DUBAI EDITION March 2011 Issue 395

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ALSO INSIDE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S

DUBAI WORLD CUP, FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE AND ART DUBAI
+ TASTE OF DUBAI + MOTHER’S DAY + DUBAI’S BEST SOUPS +
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Contents
Features
10
Rocking horses
Your essential guide to
this year’s Dubai World
p10
Cup, from fashion to
fillies

23
Music special
Usher, The Streets,
Sandance, Stevie
Wonder and Thirty
Seconds To Mars arrive
for your listening
pleasure

GETTY

p23
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 3
The round-up
8 and take a couple of
Salaam freebie mini-breaks. See
Everything you need page 80 for more
to know about March;
what’s hot and what's 53
not, we meet polo- Art
player Rashid Al The biggest Art Dubai
Habtoor, a trip to Allure yet, this month’s
by Cipriani, where to go essential exhibitions
this month and a few and meet our new
rumours columnist

34 63
Films Shopping
A sneak peak at The hottest sunglasses,
Scream 4 and Sucker the best online gifts
Punch, plus we rate the for Mother’s Day, a trip
Arthur re-make, cartoon to vintage boutique
caper Rio and grown- Bambah and style
up fairy tale Red Riding queen Sophia tackles
Hood your wardrobe woes

37 71
Eating out Mind & body
Taste of Dubai, sky-high What happens when
dining at At.mosphere, you haven’t been to the
the new Hakkasan dentist in ten years?
brunch, trying tapas at Plus this month’s spa
Al Hambra and all your deals, exotic therapies
food news from tropical lands and
a trip to Saray Spa
50
Win, win, win! 83
Your chance to Sport & outdoor
customise some Puma It’s time for another

p42
kicks, win brunch for six challenge, this time we

take on a triathlon and Kenya for ballooning

get some expert advice. and beasties, travel tips
Mr Fitness answers your from a top tailor and
exercise questions, and some budget-friendly
a preview of the big breaks
rugby action
105
91 Hot lists
Music Who’s king of the world
Pop rockers Behold The and top of the heap
Locus are our band of when it comes to spas,
the month, Depeche bars, restaurants and
Mode’s Andrew Fletcher brunches?
and all the happenings
in clubland 122

p95
Backchat
95 Catboy shows his softer
Travel side with an ode to
An exhilarating trip to Mother’s Day. Bless

4 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

Experience the art of chic,
urban, casual dining
Afyä – the new restaurant in Traders Hotel,
Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi.
Enjoy the unique ambience and no fuss, high quality cuisine
of Afyä’s extensive international menu, morning, noon or night.
Call Restaurant Reservations on +971 2 510 8818 or visit www.tradershotels.com
Between the Bridges, PO Box 128881, Abu Dhabi, UAE
 This month we’ve been...
Editor-in-Chief
Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
Group Editor & Managing Partner
lan Fairservice
Group Senior Editor
Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae

Senior Editor
Mark Evans | marke@motivate.ae
Deputy Editor
Helen Spearman | helen@motivate.ae Making friends in Kenya, p95
Features Editor
Gareth Rees | gareth@motivate.ae
Chief Sub Editor
Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae
Senior Designer
Sheila Lyn Carino | sheila@motivate.ae
Editorial Assistant/Picture Researcher
Karen Sequeira | karen@motivate.ae
Picture Researcher - Gulfpics
Wayne Fernandez | wayne@motivate.ae

Contributors
Naveed Ahmed, Victor Besa, James Brennan,
Finding Dubai’s
Louise Browne, Stef Burgon, Vikram Gawde, Doing some light reading, p67 best soups, p19
James Houghton, Catherine Jarvie, Russell

Editor’s note
Kempson, Richard Luck, Farooq Salik, Simon
Smedley, Sophia Triantafillou, Adam Workman

General Manager
Production and Circulation
S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae
Production Manager Complete Madness was a 16-track ‘best of’ album by London ska/
Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae
Production Controller pop band Madness, featuring all the Nutty Boys’ hits including
Murali Krishnan | muralik@motivate.ae Embarrassment, My Girl and It Must Be Love. More importantly, to me,
General Manager – Group Sales anyway, it was also the first record I ever bought.
Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae Kind of cool, as first records go, although I was pretty much cajoled into buying it by my
Senior Advertisement Manager
Dale Isaac | dale@motivate.ae
older brother, who tended to cajole me into all kinds of things back then (‘you’re the
Advertisement Manager test driver of this shoddily-cobbled together go-kart’, ‘you’re the pilot of our down-the-
Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae stairs-on-a-cushion sledge’), normally with threats of a slap around the head. To be fair
General Manager, Abu Dhabi
Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae to my brother, his musical cajoling actually stood me in good stead – thanks to him
Advertisement Manager, Abu Dhabi I acquired a taste not only for ska, but for punk, early electronica, and all kinds of off-
Darryl Wiley | darryl@motivate.ae
the-wall stuff. While the rest of my class at school were singing along to Kylie, I was out
Annual Subscription GCC Dhs120 other countries US$70
buying The Sex Pistols, New Order and Kraftwerk. I’m not saying that made me better
(including Airmail charges) than them (I am. And it does), I’m merely pointing out my music obsession – and it is in
an obsession – started at an early age.
But then, music plays a part in most people’s lives, be it an obsession, like mine, or just
something that makes the drive to work that little bit easier.
This month the Emirates is the perfect place for music lovers of all varieties, with
appearances in Dubai from The Streets, Usher, 2ManyDJs and the Brand New Heavies at
Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, Sandance, while Abu Dhabi welcomes Thirty Seconds To Mars and the utterly brilliant
E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae
Stevie Wonder. I hope you’re as excited about that as we are. Because, music obsessive
Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor,
Building 8, Dubai, UAE, or not, I bet you can still name that first record you bought.
Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845
Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE,
Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, Enjoy the issue.
E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae
London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road,
London NW1 3ER, UK,
E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 7

 We're officially part of the Twitterati.

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

A pair of pages to put a spring in your step this March

What’s hot Guess list

Benches What the rumour mill ground
Dubai-based fashion and lifestyle out this month

boutique S*uce has decided
that the city needs more
benches and has asked artists
and designers to create
customised designs to be
displayed at Art Dubai and
around the emirate.
www.sauceloves.com/benches
The Extra Cold Freezer
85%
THE KOOKS
An insider involved with next month’s Chill
Out festival has informed us that the indie
popsters could be playing. Quite a coup,
promoters have been trying to pull that off
for a while.

We had a rather good time in Heineken’s
moveable bar at the Rugby Sevens last
year, and it’s set to return at the Sandance
festival at Nasimi Beach on March 11 (p23).
Chefs doing battle
We couldn’t possibly miss an event called
The Battle Of The Chefs, now, could we?
Every month The Address Montgomerie
75%
IPAD
We know, all you cool kids already have one,
but word on the new generation tech grape-
vine is that Apple is set to officially launch rounds – but, we’re told, this time it will be on
every geek’s best friend in the UAE very soon. an even bigger scale. Watch this space.

60%
Dubai will invite the city’s chefs to
compete in a three-dish cook off. And
you get to eat the results.
Mar 16, The Address Montgomerie
We told you so...
Dubai, Dhs275 no alcohol, Dhs355 house MARK RONSON 2MANYDJS
beverages. Tel: (04) 3631275. www. The über-cool spinner drew a huge crowd Mar 11, Sandance, Nasimi Beach, Dubai
theaddress.com for his visit to Trilogy last year. We know, we (p23)
were in it. Rumours of a return are doing the

What’s not
Salik
Gah – can there be anything worse than
This month we’re going to…
constantly topping up your Salik?! Bad news,
then – the RTA is set to open two more Salik Alfresco concerts
gates on Al Ghusias and Al Ittihad roads. Don't miss Music In The Park with the Centre
Time to buy a Metro pass. Of Musical Arts and Dubai Classical Guitar
Orchestra performing at Safa Park. Or Opera
Du In The Park, with London opera singers Foley
We enjoy the TV and Internet service, but and Hepburn at the Wafi rooftop gardens.
Du’s customer service is atrocious. We spent Mar 25, Music in the Park, Safa Park, Dubai,
two hours in a queue at The Dubai Mall from 3.30pm, Dhs3. Mar 30, Opera in the Park,
branch recently, and the phone service is Wafi, Dubai, 8pm, Dhs145 with picnic basket.
even worse. Sort it out. Tel: (04) 3244100.

8 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 GIRL
Five Questions… Rashid Al Habtoor ABOUT
The Threadneedle Dubai TOWN
Gold Cup is one of the main
events on the Dubai polo
calender. Rashid Al Habtoor,
whose Mahra team won the
first edition of the event in
2010, fancies his chances of
victory again at this month’s
tournament
Why polo?
I have been playing for the past 20 years.
It’s so exciting and beautiful, this harmony
between the man, the horse and the ball.
But I also love polo because it is more than a
game – it’s a lifestyle.
It has a reputation for being an elite sport
for the wealthy. True?
Well, it all depends on you; how many
times you want to play, with how many
professionals and where you are located
in the world. It is an expensive sport, but
you can spend from Dhs2,000 a month or
Dhs200,000 a month. If you are thinking of
playing polo, you mustn’t be afraid of horses
or speed, since they are the two essential
components of the sport. You have to love
to ride and have the patience to learn to
play.
It’s quite a dangerous sport, right?
The worst experience that I witnessed was
during the Al Habtoor Royal Windsor Cup.
Two players collided at full speed with their
horses. We just saw them flying in the air
due to the violence of the impact.
Blimey. Are you sure we should come and
watch?
Yes – it’s an exciting game to watch and
Nezesaussi Grill
As cricket fans know, the ICC Cricket World
Cup is in full swing and will be until April 2.
The good ‘ol Nezesaussi Grill, which does a
cracking pie, is showing all the matches and
offering special menus for lunch and dinner
throughout the tournament. Howzat!
Nezesaussi Grill, Al Manzil Hotel, Downtown
Dubai, Sun to Thurs noon to 2am, Fri and Sat
10am to 2am. Tel: (04) 4285888. www.nezgrill.
com
it’s great for families as well. This level of
polo is very rare in the UAE, that’s why this
tournament is so special. Depending on the
ticket you buy, you can have brunch on the
VIP Terrace. There will be Skydivers from Sky
Dubai, an after-party in the Horizon Lounge
at the Habtoor Grand and fireworks to enjoy.
Will we be seeing your team win again
this year?
My team and I are ready. We are a strong
team with passion for the game and very
good horses, so we will do our best to win
this year. All the teams have their qualities
and we take them all as very serious
competition. This season there will be great
players such as Nacho Gonzales, Ignacio
Tocolino and Alfredo Capella Barabucci to
name just a few.
Mar 2 to 11, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club,
Arabian Ranches. Tel: (04) 3437887. www.
dubaipologoldcup.com
The Pavilion
Downtown Dubai
The opening of the Armani hotel and Burj
Khalifa have brought Downtown to life, and
now The Pavilion Downtown Dubai arts
centre has opened up, too. Boasting two
galleries, The Pavilion will run a programme
of exhibitions and act as a venue for artistic
discussions. We love a bit of culture.
The Pavilion Downtown Dubai, opposite Burj
Khalifa, Dubai. www.thepavilion.ae
Each month
our roving
reporter
Geordiebird
visits the UAE's
hottest new THIS MONTH:
bars ALLURE
BY
CIPRIANI
What does it look like?
Cipriani restaurant is awash with white
leather chairs, with the wood-panelled
walls sporting portholes for an ‘at-sea’
feel, complete with views of the marina.
Upstairs, at the nightclub Allure, the
modern white look continued. I loved the
private seating pods and suspended ceiling,
fringed with LED lights. Very swanky.
Who goes there?
There was a mix of families and couples
in the restaurant, but Allure was full of
fashionable types in their early 30s taking
to the dance floor for the resident DJ’s mix
of familiar pop, R&B and house music.
Any bar nibbles?
The sushi downstairs was some of the best
I’ve ever tried. The yellowtail kizame with
yuzu soy is a must.
Drink recommendations?
You can’t go to Cipriani and not try their
signature Bellinis.
When should you go?
Allure gets busy with their ladies night on
a Wednesday, but Thursdays and Fridays
are packed.
How's the service?
Outstanding. Those Bellinis kept on coming.
What's the taxi situation?
Stress free.
GEORDIEBIRD'S VERDICT:
Allure by Cipriani sits snugly between
Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and with a rare
late licence until 6am (amazing!), I'll
definitelybe heading back there for the
carnival themed night.
Allure by Cipriani, Yas Marina, Yas Island,
Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 5650050. www.
nightcluballure.com
Find us at
www.facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 9
Rocking
horses
The outfits, the mingling, the money and, of course, the
horses; the Dubai World Cup is one of the city’s most
exciting events and one of the richest races in the world.
Here’s everything you need to know, from getting ready
to the best after-parties
BEFORE…
As well as being a social must-do, the races
are a chance to dress up to the nines. It is
however, something of a sartorial minefield.
Here are the tailors, tips and tricks to ensure
you make it to the party pages
TOP THREE TAILORS
In a town where you don’t need to earn a
salary the size of a small country’s GDP to get
a suit made to order, the races are a perfect
excuse to indulge in some tailoring. Here’s
our top spots to get measured up:
1. WHISTLE & FLUTE
This Satwa spot is harder to find than the
philosopher’s stone but is worth the hunt.
Offering a full range of bespoke tailoring,
from shirts to suits, as well as alterations, the
family-run business has all your tailoring
needs covered. Expect to pay around Dhs150
upwards for a shirt, with suits coming in
around the Dhs2,000 mark. Material is
available in shop or, if they don’t have what
you want, the guys will recommend a visit to
the nearby Deepak’s, which stocks just about
everything.
Whistle & Flute, off Plant Street, Satwa, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3429229
2. SANTOBA TAILORS
Ask for Rajesh or Prakash, the two brothers
who own the store, who will guide you
through the process from cloth selection,
to style, right down to the lining. They also
make shirts and have a range of fabrics and
will cater to the most discerning of tastes. A
full bespoke shirt comes in at around Dhs200
10 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
and suits will vary according to cloth and
the amount of material you require, but be
prepared to spend between Dhs1,300 and
Dhs2,000 for a good suit that will stand the
test of time. Allow approximately two weeks
for a suit as you will need to be measured,
then go back for a first fitting for them to
make alterations. For shirts, allow a week.
Santoba Tailors, near York International Hotel,
Bur Dubai, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3931234. www.
santobatailors.com
3. M2M
Paying a visit to the small M2M boutique,
opened on Beach Road at the tail-
end of 2009 by veteran tailor Kamlesh
Ramchadani, is a slightly grander
experience than seeking out one of the
talented tailors hidden away in the back
streets of Bur Dubai. A bespoke suit can
be had for a reasonable Dhs1,200, though
you could pay anything up to Dhs6,000,
depending on the fabric you choose. With
15 tailors, all with a guaranteed ten years
in the trade, and a pair of master cutters,
you’re in good hands.
M2M, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 3, Villa 1,
opposite Sunset Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3942244
Horses for
Few of the 60,000 spectators who crammed
into the Meydan Racecourse at Nad Al
Sheba last year will forget the spine-tingling
climax to the US$10 million Dubai World
Cup, the world’s richest horse race. Gloria de
Campeao held on to beat Lizard’s Desire by
a nose, perhaps even a nostril, with Allybar
a short head away in third place in the
tightest of photo-finishes.
Another thriller is likely this month, once
the mammoth list of 312 ‘nominations’ from
18 countries has been whittled down to a
star-spangled field of 14. The crème de la
crème of the equine fraternity will do battle
over 8.75 furlongs on the Tapeta all-weather
track, with representatives jetting in from
all over the globe to take part. Seven other
top-notch races – and a total prize fund of
US$26.25m – attracts the very best.
Bold Silvano, trained by Mike de Kok in
South Africa, is many experts’ leading fancy for
the World Cup, especially after his smart win
in the Al Maktoum Challenge Round Two at
the Dubai International Racing Carnival last
month. Mendip, from the UAE’s Godolphin
stable, took the Al Maktoum Challenge Round
One and could also go close while Cape
Blanco, the Irish Derby and Irish Champion
Stakes winner from the Ballydoyle yard, will
have his backers.
Snow Fairy, the globetrotting
superstar filly, is a four-time
Group One winner and
won valuable events in
Japan and Hong Kong last
autumn. If he’s not going for
the World Cup, trainer Ed Dunlop will
target the Sheema Classic or Dubai
 T E FOR Y
D R DIAR
A
YOU turday
Sa ch 26
DURING… Mar

The venue Tickets

The vast 1.6km-long Meydan Racecourse is
a mere 15 minutes from downtown Dubai
and boasts 10,000 parking spaces. We’d
bet you’re not driving though. It also has
numerous restaurants, an IMAX, museum,
marina, leisure facilities and a hotel, but for
the big day all you need to know is that
Join the masses on the Apron or splash the
cash in the tiered restaurant? Read on and
decide what you want for your dirhams
APRON VIEWS
Dhs350
The majority of party

courses Meydan has the capacity to hold, entertain

and feed 60,000 revellers.
people will be here,
sampling drinks
from various venues,
from M e yd a
ilable
Tickets ava , Nad
n
Dubai.
Al Sheba, 000.
70
posing for pics and Tel: (04) 32 orld
Duty Free Stakes. “We’ll watch all the trials,” making mischief. w.d u b a iw
Hate having to buy books ww
he said, “see how she trains and then select a Best for... seeing cup.com
race.” of vouchers in order to everyone you know in
Connections Of Transcend are hoping get a round of drinks in? Dubai in one place
for an upgrade from the Godolphin Mile to
the World Cup after his win in the US$2.2 Fear not, Meydan will PREMIUM SEATING
million February Stakes in Tokyo, while have cash bars, so you Dhs12,00 – Dhs1,400
Twice Over, a disappointing tenth in the won’t find yourself with There are three Premium Seating areas
main event in 2010, will have a warm-up arranged near the finish line. Included
race on Super Thursday to get used to the pockets lined with useless in the price are house beverages, soft
conditions before going for the big one. “He coupons the next morning. drinks, afternoon tea and dinner snacks,
seems to be getting better with age,” his
trainer Henry Cecil insisted.
Other venues should pay plus indoor and outdoor seating.
Best for… soaking up the atmosphere
Class acts all of them... and all trying to attention. Just saying. in style
emulate glorious Gloria from last year.
PARADE RING RESTAURANT

The party
EARLY ODDS
4-1 Bold Silvano, Cape Blanco, Snow
Fairy; 5-1 Twice Over; 7-1 Gio Ponti; 10-1
Musir, Mendip; 12-1 Gitano Hernando;
14-1 Allybar; 16-1 Debussy
fuel
The food and drink element of the day can’t
be underestimated, with some of Dubai’s most
popular venues setting up shop at Meydan.
This year you can expect to find the Irish Village
pulling pints, Rock Bottom keeping the party
going and food from all over the world. May we
recommend getting some carbs down your
neck? Remember, race day is a marathon, not
a sprint – especially if you’re hanging out in the
Bubble Lounge.
Dhs2,750
This ground-floor restaurant will be
serving unlimited buffet fare, offers
afternoon tea, includes house beverages
and TVs are dotted everywhere so you
don’t miss any action.
Best for… Hungry horsey types
TIERED RESTAURANT
Dhs3,000
Opt for this package and you’ll get
your own reserved table, afternoon tea,
five-course set menu, soft drinks, house
beverages and unrivalled views across
the racetrack.
Best for… Food fans and lovers of luxury

SAVE THIS NUMBER NOW

IN CASE YOU DECIDE TO DRIVE THEN GET SIDETRACKED BY BEER AND BUBBLES, REMEMBER
THAT SAFEDRIVER CAN DELIVER YOU AND YOUR CAR ANYWHERE IN DUBAI FOR DHS120.
TEL: 04 2688797

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 11

AFTER…
Don’t let a good outfit go to waste – keep
the fun flowing with our pick of Dubai’s
most party-friendly bars. Just remember to
schedule a ‘meeting’ on Sunday morning
ahead of time
DOUBLE DECKER
The classic post-race venue, DD’s garden is
now open for under the stars revelry or head
to the bar inside for a good feed, sporting
action on the screens and a bit of a dance.
Al Murooj Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3211111
LONG’S BAR
Well located, well priced and well relaxed, this
is the place to head to let your hair down after
the last race. They often have special deals on
for race-goers too, so keep your hat on if you
want money off.
Towers Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3122202
Long’s bar
CONCERT QUESTIONS
LAST YEAR ELTON JOHN AND SANTANA
SET THE POST-RACE STANDARD WITH
PERFORMANCES. THIS TIME YOU CAN
EXPECT A SUPERSTAR TO TAKE TO THE
TRACKSIDE STAGE. WE PREDICT A BOY
BAND, AGEING ROCKER, HIP HOPPER OR
POP PRINCESS WILL ADD SOME VALUE
TOYOUR TICKET PRICE, BUT NOTHING
HAD BEEN REVEALED AT THE TIME OF
GOING TO PRINT.
Barasti
12 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
Double Decker
BARASTI
From turf to sand, Barasti is always packed on
Saturday nights, but on the 26th it will be rammed.
Sharpen those elbows if you’re at the bar, or crash
out with some fish’n’chips on a beach bed.
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina,
Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3993333
IRISH VILLAGE
Pie and chips should sort you out for the next
morning. If in doubt, have more chips and a
pint of lemonade. You’re welcome.
The Aviation Club, Garhoud, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 2824750
CHI@THE LODGE
Wow. You really want to make it a big night,
eh? Chi will be one big outdoor party. We
predict many a tie, hat and waistcoat will be
found on the dancefloor the next morning.
Al Nasr Leisureland, Oud Metha, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3379470
The
trainer
Brian Meehan is one of
the UK’s top trainers who
has enjoyed success at the
Dubai World Cup in the past
and has a horse running this
year. We caught up with him
to talk form, memories and,
of course, money
Do you hope to have runners at the
World Cup every year?
Of course. It’s a very important meeting
in the racing calender and the first
major event of the year. I’ve probably
had a dozen or so runners since I started
coming to Dubai and I hope to have
many more.
What is the World Cup’s main
attraction?
The prize money. It’s huge! But we’re also
looked after extremely well – ourselves,
the horses, the owners. Everyone is so
friendly towards all of us.
What do you think of the Meydan
Racecourse?
It’s wonderful, everything about it. And
the turf track is possibly the best in the
world, certainly in the top four or five.
There are mixed opinions about the
Tapeta [the all-weather track] but, I
suppose, it’s case of horses for courses.
Away from the racecourse, how do you
relax in Dubai?
On the beach. That’s a must. We’ll go
out and see a few sights as well. We
always get a really lovely hotel to stay in
and Tracy Gill, the Dubai Racing Club’s
international liaison officer, is always
there to help. She makes it really happen
for us.
You won the Dubai Duty Free race with
David Junior in 2006. What are your
memories of that?
It was a marvellous occasion. He was the
first runner from our Manton stables [at
Marlborough, Wiltshire] and what a win.
What a great way to open our account,
too. Back at the hotel, the celebrations
went on long into the night. You could
say that we had a good time.
THE DUBAI MALL 04.3399472

DEIRA CITY CENTRE 04. 2943057

AL WAHDA MALL 02.4437213

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ARMANIEXCHANGE.COM/UAE
FESTIVAL OF
Dubai’s Festival Of Literature is back, with a bigger and
better bundle of wordsmiths than ever before, from Michael
Palin to Margaret Atwood, plus some fantastic new talent from
the Middle East. Here’s the inside scoop and hot highlights
Stories he could tell
In the 1970s his first novel,
The Kids, landed him a job
on British music bible the
NME, throwing him into the
chaotic world of the emerg-
ing punk scene.The 1980s
saw him penning columns
for women’s mags as he
struggled to bring up a child
on his own. And in the 1990s
his best-seller Man And Boy
made him a literary star. He is,
of course, Tony Parsons
Tony, we hear you’re going to teach us how
to write a best-seller at the festival. How?
You can teach people to avoid making common
mistakes; you can give them a few guidelines.
They still have to drive to the destination
themselves, but you can tell them the route that
you think they should take.
Did you have a route map when you wrote
your first novel?
I didn’t really know anything about anything. It’s
amazing how dumb I was. I probably had wildly
unrealistic dreams about what getting published
was going to do. It’s not false modesty to say The
Kids wasn’t very good. It was the kind of effort
that gets left in the bottom drawer, but it was
great for me because it got me my first job in
journalism.
That was your job at the NME. How much
did you want that job?
Yeah, I definitely wanted it. The paper was
important to me when I was a young man, and a
14 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
boy even. It was central to my life and I admired
a lot of people who wrote for the NME. I thought
that if I got a book published then the world
would give me enough money to be a writer and
to live on, to do the one thing I wanted to do and
was half good at. And it kind of turned out like
that.
You went from working in a gin factory to
interviewing The Clash. That was quite a
jump.
Yeah, I would have said to my younger self at
the NME, you can relax a bit, take in the sights,
appreciate what you’ve got here, count your
blessings and maybe not smell the roses, but
smell the leather trousers. It seemed normal at
the time for me to be interviewing Debbie Harry
or The Clash or even Mick Jagger and Keith
Richards. That was my job. That’s what I was
there for. That’s what I did for a living.
Your novel, Stories We Could Tell, is based on
your time at the NME. How close to reality is
that book?
It’s as close as I could get to explaining what life
was like then, in as much as it was enormous
fun and also absolutely drug soaked. There were
people settling down to careers and others who
would be dead within a year. The action takes
place in one night in that book because that
replicates what it’s like to be young, the highs
and lows, the agonies and the ecstasies you go
through.
What was life like post NME?
We has so much fuss made of us at the NME that
we thought everybody would be beating a path
to our door, that we would be given newspaper
columns and TV shows, that the world owed
us a living. The truth is, the world had never
heard of us. That was a slap in the kisser, but we
probably needed a slap in the kisser.
How did you cope?
It was ten hard years, from one end of the 1980s
WIN TICKETS!
To win tickets to see Tony Parsons
talk at the Festival Of Literature, simply
e-mail WinWithWhatsOn@motivate.ae
with your answer, and name of the
prize in the subject line.
What is the name of the
music magazine
Tony Parsons worked for
in the 1970s?
a) ABC
b) 123
c) NME
to the other, doing work where I could, waiting
for the postman to deliver a cheque. But if you
can survive, and I just about survived, good
things happen. What happened for me was a
friend of mine asked me to start writing stuff for
the women’s magazine she worked for. I was the
token guy.
It must have been very different to working
on the NME?
Yeah, but even though I was in my mid-20s,
I didn’t feel I had the option to go wandering
around America with Ian Dury or The
Clash. Being asked to write stuff for women’s
magazines, and later men’s magazines, was really
a second chance for a career. And I realised I’d
actually prefer to be writing about men and
women, or fathers and sons.
Was that the realisation that led to you
writing Man And Boy?
When I wrote Man And Boy I was pretty settled.
I was on TV every week on a little show, Piers
Morgan took me from The Daily Telegraph as
LITERATURE his first signing when he became editor of The
Mirror, and I was remarried and happy. But I
just felt I had this book inside me that I had to
write, even if it wasn’t successful. If I hadn’t gone
through that hard time I wouldn’t have had that
impetus, I would have been too comfortable. But
there was something gnawing at me inside and
it’s gnawing at me still.
A new book?
Yeah, it’s called Catching The Sun and it’s about
a British family who move to Phuket in Thailand
and what happens to them. All my mates live
abroad, in Hong Kong or Los Angeles, so it’s a
big part of my life, that expat urge.
March 11, How to Write a Best-seller, Al Majlis,
InterContinental DFC, 11am to 1pm, Dhs200
Mar 12, Tony Parsons in Conversation with Paul
Blezard, Al Ras 1, InterContinental DFC, 10.30pm to
11.30pm, Dhs65

“It was ten hard years, TONY’S TOP TIPS

Three nuggets of literary advice from
from one end of the the Man And Boy author
eighties to the other,
doing work where I could, t You’re the best critic of your own work
t Rewrite as much as possible
waiting for the postman t Take the opportunity to learn how to do it
to deliver a cheque” whenever you can. I attend Robert McKee’s
writing seminars once every year or two

Big hitters
The literary giants joining Parsons at the Lit Fest

Michael Palin Margaret Atwood Lionel Shriver

Comedian, actor, television presenter, world Atwood is one of the world’s greatest living Journalist and author
traveller and author are just a few of the authors, boasting 13 novels, including The Lionel Shriver published her first novel,
hats that Michael Palin’s worn during his Handmaid’s Tale, winner of the first Arthur The Female Of The Species, in 1986, but it
career. He opens the festival with a live show C Clarke Award for best Science Fiction, the was her controversial 2003 book about a
entitled Forty Years Without a Proper Job. Booker Prize-wining The Blind Assassin, and teenage sociopath perpetrating a school
Mar 8, Gala Evening Oryx and Crake. massacre, We Need to Talk About Kevin, that
1, Dubai Cultural Mar 9, Gala Evening catapulted her to worldwide fame and won
and Scientific 2, Dubai Cultural and the 2005 Orange Prize for fiction.
Association, Al Scientific Association, Al Mar 10, Festival Book Club, Al Ras 2,
Mamzar, Dubai 8pm Mamzar, Dubai, 8pm to InterContinental DFC, 3pm to 4pm, Dhs65 and
to 11pm, Dhs125 to 11pm, Dhs125 to 195 Mar 11, 7.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs65
Dhs195

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 15

FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE
Local talent
15 UAE stars appearing at the festival
AHMED AMIRI
Journalist, satirist and author of
the short story collection The
Lion, Who Admitted.
Mar 12, Keeping It Real:
Where Fiction and Journalism Meet, Al Ras 3,
InterContinental DFC, 3pm to 4pm, Dhs65
KHALID AL-BUDOOR
Poet and founder of the Emirates Writers’ Union.
Mar 11, Magical Moments in the Desert of Time,
Al Khaimah, InterContinental DFC, 7pm to 8pm,
Dhs30
NASSER AL DHAHERI
Journalist Al Dhaheri and has published three short
story collections and a novel.
Mar 12, Keeping It Real: Where Fiction And
Journalism Meet, Al Ras 3, InterContinental DFC,
3pm to 4pm, Dhs65
NUJOOM AL GHANEM
Poet Al Ghanem has directed four films.
Mar 10, Poetry Of The Unexpected, Al Khaimah,
InterContinental DFC, 9.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs30
DR SALEM HUMAID
Author and Head of research for the Dubai
Culture and Arts Authority.
Mar 10, Bridging The Culture Gap, InterContinental
DFC, 5.30pm to 6.30pm, Dhs30
IBRAHIM MOHAMMAD IBRAHIM
Winner of the poetry prize at the Emirates
Appreciation Award for the Arts in 2009.
Mar 10, An Evening Of Arabic Poetry, Al Ras 3,
InterContinental DFC, 7pm to 8.30pm, Dhs65
AMNA AL MANSOORI
An academic, Al Mansoori worked as a
scriptwriter on popular television show Freej and
has written a novel, Your Eyes, Hamda!
Mar 10, Past And Present: The Next Chapter Of New
Emirati Fiction, Al Khaimah, InterContinental DFC,
6.30pm to 7.30pm, Dhs30
DR FATIMA AL MAZROUI
A member of the Federal National Council,
Al Mazroui’s book, Monafarat in Pre-Islamic
Literature, won the Best UAE Book prize at last
year’s Sharjah International Book Fair.
Mar 12, Influences and Traditions in Writing Short
Stories, Al Majlis, InterContinental DFC, 8pm to
9pm, Dhs30
16 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
ALI F MOSTAFA
The man behind the UAE’s biggest ever film, City
Of Life.
Mar 12, From Script To Screen With Acclaimed
Director Ali Mostafa, Al Ras 1, InterContinental DFC,
1.30pm to 3pm, Dhs65
MOHAMMED AL MURR
Author and Deputy chairman of Dubai Culture
and Arts Authority.
Mar 12, Influences and Traditions in Writing Short
Stories, Al Majlis, InterContinental DFC, 8pm to
9pm, Dhs30
MARYAM AL SAEDI
Al Saedi has published two story collections,
Mariam and the Good Fortune and I Look Smart.
Mar 12, Ones To Watch – New Stars In The Literary
Firmament, Al Ras 1, InterContinental DFC, 6pm to
7pm, Dhs65
WAEL AL SAYEGH
Poet, essayist and founder of inter-cultural
consulting firm ALGHAF HRC.
Mar 10, Poetry Of The Unexpected, Al Khaimah,
InterContinental DFC, 9.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs30.
www.waelalsayegh.com
ALI AL SHAALI
Poet and Director of the Knowledge Production
Sector at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al
Maktoum Foundation.
Mar 11, In Conversation, Al Khaimah,
InterContinental DFC,
5pm to 6pm, Dhs30,
Magical Moments in the
Desert of Time, 7pm to
8pm, Dhs30
DHA’EN SHAHEEN
Poet Shaheen is editor
in chief of Dubai
newspaper Al Bayan and editor of the Arab
Writers’ General Foundation magazine Shoun
Adabia. Mar 9, Gala Evening 2, Dubai Cultural and
Scientific Association, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs125 to 195
JAMAL AL SHEHHI
CEO of Dubai International Children’s Book
Fair and director of Culture Development
at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Foundation, Al Shehhi also runs Kuttab
Publishing. www.kuttabpublishing.com
Mar 11, Curious Incidents: Writing For Teenagers, Al
Majlis, InterContinental DFC, 8pm to 9pm, Dhs30
Best of
the rest
Our festival highlights
MARCH 10
Bernard Cornwell In Conversation
The master of historical fiction and
author of the popular Sharpe series
chats to BBC presenter Gavin Esler.
Al Ras 2, InterContinental DFC, 9pm to
10pm, Dhs65
MARCH 11
Mark Billingham Masterclass
The best-selling crime writer reveals the
secrets of writing crime fiction.
Al Khaimah, InterContinental DFC, 10am
to 12.30pm, Dhs200
MARCH 12
Digital Revolution 2
A panel of authors discuss the impact
of technology on books and ask, is the
book dead?
Al Ras 2, InterContinental DFC, 7.30pm to
9pm, Dhs39
Don’t
miss
MICHELIN MAN
All that intellectual activity
is sure to make you hungry,
so the festival organisers have arranged
for multi-Michelin star chef French
Pierre Gagnaire to put on a display of
his culinary skills followed by a Literary
Lunch at his restaurant Reflets.
Mar 10, Cooking Demonstration and
Literary Lunch with Pierre Gagnaire,
InterContinental Dubai Festival City,
11.30am to 12.30pm and 12.45pm to
2.45pm, Dhs300. Tel: (04) 3420060. www.
eaifl.com
THE DETAILS
WHEN: Mar 8 to 12
WHERE: Festival of Literature, Dubai
Cultural and Scientific Association, Al
Mamzar and Intercontinental Event
Centre, InterContinental Dubai Festival
City, Dubai
TEL: (04) 3420060
WEB: www.eaifl.com
 Dubai’s
best soups
1 GREEN PEA AND BACON
FOUNTAIN
10/10
Made with peas from Souk Al
Bahar’s farmers’ market, you can
CATBOY’S
PICK
taste the fresh spring flavours
in this vibrant soup. Underpinned by a soft
smokiness from the meat, then further
complemented by caraway seeds, lemon
zest and a swirl of sour cream, this was an
absolute winner. Comforting and refreshing
at the same time. Delicious.
Fountain, Mövenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai, Dubai,
Dhs35. Tel: (04) 3104202
2
GAZPACHO
SEVILLE’S
9/10
Sharp and fresh, this chilled delight smacks
of ripe vegetables and hours of balancing
flavours. Made with sherry vinegar, it has
just the right bite and would be the perfect
starter on a warm Dubai evening.
Seville’s, Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai, Dhs32.
Tel: (04) 3244100
3
CANTONESE FRIED
NOODLE SOUP
ANISE 8/10
In a clear chicken broth lies a nest of thin
crispy noodles, topped with chicken,
broccoli and carrots in the shape of
butterflies. The soup itself is thick and
nutty, smooth without being creamy and
complemented by the carb-loaded crunch
of the noodles.
Anise, InterContinental Festival City, Dubai,
ISTOCK
Dhs35. Tel: (04) 7011111
When life’s getting you down, all you need is a hug in
a mug (or bowl). We’ve rounded up some super soups
from across the city to warm your cockles – and help
you keep your cool
4 PUMPKIN AND SAGE
SOUP
THE ONE 8/10
This brilliantly hued bowlful comes with
chunks of carrot, cumin and chili bread,
perfect for dunking into the creamy soup.
The taste is as colourful as you’d expect –
nicely spiced and warming. Just the thing
for a weekend lunch.
The One, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs28.
Tel: (04) 3456687
5
MUSHROOM CAPPUCCINO
BISTRO RESTAURANT
8/10
Even frothier than it looks, this managed to
Green Pea and Bacon win over the ‘shroom haters in the tasting
by Fountain panel. Incredibly light in both taste and
texture, this would be a cracking start to
any meal.
Bistro Restaurant, Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai,
Dubai, Dhs30. Tel: (04) 3519999
6
MISO SOUP
OKKU
7.5/10
We love a good miso, and by jove this is a
good miso. The small bowl delivers a big hit
of seaweed at the bottom, with plenty of
texture to set you up for a Japanese meal.
This is definitely a starter – but a very strong
one.
Okku, The Monarch, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, Dhs15. Tel: (04) 5018888
Mushroom Cappuccino
by Bistro Restaurant
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 19
DUBAI’S BEST SOUPS: TESTED
7 ASPARAGUS AND SPINACH
SOUP WITH TORTELLINI
MEDZO 7.5/10
Wonderfully creamy without being too
thick, this smoothie is crammed with subtle
tastes vying for your attention. Soft in both
colour and texture, it’s filling enough for a
lunch or a sturdy starter.
Medzo, Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai, Dhs39.
Tel: (04) 3244100
8 ROASTED GARLIC AND
VEGETABLE BROTH
BISTRO RESTAURANT 7.5/10
Just the kind of soup you’d crave after
a day on the slopes, this is a bowlful of
cheesy, garlicky goodness. It’s guaranteed
to ward off any impending cold, but not
recommended for a first date, unless you
both order it. Punchy.
Bistro Restaurant, Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai,
Dubai, Dhs30. Tel: (04) 3519999
9
TOM YAM
THAI CHI
7.5/10
Giant prawns swim in this warming broth of
spices and vegetables. This would sort you
out after a heavy night out, and no mistake,
probably followed by a creamy Thai curry. It
packs a punch without shocking the system.
Thai Chi, Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai, Dhs76.
Tel: (04) 3244100
10
SEAFOOD SOUP
AL FRESCO
7/10
Packed with every mollusc and fishy friend
under the sea, Al Fresco’s offering tastes very Thai Kitchen, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai,
fresh, with a tomato base and squeeze of
lemon. Chunks of scallops and mussel add
substance, but we couldn’t taste the sprig of
rosemary on top, which was a shame.
Al Fresco, Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, Dhs38. Tel: (04) 3311111
11
FUSION SEAFOOD SOUP a bit more kick. The seafood is almost
WITH LEMONGRASS
CHADI KITCHEN 7/10
An elaborate affair, complete with potato
fondant foam, quenelle of black truffle,
squid and mushroom, and seared scallops
floating in a salty seafood broth. Very
attractive until the eating starts; it quickly Road, Dubai, Dhs34. Tel: (04) 3438888
turned into a curled grey mess. Still very
tasty, though.
Chadi Kitchen, Dubai Marine Resort & Spa,
Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs65 Tel: (04) 3461111
20 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
The tasting team
12
ITALIAN SEAFOOD
SOUP
DA VINCI’S 7/10
Creamier than your usual seafood soup,
this bowl was full of underwater characters
to create a good depth of flavour. Well
seasoned, but we were slightly put off by
how, well, lifelike the unshelled prawns
looked. Someone, peel them please!
Da Vinci’s, Millennium Airport Hotel, Garhoud,
Dubai, Dhs45. Tel: (04) 2823464
13
TOM YAM
THAI KITCHEN
6.5/10 Seafood Soup by Al Fresco
This clear, spicy broth needs a bit more
complexity, but the flavours were well
balanced and the massive prawns and lime
swayed us.
Dhs68. Tel: (04) 6021234
14
HOT AND SOUR
SEAFOOD SOUP
SHANG PALACE 6.5/10
Neither particularly hot nor sour, this soup
was nonetheless very tasty, it just needed
shredded, which makes it easier to eat than
those with whole prawns or scallops, but
it doesn’t look very pretty. It’s the Anthony Fusion Seafood Soup with
Worrall-Thompson of the soup world – not Lemongrass by Chadi Kitchen
attractive, but kind to the palate.
16
Shang Palace, Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed
HEIRLOOM TOMATO
15
GAZPACHO
NONA LIVIA’S THE EXCHANGE GRILL 4/10
MINESTRONE SOUP Alone, this soup was more like a thin
BELLUCCI 5/10 passata, but with the bruschetta it was
Not particularly inspiring, with cubed veggies improved. Lacking in substance and
in a clear soup, this is something we’d expect seasoning somewhat, it was something we
to come out of a can rather than a kitchen. could whizz up with a few tomatoes and a
Not unpleasant, but really rather boring. blender. Disappointing.
Bellucci, Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai, Dhs33. The Exchange Grill, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh
Tel: (04) 3244100 Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs50. Tel: (04) 3118246
4c Graphic Logo

Pantone Metallic Gold 871

+ 4 c graphic

1c Simplified Logo

Pantone Metallic Gold 871


Sandance
Revellers rejoice, Sandance is
back. At this year’s Nasimi Beach-
based fest you’ll be treated to the
beats and skills of 2ManyDJs,
Sander Kleinenberg, The Brand
New Heavies, Sneaky Sound
System and more
THE BRAND
NEW HEAVIES
The British acid jazz
legends are best
known for their hit
Midnight At The Oasis
but, as Andrew Levy
explains, you hear a
whole lot more at Nasimi
Will we hear all the classics at Sandance?
Yeah, it’ll be a greatest hits set-list so we don’t
disappoint and start boring everyone with
new stuff. I know whenever I go to see a band
I want to hear the songs that made me fall in
love with them in the first place. You have to
think about the fans first.
You have two new studio albums in the
pipeline – ambitious considering your last
effort, Get Used To It, emerged five years ago?
Kind of. I moved away from the UK and that
slowed us down a bit, but I’m back in London
now and we’re writing. I don’t know why it
always takes so long to put stuff out. We’re
going to do one album, wait six months, then
put a second out, so that we’re not off the
radar too long.
Are you looking forward to catching any
other acts at Sandance?
Roger Sanchez did some remixes for us a few
years back. I’ve seen him DJ in New York and
I’m a massive fan. N’Dea [Davenport, BNH
vocalist] has collaborated with him, too. So
I’m definitely going to hang out with the DJs
and have a good time.
What else have you got planned in Dubai?
Usually the hotels are so much fun there’s
not time to do much else. But I’m a big fan
of architecture, so a trip to the top of Burj
Khalifa is the first thing I’ll do when I land.
2MANYDJS
Stephen Dewaele, one half of sibling
mash-up kings 2ManyDJs, tells us
about naked fans and what’s next for
the brothers
You’re headlining Sandance’s post-sundown
festivities. Are you nocturnal types?
Night-time suits us best. We’ve become
night owls. We live in the night and get up
late. If we had a choice, it would probably be
different – we’d like to go early to bed.
2ManyDJ’s sets are renowned for
unexpected occurrences, including one UK
show where a fan jumped onstage naked.
Are you mindful of curbing such excesses in
the UAE?
If somebody wants to jump onstage naked I
hope I’m not going to get arrested! If anybody
wants to do that they’re more than welcome.
On the other hand, in Dubai everybody always
warns us before we go, but I remember it
being pretty relaxed. We did a festival there as
[rock band alter ego] Soulwax. They told us we
couldn’t swear, so we had to edit out little bits.
But it wasn’t bad. I was amazed by the crowd.
As brothers, do you ever squabble on tour?
The whole time, of course. We’re brothers
– that’s what you do. But it makes it easier,
because we understand each other when we
play music. We don’t need to talk to each
other that much.
MUSIC
SPECI A
L
Mar 11,
Nasimi Beach,
Atlantis, The Palm
Jumeirah, Dubai, 2pm
to 2am, Dhs150 to
Dhs300.
Tel: (055) 2004321.
www.atlantisthe
palm.com
What’s next for you both?
On April 1 we’re starting a big project that
we’re releasing for free on the Internet, a
24-hour radio station called Radio Soulwax.
We’re putting the finishing touches on that
now, and then we start on the new Soulwax
record. It’s going to be a pretty eventful year.
WORLD BEATERS
2Many DJs’ top three places to play (the UAE
aside, of course)...
BRAZIL
Brazil is always amazing. We really like the music
and it’s always nice to go to a country where
you can play something typically theirs. They’ve
taken pop culture and made it into their own.
ASIA
Japan is definitely one of my favourites; it’s
different to anywhere else. And everything
we’ve done in Korea, Kuala Lumpur and
Singapore turned out amazing. The Internet’s
changed everything. Even in Kuala Lumpur
there’s going to be a kid really into your music.
That makes it exciting.
BRITAIN
I really like playing the UK. I know it’s not exotic
whatsoever, but there’s only one thing I can say:
they’re crazy! Nuts! It’s an amazing thing.
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 23
 End of
SNEAKY SOUND
SYSTEM
Black Angus from the awesome
Aussie twosome on new tunes,
Jay-Z and expats

On Sandance...
We’ve just finished our
third album, so we’re
going to be test-
driving a lot of new
material.
On forthcoming
LP From Here To
Anywhere...
It’s the first record we’ve
done as a duo. We wrote it
in hotel rooms and various places touring
through Europe last year. It’s very much for
the dance floor, more electronic. It’s varied and
very upbeat. It’s not a record for wallflowers.
On sharing recent studio time with Jay-Z
and Kanye West...
We had some time with Jay-Z and Kanye
West in Sydney. Beyoncé was there as well.
[SSS vocalist] Connie sang a couple of
tracks for Kanye and Jay-Z’s record that’s
coming up. They were going to collaborate
on a track of ours, but we’ve gone off in a
different direction on that tune now.
SANDER
KLEINENBERG
The Dutch master explains why he
likes to offer crowds more
than the average deck
wrecker...
“Video DJing is
something I started a
couple of years ago. A
lot of people looked at me
like, ‘what is he trying to get
across, putting video into his
equation? This is dance music, not souped-
up karaoke!’ But as soon as the technique
became available I wanted to jump on it,
to make sure my DJ sets are memorable
experiences you won’t get from any other
Tom, Dick and Harry. The amount of people
I DJ for has grown in volume over the years.
If you’re in a 200-capacity room you don’t
need a big screen with lots of action going
on. But if you’re in front of a few more
people and, in my case, refuse to go down
the obvious route of playing really obvious
big records, I love having that extra element
to keep the crowd entertained and inspired.
So Sandance is going to be exciting and
challenging, with loads of exclusives and
great video material.”
The Streets released their
fifth studio album last
month, along with the news
that this would be their last.
What’s On caught up with
frontman Mike Skinner to
find out why
Mike Skinner recently put a ‘closed’ sign on
his website, confirming the end of his The
Streets alias. He kicked off the farewell tour in
Edinburgh Scotland, before bringing things
to a close when he hits Dubai this month.
So, that’s it. The Streets are no more. Dry
your eyes, and all that. What a pity.
For the Chav Poet Laureate, sharp
observations of modern life seem to have
come easy throughout a five-album career.
And newbie Computers And Blues, which is
chock-full of them, is every bit the match
of the best work he’s produced.
So why end it? Well, because the
Birmingham bard feels he’s said it
all now, that’s why. “The most
interesting element of anything
is death, so if you’re going
to talk about The Streets,
ending The Streets is
probably a good thing
to talk about,” he says.
“But it’s not interesting
really. I haven’t really
got anything more
to do.”
And it seems
anyone hoping that
he’ll change his
mind can forget
it. “I don’t feel
any sadness,” he
admits. “I would
feel frustrated
if I had to
make another

24 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

the road
IC
MUESCI A L
SP

one. You can’t go on forever, can you?” celebrity lifestyle.

Skinner may make it sound as if the The album shot to the top of the charts
decision to ditch The Streets was an easy on its release, and he followed it up two
one, but he claims that it was nothing of years later with Everything Is Borrowed, the
the sort. Indeed, he likens ending the band
with breaking up with a girlfriend. “You
penultimate album from The Streets’ five-
record deal.
THAT’S A (W)RAP
think, ‘I really miss her and want to get The singer, who enjoyed a cameo role as a
back together’,” he explains. “But eventually security guard in the fifth series of Doctor Who,
The lyrical genius of Mike Skinner
you realise the reasons you ended it are and now plans to move into film-making, said
stronger than the feelings of missing her.” in the past that he always envisioned The Streets Geezers need excitement,
He pauses for reflection, before adding, “To as a five-album box-set. If their lives don’t provide them this, they
stay fierce I’ll have to throw the last ten years of So, now that he’s fulfilled contractual incite violence.
my life in the bin and start again.” obligations by releasing Computers And Blues, Common sense, simple common sense.
Now 32, Skinner burst onto the UK music the time has come to wrap things up. Geezers Need Excitement, Original Pirate Material
scene with The Streets’ 2002 Mercury Music “It’s obvious,” he says. “I’ve been doing it
Prize-nominated debut Original Pirate for ten years now and I’ve always tried to do I’m not trying to pull you,
Material, but it wasn’t until the release of something different with each album. Some Even though I would like to.
sophomore effort A Grand Don’t Come For [of my work has] been amazingly received I think you are really fit,
Free – a concept-heavy release featuring and some of it hasn’t been, and I’ve run out of You’re fit but my gosh, don’t you know it.
the radio-friendly hit singles Fit But You new avenues.” Fit But You Know It / A Grand Don’t Come For Free
Know It and Dry Your Eyes – that he really Tellingly, he admits that his latest album
made a mark on the mainstream, reaching doesn’t see him going down new avenues, For billions of years since the outset of
the number one spot and selling over three but instead trawling down streets he’s already time,
million copies. visited. Every single one of your ancestors has
A major star by the time of “This album is not really a new direction,” survived.
2006’s The Hardest Way he says. “It’s all the directions I’ve already Every single person on your mum and dad’s
To Make An Easy been down rehashed into something that’s... side,
Living, Skinner’s quite nice on the ears.” Successfully looked after and passed on to
third long- Another serving of his trademark you life.
player was a intermingle of hip hop, two-step garage What are the chances of that, like?
no-holds- beats and comic social commentary might On The Edge Of A Cliff / Everything Is Borrowed
barred be enough to keep the fans happy for a bit
account longer, but it’s not nearly enough to keep its When you’re a famous boy, it gets really
of the creator interested. easy to get girls,
“I don’t want to be doing things by habit It’s all so easy you get a bit spoilt.
and don’t want to make formulaic music,” he So, when you try to pull a girl, who is also
insists. “I want whatever I do to be different famous too,
and reflect the times. That’s why people are It feels just like when you wasn’t famous.
constantly choosing different genres to listen When You Wasn’t Famous / The Hardest Way To
to as time goes by. I want to get away from Make An Easy Living
my own preconceptions of what I am
as a musician, so that hopefully I can It’s not the size of the
Mar 18, keep entertaining people,” he adds. dog in the fight, WIN!
Livin The Music, So, it’s a wrap, then. But will he But the fight and forWe have tickets to see The Streets up
Barasti, Le Méridien grabs. For your chance to win, e-mail
miss touring with The Streets? “I the dog. WinWithWhatsOn@motivate.ae
Mina Seyahi Resort don’t know,” he says. “I do really Going Through Hell with the correct answer to this question,
& Spa, Dubai Marina, and the name of the prize in
enjoy performing.” / Computers And
Dubai, Dhs225. www. the subject line...
Blues
livinthemusicdubai. Which of the following is a
famous musical?
com a) 4th Street
b) 42nd Street
c) 424th Street

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 25

The wonder

Mar 18,
Yas Arena,
Yas Island,
Abu Dhabi, tickets
from Dhs250.
www.boxofficeme.com

26 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

of Stevie
U S IC
M ECI A L
SP

The soul and R&B legend’s glittering career in pictures

1950
Born on May 13, 1950, as Stevland
Hardaway Judkins. The third of his
parents’ six children, he is born six
weeks premature and blind. His
mother subsequently changes his
2002 surname to Morris, aged four, after
Performs at the Winter Paralympics separating from his father.
opening ceremony in Salt Lake
City, USA.
1961
Signs to the seminal Tamla Motown
after wowing label impresario Berry
Gordy. Producer Clarence Paul coins
the iconic stage name Stevie Wonder,
declaring; “We can’t keep calling him
the eighth wonder of the world”.

2006
Introduces himself to a new
generation of fans by appearing on
American Idol, as well as cameoing on
albums from hip hop high rollers Busta
Rhymes and Snoop Dogg.

1963
Backed by a youthful Marvin Gaye
on drums, Fingertips (Pt.2) becomes
13-year-old Stevie’s first hit, topping
2009 the US charts.
Performs with Sting at US President
Barack Obama’s inauguration day. A
month later, Obama presents Wonder
with the Library Of Congress’ Gershwin
Prize For Popular Song. In November,
Wonder is named a Messenger Of
Peace for the United Nations.

1996
Inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall
Of Fame and receives the Grammy
Lifetime Achievement Award. 1973
Wins the first of his 25 Grammy
Awards – a record amount for any solo
artist – scooping Best Rhythm & Blues
Song for Superstition. The same year he
also sings the track on classic children’s
television show Sesame Street.

1980
Releases single Happy Birthday as
part of his campaign to make Martin
Luther King Jr’s birthday a national 1974
holiday in the US. Three years later, Wonder makes his live comeback at
then-President Ronald Reagan grants New York’s Madison Square Garden,
Wonder’s wish. after a serious car crash in North
Carolina seven months previously left
him in a coma for four days.

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 27

Mars
attacks
The path from film star to pop star is a well-trodden and
notoriously rocky one. But Thirty Seconds To Mars is far
more than just an ego massage for Jared Leto – they’re
a massive million-selling success
At a Thirty Seconds To Mars gig, you
could divide the audience members into
two categories. There are the 20 and 30-
something fans of frontman Jared Leto from
his incarnation as teen heart throb Jordan
Catalano in the mid-1990s drama series My
So-Called Life and his portrayal of a junkie
in the art-house film Requiem For A Dream.
But these will be far outnumbered by the
young fans that are there for the music. Such
is the success of Leto’s band that they sold
more than two million of their eponymously
titled debut album, worldwide, 3.5 million
copies of their second album, A Beautiful Lie,
worldwide, while 2009’s This is War sold over
67,000 units in its first week of sales in the
United States alone.
Yet, despite all that, Leto, now 38, still feels there
are people who don’t take his band seriously.
“A lot of people have given us more than a fair
shot and it’s been great, and a lot of people
have given me a really hard time. And they
still do. In the beginning it was really tough.
People didn’t come to see us because I was
in Requiem For A Dream – we played shows
when there were 20 people there. It wasn’t
until the music connected with people that we
started having some success. That’s interesting
to see. You can’t count on success in one area
U S IC
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SP
just because you happen to have a little in
another. It doesn’t work like that. People can
sense a sham after a while.”
It certainly wasn’t a particular success for
other Hollywood stars: Keanu Reeves, Russell
Crowe, Kevin Bacon, Eddie Murphy, Bruce
Willis and Billy Bob Thornton. But Thirty
Seconds To Mars’ alternative rock and elaborate
stage shows have secured them a solid fan base
around the world.
“We’ve played Wembley Arena. And when
that happens, who cares? Let people say what
they say. You can’t please everyone, whether
you’re Damien Hirst or Björk. How much do
you need before you’re OK with being who
you are?”
Leto may be OK with who he is, but there’s
a sense that he would quite like to rid himself
of the acting associations altogether when he
is in rock star mode. In order to avoid being
known as Jared Leto’s band, when they were
signed in 1998 concert promoters were not
allowed to use Leto’s name on posters and
there were no photographs. Even now, for
the music videos he has directed for Thirty
Seconds To Mars songs, he goes under a
pseudonym. “When I first started doing
them it was a way for me to disappear – and
hopefully for people to be able to experience
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 29
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MUESCI A L
SP
it maybe a little differently than they would if
they thought that I had anything to do with it
at all. Especially in the beginning, me being
in the band, having made some films, seemed
to be a real distraction for a lot of people.”
There’s no doubt that Thirty Seconds To
Mars have put in the effort to reach their
level of success. They toured extensively
following the release of their 2005 sophomore
album and took off in America, while their
online connection with fans catapulted them
to worldwide stardom. In a bid to involve
their fans for This Is War, the band held a
“summit” where they invited fans to provide
backing vocals. At the first, in Los Angeles,
people showed up from all over the world, so
they repeated the summit in eight countries,
from Japan to Germany. When Leto received
a Twitter message from a fan in Iran
disappointed they were unable to make it,
they were inspired to hold a digital summit.
And, for the album, Leto invited fans to
submit close-up shots of their faces in order
to make 2,000 different individual covers.
But there’s another key to the band’s success:
perhaps the difference between other actors-
turned-rock-stars and Leto’s million-selling
band is that Leto was playing music long
before he was acting. Born on a commune
in Louisiana, he spent his childhood on the
move with his brother Shannon (the band’s
drummer) and photographer mother, with
spells living in Alaska, Florida and Wyoming,
30 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
“FOR ME IT’S ABOUT
GUT AND FEEL. I WANT
TO KEEP THINGS
SIMPLE. I WANT THE
PRIMAL SIDE”
Haiti and Brazil, before finding himself in
Washington DC as a teenager, where he
enrolled at the Corcoran School Of Art. He
still paints today, large, abstract works. Next
he studied film-making at the School Of
Visual Arts in New York.
His first musical instrument, aged four or
five, was a broken-down piano and he grew
up singing classic rock, from Pink Floyd to
Led Zeppelin. He claims to have not become
very proficient at the piano because, “I’m less interesting to be able to be a smaller piece of a
interested in technique and more in other
things – emotion. For me it’s about gut and
feel. I want to keep things simple. I want the
primal side.”
If you’re looking for proof of the band’s
commitment, you only have to look at their
fight against their record label Virgin’s
attempts to sue for not fulfilling their contract contribution.”
– it ended in the high court.
“It was brutal. There were days where we
thought, ‘what if we went all the way and lost?’
How does that affect us, the band mates? We
certainly don’t have deep pockets. For them,
PHOTO: COBRASNAKE
they’re used to lawsuits. We’ve never had a
lawsuit. It became about survival, really.”
While Leto, who has worked with film
directors David Fincher, Darren Aronofsky and
Oliver Stone, has made the seamless transition
from actor to rock star, he is still a working
actor, and appeared in 2009’s Mr Nobody, a film
about a man waking up as the oldest man in a
world in which everyone is immortal. With a
successful career in both music and film, can he
say which art form he prefers?
“Making a film is really the most
interesting part for me. I love the research. I
love the building of a character. I also don’t
need to make five movies a year – I’m not
after being the person who makes the most
films. I want to have a rewarding, challenging
experience so I tend to do more art house
type films, not big blockbuster movies. It’s
bigger puzzle.
“With music you’re much more responsible
for everything. As the songwriter, as a person
who’s behind some of the creative ideas, you
are the director, writer, editor,
producer and the actor, so
you have a much bigger
11 Mar,
Yas Island,
Abu Dhabi, tickets
from Dhs150. www.
boxofficeme.com
Urban leg
Usher, the man behind the
modern face of R&B, talks to
What’s On about confessions,
fatherhood and his rivalry
with protégé Justin Bieber
Talking to Usher long-distance from the UAE
to Kentucky is no easy task. He’s nearly an
hour late calling us, we get cut off numerous
times, but while we lose our cool a little,
Usher remains a slick operator, an over-
confident and well-oiled R&B PR machine.
No surprise after nearly 20 years in the
industry. Within the first minute he claims,
“It will be good for tourism for me to come
and do a show in Dubai”. There are no self-
esteem issues in the Usher camp, it seems.
The mega mogul was discovered age
13 on Star Search, a TV talent show, and
later signed to LaFace Records by LA Reid,
where the Texas-born teen was produced
and developed by Sean ‘P Diddy’ Combs
and Jermaine Dupri, leading to a Grammy
nomination in 1997 for You Make Me Wanna.
Undeniably good-looking, with some very
smooth dance moves (some shirtless action
in music videos didn’t hurt, either), the music
industry and fans alike quickly sat up and
paid attention to the young solo star.
Tours with Mary J Blige and Janet Jackson,
plus forays into acting in teen flicks She’s
All That and The Faculty, secured Usher
Raymond IV’s spot in popular culture, and
were seamlessly followed up by hits from the
2001 album 8701 like Pop Ya Collar, U Got
It Bad and U Remind Me. Today he’s 31, a
divorced father of two boys, and a big bucks
businessman with interests in sports, fashion
and music. He’s also the man responsible for
bringing Justin Bieber, the floppy-haired,
much-Googled pop sensation to unimagined
levels of fame.
A crazy number of awards adorn Usher’s
mantelpiece (or maybe they have their own
wing), with two Grammy’s from the 2011
32 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
ceremony added last month. But with all his
success, and enviable bank balance, does he
still appreciate the recognition? And whose
opinion does he care about most? “The fans”
he tells us. “That’s what matters the most –
and if I win an award that’s OK.”
The latest album, Raymond V Raymond, has
spawned singles OMG (the one that shouts,
“Honey got a booty like pow-pow-pow”) and
the Grammy-winning There Goes My Baby,
and sees Usher’s signature honey-drenched
voice switching between ‘playa’ party anthems
and maybe-confessional crooning.
Famed for his opaque lyrics about past
relationships with the likes of his ex-wife
and former flame Chili from TLC, is his
latest musical offering also a personal piece?
“Well, some things are fictional, some things
are non-fictional,” Usher dodges. “I pull
inspiration from all things that I do, I’m a
true artist in that sense. Sometimes people
have a first time experience through my
music that they would not normally be able
to have. Some people have never travelled
outside of America, but when you listen to
my music it takes you all around the world.”
Critics have given the album mixed
reviews, but many have noted a return to
an earlier style, something Usher himself
disagrees with. “Noooo. I wouldn’t say that
at all!” he exclaims. “It’s an introduction to
a new style. The sound of OMG, the sound
of There Goes My Baby, those are sounds
that are new for me. But I’m notorious for
the power ballad so I guess There Goes My
Baby is somewhat comparable to Burn or U
Got It Bad”.
With something of a split personality,
Raymond V Raymond attempts
to straddle both sides of the
singer; trying to balance
the single stud party tunes
you’d hear in a club, with
his more sensitive family
man character traits. And
Usher does talk fondly
about his sons. “The one thing
I really look forward to is helping to tell
my children’s story. As they find the things
they want to put passion into, I love to be
supportive of them”. But would he wish the
kind of success Justin Bieber is experiencing
on them? “Let’s just say I think I’d be the
world’s greatest coach if my children decided
to become artists,” he says. “For the most part,
I don’t force them to go towards music, but if
that’s what they want to do I would definitely
support it.”
The Bieber global phenomenon seems
to have taken everyone but his mentor by
surprise. “From the moment I met him I
knew he had a very special gift,” he says.
“And I only hoped that in time people would
recognise it. I’m very proud of him.” Bieber
now gets over 150 million results on Google,
around three times the number Usher does.
For most people, that fact would sting a
little. Is he cool with it? “Of course, he’s
my child. Why wouldn’t I be? Rivalry? No.
I’m very happy with my student and very
excited about his future,” the singer insists.
“Everything I’ve learnt as an artist I offer him
as a mentor. I encourage him how to be the
best artist on stage, but also nurturing him
as a person. It’s the time spent off-stage that
makes the difference to you as a person; the
philanthropy than I do didn’t happen because
of the man I am in front of the camera, it
happened because something motivated
me, a place I went, a story I heard,
a book I read, some art I’ve seen.
That’s what matters. It’s about
being a well-rounded, well-
cultured individual.”
It seems Usher’s
philosophy is
end
U S IC
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SP

paying off, as his record sales prove, and he

clearly loves what he does. “It’s a beautiful
thing. I’m able to rejuvenate my creativity
and I love touring. Music is an ever-evolving
thing, like a revolving door, and when you’re
in it, you’re in it”. Perhaps not the kind of
wisdom the Dalai Lama should be worried
about, but definitely the makings of a great
entertainer and superb performer.
As Usher’s radio play amps up before his
show, Dubai waits excitedly for the R&B
superstar to take to the stage. “The show will
be really physical. There are some technical
elements to the show, but for the most part I
want to focus on music. This is the first time
I’ve ever been able to perform songs that have
made my career to these fans,” he chatters
enthusiastically. “I’ll be trying to get in as
many songs as possible before the lights go
out. A bit of wardrobe, a bit of dance, that’s
what you can look forward to. It’s going to be
an incredible performance.”
And with an attitude like that, there’s no
doubt it will be.

Thur Mar 10,

Dubai Media City
Amphitheatre,
Dubai, tickets from
Dhs295.
www.usherdubai
.com

MUSIC IS AN
EVER-EVOLVING
THING, LIKE
A REVOLVING
DOOR, AND
WHEN YOU’RE IN
IT, YOU’RE IN IT

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 33

 FILM
Sucker Punch
WHO? Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish,
Jena Malone, Vanessa Hudgens,
Jon Hamm, Zach Snyder (writer-
director)
TAGLINE ‘You will be unprepared’
ONCE UPON A TIME... A young girl, consigned to an
asylum by her wicked stepmother,
retreated into an alternate reality
which she aimed to escape by
finding five special objects.
IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE See whether Zach Snyder has
MOOD TO... returned to form following the
mild disappointment of Watchmen
and the so-so animated adventure
Legend Of The Guardians.
WATCH THIS IF YOU Pictures that blend fantasy and
LIKE... reality such as Inkheart and
virtually everything Terry Gilliam
has ever made (Brazil, Time
Bandits, Tideland, we could go on).
TOP TRIVIA Sucker Punch was meant to
star Amanda Seyfried, Evan
Rachel Wood and Emma Stone,
but all three actresses proved
unavailable.
WHAT’S ON TEN WORD Could restore Snyder to his 300-
REVIEW era standing.
RATE OR SLATE? PREVIEW
STRIP AD
34 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
Red Riding
Hood
Amanda Seyfried, Gary
Oldman, Lukas Haas, Billy
Burke, Virginia Madsen,
Catherine Hardwicke (director)
‘Believe the legend. Beware
the wolf ’
In a village that lived in fear of a
werewolf, a young girl (Seyfried)
fell in love with a handsome
woodcutter.
Be reminded that the Brothers
Grimm’s stories were in fact utterly
terrifying and rarely ended with the
words “happily ever after”.
Previous adult fairytale offerings
such as Neil Jordan’s The
Company Of Wolves and Snow
White: A Tale Of Terror in which
Sigourney Weaver gives a wicked
performance as the stepmother.
The role of the woodcutter was
originally offered to Twilight star
Taylor Lautner.
Sure to go down a storm with the
Twilight crowd.
★★★✩✩
Scream 4
Neve Campbell, Courteney
Cox, David Arquette, Hayden
Panettiere, Emma Roberts, Wes
Craven (director)
‘New decade. New rules’
Sidney Prescott (Campbell), having
taken a decade to get over the
events that blighted her teenage
years, found herself confronted yet
again by the Ghostface Killer.
See whether the Scream movies still
have the power to scare.
Screams 1 to 3, plus screenwriter
Kevin Williamson’s other slasher
movie – I Know What You Did Last
Summer – and/or his smash hit
TV series Dawson’s Creek and The
Vampire Diaries.
Actress Lake Bell (No Strings
Attached) left the picture after
shooting had begun, a story she
broke via the medium of Twitter.
Could prove shocking in
both senses of the word.
PREVIEW

Arthur
Russell Brand, Helen Mirren,
Jennifer Garner, Greta Gerwig,
Nick Nolte, Jason Winer
(director)
‘From the writer of Borat and
Brüno’
Wealthy, alcohol-fuelled gadabout
Arthur Bach (Brand) fell in love
with Linda Marolla (Gerwig), a
woman so unsuitable, our hero
found himself in danger of being
disinherited.
Enjoy some of Brand’s unique, er,
brand of anarchy.
The original Arthur that secured
Dudley Moore an Oscar
nomination, but not the sequel,
which is a film so wretched, one
can imagine them showing it to the
inmates at Guantanamo Bay.
Arthur screenwriter Peter Baynham
started out in comedy playing a
homeless Welshman in Stewart
Lee and Richard Herring’s UK TV
sketch show Fist Of Fun.
Not bad, but Brand and Mirren are
a winning team.
★★★✩✩
Your Highness
Natalie Portman, Zooey
Deschanel, Danny McBride,
James Franco, Damian Lewis,
David Gordon Green (director)
‘This spring, prepare for their
excellency’
Prince Fabious (Franco) set off
in search of his kidnapped bride,
accompanied by his feckless
brother Thadeous (McBride).
See whether James Franco’s
hilarious stoner turn in Pineapple
Express wasn’t a fluke but proof
positive of his seriously impressive
range.
The Princess Bride, which blended
fantasy and comedy to sublime
effect, and A Knight’s Tale, which
introduced the wider world to a
young chap called Heath Ledger.
Although the screenplay’s credited
to Danny McBride and Ben
Best, most of the dialogue was
improvised on set.
Your Highness is a fine advert for
big dumb fun.
★★★★✩
STRIP AD
Tomorrow,When Rio
The War Began
Caitlin Stasey, Rachel Hurd-
Wood, Lincoln Lewis, Deniz
Akdeniz, Colin Friels, Stuart
Beattie (writer-director)
‘Where were you when everything
changed?’
Seven Australian teenagers on a
camping trip banded together to
protect their country from overseas
invaders.
Watch seven adolescent Aussies
try to do what 11 Australian adults
couldn’t accomplish last December
– namely resist a superior foreign
power.
Red Dawn, in which Russia storms
the United States and it’s left to
Patrick Swayze, Charlie Sheen and
C Thomas Howell (remember
him?) to uphold life, liberty and the
American way.
Tomorrow, When The War Began
was the biggest domestic hit at the
Australian box office in 2010.
A gallant effort, unlike the
aforementioned Ashes campaign.
★★★✩✩
FILM | NEW RELEASES
Jesse Eisenberg, Anne
Hathaway, George Lopez,
Jamie Foxx, Leslie Mann,
Carlos Saldanha (director)
‘One out of every eight
Americans is afraid of flying.
Most of them don’t have feathers’
Domesticated macaw Blue
(Eisenberg) had his life turned
upside down by an encounter
with an independent parrot
called Jewel (Hathaway).
Watch the latest in a long line of
animated features that have the
good grace to entertain adult and
child alike.
Earlier pictures from Twentieth
Century Fox Animation, such
as the Ice Age saga, Robots and
Horton Hears A Who!
Not only is it largely set in South
America, but Rio was partially
financed by Brazilian investors.
It has its feathers, but Rio’s often
wonderful.
★★★★✩
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 35
 T H E V I E W,
T A K I N G IN
E F I N I S HED
N C E Y OU’V H E M E N U. MAKE
O O K AT T E C L E C T IC M E N U
T AND D
A Y.
L O S H IN G LY
TA K E A
R E F R E . N IG H
ND A F THEM
A V IE W S A S E S. ALL O ACCESS
.
M A R IN
CULAR
E S E N
OR TH S BEACH CLUDE
S P E C TA R E A L T R E AT F P M – 6 .0 0 P M . IN
A R O M 2 .0
0
HT CLUB UNCH F
T H E YA C R ID AY L A T E L
ED F
U N L IM IT
TRY THE

Contact InterContinental Abu Dhabi on 800 423463 / dine@icauh.ae

EATING OUT
Before we begin, we would like to express
our sadness at the news of chef Santi
Santamaria's recent death. We interviewed
Santi at his Dubai restaurant Ossiano
not long ago – he was lovely chap who
conducted the interview in his native
Catalan using an interpreter. The Critic will
pay full tribute to the great man's career
in next month's column. And now, as
Santi surely would have wanted, on to the food.
Don’t get us wrong, we enjoy Taste Of Dubai
(TOD) – only a fool would turn their nose up at
a field full of food from some of the emirate’s
finest restaurants – but it’s a pity some of our
favourites are missing. Where’s Zuma? Where’s
Gagnaire? Where on earth is La Petite Maison?
Luckily, this year’s TOD manages to redeem itself
slightly as The Ivy makes its Dubai debut with a
stand at the festival. You can read what executive
chef Colin Clague has to say about the culinary
institution slated to open in DIFC this April, as
well as restaurant group Caprice Holdings’ future
plans for the UAE on the following pages (p38).
And that’s not all. We also give our verdict on the
somewhat ridiculously named At.mosphere, the
new restaurant on the 122nd floor of the Burj
Khalifa (p40), the reimagined Margaux (p42), as
well as brunch at one of the capital’s big name
restaurants, Hakkasan (p45). There’s a new tapas
menu at Al Hambra (p47), The Critic on the
perils of blogging (p48) and what we thought
of Chi’Zen at Festival City’s Marina Restaurant
Pavilion (p49). That’s more than a taste of Dubai,
it’s a full blown seven courser. Enjoy.

Gareth Rees, Features Editor

AL HAMBRA

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 37

 EATING OUT
Taste Of
Dubai’s foremost food fest is back, with 22 of the emirate’s finest
restaurants showing off their wares and appearances from celebrity
chefs Gary Rhodes, Vineet Bhatia and Richard Phillips. Here’s our
festival highlights, plus an interview with The Ivy’s executive chef Colin
Clague as the restaurant prepares to make its debut at Taste Of Dubai
THE CELEB CHEFS
Famous faces to look out for
GARY RHODES
As the proud proprietor of two
Dubai restaurants, Rhodes is
a Taste Of Dubai regular, and
anyone who’s dined at our pal
Gary’s Rhodes Mezzanine or
Rhodes Twenty10 will know
the spiky-haired chef can throw
together a nice plate of chow.
Mar 4, Gary Rhodes, Chef’s Theatre, 8pm to
8.30pm
VINEET BHATIA
Indian chef Vineet Bhatia is a culinary genius.
Nobody does Indian food like this
man and his Dubai restaurant
Indego at Grosvenor House has
never been out of our restaurant
Hot List. Why? It’s the best
Indian in the city, no question.
Mar 3, Cookery School 7pm to
7.40pm, Chef’s Theatre, 4.15pm to
4.45pm
Mar 4, Chef’s Theatre, 4.15pm to 4.45pm
Mar 5, Cookery School, 5pm to 5.40pm
RICHARD PHILLIPS
Unlike some TV chefs, Phillips did his time
behind the stove before hitting the
idiot box, working at the Roux
Brothers’ Le Gavroche and Marco
Pierre White’s The Criterion,
before winning a Michelin star
for his UK restaurant Thackeray’s
and opening Hengist and Richard
Phillips at Chapel Down.
Mar 3, Chef’s Theatre, 5.45pm to 6.15pm,
Cookery School 2pm to 2.40pm and 9pm to
9.40pm
Mar 4, Chef’s Theatre, 1.15pm to 1.45pm and
38 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
5.45pm to 6.15pm, Cookery School 5pm to
5.40pm and 10pm to 10.40pm
Mar 5, Chef’s Theatre, 4.15pm to 4.45pm and
8pm to 8.30pm, Cookery School 6pm to
6.40pm and 10pm to 10.40pm
SIX OF THE BEST
The stands worthy of your tokens
RIVINGTON GRILL
Cuisine? British
Why visit? The Riv, as it is affectionately
known at What’s On Towers, is one of our
favourite restaurants and has never been out
of the Hot List top five. Why? The Saturday
roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, the fresh
ingredients, the daily specials – why ever not? MAYA BY RICHARD
Executive chef Colin Clague promises fish and SANDOVAL
chips, Scotch egg and Eton mess.
Rivington Grill
Rhodes Twenty10
RHODES TWENTY10
Cuisine? Steakhouse/grill
Why visit? There’s sure to be some first-rate
meat on offer, and who, aside from veggies,
doesn’t like a juicy chunk of flesh? We
certainly do. And with Gary only appearing
once at the Chef ’s Theatre this year, he’ll have
plenty of time to hang around his stand.
RHODES MEZZANINE
Cuisine? European
Why visit? Gary’s first Dubai restaurant has
become an institution and any foodie worth
their salt will know the team at Mezzanine
rarely, if ever, drops the ball, or rather the
spatula. The white tomato soup is a hit with
every diner.
Cuisine? Mexican
Why visit? Sandoval is on a global mission
to teach people that real Mexican food is as
different to Tex-Mex as water to wine, and
Maya chef Ruben Herrera and the rest of the
team are just as determined.
INDEGO BY VINEET
Cuisine? Indian
Why visit? We mentioned that Vineet Bhatia
is a genius, right? Well, head chef John Sinjobi
walks the path laid-down by the master,
which is why Indego won Favourite Indian at
the What’s On Awards last year.
VERRE
Cuisine? European
Why visit? Scott Price, winner of our Chef
Of The Year award in 2010, is the most
talented young chef in Dubai and Verre still
serves up some of the most outstanding food
in the city. Let’s hope the team whacks one of
their famous beef Wellingtons in the oven.
 EATING OUT

Dubai WIN!
TASTE OF D
UBAI
TICKETS TOto one of the highlights

The Ivy
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To win ticke calendar, simply e-mai
ary
of the culin tsOn@motivate.ae with
WinWithWha and name of the prize
,
your answer subject line.

arrives
in the ted in?
The Ivy loca
What city is nd on
a) Lo
b) Paris
c) Madrid

THE CHEF'S
THEATRE in Dubai
Our pick of the performances Set to open in Dubai in that and bringing it to the Dubai market. I
don’t think you can replicate London copy
DAY ONE April, Caprice Holdings’ and paste style, but the feel of the restaurant
Tim Hughes, The Ivy, London, Dubai The Ivy will be introducing has to be the same.
6.30pm to 7pm And the food?
itself to diners at Taste Of I’ve worked very closely with Tim Hughes
DAY TWO Dubai. The group’s UAE who’s the group chef in London. There are
Jun Tanaka, Pearl, London, Dubai executive chef, Colin going to be some very high-end items on
2.45pm to 3.15pm the menu and some very reasonably priced
Clague, admits the items, so the idea is that there’s something
DAY THREE pressure is on for everybody. We’re going to do frutti di
Uwe Micheel, China Club, Dubai mare and there’s going to be caviar at the
5pm to 5.30pm top end, but there will also be a shepherd’s
A month until the opening, Colin. The pie and beef burger.
pressure must be well and truly on? And is it all on track?
THE COOKERY Definitely. Obviously everyone knows it now, It’s where Scarlett’s used to be in Emirates
it’s exceptional, but not many people had Towers, the hoarding is up, the kitchen
SCHOOL heard of the Rivington Grill when it opened – is totally gutted, the restaurant is totally
it came in under the radar a little bit. But with gutted, the approvals from the municipality
Three lessons you shouldn’t miss The Ivy, whether you’ve eaten there or not, have been done and it’s just a case now of
everyone knows it. It’s got that reputation, that putting it all back together. Simon Convoy
DAY ONE mystique, and the pressure is on. from The Rivington is moving over as head
Scott Price, Verre, Dubai After a decade of cooking Japanese chef and it’s slated to open end of April.
4pm to 4.40pm food has it been a challenge to return And after The Ivy, what’s next?
to British cuisine? We’re looking into doing another Rivington
DAY TWO It was time for a change. I wanted to get in the Madinat, which is in the planning
Simon Convoy, Rivington Grill, Dubai back to something I enjoy cooking at home, stages. That will be a phenomenal location
11pm to 11.40pm something I enjoy eating – back to British if that materialises. The powers that be are
food. Though, having said that, The Ivy is talking, but I think it’s pretty far forward.
DAY THREE pretty eclectic. The Rivington is a British They’re talking September. Then Scott’s
Ruben Herrera, Maya, Dubai restaurant, but The Ivy is more of a British in Abu Dhabi for the next opening on the
7pm to 7.40pm institution, so you’re going to have curry, radar at Etihad Towers.
there will be some Arabic dishes, an Asian But first Taste Of Dubai.
THE DETAILS plate – there’s something for everybody. Yep, there will be an Ivy stand. Some of the
WHEN: March 3 to 5 You’ve had to do quite a bit of cookbooks will be there, some images, and
WHERE: Amphitheatre, Dubai Media City, Dubai preparation, though, right? the maitre d’ and the manager just to whet
PRICE: Dhs60 to Dhs75, season Dhs120 to Dhs150, In the past couple of months I’ve been back the whistle so people know what it’s about.
VIP Dhs200, VIP season Dhs500, under-12s free to England and immersed in the philosophy The Ivy, The Boulevard, Ground Level,
TEL: (056) 6712388
of The Ivy. I saw the recipes and how the Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai.
kitchen worked, so it’s a case of adapting Tel: (04) 3198767. www.theivy.ae
WEB: www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 39

 EATING OUT
A taste of
things to
come
Our pick of the
UAE’s tastiest new
talent
ROYAL CHINA DUBAI
There’s been a welcome glut of
Chinese restaurants
opening in Dubai
of late after years
of a rather too
limited offering.
The latest is
Cantonese
restaurant Royal
China, which
opens in DIFC this
month. With popular
restaurants in London, Singapore
and China, we’re hoping Royal
China will be a hit. We’ll be
popping in to try their signature
lobster noodles the minute the
doors are thrown open.
The Balcony, Precinct Building 4, DIFC,
Dubai. www.royalchinagroup.biz
JONES THE GROCER
Whoever this Jones fellow is, he
or she knows what they’re doing.
The brand’s first store on the corner
of 4th Muroor and 15th Street is
already an Abu Dhabi favourite,
and this second store in Khalidiyah
promises a lot more than groceries.
As well as the fresh food and café,
the new store will boast a walk-in
cheese room, a coffee and tea
distillery where you can snort the
essence of your favourite brew
from a test tube, and a bakery
and patisserie. Good ol’ Jones, our
favourite grocer in the capital.
Pearl Plaza Tower, Khalidiyah, Abu
Dhabi. www.jonesthegrocer.com
LALEZAR
The newly opened Zabeel
Saray hotel on The Palm has
four restaurants, including Al
Nafoorah (Lebanese), Amala
(Indian) and Voi, a Vietnamese
restaurant serving dishes from
the French colonial era. But
the one that interests us the
most is Lalezar, a regal Turkish
restaurant promising Anatolian
cuisine and décor from the era
of the Ottoman Empire. We like
something a little bit different.
Expect our verdict soon.
Zabeel Saray, The Palm, Dubai. Tel:
(04) 4530444. www.jumeirah.com
40 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
At.mosphere
Its prices, like
its location, are
stratospheric, but
is the Burj Khalifa’s
long-awaited 122nd
floor restaurant
worthy of the hype?
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest
building in the world and,
therefore, its new grill restaurant
At.mosphere is higher off the
ground than any other. So, full
marks for the matchless location.
But the UAE has a nasty habit
of relying on glitzy surrounds,
hoping they will wow diners
into a stupor rendering them
incapable of rejecting the all too
often disappointing food. And
we must admit that after all the
hoopla surrounding the opening
of At.mosphere we weren’t holding
out much hope. We were expecting
it to be flash, gaudy and expensive –
a nightmare of pretentiousness and
outlandish ostentation.
But, having enjoyed a wonderful
evening on the 122nd floor, we
are willing to hold our hands up
and admit that our preconceptions
were unwarranted. At.mosphere
is smart, sexy and every inch the
modern grill restaurant that its
location deserves. And the view,
although the perspective from the
lounge is better, isn’t bad either.
Having said that, it is
excruciatingly expensive, with a
minimum spend for dinner of
Dhs450 per person guaranteeing
a bill of at least Dhs900 for two.
Taking advantage of a prime setting
– an assured tourist magnet – by
slapping haute cuisine prices on
simple dishes is inexcusable, if wily,
and expected. We’re also far from
convinced by the superfluous full
stop in the middle of its name – for
the life of us, we just don’t get why –
but what they lose in grammar they
pick up again with their decision
to open a grill; it’s a people pleaser,
there’s something for everyone.
Foregoing a strong urge to order
the chestnut and pheasant soup
with truffle mascarpone, which
at Dhs120 has to be the world’s
most expensive broth, we ordered
up appetisers of beef tartare and
poached langoustine. A blend of
ground wagyu and Angus beef,
the tartare was the best we’ve
had in at least a year – the small
patty made up of high quality
meat and served simply with
the classic accoutrements. And
the langoustine, sat discreetly in
lobster vinaigrette, was poached to
supple perfection.
For mains we tried both ends
of the price spectrum, choosing a
Dhs440 150g fillet of Kobe steak
and the Aussie saltbush lamb,
one of the cheaper mains on the
menu at Dhs260. A lot of fuss is
made about Kobe beef, which to
be worthy of the name must be
born, reared and slaughtered in
the Hyōgo Prefecture of Japan.
Bred from Tajima Wagyu cattle,
it is supposedly the best cut of
red flesh planet Earth has to offer.
Well marbled, it was tender, lithe,
toothsome and served with a
fabulous truffle and mushroom
sauce. Was it the best steak we’ve
ever had? Well, it was terribly
tiny, but you don’t get much meat
from Tajima, apparently. So yes, it
In tweet form… At.mosphere. Just the kind
of restaurant you would want to find on
the 122nd floor of the tallest building in
the world. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and
follow me
WhatsOnAbuDhabi
probably was. But don’t order it if
you’re hungry. The lamb was pink,
accommodating, perfectly seasoned
with just enough salt and served
with a sweet pumpkin fondant. To
top it off, the sommelier suggested
a fabulous wine that complemented
it beautifully.
An agreeably rendered lemon
and ricotta soufflé took 15
minutes, to prepare giving us
welcome time to digest our mains
and, along with Gianduja, a sweet,
hazelnut infused chocolate, served
with a dark chocolate mousse and
crunchy and caramelised nuts,
ended a surprisingly satisfying
evening nicely.
Need to know
Location: Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Tel: (04) 8883828
Web: www.
atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
Open: 12.30pm to 3pm and
7pm to 11.30pm
Cuisine type: grill
Must eat: beef tartare
Bill for two: Dhs1,250
(without alcohol), minimum
spend Dhs450 per person
 EATING OUT

Margaux Restaurant & Lounge

Previously one of
our favourite French
restaurants, Margaux
has had an injection
of cool. But did it
really need the
medicine?

Why is Bono staring at us?

That was the first question that
popped into our heads when
we sat down at our table at the
all-new Margaux. There was a
giant picture of the U2 frontman
– trademark shades, earring, hair
slicker than a city trader’s and
that well practiced look striking
a balance between thoughtful
and ever so slightly disgruntled –
looming over the table like some
kind of deity of cool, or some
poor, delusional fool’s idea of cool.
But, of course, Bono is not cool
– not to anyone under the age of
45, anyway. He’s your dad trying
to be cool.
To make matters worse, the
image was reflected in a mirror
to the right of us – double Bono.
Nobody wants that, now, do they?
So, why did we find ourselves
being leered at by a middle aged
Irish rocker? Because Margaux,
once one of the finest French
brasserie restaurants in the city,
has gone, to quote the press
release, “ultra chic”. Oh, dear.
And while the new emphasis
on the lounge aspect of Margaux
– with its tapas menu and appeal
to fashionistas and executives to
come and “mix and mingle on the
terrace” – might have somewhat
spoiled what was a lovely, classic,
French restaurant, there is one
saving grace. The food. It is still
magnificent.
New chef Jason Oakley –
veteran of the Michelin-starred
Restaurant Alex in Vegas and
restaurateur David Laris’ swanky,
but now deceased, Shanghai
restaurant, Laris – knows his way
around a kitchen.
should only order two plates. So
we went for the Farmers’ Market
salad, because we’re big supporters
of what Baker & Spice and the
handful of UAE farmers who hawk
their fresh wares every Friday are
trying to achieve. That and the
warm goats’ cheese. They arrived
as regular size portions on separate
plates, but the salad was so fresh
and crunchy and the goats’ cheese
so creamy, deliciously lolling in Dessert was a decent cheesecake
basil pesto and accompanied by and a rather predictable chocolate
the zing of confit tomato, that we fondant, the staple of every menu
passed forkfuls back and forth in the city, though we hear the
across the table. menu is changing imminently.
What arrived next was worth If they ditch Bono and never
the visit alone. Cote du boeuf for use the phrase “ultra chic” again,
two. There are few things that Margaux will be a very fine
bring us more joy than a grilled restaurant indeed.
rib of beef the size of a gentleman’s
thigh wheeled up to our table on
its own little trolley and carved
in our presence. Cooked rare, the Need to know
meat flopped from the waiter’s
carving knife, its bloody liquor Location: Souk Al Bahar,
trickling down the blade as he Dubai
piled the applause-worthy slabs Tel: (04) 4397555
of protein high on our plates, Web: www.margaux.ae
the juices forming a rich puddle Open: noon to 11.30pm
below. This was red meat in all its Cuisine type: European/
primitive glory, and served with French
some outrageously truffley ratte Must eat: cote du boeuf
potatoes and a tangy béarnaise Bill for two: Dhs680
sauce it was enough to guarantee (without alcohol)
our return.
In tweet form… Once one of Dubai’s
foremost French restaurants, Margaux
is now catering to the trendy set. But
follow me

the cote du boeuf is a must. Follow us at

We were told the appetisers WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
were designed for sharing, but we

42 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

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 EATING OUT

Hakkasan BRUNC
H
It scooped a trio of
What’s On Awards,
but will Hakkasan be
a contender for best
brunch next year?

By night this is a sexy restaurant.

Dark woods, low slung sofas,
screens, private nooks and a
well-lit bar conspire to create
an ideal space for tête-à-têtes,
whispered meetings and cocktails.
But how does the Hakkasan
experience translate to daytime?
Not particularly well, to be
honest, especially if you go with
an up-for-it brunch mentality.
Raucous it ain’t. Much better to
approach the Hakkasan brunch
as an opportunity to sample its
award-winning cuisine and enjoy
a few glasses of Laurent Perrier
with a small group of friends.
Far from the rowdy buffet
affairs elsewhere in the UAE, all
dishes are served to your table
and there are two set options:
dim sum with either tea or
champagne, with both needing a of dim sum washed down with and well suited to lunchtime seemed like a dress rehearsal for
minimum of two people dining. Kowloon Coolers, the restaurant’s dining, with small bowls of rice the evening, when Hakksan really
Or, if you’re too tempted by most popular mocktail, packed adding substance in case you comes into its own.
Hakkasan’s famed dishes, then go with berries, lycee, apple and go for the bubbly option. Some Dhs199 per person sharing ten
a la carte. We did a combination lemonade. Refreshing indeed. refreshing coconut sorbet was a dim sum between two with tea,
of both, first sharing a selection Annoyingly for a table of four, sweet end to a lovely lunch. or Dhs325 per person sharing ten
each dim sum selection came The whole experience was dim sum and a bottle of Laurent
in a trio, meaning someone enjoyable, but we couldn’t help Perrier. A la carte also available.
always missed out (we don’t but wish we’d been seated in the
recommended attempting to slice darker bar area instead of near
a steamed shrimp dumpling in the door, where sunlight streamed Need to know
half with a chopstick – disaster through the shutters. The
will ensue), which was a shame brightness really was at odds with Location: Emirates Palace,
given that every morsel was the elegant décor and lead to a Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
outstanding. Special mention feeling that we shouldn’t be there Tel: (02) 6907999
goes to the sticky, rich venison – not helped by the lack of fellow Open: Brunch on Friday and
puff, aforementioned har gau diners early on – and it wasn’t Saturday 12pm to 3pm
dumplings and the unusual lotus particularly relaxing. All in all, Web: www.hakkasan.com
layer puff, an attractive treat of the brunch felt like a bit of a tease; Cuisine type: Far Eastern
lotus root and seaweed, all of the food was truly fantastic, staff Must eat: venison puff
which came with dipping sauces. were stern but efficient and the dim sum
In the name of research we restaurant itself is stunning, but it
ordered a few mains, too. The
jasmine tea smoked chicken
In tweet form… A stunning restaurant that
shone through, with yielding
doesn't quite translate to daytime dining,
meat under crispy skin, while the but is well worth a look to sample the
sea bass could rival Zuma’s black follow me

fantastic food. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai

cod for best fish dish in the land. and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
All dishes were light, flavourful

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 45

 BAROUK
FRIDAY LUNCH
Try something different this Friday
with lunch in Barouk,
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island
and enjoy mouth watering authentic
Lebanese cuisine accompanied
by live music from our oud player.
Kids get free access to our Kids Club (up to 12 years)
Every Friday
12.30pm - 4.00pm
AED 110* per person/set menu
A la carte also available

For bookings and information, please contact

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Restaurant Reservations
Tel. 02 656 3053 or Email: restaurants@cpyas.com
*Subject to 10% service charge & 6% tourism fee

Al Hambra
What does Al
Hambra’s new menu
offer the tapas fans
of Dubai?
In a city packed with every
conceivable cuisine from Korean
to Ethiopian, one country seems
a little conspicuous by its absence.
Spain’s neighbours are well
represented with a glut of French
and Italian restaurants, but it
seems someone forgot to invite our
Spanish friends to the food fight.
Dubai institution Seville’s has just
celebrated ten years of service, but
it has fallen to Al Hambra to keep
the tapas coming at the Marina end
of town.
An integral part of the Al Qasr
brunch, Al Hambra is a popular
spot in the evenings too, with the
terrace packed with diners hungry
for the views of the Burj Al Arab,
not to mention a taste of the garlic-
infused menu. Inside we found a
live band, cosy colours and chunky
furniture – it’s as authentically
Spanish as you can get in a modern
Arabic hotel flanked by gold horses.
Once seated, you’re let loose on
the menu with a pencil to make
your choices, an oddly casual
practice in a five-star hotel, with
two tapas dishes for Dhs60, four
costing Dhs115 and six for Dhs170.
The menu stays true to its home
country, with the usual suspects
making an appearance alongside
more unusual dishes, and is
dotted with letters denoting the
expected A for Alcohol and V for
Vegetarian, but also the occasional
O for, well, Diabetic Friendly. We’re
pretty sure that Al Hambra will
never make it onto Sesame Street
with that one, but it didn’t stop
us ordering some blood sugar-
friendly calamari.
Opting for six tapas between
two, plus paella for one to share, we
may have been a little ambitious.
Especially given that a loaf of fresh
bread was devoured with a tomato
salsa and aioli before we’d even
picked up the pencil.
We started with some cold
dishes of Manchego cheese on
bread rubbed with garlic and
tomato plus a platter of salty cold
cuts before the hot tapas arrived
in quick succession, each bringing
their own Mediterranean aroma
to the table. The calamari needed
a bit more bite, but was saved by a
delicate dipping sauce, while more
robust flavours came in the form of
the superb slow oven-baked spare
ribs with scallion mashed potatoes
(we should have ordered more)
and meatballs in a garlic tomato
sauce that had us gesturing to the
attentive Argentinean waiter for
more bread. A self-induced carb
overload – nothing better. Just
as we considered a rest from the
starch, the arroz caldosa arrived; a
paella with lobster, cuttlefish and
prawns. It was an overly fishy mix
(clue being in the ingredients)
but lacked the seasoning to set it
apart from paella you could make
at home, despite the luxurious
components.
Ordering dessert was waistline
suicide, but utterly worth it as we
attacked fried churros and ice
cream, then sugar and cinnamon
fried bread (the Spaniards like a
fried pud, it seems) with renewed
vigour. Both were heavy, but
In tweet form… One of Dubai’s few
Spanish spots serves great grub, but the
new menu and super staff are let down
follow me
by a missing ingredient. Follow us at
WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
excellent. And as all bad dieters say,
better to be hung for a sheep than a
(braised leg of) lamb.
Overall, the food was very good,
but the restaurant lacks the rustic,
homely feel that would inspire big
groups to order 30 plates of food,
jugs of sangria and have one of
those messy meals when everyone
goes home full to bursting with a
smile on their face. Perhaps tapas
isn’t suited to dinner for two, the
music needs to be louder, the tables
should be circular or Al Hambra is
just missing that fairy-lit X factor
than turns a good meal into a great
night.
Need to know
Location: Al Qasr, Al Sufouh
Road, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3668888
Web: www.jumeirah.com
Open: Mon to Thurs 6pm
to 11.30pm and Fri 7pm to
11.30pm.
Cuisine: Spanish
Must eat: beef spare ribs
Bill for two: Dhs340
(excluding alcohol)
EATING OUT
On the
menu
Missives from the
foodie frontline
GRAPE TIMES
The Yas Hotel’s
sommelier, Jorge
Mejia, is starting
a new Wine Trail.
Beginning with
New Zealand this
month, Mejia will talk you
through a selection of tipples
from various Kiwi vineyards while
you enjoy a meal at the hotel’s
seafood restaurant Nautilus.
Mar 31, The Yas Hotel, Yas Island,
Abu Dhabi, Dhs350. Tel: (02)
6560000. www.theyashotel.com
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
With so many
nationalities
represented in
Dubai it seems
that it’s new year
every month,
but we’re not
complaining – it
means more diverse
food deals. In honour of Novrooz
(Iranian New Year) our favourite
Middle Eastern restaurant,
Shabestan, will be serving a
special set menu for both lunch
and dinner, featuring a variety
of traditional dishes as well as
plenty of their warm, freshly
baked bread. Happy Novrooz, one
and all.
Mar 21 to 31, Shabestan, Radisson
Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek,
Baniyas Road, Deira, Dubai,
Dhs185. Tel: (04) 2057333. www.
radissonblu.com
CHEESE, WINE
AND JAZZ
Plantation
Lounge has read
our minds or
stolen our list of
favourite things
(yep, we have one
of those), and is putting
on a weekly jazz night, with the
added bonus of 30 cheeses and a
selection of wines to wash them
down with. We really couldn’t ask
for more. And it’s only Dhs150. We
will definitely be seeing you there.
Plantation Lounge, Sofitel Dubai
Jumeirah Beach, The Walk, JBR,
Dubai, Wed 7pm to 10pm, Dhs150.
Tel: (04) 4484873. www.sofitel.com
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 47
 THE CRITIC
James Brennan knows
food. Having written on
everything from bhajis
to burgers for a string of
international publications,
James is now the
Middle East chairman
of the World’s 50 Best
Restaurants judging panel.
Don’t miss his monthly
musings every issue
Everybody’s talking about
Kuwait. Believe me, it’s not often
I get to write those words. But
I’m writing them now because
of a significant development in
Kuwait’s restaurant scene. And,
sadly, it’s not because Hooters
has opened a branch there (be-
cause it hasn’t).
A blogger in Kuwait City
is being sued by a restaurant
for writing a less than glowing
review on his blog. What’s really
silly about all this is that the
restaurant is Benihana, a big
international chain that really
should know better.
Benihana is the Japanese
restaurant that’s famous for its
chopper-juggling teppan chefs,
but now it appears to be throwing
48 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
“A BLOGGER IN KUWAIT CITY
IS BEING SUED BY A
RESTAURANT FOR WRITING
A LESS THAN GLOWING
REVIEW ON HIS BLOG”
writs into the mix without
thinking of the implications.
The blogger is Mark Makhoul,
who runs 248am.com – one
of the most popular blogs in
Kuwait. But while Benihana
might be demanding $18,000 in
compensation, it has certainly
earned itself a whole load of
dreadful publicity, not just in
Kuwait, but throughout the
Middle East and beyond.
“Kuwaitgate”, as I like to call
it, sent ripples through the food
blogging community. Bloggers all
over the world pasted Makhoul’s
original article on their websites
in a show of solidarity. And I, like
many others, excitedly logged on
to read the scathing review.
I was expecting monstrous
revelations about how Benihana
serves up puppy dog teriyaki, or
about how Mr Makhoul found
the severed end of a chef ’s nose
in his udon noodles. But there
was nothing more offensive in
there than a recommendation to
try other Japanese restaurants in
the area.
So not only does Benihana
come across as petty and small-
minded, but its action has done
untold damage to its brand
and almost certainly lost the
restaurant a lot of custom.
It got me worried for a
moment, though. If that kind of
thing can get you sued, heaven
knows what some of the stuff I’ve
written about restaurants in the
past might have incurred?
I once gave both barrels to an
Italian place, likening its salami
to a dead cat’s tongue, and saying
that its tuna steaks were as dry
as former UK PM John Major’s
memoirs. All they did was ban
me from going back, which
was actually more reward than
punishment.
In conclusion, then, there are a
couple of important things to be
learned from all this.
Lesson 1: Restaurants
shouldn’t sue bloggers. Ever.
Either they ignore them
altogether, or they actually
listen to the feedback, invite
the blogger back and treat him
or her to a slap-up dinner. The
resulting positive publicity will
far outweigh the cost of the
meal.
Lesson 2: If bloggers are going
to get sued for slagging off a
restaurant, they might as well
do it properly. Does the crème
brulée really resemble a cup of
cold gorilla vomit? Then blog it
and be damned.
Chi’Zen
Festival City’s
new addition –
a new take on
Cantonese food
Arriving for lunch at Chi’Zen (via
an elevated airport-esque corridor
and past several yet to be opened
restaurants) we were told, “it looks
better at night”. A fair comment,
as it happens, with the décor all
crimsons and black that would no
doubt look dramatic by candlelight.
But it was lunch that we were after,
so we headed to the large balcony
that overlooks the water at Festival
City. A burgeoning dining hub, this
area remains a bit of a mystery, with
access confusing, but the promise
of a cohesive space where we can
one day merrily bounce from
Jamie’s Italian to the new Hard
Rock then Trader Vic’s for drinks.
In the meantime, however, it’s a bit
soulless, especially during the day
when the ‘coming soon’ hoardings
are all too obvious.
Back on Chi’Zen’s terrace, we
were contemplating their concept
of redefined Cantonese while
bickering about what to order.
That’s the problem with Chinese
food – everyone has their favourite
dishes, without which a meal would
be incomplete. Prawn toast was
missing but steamed buns filled with
barbecue chicken appeased us, and
some wasabi prawns (which were
almost as good as Noodle House’s
offering). Going a bit off-piste with
the starters, a plate of tangy turnip
rolls with baby cabbage in a mustard
sauce arrived and blew us away, the
sweetness of the turnip perfectly
foiling the heat of the sauce. We
skipped the shark’s fin soup, instead
opting for another rarity from under
the ocean waves – rainbow jellyfish.
It was a dish that split the table, one
loving the unusual, grainy texture
and delicate taste, one turned off by
In tweet form… A fairly pricey take on
traditional Chinese cuisine, but there are
follow me
some stunning dishes hiding in the vast
menu at this stylish restaurant. Follow us at
WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi
the flaccid noodle-like quality and
the other unable to face it. Not one
for everyone, but a flavourful start.
Next up, a waiter rolled a
trolley laden with duck (and
knives) to the table. With
lightning speed he chopped and
served the crispy meat, before
taking away the leftovers – only
for them to return minced in
mini lettuce cups and cooked in
garlic and pepper. This hat-trick
of styles was a winner. So much
so, that the other dishes faded
into the background; sliced lamb
with spring onions was pleasant
but unforgettable, while garlic
pepper squid was a nice addition,
but nothing compared to our
previously feathered friend.
It was an ambitious order for
lunchtime, and we were beaten.
Typically Cantonese desserts
lurked on the back page of the
menu, but weren’t enough to tempt
us. Maybe we’ll come back at night
to give them and the happy hour
a try. After all, it seems this part is
town is going to be the place to be.
Need to know
Location: Festival Centre,
Festival City, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 2329077
Open: daily noon to
midnight
Cuisine: Cantonese
Must eat: half Chi’Zen
Peking duck with pancakes
Bill for three: Dhs470
(without alcohol)
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 49
 Win with What’s On
WIN! A SPA MINI-BREAK AT
THE CRISTAL HOTEL
We’ve teamed up with Abu Dhabi’s Cristal Hotel to offer you a
two-night stay for two people, including buffet breakfast, plus
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For your chance to win, simply tell us…
Which category do amber and crystal fall into?
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One of the newest Friday feasts in Dubai, The
Pullman’s Mad For brunch features live cooking
stations, international cuisine, barbecue grills,
a vast dessert selection and free flowing house
drinks. There’s also cracking views of the city
from Sanabel’s terrace and it’s great for groups.
For your chance to enjoy this new brunch with
five friends, you’ll have to get this question
right:
In geometry, what do you call a shape with
six sides?
a) Hexagon
b) Dodecahedron
c) Rectangle

50 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 ARTS
p54 Art smarts
p55 Mysterious boy
p57 The Insider
p58 Five minutes with...
p60 Five to see
COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND THE THIRDLINE

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 53

 ARTS

Art smarts
Art Dubai returns to the Gulf for its
month. Newly appointed fair dire
fifth outing this
ctor Antonia
Carver reveals what’s in store

Congratulations! This is your

first stint as fair director – and
the first time Art Dubai has
been run by someone living
locally. Will that give the fair a
more regional flavour?
Many thanks. Art Dubai is so
special as an art fair because it’s
a site of exchange and discov-
ery: in 2011 we have 82 galler-
ies from 34 countries showing
the work of over 500 artists.
Around a third of the galleries
are from the region – and the
commissioned artists’ projects
tend to focus on Asia and the
Middle East – but the other
two-thirds are international,
and that’s the right balance. Art
Dubai is where the art world as a
globalised phenomenon is at its
most stark, and it’s all the more
exciting for it.
Art Dubai is now in its fifth
year. Do you see it as firmly
established within the
region’s cultural scene? Last year Art Dubai increased What are the highlights of this
Absolutely. It began with around its scope across the region. year’s programme?
40 galleries in 2007 and has dou- Will this year’s fair build on Many of the galleries are plan-
bled in size. In 2010, it welcomed that? ning solo shows and curated
over 18,000 visitors, around Art Dubai 2011 is the most col- booths, so that really the fair
5000 of those from overseas. In laborative yet. The Global Art becomes a series of 82 mini-ex-
its five years, the gallery base Forum_5 is a partnership between hibitions. Take London’s Green
has become more diversified, four cities and five cultural bodies: Cardamom, for example, which
and young collectors locally that Art Dubai, the Dubai Culture and is opening with one curated ex-
have grown with the fair now Arts Authority, Doha’s new Mathaf: hibition on their stand and then
look as much at international Arab Museum of Modern Art, the re-hanging the booth two days
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF ART DUBAI

art as they do Middle Eastern.
Dubai is also a very different
city; it’s clearly become a cultural
capital, with more world-class
galleries than anywhere else in
the region, and with a homeg-
rown audience with an entrepre-
neurial spirit that’s passionate
about art, ideas, and debate.
Bahrain Ministry of Culture, and
Abu Dhabi’s ADACH. Of course,
we’re liaising closely with Sharjah
Biennial, which coincides with Art
Dubai. It’s a year of anniversaries:
the fifth Art Dubai, the tenth Shar-
jah Biennial, and the first year of
the first modern and contemporary
museum in the region.
in to display another curated set
of artists. We have a great show-
ing of galleries from India and
Pakistan this year. My advice is
to plan multiple visits to take it
all in.
Mar 17 to 19, Madinat Arena, Souk
Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. www.
artdubai.ae

54 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011


Fair
trade
Our pick of this year’s show
MARKER
“We commissioned the British curator Nav
Haq to find and work with the most dynamic
arts spaces in Asia and the Middle East, to
create experimental stands within the gallery
halls,” says Carver. New to Art Dubai, Marker
will feature the work of emerging artists from
across the Menasa region, resulting in five
dedicated ‘concept stands’.
Les Voyages Extraordinaire
Art Dubai sponsors Van Cleef & Arples return
with another high-concept display of the
luxury brand’s high-concept jewellery, based
on four works by the legendary French
novelist Jules Verne. As the author of classics
such as A Journey To The Centre Of The Earth
and Around The World In 80 Days, there should
be plenty for Van Cleef’s talented team to
work with. Expect it to be a spectacular show.
Abraaj Capital Art Prize
Now in its third year, the rules have changed
slightly for what has been dubbed the world’s
richest art prize. The $US1million pot remains
in place, but this time it is shared between
five – rather than three – artists from the
Menasa region: Hamra Abbas, Jananne Al-Ani,
Shezad Dawood, Nadia Kaabi-Linke and Timo
Nasseri. And, rather than each artist working
with their own curator, as in previous years, in
2011 there will be just one, Sharmina Pereira,
which should give a more unified feel to the
Abraaj showcase overall.
Best of the rest
The Art Park, curated by Bidoun Projects,
returns as an underground space for video,
film and talks, but interaction between artists
and the public doesn’t stop there: last year’s
hugely popular artist-led tours return, with
Abhishek Hazra and Malak Helmy leading
visitors around the fair. Elsewhere, the Global
Art Forum, under the title Changing Audiences,
looks at the links between art and fashion,
and the changing role of the artist. Featuring
discussions, presentations and performances,
as Carver points out: “It’s totally free, open to
all, and only in Dubai would you have access to
such an incredible line-up of speakers from all
corners of the world.” Amen to that.
Mysterious Boy
Iranian artist Farhad
Moshiri has developed
quite a reputation for
his irreverent, humorous
works, but his newest
Dubai show is shrouded
in mystery. Intrigued,
we turned to Tarané Ali
Khan from The Third Line
gallery for a little insight
Tell us a little about Farhad Moshiri’s
new exhibition.
For his third solo exhibition at the
gallery, Moshiri presents new work
which continues to simplify his
subjects through his composition and
painting style within the neo-pop
movement. The exhibition will consist
of one large installation taking up the
whole main back wall of the gallery.
The work will only be revealed on the
day of the preview on March 15 – no
images will be released until then.
Moshiri is known for using unusual
materials in his art. Any surprises in
this show?
The concept of the show cannot
be disclosed yet. Yet Moshiri has
since been constantly pushing his
materials, using cake icing dispensers,
Swarovski crystals and knives to make
paintings and works that incorporate
ARTS
increasingly textured and sculptural
approaches.
Is it art’s job to hold a mirror up to
society?
Given the current situation, artists
have to try a lot harder. One cannot
mass produce as before when the
market was up and anything could
and would sell. Those involved in the
arts realise how hard it is to produce
good, believable work. There are
opportunities now to perfect skills and
create work that is genuine, something
COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND THE THIRDLINE
that is strong without relying on
anything but yourself and your work.
It is a time of self-reflection and time
to really make the best works of your
career without having the frustration of
the speculative market.
Mar 15 to Apr 21, The Third Line, opposite
Golden Sands Laundry, Al Quoz 3, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 3411367. www.thethirdline.com
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 55
THE INSIDER
NEWMN!
U
COL
Art historian, dedicated
collector and managing
director of Dubai’s
Meem Gallery, Charles
Pocock knows the UAE
art scene like the back of
a Picasso. Enjoy the first
of his monthly reports from
the frontline
With a vast amount of activities
planned for March, the question
is: where does one start and what
should one focus on?
As always, galleries and art fair
organisers will try and cram eve-
rything into one week in order to
get as much coverage and attend-
ance as possible, but this usually
has the reverse affect – there is
just too much too see and do.
Yes, the Sharjah Biennial opens
on March 16 and runs until May
16, the Hassan Sharif show by
ADACH opens on the 17th and
runs until mid June, the Abu
Dhabi Festival runs from the
end of March for ten days and
many Dubai galleries will exhibit
the work they open with in mid
March for four weeks. So what is
the priority? When and how do
you get to see it?
Art Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah
opens with its Patrons Preview
on the March 15 and around this
time The Third Line, Meem Gal-
lery, IVDE, Ayyam, Carbon 12
and Lawrie Shabibi will be open-
ing their March shows. On March
16 the Sharjah Biennial opens
and the following day the Hassan
Sharif opens in Abu Dhabi. A lot
to do in three days, almost too
much, so pace yourself, take it
slowly and, above all, enjoy. Your
brain can only absorb a certain
amount so pick and choose from
the enormous amount of visual
culture on offer.
I would focus on Art Dubai
and its programme and then,
with the works of Nabil Nahas,
Farhad Moshiri and Dia Azzawi
on show, take the gallery shows
step by step, monitoring when
the exhibitions end so nothing of
worth is missed. If paying a visit
to Abu Dhabi, tie in a trip to The
Abu Dhabi Festival and ADACH’s
Hassan Sharif show. And, finally,
a separate trip to Sharjah for the
Biennial is a must.
www.meemartgallery.com
Flying high
Art lovers are going to be
busy on March 14. As if
the Al Serkal Gallery Night
wasn’t enough culture for
one eve, the city’s other
major art hub, DIFC, is also
planning an open gallery
art night of its own. One
of the highlights of which
has got to be Terminal, a
pop-up exhibition in an
abandoned ground-floor
space of the finance centre
Cultural
authenticity
Art and marketing meet in
Common Expressions, Zaman
Branding’s collaboration
with UAE universities which
sets a lofty aim to sustain
“authenticity” in Arab
culture via a competition to
visually interpret one of a
dozen commonly used Arab
proverbs. Open to design
students and graduates,
the competition is “a bridge
for graduates and Zaman
to make their design
commercially viable”. The
best 12 designs (presumably
one for each proverb) will be
Freeze frame
Would-be travel
photographers take note;
one of the world’s leading
practitioners, Chris Hurtt, is
heading to Dubai to lead a
hands-on Travel Photography
workshop at Gulf Photo Plus.
The San Francisco-based
photographer is just one of a
leading line-up of experts at
that is dedicated to new
contemporary art from
Saudi Arabia under the
banner, Edge Of Arabia.
Promising a full airport
experience, from check-
in and security and on
towards the departure gate,
it promises to be part art,
part theatre. Fasten your
seatbelts – it’s going to be
an exciting ride.
www.edgeofarabia.com
selected after entries close
on March 31 and awarded
a place in Zaman’s limited
edition Signature Calendar
2012, following an awards
ceremony in November. To
find out more, visit Zaman’s
Facebook page (search
under 'calendar design
competition’).
this year’s weeklong event.
Places always fill up fast, so
get in quickly.
Mar 7 to 12. www.
gulfphotoplus.com
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 57
 ARTS

Five minutes with... Another view

André Butzer There’s more than
one international art
and Iran,
each of
which was
We catch up with the weird and showcase happening commissioned by
wonderful German artist on the eve this month. Sharjah the Sharjah Biennial. A further,
curated film programme, as
of his first Dubai show shows us what it’s well as those for music and
made of performance, and a biennial-
long series of talks, lectures
March’s visual arts calendar and additional events will also
isn’t all about Art Dubai – it also be taking place. If you’ve never
kicks off the two-month cultural quite managed to make it
extravaganza that is the Sharjah any further into Sharjah than
Biennial. This year’s outing its airport and those handy
marks the 10th anniversary of Air Arabia flights (and let’s
the event and promises to be be honest, many of us in its
its most ambitious yet. Curated neighbouring emirates haven’t),
by Suzanne Cotter, the curator this would be a fine time to
of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi break that particular fast.
project Plot For A Biennial, as Art Dubai may get most of
the event has been titled, will the headlines, but the Sharjah
feature more than 65 specially Biennial is one of the oldest
commissioned works alongside contemporary art initiatives in
existing pieces and projects. The the Middle East – and one of
event will roll out over the course the most cutting-edge. Nearly
You employ lots of very bold colour in your work. What’s that of the eight-week programme 75,000 people made the trip
about? in locations as diverse as the to the ninth edition in 2009,
I am trying to save and carefully store the history of colour on city’s cultural quarter, with its What’s On included. We were
canvas. My paintings are comparable to upload servers that concentration of museums and duly impressed by the calibre of
preserve this history for future generations ready for download. traditional architecture, to the what was on display and from
Also, colour is about its own virtuality; it’s there, visible as real and Sharjah cricket stadium. what we’ve seen already, 2011
clean or dirty stuff, and at the same time it’s not really there. It’s a Alongside the multimedia is unlikely to disappoint. They
complicated projection comparable to pure light. exhibition programme is a don’t call it the "cultural emirate"
This exhibition features work that is both broadly figurative line-up of seven short films by for nothing, you know.
and more abstract… international film-makers from Mar 16 to May 16. www.
All my work is abstract, even if you see recognisable things like Brazil and the US to Lebanon sharjahart.org/biennial
figures on them, as you can see mostly in my earlier works. These
figures legitimise what I am painting today or tomorrow, but it has
always been abstract right from the beginning. The figures did
symbolise this path from an unknown beginning, with the end
Open sesame!
finishing with the actual beginning. This is what I call abstraction. The March art madness continues with a round of exhibitions
What are your artistic influences? and happenings across Dubai. Worthy of special mention is the
My art is mostly influenced by European art like the Italian Al Serkal Gallery Night set to take place in the city’s industrial
Renaissance or Paul Cézanne. My wish though is to see it as part of art quarter, Al Quoz, on March 14. If you haven’t made your way
a more global history of the image of all past and future times in to visit it yet, now’s your chance – half a dozen or more of the
general. Also, I would like people to see it as part of the history of emirate’s top galleries all concentrated in one workable (and
outer space art. walkable) area, all throwing open their doors for an evening of
This is the first time you have shown in Dubai. Do you have art and entertainment. Some, such as Syrian specialists Ayyam
any impressions or expectations of the local art scene? Gallery, offer visitors the chance to view existing shows (in this
I hope the local art scene will show up at my show and I hope they case, its epic Selections from the Samawi Collection). Others,
will like it and never forget me afterwards. I imagine these artists including recent Al Serkal settlers Green Art Gallery – set to
as being strong and wise defenders of their holy version of a long launch its ambitious video installation, Balloons on the Sea, by
history on this messed-up planet. Turkish artist Hale Tenger – and relative old-timers Carbon 12
How would you describe your work in three words? will be taking the opportunity to open new shows.
André, go home! More exciting still is the news that that night will
Mar 14 to Apr 20, Warehouse D37, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Dubai. also see the launch of new galleries in Al Serkal,
Tel: (050) 4644392. www.carbon12dubai.com including Tehran-based Gallery Etemad’s first
opening in Dubai (see Five to see).

58 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

Under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces

19th March - 4th April 2011

Abu Dhabi Festival

Tuesday, 4th January 2011 Wednesday, 23rd March 2011

Pre-launch event: World Orchestra for Peace
The first ever concert in the Arab world by UNESCO
Artists for Peace, Maestro Valery Gergiev and the World
Orchestra for Peace
8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
19 March - 4 April 2011
th th
The Path of Roses (Tariq Al Ward)
Exhibition by the eminent Algerian artist Rachid Koraïchi
Emirates Palace, Auditorium Foyer
Sylvie Guillem & Russell Maliphant - PUSH
8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
Friday, 1st April 2011
Ballet Gala: Max and Irina present
Stars of the Bolshoi and Mariinsky
Principal dancers from the Bolshoi Theatre, Mariinsky
Theatre and more… with the Russian National Orchestra
Valery Ovsyanikov, Conductor
8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium

Saturday, 19th March 2011 Saturday, 2nd April 2011

Mozart Masterpieces Bronfman & Brahms
Augustin Dumay, Conductor / Violin Yefim Bronfman, Piano
Abdel Rahman El Bacha, Piano Nicola Luisotti, Conductor
Soloists from Queen Elizabeth College of Music Russian National Orchestra
Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie 8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
Sunday, 3rd April 2011
Sunday, 20th March 2011 Al Jarreau - A Jazz Roots Concert
The Metropolitan Opera - Lucia di Lammermoor 8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
Broadcast from New York in HD (limited seating)
Natalie Dessay, Soprano Monday, 4th April 2011
7:00 pm - Marina Mall - Cinestar Gold Class Opera Gala: Dmitri & Friends
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Baritone
Monday, 21 March 2011
st
Ekaterina Siurina, Soprano
Macbeth Nicola Luisotti, Conductor
A specially-commissioned production presented by Russian National Orchestra
Globe Education at Shakespeare’s Globe 8:00 pm - Emirates Palace Auditorium
8:00 pm - Abu Dhabi Theatre

22nd - 29th March 2011

The Zaha Hadid Pavilion
Arab creativity in the architecture of the future
Emirates Palace Lawns www.abudhabifestival.ae

Tickets on sale now at:

TimeOut 800-4669
timeouttickets.com Info Hotline: 050 907 6158
Presented by Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation
 ARTS

Five to see

ÅSTRIKE OPPOSE
The way the Arab world is represented and projected in the world's
media and how this in turn shapes judgement and behaviour ÅTREES AND THE HIGH RISING CITY
forms the basis for this third exhibition of works from Sheikh Sultan Palestinian artist Samia Halaby riffs on the contradictions and
Sooud Al-Qassemi’s 500-strong personal art collection. convergences in the built environment and nature in this, her first
Mar 11 to Jul 30, Barjeel Art Foundation, Maraya Art Centre, Sharjah. solo Dubai show. Featuring several large collages and a fine eye for
Tel: (050) 4543734 barjeelartfoundation.com colour, Halaby offers an arresting interpretation of abstraction.
Mar 14 to Apr 16, Ayyam Gallery Dubai DIFC, Gate Village Building 3,
ÑCOMMON THREADS DIFC, off Zabeel Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4392395. www.ayyamgallery.com
NMArt Gallery and Xerxes
Art have joined forces to
showcase this fascinating
multimedia group exhibition
of contemporary art by 18
international artists from
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran
and Pakistan.
Until Apr 16, Al Serkal Cultural
Foundation, Heritage House,
Bastakiya, Dubai. www.
nmartgallery.com / www.
xerxesart.com

ÉSPLENDOURS OF
MESOPOTAMIA
One to look forward to at
the end of this month – in
collaboration with the British
Museum, the title says it all.
This showcase of the treasures
of ancient Mesopotamia offers
a classy taste of things to
come when Abu Dhabi’s Zayed ÅNEW WAVE  BRITISH ART TODAY
National Museum opens in Proving that art influenced by the Middle East and its cultural
2014. heritage isn’t just alive and well, but positively blooming in
Until May 29, Manarat Al Saadiyat, the West is this first show from new Al Serkal gallery, Etemad.
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: Showcasing work that featured in London’s Saatchi Gallery’s
(02) 6735244. www.saadiyat.ae recent Newspeak: British Art Now exhibition illustrates the truly
international nature of contemporary art today.
Mar 14 to May 1, Gallery Etemad, Unit 12, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1,
Dubai. Tel: (04) 3468649. www.galleryetemad.com

60 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

SHOPPING
p64 Summer in the city
p66 Mother’s Day
p67 The bookworm
p68 Sophia says...

BAMBAH

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 63

 SHOPPING

Summer
in the city Ray-Ban
Dhs820

In the UAE, clouds are as rare as a steak tartare, so it’s

not enough to buy cheapo specs. Invest in some
colourful sunnies, guaranteed to perk up any outfit

Vogue
Dhs700

D&G
Dhs715

Prada Linea Rossa

Dhs1,065

Ray-Ban Tiffany
Dhs910 Dhs1,315

Dolce & Gabbana

Dhs985

Miu Miu
Dhs765

64 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 SHOPPING
Mother’s Day
We love the whimsical style of
artist Rob Ryan, and this coin
purse is sure to brighten up your
mum’s day. Soma Gallery’s web-
site is full of crafty gifts and they
can mail wherever you please.
Dhs60
www.somagallery.co.uk
What Mothers Day is complete
without a nice set of smellies?
If you’re going to be unoriginal,
at least do it in style with these
goodies from Liberty, who can
distribute internationally.
Dhs185
www.liberty.co.uk
66 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
DATE FOR
YOUR DIARY:
SUNDAY
APRIL 3
If your sainted mum is in the
UK, then Moon Pig should be
your first port of call. There are
hundreds of cards available that
you can personalise, before the
website mails them out.
www.moonpig.com
For a truly personal gift (without
wandering into cheesy territory)
these charm necklaces can be
engraved with your name. Mums
love that kind of thing. While
you’re on Boticca’s website be
sure to have a look for yourself
too, as it’s prime hunting ground
for unique jewellery. Most jewel-
lers will ship internationally, but
should be contacted directly.
Dhs150
www.boticca.com
Your mum may be miles away, but we’re
giving you a heads up with our round-up
of the best online gifts to keep her happy
on her special day
Cath Kidston is the ultimate
mum icon, and this charming
sewing basket will encourage
her to keep darning your socks
whenever you come home. Do
people still darn socks? Anyway,
it’s very pretty indeed and a darn
sight (ho, ho, ho) better than
those kits you keep nicking from
hotels. And Cath can post her
goods wherever you want.
Dhs200
www.cathkidston.co.uk This tea towel is too pretty to
use, so suggest your mum gets
it framed instead. It’s the work
of London print designer Anja
Jane, who produces her work in
limited numbers and can ship
internatioanlly. You can pay
through PayPal, too.
Dhs90
www.anjajane.com
Got a cool mum? They’re a rare
breed and utterly terrifying to
buy presents for. Best to keep
it simple with vouchers, and
where better than from Net-A-
Porter. If you do see something
on the website you think she’ll
like then be assured that the
gift wrapping is gorgeous, and
returns are possible.
www.net-a-porter.com
Prove that you were listening to
her for all those years with this
lovely print from the V&A shop.
Wise words written in style.
Postage is available anywhere in
the world.
Dhs240
www.vandashop.com
The
bookworm
Our wriggly little friend reveals this
month’s must-reads

THE CHAMPION
Tim Binding
It might be written in a light-hearted
manner, but Tim Binding’s latest
novel is both witty and profound.
Everything is running smoothly in
narrator Charles Pemberton’s small,
quiet, English town until Large, the
boy every boy wants to be and every
girl wants to be with, crashes onto
the scene and changes things forever. Set in late 20th century
Britain, the story follows Charles and Large from the “loads of
money” Thatcher years to Blair’s Cool Britannia, during which
time the world that Charles loves is replaced by one that he
can’t quite comprehend.

THE DEVIL’S GARDEN

Edward Docx
There is a palpable sense of
foreboding right from the first page
of The Devil’s Garden, as a sinister
Colonel and a sleazy Judge arrive at Dr
Forle’s jungle river station, disturbing
his research into the behaviour of his
beloved ants in the Devil’s Garden
of the title. Docx, with his spare,
strong prose, spins an eerie tale of
love, violence and obsession. With its
unusual setting, amidst the Indian tribes of an unnamed jungle,
this is one of the most original books we’ve read in some time.

TRIUMPH OF THE
CITY
Edward Glaeser
Our good friend Edward Glaeser
is a Harvard Professor and one of
the world’s most eminent urban
economists, yet he has managed
to write a book that will be
comprehensible to anyone, whether
novice or academic. In Triumph Of
The City Glaeser argues that the close
proximity of people in cities spurs
creativity and that city living is better
for the environment – mankind’s future lies amid the high-rises
and skyscrapers of the world’s metropolises. And there’s even a
page or so on Dubai.

Available from Magrudy’s, Borders, Jashanmal and Kinokuniya

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 67

 SOPHIA SAYS... Bambah I have just started a new
job in the media, and no
longer have to wear a suit
and tie to work every day.
Are trainers and jeans too
casual?
Chris, JBR
Trainers should be for train-
ing purposes only, so opt for a smart loafer
instead. Jeans should be fine, but I would wait
a few days to scope out what the other gents
in the office are sporting before you decide on
denim. A long-sleeved shirt or sweater looks
great with chinos and a jacket, but if you want
to err to the more relaxed style, swap the shirt
with a polo top and leave the blazer at home.
NEW
Do you have a fashion question for Sophia?
E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae
I’m going to the polo this
month but I’m stuck on
OPENING
what to wear. I assume
it’s a bit posh, but we are
We drag the oh-so stylish Sophia having a picnic. Can you Opening a vintage boutique in a
Triantafillou away from the helm advise on shoes too, country a mere 39 years old is a bold
at Emirates Woman into the grubby please? shout by anyone’s standards, but that’s
What’s On office to answer your Cecily, Dubai just what Maha Abdul Rasheed has
Invest in a summery frock, done. Bambah, on Beach Road, is a
wardrobe woes nothing too dressy or ‘done haven for style mavens, packed with
up’. White is always a win- one-off pieces, big name and no name
What trends are in for S/S11? Some ideas ner as are muted colours labels, antique furniture, personal
of key colours, lengths and textures (no metallics). Even though photos and memorabilia from Maha’s
would be brilliant, as I’m feeling a bit the polo is more glamorous travels.
overwhelmed by all the new stock in than the football, you must There’s a section dedicated to little
stores. always remember that it is a black dresses, racks arranged by era
Sarah, Abu Dhabi sporting event nonetheless. and shoes dotted all over (we spotted
Whether it is bold colours, graphic prints Footwear is always a concern when it comes some Gina heels for Dhs725), but the
or fresh white frocks, S/S11 has a trend, to grass so a pretty pair of ballerinas or a small stock is well-chosen and truly unique
length or label to suit all tastes. If you have a wedge, if you need the height, is just the ticket. so it’s worth popping back regularly
penchant for all things pretty, opt for one of Take a cropped jacket for when lunch turns to see what Maha’s latest trawls have
the most ladylike trends this spring, broderie into dinner and don’t forget a hat to keep your uncovered.
anglaise. A shirt, skirt or dress will do the hair at bay. Bambah shares a villa with fellow
trick. The hottest hue of the season has to independent boutique Zoo, home to
be any shade of orange, so stand out in style Where in Dubai can I have some shirts quirky gifts and modern design, so
with a coral maxi-dress with and a suit made – other than Bur Dubai ladies can leave their chaps there to
contrasting accessories or Satwa? I really can’t be doing with all browse the T-shirts and gadgets while
to make the perfect that traffic. they try on all manner of original pieces
style statement. John, Dubai in the floral changing rooms. It’s an
If you want to Help is at hand in the name of Logsdail. Aladdin’s cave of cool.
up the fashion The British master tailors have now set up Bambah, 39 Beach Road, opposite Dubai
ante, fringing shop in Dubai and have your every suit and Zoo and next door to Sultan Garden
is the way shirt need covered. Whether it’s off the Centre, Dubai. Tel: (050) 6741754.
forward, the rack, ready to wear or a bespoke beauty, a www.bambah.com
longer and Logsdail suit will have you looking like a
more luxurious the spiffy gent in no time. Choose from fine
better. fabrics, avoid the traffic and best of all, be the
best dressed whatever the occasion.
Logsdail London, Warehouse 17b, Street 6, Al
Quoz. Tel: (050) 6003224

68 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 MIND & BODY

p72 Totally tropical

THE SPA AT THE PALACE

treatments
p75 His 'n' hers
p76 Going dental
p78 Spa news

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 71

 MIND & BODY
Totally tropical
treatments
No need to travel to distant shores, the
world’s best spa sessions are available MONTH…
JAPAN AND
right here in the UAE
SWEDEN
What? Hot Salt Pot treatment
Country of origin? Thailand
Where can I try it? Thai Privilege Spa
What does it involve? An oil-free massage, you wear loose
pyjamas and lie down on a firm mattress on the floor. This ancient
treatment starts with stretches and acupressure, before a warm clay
pot is filled with sea salt and used to massage your body. The heat
relieves muscle stiffness, especially in the upper back and shoulders,
and this is a proven method for eliminating water retention as well
as helping women who have given birth to strengthen their bladder
and uterus. The salt helps to flush out toxins and boost circulation,
while promising to help ward off colds and flu.
Does it work? The heat is incredibly soothing, with muscles
gently manipulated rather than pinched so it’s a very relaxing treat-
ment. Afterwards, you may feel slightly disorientated, but luckily
Thai Privilege Spa offers a pick up and drop-off service, so you can
be driven home and prolong the peace.
Details: Thai Privilege Spa, 1074 Uttamah Villas, Jumeirah, Dubai,
Dhs350 for an hour and Dhs450 for 90 minutes. Tel: (04) 3489679
WIN! A HOT SALT POT TREATMENT
If you like the sound of Thai Privilege Spa’s Hot Salt Pot treatment then read
on. We have one to give away and for your chance to win, simply e-mail
WinWithWhatsOn@motivate.ae with the prize in the subject line and answer
this question:
What is the capital of Thailand?
a) Bangkok
b) Beijing
c) Belfast
72 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
NEXT
What? Abhyangam and Shirodhara Ayurvedic treatments
Country of origin? India
Where can I try it? Breath & Health Alternative Medical Centre
What does it involve? As first-timers to the world of Ayurvedic
medicine, we sat down with the resident doctor to learn more. There
are a series of questions to answer in order to determine which
constitution, or ‘dosha’, you are, be it water, air, fire or a combination.
Treatments and programmes can then be styled to suit your body
and personality. We were a Kapha (water) and advised to take an oil
massage with a warm herbal poultice to harmonise and revitalise
the body, followed by the traditional Shirodhara therapy to clear
the mind. The Abhyangam massage uses a lot of oil that is great for
dehydrated skin, while the warm poultice penetrates knotted muscles
and sluggish lymph nodes to calm and strengthen the nervous system.
The Shirodhara treatment, however, is far from your usual
massage. You lie on a raised table, with a container positioned
above your head. A steady stream of warm oil is poured onto your
forehead to open up the ‘third eye’ for up to 50 minutes. This aims to
create a deep sense of relaxation, so it is particularly recommended
for sufferers of stress, insomnia tension and migraines.
Does it work? The full body Abhyangam massage was incredibly
calming, with particular attention paid to the lower back and
abdomen so organs were warmed and stimulated. The oil theme
continued with the Shirodhara
treatment. While the room set-
up and three therapists present
may seem a little intimidating,
once the oil stars to flow you’ll
find your mind drifts into
a dreamlike state. The only
niggling worry was how many
hair washes it takes to get the
oil out (three). A simultaneous
head and foot massage was the
final straw and we crashed out,
only to be awoken for some tea.
Details: Abhyangam
massage, Breath & Health
Alternative Medical Centre, Al
Wasl Road, Al Manara, Dubai,
Dhs375 for an hour and
Shirodhara treatment Dhs450
for 50 minutes. Tel: (04) 3489940
 MIND & BODY

His‘n’hers
Our resident spa junkies have a rub down at the Dubai Marriott Harbour

His Hers
ARABIC COFFEE MILK & HONEY
AWAKENER IMMERSION

TALK US THROUGH IT TALK US THROUGH IT

The therapist scrubs your back
with Arabic coffee and Dead Sea
salt, covers you in Dead Sea mud,
wraps you in a plastic sheet and
leaves you to marinate for quarter
of an hour. Then you jump in the
shower to wash the mud off and
enjoy your new soft skin before a
quick but effective massage.
THE BEST BIT
The coffee exfoliation. A dog
likes having its belly rubbed, a
gentleman enjoys a good back
scratching – even if it is from an-
other gentleman with a handful
of coffee and salt.
ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS?
The toilet is not in the changing
room and the corridors are dimly
lit, so it wasn’t easy finding the
bathroom having removed my
contact lenses.
HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE
PANTS?
The SAS of spa underwear – the
loose fitting boxers. There is no
better way to hide one’s modesty.
SLEEP FACTOR?
It’s a lively treatment and the back
exfoliation is administered while
you sit upright, but there’s time
for a quick snooze when you’re
left ensconced in plastic for 15
minutes.
WHO SHOULD GET
INVOLVED?
If you tire of lying still for hours,
this is for you. It’s nicely broken
up into two stages with a shower
half way through.
HOW MUCH AND HOW
LONG?
Dhs400 for 90 minutes, which
is verging on cheap for the UAE.
In keeping with Saray Spa’s
Arabic theme, the therapist uses
oatmeal and black seed oil from
Jordan to gently exfoliate. A
combination of rose oil, milk and
honey is then added to the mix
to soften your skin. After a quick
shower you’re treated to a hot
stone massage and scalp rub.
THE BEST BIT
The scalp massage (complete
with ear pulling) ties for first
place with how great my skin felt
post-scrub.
ANY AWKWARD MOMENTS?
The lights went out mid-shower
leaving me to guess where I’d
washed off the oatmeal mixture.
HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE
PANTS?
Scant pants indeed. Basically a
paper gusset (sorry for using that
word) attached to a waistband
made of string. Deeply unflatter-
ing, and far from comfy.
SLEEP FACTOR?
It’s a relaxing treatment, but the
various stages leave little time for
snoozing. I still floated out on a
wave of milk, honey and rose oil,
though.
WHO SHOULD GET
INVOLVED?
If you suffer from dry or sensitive
skin, this gentle, luxurious treat-
ment will sort you out, especially
if you use the steam room first.
HOW MUCH AND HOW
LONG?
Dhs400 for 90 minutes. Good
value for a great spa trip.
Saray Spa, Dubai Marriott
Harbour, Dubai Marina,
Dubai, 10am to 9pm. Tel: (04)
3194630. www.marriott.com

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 75

 MIND & BODY
Going dental
When was the last time
you visited the dentist? Six
months ago? A year? For
our features editor Gareth
Rees, it had been over a
decade, which, as he dis-
covered, is a disgrace
I lay prostrate on a red leather chair wearing a
prattish orange visor to protect my eyes from
the dazzling light above my forehead, mouth
gaping open like I was trying to swallow an
apple whole. A man wearing rubber gloves was
sandblasting my teeth and prodding my gums
with a sharp metal object. Blood and spit were
flying everywhere.
This is the situation you will find yourself
in – if you’re lucky – should you take a similar
attitude to dental visits as I did. For I have a
confession to make, ladies and gentlemen –
until very recently I hadn’t visited the dentist
for ten years. Ten! I have no record of the exact
date, but I do know that my mother made the
“A man wearing rubber gloves was
sandblasting my teeth and prodding my
gums with a sharp metal object. Blood
and spit were flying everywhere”
76 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
appointment, which is telltale sign in itself.
I don’t fear the dentist. I’m just lazy. But that
excuse isn’t going to wash forever, so I made
the move and booked an appointment to see
what sort of shape my gnashers are in.
I was extremely fortunate. After a decade of
dental negligence, I had inflamed gums (gin-
givitis) and will soon be paying a fair whack
for three fillings – only one of them classified
“urgent” by the charming French dentist Dr
Karim Fekih at The Clinic dentist, where I
finally made my appointment. It could have
been a lot worse.
“Here in DIFC we have a lot of business
men in their 30s and 40s who have an old
filling that was done when they were 12 years
old and, like yours, it’s fallen out, they haven’t
replaced it and the tooth has fractured,”
explains Dr Fekih. “Often, we have to do an
emergency root canal and a crown. That’s a
typical scenario.”
A root canal, for the record, is not going to be
fun. To put it simply, it involves removing nerve
tissue, blood vessels and various other bits and
bobs from the troublesome tooth-peg with a
drill. After that’s done, your tooth will be dead.
So exactly how do you go about avoiding the
murder of your molars? The short answer is
this: visit the dentist every six months. If you
are diligent enough to have your teeth properly
cleaned on a regular basis, the simple scale and
polish won’t be the blood- spattered ordeal I
have recounted.
I have already made an appointment with Dr
Fekih for that urgent filling and will, without
fail, be paying a visit twice a year from now on.
DR FEKIH’S EIGHT GOLDEN RULES
Floss once a day
Visit the dentist once every six months
Brush at least twice a day; more often if
possible
Use a soft brush. “Remember, soft, soft,
soft,” says Dr Fekih
Brush from the top of your gum in one
motion down to the bottom of your teeth,
from red to white
Brush for three minutes
Use a toothpaste that has fluoride in it
because it helps the teeth reinforce
themselves
Use mouthwash for one week maximum if
you have gingivitis. The best mouthwash is
hot water with salt
The Clinic, DIFC, Dubai, Dhs150 initial
consultation. Tel: (04) 3230900. www.theclinic.ae
ALSO RECOMMENDED
Aqua Care Dental Clinic
Ask for the lovely Dr Mandana Motaghian.
M-05 Al Meraikhi Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai. Tel: (04) 3210103. www.aquacare.ae
FIND A DENTIST
Dubai Dentists Network
This website will help you find a dentist in any
area of the emirate.
www.dubaidentistsnetwork.com
 MIND & BODY
Spa news
From swish blow-dries to soothing
massages and lessons in effective yoga,
here’s our pick of the UAE’s best bargains
TED MORGAN
Want to liven up your locks
before heading out for your fizz
with the ladies? Ted Morgan
has come to the rescue with its
speedy 30 minutes Desk2Club
Ladies Night special especially
created for a work-to-party
spruce up. Their new express
blow-dry service will run
between 5pm to 9pm on
Tuesdays, which, as we all
know, is ladies night. The range
of blow-dry styles starts from
Dhs100, so be warned; this
could become a new addiction.
Ted Morgan, Palm Jumeirah,
Dubai. Tel: (04) 4308190
THE SPA AT SHERATON
Book yourself in for an 80-minute session that begins with an
intensive body-scrub before reclining into a relaxing massage
using delicately scented Belnature products. The treatment is
millennium.pdf 2/22/11 1:47:09 PM
78 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
THE SPA AT THE PALACE
The Palace has created The Palace Combination package that
involves a 25-minute massage and 25-minute facial of your choice.
The package offers a choice of Swedish, deep tissue and back, neck
and shoulder massage using balancing aromatic oils, and there’s
a free skin analysis on your first visit, to blend products tailored
specifically for your skin type.
The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, Dhs400. Tel: (04) 4287805
DETOXIFY SENSO
Want to put a sparkle back
in those tired eyes? Then this
expert spa package at Radisson
Blu is right on the money.
The intensive anti-ageing eye
contour treatment promises to
guaranteed to diminish fine lines, dark circles
leave your skin and reduce puffiness using the
feeling supple and very effective Anne Semonin
nourished. This eye express radiance ice cubes.
head-to-toe revive But first, you’ll be scrubbed,
is available at a polished, wrapped and
very special rate of detoxified. The effective three-
Dhs390 this month. hour treatment, costing Dhs680,
Sheraton Abu Dhabi is great value for your bucks.
Hotel & Resort, Detoxify@Senso, Radisson Blu,
Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) Media City, Dubai. Tel: (04)
6970272 3669111
 MIND & BODY

SOFTOUCH SPA AT KMOE ARTISTIC YOGA CENTER

Here’s an exciting offer from the Soft Touch Spa this month. When it comes to fitness,
Surrender yourself to 55 minutes of traditional Balinese massage flexibility and agility, few
costing just Dhs150 and receive 20 minutes of full body polish. The disciplines or therapies can
ancient deep tissue massage technique involves the use of vitamin achieve it like yoga. Check
rich massage oils to provide you with a soothing and deeply out the spanking new Artistic
healing massage experience. Whilst the Pevonia’s body polish, using Yoga Centre opened by the
natural jojoba granules leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. internationally renowned
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4095909 yoga guru, Bharat Thakur. The
energetic yoga classes will
help you lose weight, get fit
MAN/AGE LUXURY and reduce stress levels. Now
MEN’S SPA is the best time to get into
Chaps, if you want to be treated comfortable clothing, keep
like demi-gods, then here’s the an open mind and give yoga
ultimate pampering package. a chance.
The Sport’s Man Delight Package Artistic Yoga Centre, Al Mina
involves a Skin Fitness Facial, Road, Sharjah. Tel: (06) 800964
Sport’s Man Massage and a
Moroccan Bath using a deep-
sea salt scrub with ginger and
lemongrass. The deal is normally
Dhs820 but is available for Dhs600
during March. Alternatively, you
could splash out by signing up
for an enticing new membership
for just Dhs2,500 that includes
ZEN SPA a complimentary Yon-Ka Mini
With a focus on results, the Zen Facial, Classic Manicure, Classic
Spa has designed a 60 to 90- Pedicure, Classic Shave and a
minute, Active Muscle Massage Trendsetter haircut. The deal is
just for those gentlemen who topped off with a life-long 15 per
lead an active work and sports cent discount off all products and
life. Expertly working on tense services.
muscles and joint disorders There are three spas across the
with using a pack of ginger, UAE; Rimal 1, Jumeirah Beach
black pepper and rosemary the Residence, Dubai Tel: (04)
therapy will leave your body 4355780, Arjaan Rotana Souk,
stimulated, invigorated and Dubai Media City, Dubai. Tel: (04)
relieved of all aches and pains. 4370868 and Marina Mall, Abu
Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) Dhabi (02) 6818837
6979333

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 79

 Win with What’s On
WIN! THE CHANCE TO
CREATE TWO PAIRS OF
SNEAKERS WITH PUMA
To celebrate the launch of PUMA Creative Factory, an awesome
in-store concept that allows you to design your own one-off
pair of shoes on an Apple iPad, we’re giving one lucky reader
the chance to get crafty with two styles, The Basket II (a leather
classic from 1971) and The First Round (the 1980s basketball
high-top). You’ll get your pick of PUMA fabrics, materials and
colours to create your very own custom shoes. For the chance
to win two pairs of unique sneakers, plus envious glances from
all of your friends, simply tell us…
What are the names of the sneaker styles featured in
PUMA Creative Factory?
a) Basket & First Round
b) Basket & Last Round
c) Bag & First Round ENT
ER
ION
S,
TO ETIT E
OMP -MAIL E.A
SE C E IVAT
THE IMPLY @MOT ,
S SO N WE R E
HAT R ANS E IN TH
HW U IZ
INWIT ITH YO OF PR
W W E E
NAM T LIN
THE UBJEC
AND S

WIN! A WEEKEND STAY

AND DINNER FOR TWO AT
THE ARABIAN COURTYARD
HOTEL & SPA
Slap bang in the middle of Bur Dubai, the Arabian Courtyard Hotel
& Spa is a great base for exploring this part of town, and an even
better place to unwind. We have a weekend stay for two, complete
with romantic dinner and breakfast the next morning, up for grabs.
For your chance to win this mini-break, you’ll have to get this
question right…
Which museum is close to the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa?
a) Natural History Museum in London
b) Dubai Museum
c) Metropolitan Museum of Art

80 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 CHARITY AMATEUR
GOLF TOURNAMENT

QUALIFYING ROUNDS:
• The Els Golf Club - 6 April
• Emirates Golf Club - 7 April
• Montgomerie Golf Club - 14 April
• Arabian Ranches Golf Club - 28 April

Format: teams of 4 (scramble)

Rafes, Competitions and Giveaways

Top 3 teams from each club will qualify for the final

Final: at The Els Club (date TBA)

Three teams from Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa awaiting other nalists
Entry fee AED 550 per player
Part of the proceeds will go to Dubai Autism Center
PLAY GOLF - SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSE

TO REGISTER, CONTACT
THE CLUBS DIRECTLY:
The Els Club: chrisb@elsclubdubai.com
The Montgomerie: pwynn@themontgomerie.ae Anna Gorski
Arabian Ranches Golf Club: francois@arabianranchesgolf.ae Event Organizer
Emirates Golf Club: bcoleman@dubaigolf.com annagorski@ymail.com
Sponsors & Partners Ofcia
Ofciall Medi
Mediaa Part
Partner
ner Partic
ticipa
ipatin
tingg Golf
Golf Cl
Clubs
ubs
SPORT & OUTDOOR

p84 The legends return

p85 Students take a hike
p87 Abu Dhabi International
Triathlon
p88 Mr Fitness

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 83

 SPORT & OUTDOOR
The legends return
A day of fun, food
and rugby rivalry
Britain and South Africa are
giants of the sporting world, and
for one weekend in April their
rugby legends will clash under
the Dubai sun. Held at Jebel Ali
Golf Resort & Spa, South African
Freedom Day will be celebrated
with a rugby match featuring
big names including Joost Van
Der Westhuizen, Braam Van
Straaten, Corne Krige and Robbie
Kempson from South Africa,
plus Colin Charvis, Josh Lewsey,
Scott Hastings and Shame Byrne
playing for the British & Irish
Lions.
With more than 7,000 people
expected to attend, this match is
the main attraction of the Family
1/4 AD
84 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
Joost Van Der Westhuizen
Day on Friday, April 8, when there
will also be a host of live music,
good food, kid’s entertainment
and competitions, plus the chance
to meet the legends at a golf day
and gala dinner.
For kids
Guaranteed to tire out the little
ones, the Family Day is packed
with activities including bouncy
castles, Sony PlayStations, face
painters, clowns, table football,
air hockey and all manner of
child-friendly food including
popcorn and candy floss.
For food lovers
South African favourites
including pap and wors, boerie
rolls, bunny chow and loads
of meat on the barbecue will
be on offer, but the star of
the culinary show will be the
potjiekos competition, which
budding chefs can enter. For the
uninitiated, ‘potjietos’ translates
as ‘small pot food’ and is a stew
prepared in a traditional cast-
iron pot. Recipes vary greatly,
and contain meat, vegetables and
sometimes fruit, with many chefs
and families adding their own
Colin Charvis
Josh Lewsey
secret ingredient. On Family Day
the testing panel will be sampling
the creations of Dubai-based
cooks, who will be given 5m x
5m areas to decorate and cook in,
with top three entrants winning
great prizes. If you want to enter
your potjiekos, register online.
For sports fans
The legends match at 5pm on
Family Day will see big names go
head to head, but there will also
be a rugby clinic for boys aged
12 to 14 on Wednesday, April 6.
If you want to meet the legends
tickets are available for a golf day
on Thursday, April 7, plus a gala
dinner.
Apr 6 and 8, Jebel Ali Golf Resort &
GETTY; REUTERS
Spa, Dubai, noon, Dhs100 or free for
under-12s. E-mail info@elanevents.
net. www.saweekend.com
 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

Students take
a hike
A charitable duo from Dubai has set
their sights on walking the length of New
Zealand

An adventurous pair of former-Dubai students has embarked

upon a gruelling five-month trek for charity, following the
world’s newest walking trail. The mammoth Te Araroa trail goes
from Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s most northern point, to Bluff,
Dinner never gets boring
the furthest south you can go.
Collectively known as Tasty Trek, Anders Ford and Damien-
at Chef’s House
Marc Ford were raised in Dubai and educated at Dubai English
Speaking School. They will be donating all monies raised
through sponsorship to Wateraid and Solar Light For Africa.
Local support has come in the form of a non-uniform day at
Dubai English Speaking School to help raise funds towards the
pair’s Dhs22,000 target.
Set to be officially opened later in this year, the 3,000km
(1,800 mile) track follows coastlines, meanders through forests
and across farmland, over volcanoes and mountain passes,
along river valleys and on green pathways across seven cities;
and the pals hope to be one of the first teams to complete
it. Damien-Marc, at 19 years old, is potentially the youngest
person to do so.
So far Anders and Damienmarc have endured endless farm-
land, dense bush, rapids and even highway traffic, and are due
to complete the trek in April and welcome donations to their
chosen charities via their website, where you can also follow
their progress.
http://tastytrek.com/charities.php

For bookings or more information, please call

Cape Reinga Lighthouse, 04 366 9111 or email
North Island, New Zealand chefshouse.mediacity.dubai@radissonblu.com
ISTOCK

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 85

 










   


  

 
 


 








Abu Dhabi International Triathlon
This month we are taking
part in our first triathlon, so we
asked local triathlete Jessica
Robertson why anyone would
get involved and why you
should go along and watch
Swimming, cycling and running. Why
on earth did you get involved in this
madness?
Well, I was a swimmer to start with, but I
worked for a marketing agency in London
that looked after Nokia, who sponsored the
Windsor Triathlon. A couple of people at
Nokia entered the race and asked if I wanted
to join their team. I did and the bug bit me.
That was three or four years ago now.
And you’ve done triathlons all over the
world since?
That’s right. I’ve competed in Australia,
Bahrain, Oman, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, the UK,
Ireland and Hungary. My best race was the
World Championships last year in Hungary.
I had ten days before the triathlon with my
coach just to really focus and prepare for it.
So I felt really good, had an awesome race and
achieved a personal best.
But you’re running a longer distance than
usual in Abu Dhabi, right? Daunting?
I usually do Olympic distance for triathlon,
which is a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and a 10km
run, but this one is the same swim and the
same run but with a 100km bike. So I’m doing
a lot of cycling to try and get my legs stronger
and ready for the race. I’m looking forward to
it, but I’m quite nervous about the distance.
We understand triathlons, especially the
swimming, can be quite rough. Is that so?
Yeah, definitely. I’ve been in races where I’ve
had my legs pulled on one stroke and my
shoulder on the next stroke. I’ve been dunked
under the water so people can get ahead.
People want to lead out of the water so they
can get onto the bike and lead throughout the
race. In the bigger races, where you have 1,000
competitors in the water in one go, you can’t
really help it. It’s a bit of a washing machine.
We’re scared.
It’s really competitive, but anyone can take
it up. The great thing about triathlon is that
there are distances from the sprint, like
the one that What’s On is doing, through
to Ironman. People tend to get involved in
the shorter distances first, then as they gain
confidence they find the training easier to
SPORT & OUTDOOR
fit into their lifestyles and can move up the
distances a bit. And cross training definitely
has benefits.
Such as?
Today I’ve done a heavy session on my legs,
three hours on the bike and a 45-minute run
straight off, so tomorrow will be swimming,
lots of kicking in the water and letting my legs
recover and flushing out all the lactic acid.
OK, for anyone who hasn’t signed up, why
should they come and watch?
There’s always a really big crowd. You have
supporters of the people racing and a lot of
people from Abu Dhabi will come out as well.
The nicest thing about triathlon is having eve-
ryone there cheering you on. It’s important for
the competitors. And all the competitors re-
ally encourage each other as well, which is one
of the things that attracted me to the sport.
What’s next for 2011?
To get on the Great Britain team you have to
go back to the UK and qualify, so I’m looking
at the qualifiers for the World Championship
in Beijing later this year.
TEAM WHAT’S ON
Come and watch us take part in check on the Dubai 92 Breakfast Show, so
she probably won’t break a sweat doing
the relay sprint event
the 50km cycle across Saadiyat Island,
Yas Island and the Yas Marina Circuit,
SWIMMING especially considering she completed the
Iain Akerman, 92km Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge
Editor, Campaign last year.
When we mentioned
the triathlon to RUNNING
the indomitable Mr Gareth Rees,
Akerman he proffered a Features Editor,
relaxed, “I could do that”. So now he’s What’s On
signed up for a 750m swim. He starts Our features editor
the Team What’s On effort at Emirates likes to go for a bit of a
Palace. You don’t want to miss this man jog every now and again.
in his Speedos. Having conquered his first marathon
in Dubai in January and completed his
CYCLING second RAK Half Marathon last month,
Geordie Bird, 5km will be easy – he hopes.
Dubai 92
Geordie Bird Mar 12, Abu Dhabi International Triathlon,
keeps our monthly starting at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, free.
columnist Catboy in www.abudhabitriathlon.com
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 87
 MR FITNESS
THERT!
E
EXP
Do you have a fitness question for James?
E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae
In his seven years as a
personal trainer, James
Houghton has helped
everyone from West End
actresses to the Arabian
Gulf rugby sevens team
lose the pounds and keep
in shape
A few friends are boot camp
devotees and keep moaning
about ‘burpees’. What are they,
what do they do and are they
really that difficult?
Jim, Dubai Marina
In my book, a burpee is a total
body conditioning ex-
ercise. Some may class
it as a strength exer-
cise, which it can be if
we’re talking strength
endurance, but I prefer
conditioning. Regard-
less of how you class
it, burpees are simple,
88 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
space saving, time efficient, cheap
and an excellent way to kick your
own butt! Yes they are hard, as is
anything that you put maximum
effort into.
To perform a basic burpee, follow
these simple steps:
L Start in a standing position
L Bend down and take your
hands to the floor in front of your
feet
L Jump your feet back so your are
now in a push up position
L From there, jump your feet
back up to your hands and now
stand up
That’s one repetition at its most
basic format.
In all honesty, there are lots of dif-
ferent variations that you could
come up with but, for now, the
basic version should suffice.
A great little finisher at the end
of a workout is to do a burpee
and star jump combo to really
get your metabolism firing. Start
with ten burpees, followed by ten
star jumps, then nine of each,
eight of each, etc, until you finish
with one of each. Record your
time and aim to beat it next time
you do the challenge.
Can you recommend some
quick stretches that I should do
after a big session in the gym?
Sunita, Al Barsha
Stretching shouldn’t just be left
as an afterthought. You should
be focusing more on the quality
of your muscle tissue and fascia,
rather than just stretching. Soft
tissue work, which does involve
stretching, should be an integral
part of your weekly training
schedule. I schedule in recovery
and regeneration sessions for my
clients, which involves a great
deal of work on tissue quality
amongst a few other things. With
the time that you do have avail-
able to you, I recommend that
you focus on a technique known
as Active Isolated Stretching you, as the more time you spend
(AIS), devised by Kinesiologist worrying about it, the more likely
Aaron Mattes and focus on the you are to actually hurt yourself.
most problematic areas such as There are plenty of alternative
hips, chest and thoracic spine. ways in which you can work
to strengthen the musculature
I have weak ankles, but my around your ankle joint without
trainer insists on me run- running on the sand. I think that
ning on the beach, claiming walking barefoot on soft sand is a
it will help strengthen them. good thing, as the contours of the
Jogging on sand makes me sand allows the joints in your foot
nervous. Who’s right? to unlock and move more freely,
Nicki, Downtown which will strengthen your feet
Without knowing more about and give your body and mus-
you and your specific weakness, cles higher up the kinetic chain
then I can’t really say who is right greater feedback.
or wrong. However, if jogging on
the sand makes you nervous then
perhaps it is not the best thing for
 Abu Dhabi
International
Book Fair
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
15 - 20 March 2011

With a Cultural Focus on France

and Market Focus on Korea
ADIBF is the meeting point for
business, networking, academics,
celebrated authors, poets,
illustrators and artists
adbookfair.com

Supported by Organised by Official Media Partner Official Destination Partner Partners


MUSIC
Behold the locus
One of Dubai’s most enduring local bands,
Behold The Locus may have a secret
formula to explain their longevity: being a
collective. Members don’t quit; they move
on to make room for the next person. This
revolving door of talent means the group’s
influences and styles shift and develop at
speed, with diverse inspirations currently
ranging from acid jazz and reggae to The
Police and rock.
Today’s line-up includes Richard on lead
vocals, Fabian on lead guitar and backing
vocals, Derek on bass, Connel on keys and
backing vocals and Ferdinand on drums,
with most members being long-term Dubai
BANTHDE
OF TH
MON
residents. The result of this collaborative
SHOT ON LOCATION ON THE HELIPAD AT DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
approach is a hybrid of rock and pop that
has brought them success on the local live
scene, with performances across the UAE,
from a television appearance on Dubai One
and the Yasalam F1 celebrations to getting
fans through the doors at the likes of the
Music Room and Aussie Legends.
You can next check them out at the Yas
Rock Factory, which will see five bands
battle it out on Yas Island on March 10.
Keep an eye and ear on these guys – their
unique approach might mean that they’ll
be making music for years to come.
www.facebook.com/Behold.The.Locus
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 91
 CLUB DIARY
This month's clubbing highlights
5 Phil Asher @ MustHaveSoul
UK soulful house expert
Phil Asher has released
under a multitude of aliases
and alongside various
collaborators over the past
decade and a half. A regular
visitor to the UAE in recent
years, the Restless Soul label
boss makes his MustHaveSoul
debut this month
You took a sabbatical a couple
of years ago to avoid becoming a
'bitter old DJ'. Did it work?
Yeah. I decided to take a year out and
collect my thoughts because there's
so many old boys, not much older
than me, that are quite bitter and
twisted. You've got to move with the
times. Not completely change your
musical style, but bend a little bit.
DJing is about entertaining people. If
the floor's not happening, it's down
to the DJ to fix that. I took a break to
become more open-minded and get
my label together.
3
Edward Maya @ Nasimi Beach
The Romanian hit-maker returns to Dubai
on his Desert Rain tour. Actual precipitation
not predicted.
Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 8pm
to late, Dhs150. Tel: (050) 5336087/(050)
8717493. www.321-events.com
4
Anniversary Party @ Relax@12
DJs Stew Magoo, Valerie and Greg Stainer
92 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
Under your Phlash moniker and
other aliases you've worked
with many respected producers.
What attracts you to the art of
collaboration?
I've always had the mentality you can't
build a house by yourself. I love working
with people: you put ideas in and they
put in theirs. My next Phlash album is
going to be mostly my own work but
celebrate Relax@12's first birthday.
Aloft Abu Dhabi Hotel, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to
late, free. (02) 6545138. www.relaxat12.com
Bow Wow @ Chi
The American superstar rapper, formerly
precocious child star Lil Bow Wow, barks
into town.
Chi Garden @ The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland,
Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs300. Tel:
(04) 3379470. www.chinightclubdubai.com
Hernan Cattaneo @ Pure Allure
Big-hitting Argentinean compilation mix
master flies in direct from South America.
Allure by Cipriani, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi,
10pm to late, Dhs200, Dhs150 before 2am.
Tel: (505) 969543. www.nightcluballure.com
3
Edward Maya @
Nasimi Beach
there are still collaborations. I've
always got a collaboration in the
pipeline.
Your father was a record store
clerk, so does the decline of
physical record stores depress
you?
It's not really sad, it's just progression.
We still do vinyl on Restless Soul. But
everybody at the moment is looking
back at the 1980s, trying to emulate
that sound and fashion. I'm trying to
do what they did in the 1980s: look to
the future.
Do you have any favourite haunts
when you visit Dubai, having
played here several times now?
I know a lot of people moan about it,
but I really love the Aquarium. And I
love the attention to hospitality out
there. You don't get that much in
England. I've got a few mates there,
so it's always a pleasure to go and
hang out.
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai,
4pm to 2am (guest list only 4pm to
8pm), free. Tel: (055) 6160643. www.
musthavesoul.com
4
Hernan Cattaneo @
Pure Allure
Butch @ Ill Communications
Techno, minimal and tech-house direct
from Germany, off the back of Butch's 2010
album Eyes Wide Open Part One.
Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to
3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before
11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.myspace.
com/cometobutch
Tony Lionni @ Audio Tonic
Cocoon and Gigolo-approved Detroit-
tinged techno/deep house from Berlin-
based, British-born producer and DJ.
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to
2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. www.myspace.
com/httpwwwmyspacecomtonylionni
Sandance @ Nasimi Beach
2ManyDJs, Sander Kleinenberg, Roger
Sanchez, Sneaky Sound System, Brand New
18
Gramophonedzie
@ Nasimi Beach
Circus Full Moon
Heavies and more head to the beach for a
stellar all-dayer.
Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 2pm to
2am, Dhs150 to Dhs300. Tel: (055) 2004321.
www.atlantisthepalm.com
12
CircoLoco @ Heat
Clive Henry and Matt Tolfrey get the party
started at Dubai's edition of the world
famous club.
M-Dek, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City,
Dubai, noon to midnight, Dhs100. Tel: (056)
7893897.
www.mediaonehotel.com
16
Wesley Aarons @ The Yacht Club
Parisian DJ plus vocalist Jessica Flores (also
Mar 17).
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street,
Abu Dhabi, 10pm to late, free. Tel: (02) 6666888.
www.intercontinentalabudhabi.com
18
Black Coffee @ MustHaveSoul
UAE debut for South Africa's Black Coffee,
holder of the longest DJ set world record at
a mind-boggling 60 hours.
Skylite, The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi,
4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (055) 6160643. www.
musthavesoul.com
Gramophonedzie @ Nasimi Beach
Circus Full Moon
Serbia's answer to Paul Oakenfold – he even
soundtracked his home country's version
of Big Brother – showcases funky chart-
crashing wares.
Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 5pm
to 2am, Dhs100, Dhs50 and ladies free
5pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 4260000. www.
gramophonedzie.com
Pierre Ravan and Vandy @ Ill
Communications
Celebrate the Persian New Year in style with
a dual house attack from the Dubai regulars.
Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am,
Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free before 11pm. Tel:
(050) 7258277. www.pierreravan.com

4 18 Spirit Catcher @
Roger Sanchez
@ Sandance
11 Andrew Fletcher @
Ill Communications
Seminal electronic rockers
Depeche Mode became
a quintessential 80s band,
finding fame with tracks like
Just Can't Get Enough and
Personal Jesus, and continue
to fill arenas globally to
this day. Founder member
Andrew Fletcher hits Dubai
as part of a rare solo DJ tour
this month, hoping Depeche
Mode will follow his lead and
play the Emirates on their
next world expedition
Your solo dates have been few and
far between over the years...
I've been DJing for about ten years,
but there's limited time when I can
actually do it, because Depeche Mode
are either in the studio or on tour.
When we finish a tour we get a year-
long break and toward the end of that
we can do our thing, so it's something
I like doing. Depeche Mode is a
machine when we come into town:
we're playing big gigs; we've got a
huge amount of crew. The nice thing
about DJing is you get to speak with
the promoters, go for dinner, you see
a bit more than you would do with
Depeche.
Are you itching to get back out on
the road?
No, my family just want me to get out
of the house, they're sick of me!
Are you hoping to spend time in
Dubai, aside from your show?
I've got five days here. I've got friends
and family coming out, and I'm just
going to chill. I've been to Dubai
before for a break. We did the full
tourist thing – safari, camel racing,
everything.
This tour takes in numerous exotic
destinations. Is it an extended
holiday or hard work?
Hard work. There's a lot of flying. But
I'm trying to get to places where we
wouldn't normally tour [with Depeche
Mode]. We haven't done South East
Asia for years, so we're looking to do
that on the next tour. It would be great
to go to Dubai as well.
What should we expect from
your set? Will you air any of the
upcoming Depeche Mode remix
album?
Most of it is current electronic
dance music with a bit of historical
perspective thrown in. I'm pretty full
on, but it should keep people dancing.
I'm going to be playing three or four
of the remixes, so that should be
interesting.
One of the weirdest examples of
your band's fandom is the fully
Depeche Mode-themed DM Bar in
Estonia. Have you visited?
We had to pay the bill! They gave us
all these drinks, we thought they'd be
free, and then we had to pay the bill!
Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm
to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free
before 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277.
www.depechemode.com
Audio Tonic
Keyboard-loving Belgian
house duo Spirit Catcher
present a brand new live set
at their upcoming Dubai
appearance, following up
latest album Partners In Crime,
as Thomas Sohet explains
Have you built up a healthy fan
base in the UAE after multiple
Dubai appearances?
Yeah, we have fans there. Some
of the guys are even coming from
Bahrain and other places we have
played. It's a very special city, Dubai.
Each time is really nice, it's unique,
with people always really into the
music.
Will this set be similar to
previous Dubai shows?
This one will be different – it's
really brand new. Usually we play
19
Black Coffee @ MustHaveSoul
See Mar 18.
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to
2am, guest list only 4pm to 8pm, free. Tel:
(055) 6160643. www.musthavesoul.com
24
Greg Boost @ The Yacht Club
Late night floor-fillers from the spinner who
has previously played Cannes Film Festival.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street,
Abu Dhabi, 10pm to late, Dhs100. Tel: (02)
6666888. www.intercontinentalabudhabi.com
Purple Music Party @ Barasti
Jamie Lewis and Michael Watford get
colourful with house as Swiss label Purple
Music take over.
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort &
Marina, Jumeirah, Dubai, 5pm to late, Dhs50
to Dhs100, ladies free before 9pm. Tel: (04)
3181313. www.lemeridien.com/minaseyahi
25
Harold Heath @ Audio Tonic
Roger Sanchez and Fedde Le Grand-
approved UK house stalwart with releases
CLUB DIARY
a DJ set with some live add-ons
and keyboards or small electronic
gadgets, but this time, for the
first time, we'll be playing full live
versions with no mixing, with an
analogue desk and more keyboards
and gadgets. It's very exciting.
Keyboards are a big part of your
sound. Is it tricky shipping bulky
instruments around the world?
It's not always easy. Before we
were travelling with a big analogue
keyboard, a Roland Juno-106, but
we stopped because we broke four.
Now we've updated our set-up and
sampled sounds from the keyboards.
But we like to have something
visual, because seeing one guy on
his laptop screen sometimes makes
people wonder 'What’s is he really
doing? Maybe he's on Facebook?'
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai,
4pm to 2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405.
www.myspace.com/spiritcatcher1
on a host of hip underground labels.
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm to
2am, free. Tel: (050) 1076405. www.myspace.
com/haroldheath
31
Mofunk @ 360°
Juxtapose classic sounds against Dubai's
modern skyline with a night of 1970s funk
and soul.
360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 6pm to
2am, free. Tel: (050) 8717493. www.jumeirah.
com
4
GETTY IMAGE S
Bow Wow @ Chi
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 93
 Regional winner of the Gourmand
World Cookbook Awards 2010
in the categories:

Best Desserts Book

Best Arab Cuisine Book

Dhs
145

AARON MAREE
presents

I N N O VAT I V E M I D D L E E A S T E R N
NEW AGE D E S S E R T S
F O R T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N

“I hope this book is a learning tool for someone else. If even one
apprentice can use it to succeed or to re-ignite that flame of passion for
the industry that I love, then I, too, will have succeeded.”

Available at all leading retail outlets in the Gulf and at

PO Box 2331 Dubai UAE Tel +971 4 282 4060 Fax +971 4 282 789 books@motivate.ae
PO Box 43072 Abu Dhabi UAE Tel +971 2 677 2005 Fax +971 2 677 0124 motivate-adh@motivate.ae
 TRAVEL
Africa time
Pack up your troubles, and
a sturdy pair of boots, in
your old kit bag and hop
on a plane to Africa. It’s not
just hype; a Kenyan safari
really is a life-changing
experience
Time slows down the minute you arrive in
Africa. It becomes so inconsequential that you experience.
won’t look at a clock or check your watch the
whole time you are there.
As our driver, Jackson, the calmest gent
we’ve ever encountered, warned with a
knowing grin, “tomorrow’s flight times are
just a guide, the pilot will fly when he wants to
fly – you’re on Africa time now.”
And we were more than happy to be on
Africa time. Hakuna matata. There are no
worries.
So, spending an hour in a van heated by
the slowly receding sun, balmy air wafting in
through the open windows as we made our
way from Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International
Airport across town to The Norfolk hotel
became a pleasant, rather than a trying
Hemmed in by vehicles, one link in a
slow moving chain of metal, we watched the
people of Kenya’s capital making their various
ways home from work, or just going about
their business. A pregnant woman wiping
LONG
HAUL
Black rhinos: this rare beast
became our safari obsession
sweat from her belly, hawkers tapping on
the windows brandishing month-old copies
of Vogue and GQ, a beggar – not persistent,
seemingly not really bothered – and a couple
of camouflaged men, automatic weapons
slung across their laps, being chauffeured who
knows where by a man in a cheap suit driving
a Toyota Corolla.
The Norfolk opened in 1904, and has been
the hotel of choice for visiting dignitaries and
stars ever since. Winston Churchill, Neville
Chamberlain and Theodore Roosevelt have all
spent the night at some point over the years,
and in the era of game hunting all the big
guns stayed at The Norfolk before embarking
on safari. It’s still the only hotel in town for
anyone who likes their accommodation to
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 95
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 TRAVEL | KENYA

THE ANIMAL
KINGDOM
Some of the bigger animals you could
spot on a Masai Mara game drive

THE BIG FIVE

L Lion
LBlack rhino
LLeopard
LBuffalo
LElephant

come with a distinguished history.

But after a cosy night, cosseted five-star
luxury with a belly full of chicken potpie and
a flight addled head rested on a fluffy pillow,
it was time for the real action to begin. Safari
time.
To get to the Masai Mara, the famous
game reserve in the south west of Kenya and
our destination, we took a short flight from
Nairobi’s small Wilson airport in a daringly
diminutive plane. The smaller the aircraft the
better in our book. If you can stand to your
full height in it, you’re not really flying. And
gliding over a vast palette of browns, reds,
greens, yellows – too many subtle tones to
count, the thrum of the engine reverberating
in your chest, your heart starts to beat slower.
A moment of calm. Time is no more.
Soon we came in to land on a long strip
of earth in the middle of the Masai Mara, or
the Mara as the locals call it. Met by Peter,
our driver for the duration of our stay, we
were treated to our first encounter with the
non-human residents of the Mara. A herd
of plodding elephants, a couple of giraffes
munching at the treetops, a family of warthog
who lift their tusks from the ground to
acknowledge our presence and a bachelor
herd of impala with their regal, curved horns.
We stayed at Little Governors’ Camp, which
has just 17 tents and is completely open so the
numerous animals can, and do, roam about
freely and game wardens are employed to
walk you to and from the reception, bar and
restaurant area.
From the wooden porch of our luxurious
tent (it had a fully functioning bathroom
and electric lighting) we could see a baboon
strutting about like he owned the place and
an elephant shrugging at the smaller animal’s
juvenile antics. A family of warthog scuttled
from a nearby bush and vacuumed up a fair
portion of the scrub grass before running off
their lunch chasing each other around our
tent. We could have watched this drama all
day, but there was more to see on our first
afternoon safari drive.
We had no idea what to expect having done
The king: royalty they may
be, but lions are some of the laziest
animals in the kingdom
no preparation and possessing little knowledge snort. But man is yet to better her. The
of the animals living in the Mara beyond a wonders of Petra, the history seeping from
few hazily remembered David Attenborough the walls of the old city of Damascus, the
documentaries. But armed with a checklist magnificence of Burj Khalifa – none compares
provided by the hotel we were soon ticking to the sights you can see in the Masai Mara.
creatures off as we spotted them – a seriously Nature beats man hands down.
addictive habit. We did two game drives a day during our
After just ten minutes of bouncing about in time at Little Governors’. And no two drives
Peter’s 4x4 we’d laid a shaky lead mark beside are the same on safari. You might see elephants
elephant, warthog, impala, baboon and lion, one day and elephants the next, but on the
among others. first day they’ll just be chewing some grass, the
The lion is Africa time in action, or not, as next crossing a river, the older members of the
is often the case. We saw our first, a female,
sleeping in some long grass, prompting Peter
to point out that, “they don’t do much, just
hunt, eat and sleep”. Lions, apparently, live
for 15 to 20 years and spend up to 20 hours
a day sleeping. Lazy beggars. Similarly, male
elephants are sluggish fellows, lagging far
behind the herd led by the cow (female) and
keeping track of their families using their
sense of smell.
Nothing is hurried. It’s all well ordered. It
makes sense. And all of this reminds you that
we haven’t ruined the planet completely yet.
Nature still holds sway. By giving man the
ability to think for himself, Mother Nature Thirsty work: four lady
laid down a challenge. “Go on, try and do lions wash down breakfast
better than me,” she said with a sardonic

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 97

 TRAVEL | KENYA

CHECK LIST
If you’re going on safari, don’t
forget to…

LBuy a pair of binoculars

LPack a hat (sunglasses can affect your
view of the animals)
LApply plenty of lip salve, sun cream and
insect repellent
LInvest in a decent camera with long lens
LPick up a copy of Jonathan Scott's Safari
Guide To East African Animals
LIt’s not set in Kenya, but Ernest
Hemingway’s Green Hills Of Africa would On safari: the animals pay
be perfect holiday reading no attention to the 4x4s

herd book ending their young to protect them
from crocs.
Twenty minutes into our first drive we
followed a baby elephant galumphing about,
throwing a tantrum because it had lost its
mother, stopping every couple of seconds to
smell and listen for the herd. Elephants see
best in dim light.
An entertaining sight, but being young in
the animal kingdom doesn’t mean you will live
longer. Often just the opposite is your fate. A
50-year-old elephant has a much better chance
of surviving a year than a newborn warthog,
for example.
Hippos live for up to 40 years and, with
the ability to crush most things between their
gaping, dripping maws, kill more humans in
Africa than any other animal. But a young
hippo, though they sleep on their mother’s
backs for safety, can easily become a crocodile’s
breakfast.
Death or potential death is all around.
Bones lay where their owners perished.
Intimations of danger lurk in every bush,
but there is also comedy. When a hippo goes
“pee-pee”, as the encyclopaedically-minded
Peter put it, it spins its tail around, slapping the
water against its ample posterior. Its sneeze is
a deep quacking sound, and when the hippos
communicate it sounds like a building being
pulled down. And warthogs, well, warthogs
have the best personalities. You could go for a
beer with a warthog.
These events are played out as if our large
green vehicle were invisible. We were within
feet, sometimes inches, of these animals
and they couldn’t have cared less about the
voyeurs gawping in wonder at their every
move. One group waited two hours for a
leopard to emerge from the undergrowth. The
animals are definitely in charge in the Mara;
you work on their time. And if they didn’t
want you to see them, you didn’t.
We quickly developed an obsession with the
black rhino, the rarest of the infamous ‘big five’
(lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant are the
other four) due to poachers and hunters.
We watched as a lioness observed a young
male’s unsuccessful attempt to kill lunch, we
looked on as four lionesses fresh from the
hunt slurped water from a pool, we even saw

THE BALLOON
SAFARI
As our slightly eccentric but likeably cheerful
balloon captain put it, you haven’t seen the
Mara until you’ve seen it from the basket of
a hot air balloon. We booked a dawn flight
from Little Governors’ Camp and, woken at
5.30am with a cup of fruity Kenyan coffee
and biscuits, began our ascent just as the
sun was rising and the animals started to go
about their morning ritual. There’s no need
to be worried, the balloon doesn’t fly much
higher than the tree tops – in fact the basket
skimmed a tree on our way up, snapping
branches and showering debris down upon
us, terrifying a few of our fellow passengers warned, the basket is certain to tip over, so hold
and the captain. Then it’s 45 minutes of on tight. Finally, a fully cooked champagne
floating across the immense landscape breakfast in the wilderness and an hour-long
towards Tanzania as the orange sun rises game drive back to camp. The 60-minute
higher in the purple sky, before quite a balloon safari, including breakfast costs
bumpy landing during which you’re likely Dhs2,000 per person and can be arranged by
to crash into several termite mounds. Be Emirates Holidays or Little Governor’s Camp.

98 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011


Friendly lions: go on, give
us a kiss.
Lovely fellow: a warthog
Elephant skull A giraffe
a young male lion soon after he’d beaten off an
older rival, killing his young and injuring and
seriously angering the lioness. We saw hyenas
playing peek-a-boo in the long grass. We even
caught sight of a hippo making its way back
to the cool waters after a night of grazing. But,
though we sped and leaped over what must
have been a good few miles of the Mara –
Peter assuring us that “this is where the rhino
lives" – we never saw the giant, black beast of
our nerdy tick-box dreams.
But we’re hooked, and so will you be.
Everyone should enjoy some Africa time
every once in a while. Maybe you’ll even catch
sight of that illusive black rhino.
“Bones lay where their owners
perished. Intimations of danger lurk in
every bush, but there is also comedy”
Need to know
THE PACKAGE
Emirates Holidays offers a four-day, three
night package to Kenya, including return
economy class flights, one night in Nairobi
at The Norfolk hotel, flights to and from
the Masai Mara, two nights at the main
Governors' Camp with breakfast, lunch,
dinner, five 4x4 game drives, entrance fees
and all transfers for Dhs7,792 per person.
www.emirates-holidays.com
THE HOTELS
THE NORFOLK
www.fairmont.com/
norfolkhotel
GOVERNORS’ CAMP
www.governorscamp.com
MOUNT KENYA SAFARI
CLUB
We added an overnight stay
at the lavish Mount Kenya Safari Club to
our itinerary. Founded by Hollywood actor
William Holden after a hunting trip to the
area in the late 1950s, Winston Churchill
(that man got around), Conrad Hilton, Bob
Hope, Bing Crosby, Lyndon Johnson and
David Lean are on the roll call of former
guests. Sitting on the slopes of the majestic
Mount Kenya right on the equator – you
can enjoy a charming equator ceremony
with Masai warriors – it is a beautiful resort
with lush, landscaped gardens populated
by numerous birds, a 1,000 acre game
reserve, golf course, tennis courts and all
the comforts one expects from an exclusive
resort. The ideal place to recuperate for
several days after returning from safari.
Emirates Holidays offers an extension
package, including a flight from Nairobi
to Nanyuki airstrip near the Mount Kenya
Safari Club, transfers to
and from the hotel, two
nights accommodation,
breakfast, lunch, dinner
and the return flight to
Nairobi’s Wilson airport for
Dhs3,730 per person.
www.fairmont.com/kenyasafariclub
CURRENCY
100 Kenyan shillings = Dhs4.49024268
MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 99
 TRAVEL | TRAVELS WITH...
Travels with…
At 21, Leonard Logsdail
became the youngest tailor
to open a shop on Savile
Row’s Golden Mile, he’s
made suits for Robert De
Niro and Matt Damon and
he now has operations in
ten countries, including an
appointment-only showroom
in Dubai
What’s the best holiday you’ve ever had?
It has to be Tuscany in 2010. My wife and I
stayed at Castello di Vicarello, an 11th century
castle boasting it’s own vineyard and olive
groves. It sat high in the Tuscan hills and was
extremely interesting and enjoyable. We then
moved on to Rome where we stayed at the
Three bargain spring
breaks
TALKING TURKEY
Istanbul is sitting pretty near the top of
our travel wish list for 2011, so we like the Bobbi Lane and David Nightingale, will
look of this deal from Air Arabia Holidays, include workshops at all of Muscat’s
which includes return flights from Sharjah, cultural highlights, models and an assistant,
three nights in a central three-star
hotel, a tour of Istanbul and a
Bosphorus cruise. Not bad, eh? it up (see what we did there?) straight away.
Air Arabia Holidays, from
Dhs2,180. Tel: (06) 5074400.
www.holidays.airarabia.com
100 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
Leonard Logsdail
InterContinental at the
top of the Spanish steps. For
location, you couldn’t have much better
than that.
What’s been your biggest travel disaster? Much cleaner and less used.
When I lived in London I travelled to the
United States extensively. I had one
particularly good client in San Francisco, all
the way on the west coast. He asked me to fly cravat too – it instantly smartens up your ap-
out there to see him specifically. This was a
13-hour flight from London. The meeting was What destination serves the best food?
set and I flew out there only to find he had
been called away. I sat in the hotel for one day Logsdail London, Warehouse 17b, Al Quoz, Du-
and then flew back to London.
If you could advise people to visit one
destination, what would it be?
It would be Italy. It’s beautiful, historic and
very stylish. People in the cities take a pride in
their appearance and, naturally, I appreciate
that. But I actually think the United States has
SNAP
If you’re a keen
photographer, you’ll love
this one. The Gulf Photo Plus
Faces & Places photography three-day tour
of Oman, led by photography instructors
accommodation at a four-star hotel,
breakfast and lunch. We advise that you snap
Mar 17 to 19, Faces & Places, Dhs4,958.
Tel: (04) 3602365.
www.gulfphotoplus.com
TRAVEL
EXTRA
the best tailors. Many will think England and
Savile Row and there are good tailors there, but
the quality of the workmanship is better in the
US. The trouble is, most of the tailors there are
getting old.
What are your three top tips for surviving
a long airport stopover?
I love airport stopovers, as I see such interest-
ing people there. I enjoy the different human-
ity passing by. They fascinate me. But do not
expect good food at the restaurants and you
will not be disappointed. Setting your expecta-
tions or hopes too high will leave you feeling
let down. When you need to use the
bathroom for ‘serious’ matters, take
a free hotel shuttle and use one there.
What do you never travel without?
A toothbrush, naturally, but I also always carry
a silk pocket square. It can be just that or a
pearance and makes you feel well turned out.
I enjoyed the food in Venice most of all.
bai. Tel: (04) 3233148. www.logsdaillondon.com
“I also always carry a silk
pocket square. It can be
ISTOCK
just that or a cravat too”
THREE CITIES, FIVE
DAYS
This is a more than a
bargain; it’s practically
a gift. Return flights
from Sharjah to the Sri
Lankan capital Colombo,
five nights accommodation
in Bentota, Kandy and Colombo, breakfast,
a tour of Colombo and Kandy and visits
to Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, the
Botanical Gardens and Kandy Temple for
well under Dhs3,000. All you need to worry
about is sorting out your visa.
Air Arabia Holidays, from Dhs2,630. Tel: (06)
5074400. www.holidays.airarabia.com
IF YOU LOVE STYLE, YOU’LL LOVE...
 Win with What’s On

GO TO
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OR
TWITTER.COM/
WHATSONDUBAI

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on loads of prizes, including BlackBerry
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day with PlayStation (plus some swag),
a behind the scenes visit to the Dubai
92 studios, spa treatments, a styling
session and more?
All you need to do is visit our
Facebook page (www.facebook.
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102 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

Buffet Breakfast Buffet Lunch Weekend Brunch À La Carte Dinner
THE HOT LIST
Key
New entry

Non-mover

Up

Down

p107 Bars
p111 Restaurants
p115 Brunches
p119 Spas
RARE

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 105

 ˜+6*#.+8' ˜
7..&#;211.#0&$'#%*#%%'55

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Tel: 050 1077 215, E-mail: divaz@jaihotels.com
www.divazboat.com
 THE HOT LIST THE
FINEST FOR
BEVERAGES
BARS AND
BITES

Barasti Zuma Belgian Beer Café

ATMOSPHERE LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

1
Caramel is packed Caramel’s leafy Meet friends for a This bar is far Building 3, DIFC,
Buzzy Dubai, Sun to Thurs
with pretty girls and terrace offers quick post-work from cheap –
atmosphere, the 11am to 2am.
pretty men with respite from the drink, be tempted neighbourhood
chance of celeb- Tel: (04) 4256677.
a pretty healthy concrete jungle of by the menu then hazard – but ladies
spotting and www.carameldubai.
bank balance. This DIFC, while inside settle in until get half price
Caramel seriously good com
is place to see and you’ll find a city- midnight. Try the cocktails from
food. We’re sold.
be seen. style bar. kobe sliders. 6pm to 9pm on
Tuesdays.

2
Very, very slick. Zuma was the first Break out the Hugo You can go a Stay tuned for Building 6, DIFC,
Glass, dark wood, big-hitter to set Boss, shine those bit wild on the Dubai, Fri to Wed noon
the next What's
low slung sofas and up shop in DIFC, shoes and get your wine and sakes, to 2am, Thurs noon to
On Saturday 3am. Tel: (04) 4255660.
a terrace perfect for starting quite the best garb on. This but cocktails are Session; the www.zumarestaurant.
post-work drinks. trend. It’s still at lounge is anything reasonable. High perfect way com
Zuma the heart of this but casual. prices at a high to end your
nightlife hub. quality bar. weekend.

3
Barasti veers Right on the beach. Quiet sundowners Stick with the beers , Gigs like The Le Méridien Mina
between laid-back Split between with the sand and you'll be OK: Seyahi Resort &
Streets on the
cool on the beach, poolside and between your toes. spirits and mixers Spa, Dubai Marina,
18th are turning Dubai, 11am to 2am.
and mania at the beachside, there’s When the hoards of are expenisve given the beach from Tel: (04) 3993333.
bar – it’s a brave usually a quiet or sunburnt tourists they're served in a chilled to hot, www.lemeridien-
Barasti man that pushes to hot spot depending turn up it’s your cue tiny plastic cup. hot, hot. minaseyahi.com
the front on a Friday on what you’re after. to leave.
night.

4
LA pool party. DJ Media City. One Mingling. This Not bad, to be Try the evening Media One, Dubai
under the stars. of the last places place is packed honest. High rollers Media City, Dubai, Tues
brunch on a
That constant you’d expect to find with revellers both dominate the to Sat noon to 3am. Tel:
Friday then head (04) 4271000. www.
threat of being watery debauchery. post-brunch and poolside tables. out to the pool mediaonehotel.com
thrown in the deep mid-week. Go with to continue the
M Dek end. We love it. a group. party.

5
Depends when you Slap bang in the Dubai’s finest break Ouch. The dirhams We’re willing Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
go. It’s chilled on Arabian Gulf, we out their finery come stack up if you Al Sufouh, Dubai, Sun
to overlook the
Friday and Saturday recommended Friday to pose for arrive early and to Thurs 5pm to late,
slow service for Fri and Sat 4pm to
afternoons but catching a golf those all-important leave late. the tunes and 2am. Tel: (04) 4068769
once the sun sets, buggy up the jetty photos ops. views.
360˚ the party goes off. to 360˚’s gangplank.

NOVEMBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 107

MARCH 2011
 HOT ON
THE HEELubSai Marinai
BARS 11 Blends,
e Address D
Th
rive, Arman
i Hotel
12 Armani/P dress Dubai Mall
e Ad
13 Neos, Th The Westin
14 Senyar, lam
Bahri Ba r, Mina A’Sa
15

The Yacht Club The Terrace

ATMOSPHERE LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

6
Now the weather Don't dismiss If you’re in the There’s a Monday Crowne Plaza Festival
A cracking City, Dubai, Sun to
is dreamy you'll Festival Centre as mood for some night all you can eat brunch, decent
have to be quick to the land of IKEA, European charm, moules and beer Mon 6pm to 2am, Tue
deals and a to Wed noon to 2am,
nab a table on the the BBC is king this is the only pub affair for Dhs199. spectacular Thurs and Fri noon to
terrace. Inside the of a huge swathe to go to. Bargain Belgian. drinks list mean 3am. Tel: (04) 7012222.
Belgian Beer pews are rammed of new bars and we're regulars. www.ichotelsgroup.
Café with diners, and restaurants in this com
the bar busy with part of town.
beer fans.

7
Ditch the pashmina At the centre of Old Cocktails and chat. Above average, but Did we mention The Address
or John Smedley Town, affording Don’t expect super you'll be so relaxed Downtown Dubai,
the beanbags?
knit, the winter is you great views speedy service, that you'll sip your Emaar Boulevard,
warming up so it's of the Burj Khalifa though. drinks anyway. Downtown Dubai,
daily from 6pm to
the right time for from the coveted 2am. Tel: (04) 436 8888.
Calabar drinks at Calabar. beanbags. www.theaddress.com

8
Civilised, with At one of the most A few drinks, Pretty reasonable Don’t leave Park Hyatt Dubai,
outdoor tables beautiful hotels in lovely canapés given the stunning Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri
without
overlooking the the land, just next and picking out setting and quality from 6pm to 1am, Tel:
sampling the (04) 3172222. www.
yachts and killer to the creek.. which boat you’d of fare. raw bar. dubai.park.hyatt.com
cocktails. have. The Pershing,
The Terrace please.

9
Pretty busy most At the heart of Great BOGOF value Not bad at all, even From techno Aquara, Dubai Marina,
nights, but out Dubai Marina, with and the weather outside of happy Dubai, daily from
to naff 1980s,
of control come the water literally a is perfect for hour. 6pm to midnight. Tel:
they can't get (04) 3627900. www.
Thursday when the stone’s throw from this place at the the music right. dubaimarinayachtclub.
world and his pal the vast deck. moment. And it's driving com
The Yacht turn up for happy us a bit batty.
Club hour.

10
Buzzing at lunch Another reason to The bistro feel, live It's not cheap, but Check out the Unit 7, Level 2, Building
and after work, eat, drink and be music and menu. does have regualar 3, DIFC, Dubai, noon
jazz nights on
quieter for dinner, merry in DIFC. The ladies' nights offers. to midnight. Tel: (04)
Friday, where 4377511
then packed later on Tuesdays are a they screen
on. It's a sports bar nice change from concerts by the
The with style. the usual meat
Gramercy greats.
markets, too

108 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011 OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 108

 The Little
Book and DVD of

Abu Dhabi

A selection of some of the

finest photographs
of Abu Dhabi
s This pocket-sized book and multi-formatted DVD
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a totally new perspective.

s The Little Book and DVD of Abu Dhabi will leave a

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Key Features
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s An affordable, pocket-sized souvenir for visitors
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Multilingual Text and Commentary in

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 THE HOT LIST
THE
ELITE
OF THE
EATING OUT
RESTAURANTS SCENE

Rivington Grill
MARCH 2010 WHAT’S ON 111Indego by Vineet

ATMOSPHERE INTERIOR FOOD LOCATION PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

1
LPM is White The small DIFC continues We managed DIFC, Gate
The Ivy is
everyone’s panelled walls, plates are ideal to battle with to blow Dhs930 Village 8,
(without opens in Dubai, Sun
favourite contemporary for sharing, Souk Al Bahar
alcohol), but Emirates to Fri noon
restaurant, so artworks, dark, and chef Izi’s and Dubai
two could eat Towers in April. to 2.30pm
make sure you bare wood delightful Marina for the
La Petite very well for Can it knock and 7pm to
book ahead. floors, a long bar, Niçoise (from title of Dubai Dhs650. 11pm. Tel: (04)
Maison LPM off the top
crisp tablecloths Nice) cuisine restaurant hub. 4390505. www.
spot?
and romantic will encourage lpmdubai.ae
lighting. conversation.

2
We’d wager For the Try out the new A short walk Dhs1,000 for If a better Building 6, Gate
that Zuma does restaurant ‘From the Grill’ from sister two. Ebisu Village, DIFC, Sat to
Japanese than
more covers experience head selection. Cuts restaurant LPM Express lunch Thurs 12.30pm to
Zuma comes to 3pm, Sat to Wed
on an average downstairs. For of prime wagyu in the peerless menu (miso Dubai this year, 7pm to midnight,
evening than a more casual cooked over DIFC. plus main) we’ll eat our hat. Thurs and Fri 7pm
Zuma many Dubai affair plop charcoal and Dhs62, Ebisu to 1am. Tel: (04)
restaurants do yourself down T-bone with (miso plus 4255660. www.
in a week. on a sofa in the truffle ponzu, three courses) zumarestaurant.
upstairs lounge. anyone? Dhs120. com

3
Convivial with A cosy He might not It’s not Dhs900 Catch both Grosvenor
knowledgeable restaurant with be behind the immediately (without chef John House, Dubai
and hospitable several statues stove, but the evident but alcohol). Well Sinjobi and Marina,
staff. of golden gods menu shows there’s a nice worth it. Vineet Bhatia at Dubai, Sun to
and a cabinet Taste Of Dubai Thurs 7pm to
off Bhatia’s terrace for a
Indego by of shoes on one (p38) 11pm. Tel: (04)
wall to remind unequalled coffee or post 3176000. www.
Vineet contemporary meal drink.
you you’re grosvenorhouse-
eating Indian. Indian cuisine. dubai.com

4
RG is so popular Uncomplicated The food at The The Friday Dhs400 for two. Read our Souk Al Bahar,
they’re opening with an open Riv is simple, Farmer’s Market Level 3, Old
interview with
another one kitchen, white elegant and just downstairs Town, Dubai,
new executive noon to
later this year at walls and linen always delicious. has brought chef Colin 11pm. Tel: (04)
the Madinat. and, of course, British cuisine at a real buzz to Clague (p39). 4230903. www.
Rivington daily specials its best. Souk Al Bahar. rivingtongrill.ae
Grill scribbled on
chalkboards.

5
Under chef It had a bit of a If you want Deira. We know, Dhs395 for Time to move, Hilton Dubai Creek,
Scott Price tidy up late last the full Verre but it’s worth three courses. Sun to Fri, 7pm to
Gordon? Gary’s
Verre has again year, but it’s still experience the taxi. Dhs495 for six. 11.30pm. Tel: (04)
For the chef’s got two in the 2277550. www.
become a must- modern fine book the chef’s Marina, you
table it’s Dhs695 gordonramsay.
visit dining dining 101. table. know.
Verre without alcohol, com
destination. wine pairings
Dhs350 to
Dhs600.

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 111

 HOT ON
RESTAURANTS THRhEodH EELS
11 es Twenty10
12 Okku
ne
13 Rhod es Mezzani
14 Frankie’s
15 Margaux

Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire’s Rare Traiteur

PRICE
ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S
INTERIOR
ON INFO FOOD LOCATION PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO
SAYS... SAYS...

6
Not as full as We expected The name might The 122nd floor Extortionate. A Read our
Burj Khalifa,
the bothersome something a bit be silly, but of the tallest minimum spend Dubai, 12.30pm
garish, a little building in the review (p40). to 3pm and
booking the high-end of Dhs450
suggested, but like the OTT grill menu is world. That do per person 7pm to
décor at Burj you? 11.30pm. Tel:
pretty busy anything but. We dropped
At.mosphere Al Arab, but it’s (04) 8883828.
nonetheless. smooth, sultry Go for the steak Dhs1,250,
and really rather tartare. but everyone
pleasant. should visit
once.

7
Dinner at Reflets Purple carpet, Pierre Gagnaire Reflets has Dhs1,000 and Don’t miss InterContinental
is reserved by pink chandeliers is famed the its own floor, the some, but Gagnaire at Dubai Festival
most for a special and mahogany world over for which can only the three- City, Dubai, 7pm
the Festival Of
occasion and balloon-back his creative be reached in its course lunch to 1am. Tel: (04)
cookery and the very own lift. Literature this 7011128. www.
the ambience chairs. Classic, menu, available month (p14).
Reflets team at Reflets ichotelsgroup.
reflects that. camp and ever- was taught by Monday to com
Par Pierre so-French. Friday, is a
the master.
Gagnaire’s bargain at just
Dhs180.

8
Refined and We love the Chef Franck Park Hyatt. Our Three courses A touch of Park Hyatt
romantic. high, vaulted Detrait and his favourite Dubai for two for class. Our visit Dubai, Deira,
ceiling and the team do French hotel. around Dhs615. to Margaux this Dubai, Sun
open kitchen. brasserie better Dhs280 per month (p42) to Fri 7pm to
person for the reminded us midnight. Tel:
than any other
Traiteur three-course set why we love (04) 3172222.
restaurant in menu. www.dubai.
Traiteur so
Dubai. park.hyatt.com
much.

9
Life slows down Take a table Superb new Desert Palm Dhs700 (without We admire chef Desert Palm,
when you on the terrace menu. Order the allows you to alcohol) Al Awir Road,
Kevin Little’s
dine at Rare. It and enjoy the Aussie Wagyu escape from Dubai, Mon
passion. He’s to Sat 7pm to
doesn’t feel like view over the rib-eye. the city without breathed new 10.30pm. Tel:
you’re eating lush polo fields travelling too life into the (04) 43238888.
Rare dinner in a city. with the Burj far. menu. www.
Khalifa in the desertpalm.
background. peraquum.
com

10
Bathed in Chalet-like with Order pretty Downtown Around the Don’t miss The Palace –
the glow of dark woods, much any of Dubai is a handy Dhs700 for two tango on The Old Town,
the open fire, an extensive the grilled central location mark. Not too Sunday nights Downtown
Asado is one wine cellar, two meats and the and the outdoor bad. from 7pm. Dubai,
Dhs222 for Dubai, 7pm
of the warmest private dining delicious apple terrace sits at to midnight.
Asado restaurants in rooms and a tart for dessert. the foot of the three course
and tango. Tel: (04)
town. In more small stage for Burj Khalifa. 287888. www.
ways than one. live music. theaddress.com

112 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

...more
than a
feeling!
we could tell you it’s about silky
sounds mixed
by dubai’s hottest djs, the beautiful people

with a fabulous fashion sense, or even the sublime selection

of refreshments. but that doesn’t explain why M-DEK is the

hottest, coolest alfresco venue in town.

Feel the groove… Enter

Media One Hotel. PO Box 121818, Dubai Media City. T: +971 4 4271000
E: bite@mediaonehotel.com W: www.mediaonehotel.com
 THE HOT LIST
OUR
PICK
OF THE
BRUNCH
BRUNCHES BUNCH

Thai Kitchen Al Qasr Traiteur

ATMOSPHERE FOOD LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

1
Still full to the Plenty. There’s a There are three Impressing your A steep Dhs495. Madinat
With many Jumeirah,
brim, as always. cheese trolley, rooms full parents, friends, newer, cheaper
made-to-order of food and potential Dubai, 12.30pm
options people to 4pm. Tel: (04)
steak to sushi, a terrace so business might be 3666730. www.
oxtail burger there’s plenty of partners or a starting to visit jumeirah.com
Al Qasr and just about room to roam significant other. Al Qasr less ofen.
every other around. Impressing For now it's king.
food you could anyone, really.
possibly require.

2
With a live jazz Classic French Book the “Bon vivant: Up to you. Verging on the Park Hyatt
band and a brassiere, just private dining a person with Dhs375 sans pricey, but we
Dubai, Deira,
buffet in the like the a la room, grab a refined taste, booze, Dhs450 Dubai, noon to
open kitchen table near the pay it quite 4pm. Tel: (04)
carte but it’s a especially one with wine and often.
things can get open kitchen 3172222. www.
free-for-all. who enjoys beer, Dhs595
Traiteur pretty lively. or take a seat dubai.park.
on the terrace superb food and with bubbly and hyatt.com
and enjoy the drink.” Is that Dhs1,998 with a
weather. you? limo pick up.

3
Already a firm Fresh sushi and The upstairs The best Kitsu (no If you like Building 6, DIFC,
fixture on the sashimi and a lounge and bar Japanese food alcohol) Dhs315, Dubai, 12.30pm
Japanese food
Dubai brunch wide array of means there’s in Dubai. Kowaku Dhs425 to 4pm. Tel: (04)
there is no 4255660. www.
scene. Book dishes from no need to (with alcohol) other option. zumarestaurant.
ahead. the always- leave at 4pm. and Kyasha com
Zuma exhilarating (with champers)
regular menu. Dhs550.

4
Toshi is an It’s Asian night, The 18th floor The set price At just Three hours of Grand Millennium
evening brunch so you’re talking of the Grand and buffet set Dhs195 Toshi lovely food, free
Dubai, Tecom,
so it feels more sushi, dim sum, Millennium, up makes it guarantees you Al Barsha,
like a long flowing drinks Dubai, 7pm to
soup and grilled so it's a bit of ideal for a big will be well fed and, if you’re
dinner than 10pm. Tel: (04)
meats made to hidden gem. dinner with and watered lucky, good
Toshi an abnormally 4299999. www.
indulgent lunch. order. It’s a fine There’s a little friends. for less than company. millenniumhotels.
spread. adjoining bar Dhs200. com
for post-dinner
drinks.

5
Imagine a picnic Breads, jams, On the grass at Enjoying the Dhs199 sans Why have Al Badia
in the park, soups, salads, the Al Badia Golf spring weather. booze, Dhs330 Golf Club by
they waited
but with other hot pot, a BBQ, Club. Lovely. with house InterContinental
beverages and until March? Dubai Festival City,
people making buttered scones There are only
Dhs495 with The Lawn, Festival
the food and a and cheese. a couple of
Friday Picnic Veuve. City, Dubai. Tel: (04)
glass of fizz in Salivating yet? months before 7011127. www.
Brunch your hand. the big heat. albadiagolfclub.ae

MARCH 2011 WHAT’S ON 115

 BRUNCHES HOT ON
THehEouH EELSnch
se Malt Dru
11 War ious
12 Bubbalic Café
Be lgian Beer
13
14 Yalumba
ne
15 Media O

Spectrum On One Anise

PRICE
ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S ON
FOOD INFOLOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO
SAYS... SAYS...

6
The live band Peking Wander onto the One and all. Dhs395 with Anise,
The hiring of
provides the duck, pizzas, terrace and you alcohol, Dhs295 InterContinental
soundtrack to will be rewarded a band was a Dubai Festival
barbecued without.
proceedings. with a grand masterstroke. City, Dubai,
cuts, curries
view of the Every brunch 12.30pm to
and more. But
Anise Dubai skyline. should have 4pm. Tel: (04)
leave room for 7011111. www.
one.
cheese, which ichotelsgroup.
has its own com
dedicated room.

7
Not quiet by Bubbly, steak, Outside beside A solid family A not so cheap It’s like a Madinat
any means, seafood, sushi. the water is the brunch. Dhs425. quieter Al Qasr.
Jumeirah,
but not too Everything you only option Dubai, 12.30pm
messy either. would expect as far as we’re Pop on your to 4pm. Tel: (04)
Sophisticated. at a high-end concerned. shades and 3668888. www.
brunch. enjoy life in jumeirah.com
Mina A'Salam Dubai.

8
For most of the Mexican The beach. Or Being outside. Dhs300 for Don’t miss the Le Royal
time you’re just from celeb are you more of lunch and pool live mariachi
Méridien Beach
hanging out by chef Richard a pool person? and beach Resort & Spa,
access from band. Dubai Marina,
the pool, so it’s Sandoval’s
10am to 6pm. Dubai, 10am to
pretty relaxed. Maya. Platters of
Maya Drinks are extra, 6pm. Tel: (04)
grilled meat and but there's 30 3165550. www.
fish between per off between leroyalmeridien-
1pm and 4pm 5pm and 7pm. dubai.com
on the terrace.

9
Everyone is at “BBQ the South The grill makes Meat eaters and A bargain at Saffers know The Grand Grill
Grand Grill to African way” – sitting in the anyone who Dhs295 with how to Steakhouse,
eat meat and i.e. bigger and relatively small likes a drop of alcohol, or barbecue. Habtoor Grand
be merry. The well lubricated. restaurant a the good stuff. Dhs225 without. Resort & Spa,
waiters love a Lobby level,
lively time. Take
The Grand bit of banter. Dubai Marina,
a table outside Dubai, 12.30pm
Grill for the real BBQ to 4pm. Tel: (04)
experience. 3994221. www.
thegrandgrill.com

10
Expect full It took 90 Always take a Nine times out of Dhs245 with Lucky to Park Hyatt
tables, but minutes to table on the ten Thai Kitchen alcohol. Cheap. Dubai, Deira,
remain in the
nothing too arrive last time terrace. has been a Extremely cheap. Dubai, noon to
we went. We top ten. It's a 4pm. Tel: (04)
rowdy. superb venue for good deal, but
complained 3172222. www.
fantastic small Thai Kitchen is
Thai Kitchen five times. Not dubai.park.
good. Hence the Thai dishes and a hanging by a hyatt.com
nosedive to the relaxed day out. thread.
bottom of the list.

116 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

 b r at e "
C e
" ITH AFRICAN + EAS Tle
E R N
W
Why not...
throw a surprise party
for a friend or loved one?

African + Eastern stores located at:

Arabian Ranches: 04 360 6620 Bur Dubai: 04 352 4521 Deira: 04 222 2666
Karama: 04 357 2260 Marina Walk: 04 368 3981 Mirdif: 04 288 2715
Jumeirah: 04 349 0246 Umm Suqueim: 04 394 2676 TECOM: 04 445 6880

All stores open Saturday – Thursday 10am to 9pm

Marina Walk, Jumeirah, Bur Dubai and Arabian Ranches open Fridays 3pm to 9pm

www.africaneastern.com
 THE
THE HOT LIST DADDIES
OF THE
HEALTH AND
SPAS LEISURE
SCENE

Amara The Spa Sensasia Urban Spa

THERAPISTS MENU THE SPA PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

1
Utterly expert, Most treatments Absolutely Not as expensive This is the
One&Only The Palm,
very friendly and are by ESPA, gorgeous. The as they could ultimate day spa
The Palm Jumeirah,
skilled beyond so the menu is hotel is a fair trek probably demand destination. We
Dubai, 10am to 9pm.
belief. Truly the well-chosen and to get to, but (shush) with a 25- love it, and think
Tel: (04) 4401010.
best therapists addresses every the result is an minute body scrub you will too.
www.thepalm.
One&Only Spa we've ever been possible concern. away from it all for Dhs215 and oneandonlyresorts.
tended by in There are even experience. Expect one-hour massage com
Dubai. wellness journeys lots of wood, costing Dhs490.
lasting up to five terracotta and Thumbs up.
days. We want. gorgeous fabrics.

2
We recommended There’s a lengthy Stunning. There are monthly It's finally off Park Hyatt Dubai,
Sue if knots and luxurious list Particularly good offers that take the number one Deira, Dubai,
are your main of treatments on for couples, with the sting out of spot, but is a 9am to 10pm.
problem, but offer. Grouped private outdoor the steep prices – worthy holder of Tel: (04) 6021234.
they are all very by theme, there’s showers and VIP the silver medal. www.dubai.park.
but the quality of
Amara Spa knowledgeable an emphasis suites. hyatt.com
and professional. on rituals and products, spa and
packages that therapists more
include pool and than justify them.
health club access.

3
Quiet, kind and Innovative and Asian chic with Choose wisely and That ginger tea The Beach Club, Al
with a firm hand imaginative, you’ll splashes of jewel you’ll get an hour- alone makes Nafura, Shoreline
when necessary, find treatments tones; the cosy long massage for it worth the Apartments, The Palm
Sensasia’s staff you never knew rooms are a true Dhs310, and they’ll trip, but the Jumeirah, Dubai,
treatments are 10am to 10pm.
are trained to the you needed. retreat. And the often do monthly Tel: (04) 4227115.
Sensasia highest standards. We love specific dressing gowns are discounts. amazing, too.
www.sensasiaspas.
Urban Spa massages like the best in town. com
the Hi Heeler for
aching feet.

4
There’s a mix Talise sets itself The treatment Various, but the Ask them Al Qasr, Al Sufouh,
of nationalities apart with its rooms are linked 80-minute Royal about the Talise Dubai,
and specialities, naturopath, life by leafy outdoor Hammam is a fair detox mini- 9am to 10pm.
from massage coaching and pathways, with Dhs450. break at Bab Al Tel: (04) 3666818.
Shams desert www.jumeirah.com/
therapists to a GP. medical testing, an outdoor pool talise
Talise Spa This spa is packed in addition to the tucked away for resort. Superb.
with experts. large spa menu. those day-long spa
sessions.

5
Modern zen There are You’d never expect It’s pricey, but Quiet and The Address Dubai
awaits at this separate menus this shrine to worth it for luxurious, with Mall, Old Town, Dubai,
vast spa, with for ladies and de-stressing to be the quality of quality added 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04)
experienced gents. Particularly mere minutes from treatments and extras, this 4388888.
spa is a true www.theaddress.com
therapists on recommended The Dubai Mall. snooze you’ll enjoy.
The Spa hand to guide you is the Jet Lag sanctuary.
from reception to treatment.
relaxation.

2010 WHAT’S
MARCH 2011
OCTOBER WHAT’S ON
ON 119
119
 HOT ON
THE HEELS
SPAS Spa, The M
11 Mandara Spa, One&Only
onarch
y
12 One&Onl Mirage
Royal l,
rContinenta City
13 Spa Inte ai Festival
enta l Dub
InterContin an Tree Al Wadi
14 Bany
nd Spa,
15 The Gra
tt Dubai
Grand Hya

Armani/Spa Talise Spa at Emirates Towers Lime Spa

THERAPISTS MENU THE SPA PRICE WHAT’S ON INFO

SAYS...

6
An international There’s no As stylish as you’d Not as bad as Armani Hotel, Burj
The unique Khalifa, Old Town,
mix of staff. treatment menu expect from you fear, with 90
'decide for you' Dubai,
We had a as such, just book Giorgio. It’s a minutes costing
approach is 9am to 9pm.
knot-busting a time slot (from sleek space with Dhs650, up to
great for spa Tel: (04) 8883888.
South African. 90 minutes to a dark greys and Dhs2,500 for a
Armani/Spa newbies. www.dubai.
Impressive. full day) and the clean lines. Very full day. armanihotels.com
therapist decides. masculine indeed.

7
Male and female The menu invites Shared steam and Mid-range, with a We thoroughly Desert Palm, Al
therapists you to 'drop your sauna facilities 60-minute Anne recommend a
Awir Road, after
are available robe, cares and make it an ideal Semonin massage International City,
with extensive guard'. Cheeky. destination for massage then Dubai, 9am to 9pm.
for Dhs450 and an steak at the
knowledge. There are Anne couples. We Tel: (04) 3238888.
hour of reflexology all-new Rare
They’re happy to Semonin and Eve especially like the www.desertpalm.ae
Lime Spa answer questions, Lom treatments, clever two-way for Dhs395. restaurant.
or just let you plus everything windows so you
nod off. from ear candling can look out over
to sculpting rituals. the polo fields.

8
The female Each month Hidden away in Well priced at We tried the 1074 Uttamah
therapists at this brings new an Al Wasl villa, around Dhs350 signature Villas, Al Wasl Road,
ladies-only spa treatments and the spa is a cosy for an hour-long Jumeira, Dubai,
undergo two discounts. You’ll escape with a massage. Keep an Hot Salt Pot 10am to 10pm. Tel:
years of training find everything lovely garden for eye out for special treatment this (04) 3489679. www.
and the results from blow-dries to yoga. offers, too. month. Read thaiprivilegespadubai.
Thai Privilege
are impressive. luxury rituals, all all about it on com
Spa
with a Thai flavour. page 72.

9
The team at Extensive, with It’s an impressive You’re on The Palm ' A spa that Atlantis The Palm,
Atlantis will greet custom rituals spa with a huge so expect to pay will have you
Jumeirah, Dubai,
you with ginger from Japanese staircase, beautiful the big bucks, 10am to 10pm. Tel:
with two-hour wanting more (04) 4261020. www.
tea, treat you to beauty masters 'floating' walkway (and asking for
packages costing atlantisthepalm.com
some high quality Shiseido. and underwater- a pay rise).
Dhs1,000. They’ve
ShuiQi Spa pampering, then themed treatment priced it with
& Fitness bring more tea. rooms. tourists in mind,
but it’s worth
treating yourself.

10
Expert, Not a huge An unexpected Definitely on the A lunchtime Emirates Towers,
unassuming and selection, but sanctuary in the more expensive Dubai, 9am to 11pm.
massage is
happy to talk you everything you depths of Emirates side, which is no Tel: (04) 3198181.
the perfect www.jumeirah.com
through what could want from Towers. Previously surprise given pick-me-upfor
they’re doing and rituals to tanning. H2O male spa, it the hotel and stressed execs.
Talise Spa at why. Excellent. has opened its neighbourhood
Emirates Towers doors to the ladies. it’s in.

120 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011

THIS YEAR
WE WILL DO IT… AGAIN

DIAL 04 391 2019 LEAVE US A MESSAGE AND TELL US HOW WE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
 BACKCHAT
Mum’s the word for our man
on the radio
I know I’ll get pedantic responses as soon as I
mention the subject of this month’s ramblings,
so let me kick-off with a caveat. I know different
countries celebrate Mother’s Day at different
times. In fact, the only months that don’t have a
country celebrating Mother’s Day are January,
July and September. However, for Brits and
most people heralding from the Middle East,
March is when we normally honour our mums.
The other reason I wanted to write this
now is because March is also when my mum’s
birthday is… Or at least I thought it was.
She’ll kill me for admitting this, but I just
had to double-check that fact on her
Facebook page.
Right now you’re probably murmuring
under your breath that I am a horrible
person and a poor excuse for a son. I agree
wholeheartedly. It’s got to be someone’s fault
though, right? I’m quite a generous person.
I tip heavily at the petrol station and in
restaurants, I don’t feign a heart attack when
it’s my turn to get a round in… If anything,
Don’t miss next month’s What’s On
103 best-kept secrets, Dubai Chill Out Fest,
top cheesecakes and the Here & Now gig
122 WHAT’S ON MARCH 2011
WITH CATBOY
I’m far more of a giver than I am a receiver.
So, who’s to blame? Well, I reckon it’s my
dad. This stuff needs to be ingrained into
children from a young age for it to take hold
and, unfortunately, my dad just didn’t do
his job properly. It’s hard to blame him. He
was young. He was working very hard. He
probably didn’t have it drilled into him by
his father. It’s still his fault though. Dads are
supposed to buy the Mother’s Day card or
help you make one. They’re supposed to buy
the flowers, chocolates or ‘World’s Best Mum’
tat on your behalf. The same goes for mum’s
birthdays, too. He did none of that.
Sadly, for years this left me feeling no sense
of importance on these occasions. More
recently guilt has also reared its ugly head. I
don’t want my mum (who, by the way, is the
most supportive, hard-working, generous
mother on the planet) feeling like I don’t love
or appreciate her. I know how much effort she
put into bringing up two uncooperative, evil,
little monsters. I know how much she went
without in order that her precious snowflakes
got everything we wanted. I know how many
nights she stayed awake just to make sure I got
home safe even though she had warned me not
to be out late. Most of all, I know how many
times she covered for us with my dad (albeit
still constantly using him as a threat) and saved
us from “feeling the back of his hand”.
I just hope that, by this admission of my
own selfish stupidity, at least one person out
there will learn from my mistakes and do
something nice for their own mum this year,
whenever her birthday or Mother’s Day is. I’d
also like to use these last few lines to speak
directly to my own mother…
Mum, you’re number one. You make the
best Christmas dinner on earth. Your house
is the tidiest living space imaginable. You’re
interior decorating skills are second to none.
You have a great sense of humour. Your
tireless effort at being a wife and mother has
rendered the three men in your life useless at
looking after themselves. You’ve done your
job as a mother perfectly and for that and a
million other reasons, I love you.
There. That’s saved me a few dirhams on a
card and postage.
Catboy hosts the Catboy & Geordiebird
Breakfast Show, Sun to Thurs, 6am to
10am, Dubai 92. www.dubai92.com
FOR THE FIRST TIME ON PUBLIC DISPLAY
IN THE UAE. WHITE TIGERS. ONLY AT
AL AIN WILDLIFE PARK & RESORT.
Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort expresses its gratitude to Sheikha Latifa Bint Rashid Bin Khalifa Bin Saeed
Al Maktoum for the generous donation of two extraordinary White tigers.

The almost two year old White tiger siblings, a female and a male, have relocated to their new home at
Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort and are now on exhibit. Come and watch them in their new enclosure in
the zoo’s cathouse.

Today, White tigers are reported to live only in captivity. White tigers are ambassadors for their cousins
in the wild (India, South-East Asia and Russia). Tigers are critically endangered with some subspecies
such as the Sumatra tiger almost being extinct in the wild. They are in a badly need for protection and
it is our obligation to conserve them for future generations.

Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort – In Touch With Nature.

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