoroughly enjoy themselves. Dubai’s laws and culture promote modesty and respect so offensive language, spitting, aggressive behaviour and public displays of affection. Unfortunately the actions of a few can mar the experience for others, so please make sure you treat the destination with the respect it deserves. Similarly you will find the streets are safe and pleasantly free of litter and graffiti. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 39

DO make the most of Dubai during the Holy Month of Ramadan Dubai offers a genuine year round cultural getaway. During Ramadan while Muslims are fasting from dawn to dusk, the majority of activities run normally during the day with slightly shorter opening hours. Non-Muslims can easily eat and drink in many hotels and restaurants, and often by the pool or on the beach too. Out of respect for those who are fasting, these areas are screened off during the day. Alcohol can be purchased after sunset and there is also a host of culturally interesting activities for visitors to participate in and enjoy, including the magnificent Iftar feasts at sunset to celebrate the daily breaking of the fast. Ramadan is a great opportunity to sample Dubai’s rich and authentic cultural offering, which is still to be discovered by many visitors to the region. Clothing should considerately be kept more modest at this time of year. DO discover the cultural depths to Dubai The heritage and culture of Dubai is at the heart of its appeal, from its origins as a pear fishing port, to today’s pioneering city which is home to the world’s most iconic skyline; it is a true land of contrasts. Visitors should embrace all that is has to offer. DO wear respectful clothing Awareness that you are visiting an Islamic country means that you will feel much more comfortable in this very tolerant environment by wearing appropriate clothing. While swimwear is entirely appropriate by the pool or on the beach, this would be frowned on by the conservatively dressed local population such as in the streets or malls, where more modest clothing is more suitable. DO organise a trip to Dubai without worrying about inoculations You can travel to the emirate safe in the knowledge that you do not require any specific vaccines, jabs or health checks. DO travel to Dubai with friends Advise your hotel in advance if you are travelling as an unmarried couple, and they will make the necessary arrangements to ensure you have an enjoyable stay. DO take out travel insurance before you leave We want you to enjoy your trip to Dubai knowing that you are completely covered. Therefore we recommend you take out sufficient travel insurance dependent on your holiday needs before you depart from home.

DO have fun and enjoy your trip to Dubai.. Food Guide.e$S:Layout 1 14/11/2011 18:35 Page 40

The Foodie’s Guide to Dubai

A journey through the gastronomic delights of Dubai

For more information on Dubai visit www.definitelydubai.com