tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26021822040010598862024-03-13T16:27:17.739+04:00Chill OutUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-68956159941783561142008-01-29T07:53:00.000+04:002008-01-29T07:57:05.839+04:00New attractions lined up for DSF 2008<div align="justify"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/R56joaGAA4I/AAAAAAAAAl4/tlv4NC8Fy6o/s1600-h/DSFpic-10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160742137607750530" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/R56joaGAA4I/AAAAAAAAAl4/tlv4NC8Fy6o/s200/DSFpic-10.jpg" border="0" /></a>The <a href="http://www.dubaichronicle.com/search/label/Dubai%20Shopping%20Festival"><strong><em>Dubai Shopping Festival</em></strong> </a>continues in the emirate until February 24.<br />Besides the shopping promotions, mega raffle draws and the usual DSF signature events, a programme to watch out for will be a Guinness Book of world records launch on February 16.<br />New attractions this year will be a new entertainment concept under the name of Festival Park, where a wide range of events and festivities will take place in Al Khor Park. Events include heritage themes, a mini animal farm, park market, air show, digital festival and a family fun fair.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Al Seef Street will host the night souq among many other attractions. Al Muraqabat Street will host an international circus and a huge Fun Fair in addition to various shows and live performances. This new addition will happen on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays every week. From February 7 to 9 there will be a Dance of Fire and Light show, while the weekend on February 14 to 16 will offer the Journey Show at Global Village. The Flying Art Show happens in Al Khor Park on February 21 to 23.<br />The main musical event this year will be the international concert of Santana on February 15, at the Festival City. SkyWards Dubai International Festival will take place between February 21 to 24 at Dubai Media City. Among the major concerts this DSF is the AR Rahman concert happening on Valentine’s Day at the Zabeel park. Also, Zakir Hussain’s Nirvana Concert stands out as a great event that will take place on February 1, at the Dubai tennis stadium.<br />The closing ceremony will take place at Al Khor Park on February 24, where various DSF 2008 awards will be issued. <a href="http://www.ttnworldwide.com/"><strong><em><span style="color:#999999;">Source<br /></span></em></strong></a></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-91056374049465956332008-01-23T18:41:00.000+04:002008-01-23T18:42:38.105+04:00"Islamic Arts" exhibition<div align="justify">Abu Dhabi crown prince and deputy supreme commander of the UAE armed forces, General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, last night inaugurated the "Islamic Arts" exhibition.<br /><br />Dubbed: "The Treasure" from Nasir Al Khalili's collection, the exhibition is widely regarded as one of the biggest Islamic arts in the world.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Sheikh Mohammed toured the various sections of the exhibition which is being held at the Emirates Palace Hotel under the theme: "Allah is beautiful. He likes beauty", would last until April 22.<br /><br />Some of the 500 exhibits are on display for the first time to the general public. They include rare scriptures and panoramic photo of Makkah drawn in 1843. It is the oldest photograph of the holy city.<br /><br />Sheikh Mohammed was briefed about the rare exhibits, which originate from various areas - from the Far East, china, India, Iran Middle East, North Africa and Spain. (WAM)<br /><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-26205904795809069802008-01-14T13:07:00.000+04:002008-01-14T13:09:18.369+04:00New museum in Abu Dhabi to showcase Bedouin life<div align="justify">A new museum dedicated to the Bedouin way of life is being planned in Abu Dhabi, an official said.<br />Mohammad Khalaf Al Mazrouei, director general of Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH), has announced that the feasibility of establishing a Bedouin Heritage Museum in Abu Dhabi was being studied currently.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The museum, if established, will be the first of its kind. It will seek not only to document the history of Bedouin people in the Arab World, but will also aim to promote their culture and values, Al Mazrouei said. While displaying heritage items such as craft, textile or jewellery, it will also promote heritage by organising cultural events related to the Bedouin way of life.<br /><br />The task of carrying out the study for the museum project has been assigned to the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, which is looking into details such as the project’s goals as well the challenges in establishing it. The study is being carried out in collaboration with experts from ADACH, as well as Bedouin communities, who will take part in the process of planning, designing and devising the museum’s mission and activities.<br /><br />The museum will be well connected with schools, educational institutes and universities both within the country and abroad, the official noted.<br /><br />A research section and an audio-visual hall will showcase the Bedouin heritage. Source<br /><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-36497223440746834712008-01-02T19:28:00.000+04:002008-01-02T19:33:16.892+04:00Dubai Shopping Festival Office And Al Futtaim Group Announce The Lexus Mega Raffle.<div align="justify">The Dubai Shopping Festival Office has announced the details of one of its most extravagant raffle draws, the Lexus Mega Raffle. Organised in cooperation with Al Futtaim Group, a key sponsor of DSF and one of the leading business houses in the region, the Lexus Mega Raffle is a major attraction of the upcoming DSF 2008 that will be held for 32 days between January 24 and February 24, 2008.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Ibrahim Saleh, Chief Operating Officer of DSF explained that the 2008 Lexus Mega Raffle would be a special edition in terms of the excitement and the value of prizes. “While two brand new Lexus ES 350 and RX 350 models would be given daily to one winner, the same winner would have the chance to take home 100,000 in cash but in a currency he or she would pick through another draw.”<br /><br />“There will be 32 currencies to pick from - ranging between the Pound Sterling, US Dollar, and the Euro, to the Turkish Lira, Argentinean Pesos and the Iranian Tomman, among other international currencies. The winner might thus take home a cash prize of the equivalent of AED 400 or even AED 750,000,” added Saleh.<br /><br />The details of the raffle were announced through a press conference that was held at the Lexus showroom at Dubai Festival City, a flagship project of the Al Futtaim Group. In addition to Ibrahim Saleh, the event was attended by Simon Frith, the Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Motors, and Khaled Fayad, National Sales Manager – Lexus, Al-Futtaim Motors, and a host of media persons.<br /><br />“The Lexus Mega Raffle is a unique example of the excitement DSF generates during each edition and it is interesting to note that till date, 905 Lexus cars have been given as prizes. This year, we’ve gone a step further by introducing the 100,000 cash prize in various currencies. The new concept of having various currencies denotes Dubai’s multi-national society which the city wholeheartedly promotes,” said Ibrahim Saleh.<br /><br />The main stage at Global Village will be the venue for all Lexus Mega Raffle draws that will be conducted between 10pm and 11pm. As per the order of the draw, the winner of the Lexus cars will be announced who will then be asked to come the following day to choose the currency of the 100,000 cash prize. The daily draws will be broadcast live on Sama Dubai TV.<br /><br />During his address, Saleh also thanked the Al Futtaim Group for their continued and active support for DSF over the years. “We highly appreciate Al Futtaim Group’s support for DSF as is evident from their sponsoring the raffle draw since its inception. Their consistent support has resulted in the Lexus Mega Raffle being a major attraction of every DSF edition,” he added.<br /><br />Simon Frith, the Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Motors said, “We are delighted to partner with the Dubai Shopping Festival for the 13th year, and organize the Lexus Mega Raffle. Over the years, this raffle has become one of the most eagerly awaited parts of the festival, with UAE residents and tourists eagerly anticipating the opportunity to win two luxury vehicles, one RX350 and one ES350 from the prestigious Lexus range every day throughout the festival.”<br /><br />“The Shopping Festival helps to attract significant numbers of visitors to Dubai, reinforcing its position as one of the premier shopping destinations in the world, and supporting the continued growth of the retail sector. We would like to wish the DSF Office every success with the 2008 Festival,” he added.<br /><br />Priced at AED 200, the coupons for the Lexus Mega Raffle can be bought from select fuel stations of Eppco and Enoc and will also be available at special kiosks in Deira City Centre, Al Ghurair City, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City, the Grand Mall, in addition to the Gold Souq, Baniyas Street, Sabkha Street, Naif, Al Fahidi Street, and the Global Village. <a href="http://www.dubaicityguide.com/"><strong><em><span style="color:#666666;">Source</span></em></strong></a><br /><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-64980603258570533082007-10-14T12:36:00.000+04:002007-10-14T13:05:48.945+04:00Al Mawal Lebanese Restaurant<div align="justify"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RxHbrBNk4RI/AAAAAAAAA5I/nYicvs8It2g/s1600-h/belly%2520dance%2520drawing.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121115783403200786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RxHbrBNk4RI/AAAAAAAAA5I/nYicvs8It2g/s320/belly%2520dance%2520drawing.jpg" border="0" /></a>The Al Bustan Rotana Hotel is home to one of Dubai's great dining and entertainment experiences. Only minutes from Dubai International Airport, Al Mawal is a favourite hangout of Lebanese expatriates drawn to the tasty food that arrives within seconds of one being seated and seems to continue without a pause. Guests are encouraged to relax at their table with a hookah and a man is dedicated to keeping these alight during the evening.<span class="fullpost"><br />A highlight is the nightly show that begins at 11pm and continues until well after 2am. </span></div><div align="justify"><span class="fullpost">Normally sedate and well-mannered guests are transformed into a swaying, chanting mob as Brazilian-born dancer, Prescilla Fantoura, takes to the floor. The set menu and show is $80.<br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-24342635522271519822007-10-06T10:23:00.000+04:002007-10-06T10:25:25.001+04:00Disney to hold musical charity<div style="text-align: justify;">A one-day charity event, the Disney Symphony — the magical music of Walt Disney — will be brought to Dubai by Dubai Cares.<br />The event, which is being held under the patronage of Shaikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will be staged at the Dubai Creek Park on October 15 from 7pm to 9pm. The symphony orchestra will present a musical journey featuring from the early classics and recent releases of Walt Disney’s movies, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, Mary Poppins, and The Lion King, and will be accompanied by two giant screens displaying scenes from the movies.<br /><br /><span class="fullpost">All proceeds from the sale of tickets will be donated to the Dubai Cares campaign, launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.</span><br /><span class="fullpost">Tickets for the show will go on sale at 10am on October 6 and purchase will be available on phone at 04-366 22 77 as well as and online at www.dubaicares.ae.</span><br /><span class="fullpost">Dubai Cares is the latest in a line of international initiatives that express Dubai’s willingness to play an effective role in securing a better tomorrow for future generations. </span><br /><span class="fullpost">The campaign is Dubai’s contribution to a global drive to help countries achieve their U.N. Millennium Development Goals of providing primary education to every child by 2015. <a style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" href="http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticle.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2007/October/theuae_October137.xml&section=theuae">Source</a></span><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-84613731535949922172007-10-01T08:16:00.000+04:002007-10-01T08:19:06.549+04:00Ramadan rendezvous<div align="justify">Ramadan tents across the Emirates represent a confluence of traditions and modernity.<br />How about getting up, close and personal with Burj Dubai this Ramadan? Maybe, a sumptuous post-iftar dinner with friends and family in an exquisite Ramadan tent while relishing the towering presence of the world’s tallest building nearby? You can get a taste of the upcoming downtown high living if you drop in at the tent set up by Emaar at the heart of the Burj Dubai Boulevard, close to the Old Town Island.<br />The spot of white in the dusty boulevard also mirrors how contemporary lifestyle and traditions can peacefully coexist. “The holy month of Ramadan is also a celebration of the spirit of true Arabian hospitality and camaraderie. Therefore, we have welcomed Ramadan with a special tent that reflects the dynamics of our developments in Dubai --- urban yet rooted in tradition,” says Saif Al Mansoori, sales director, Emaar Properties.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />“Emaar has a rich history of conceptualising Ramadan tents that are the talk of the town. This year too, we decided to make a difference. Our objective was to create a design that was unique but also incorporated traditional touches. This was to reiterate the achievement of Burj Dubai, which is currently the world’s tallest free-standing structure,” says an Emaar spokesperson.<br />He adds, “By having a Ramadan tent that overlooks the Burj Dubai - located within our master-planned mega project, Downtown Burj Dubai, we decided to have a unique design that reflects the character of the entire development.”<br />The tent skilfully mixes traditional art with modern stylistic elements. Blending with traditional Arab motifs are the modern contemporary décor in blue and white, complete with stylised leather chairs and glass tables. A melodious performance by an oud player is another traditional aspect of the tent that can accommodate about 250 people at a time. In addition to these, comfortable seating arrangements, delectable cuisine (there are set menus that cost between Dh 120 and Dh 165 per person), live music and the whole ambience has been designed to foster the feeling of togetherness, according to the Emaar spokesperson. “Apart from the balanced mix of traditional Arab architecture and contemporary downtown lifestyle, the tent has some of the most exclusive views in Dubai today. Overlooking Burj Dubai and the other projects within Downtown Burj Dubai, the tent gives a sneak preview of Dubai’s emerging skyline,” he says.<br />The tent remains open for visitors from 9 pm to 3 am every day. Manoeuvring the tortuous route through the concrete buildings in the area off the Shaikh Zayed Road, residents pour in droves to have a cool evening at the tent. “It usually gets chock-a-block with people after 10 pm. So we advise that people should reserve seats at the tent,” says an official at the tent, adding that people have come to know about the tent primarily by word of mouth. “We have also sent SMSs to Emaar clients. People visit the tent from various parts of the UAE,” says the official.<br />The crowd is usually a mixed one, comprising people belonging to various nationalities. But predominantly it’s a yuppie gathering.<br />For the young crowd, Ramadan gives a unique opportunity to mingle with friends and peers. “Ramadan gives an opportunity to catch up with old friends,” says Rifaa, a fashion stylist, who likes to spend Ramadan evenings with her group of friends at various tents in big upmarket hotels across the city. “The Emaar tent is quite funky and very upper class! What I particularly like about the tent is its modern look,” she adds.<br />Charity is the essence of Ramadan<br />In keeping with the true spirit of Ramadan, which is a time of giving and sharing, free iftar tents have been set up in various parts of the Emirates to offer food to thousands of people during the holy month. Some tents have been set up by individuals or communities in various areas. In addition to these, charity organisations like the UAE Red Crescent Society and big companies like Etisalat have drawn up elaborate iftar programmes too. They also distribute zakat among the poor.<br />Al Imam Mohammed, who’s in charge of the iftar tent in Sharjah’s Al Oroubah Street, says more than 300 poor people, most of them working in the Rolla Market area, come to the tent to have iftar provided by a number of people as part of their charitable endeavours. “The iftar meal is prepared by a restaurant which brings the food to the tent every day at 5pm to be distributed among the poor and to be sent to a large number of poor families in the area,” he says.<br />Ibrahim Al Awadi, an official at the Shaikh Zayed Mosque in Ajman, says, “The most blessed month in the Muslim calendar is characterised by prayers, fasting and charity, a time when we ought to be loving and caring towards the needy, irrespective of their religion. Over 500 workers and poor people come ever day to have iftar at the tent. Meals are also being sent to many prisons in the country to be served to all prisoners regardless of their religion.”<br />In Dubai, Al Futtaim tents are providing iftar meals to around 3,000 people per day. Al Amin Jumma, a visitor at one such tent, says, “I never used to go to any such tent in the past because I used to have my iftar at a restaurant. But, this Ramadan the food prices at restaurants and cafeterias have shot up to such an extent that I can’t afford it any more. So, I prefer to go to the Al Futtaim tent to have Iftar and break the day’s fast with a community meal. Allah bless those who provide iftar for poor people like me.”<br />Adil Al Marzouqi, a religious scholar at the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities department, says, “People in the UAE are known for their hospitality. Setting up tents to provide the people with food is an old UAE tradition that reflects the generosity of the UAE people. The number of Ramadan tents is increasing with each year across the country. We also encourage the young generation to keep alive their ancestors’ religious and traditional practices.”<br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-5130855078680504482007-09-30T08:01:00.000+04:002007-09-30T08:03:35.791+04:00Hundred films to contest in the Middle East Film Festival<div align="justify">The Middle East International Film Festival - Abu Dhabi has announced the Official Competition slate, with filmmakers competing for the coveted Black Pearl awards.<br />More than 100 films from 38 countries will be shown in the festival.<br />The Official Competition is primarily comprised of films by emerging directors. Filmmakers will compete in three sections: Fiction, Documentary and Short Films. Fiction will feature 12 films; Documentary section is comprised of six films; and the Short Film section features 18 films.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The Black Pearl trophy is a handmade sculpture representing the exquisite black pearl, a rare and precious jewel originally discovered along the shallow waters of the Abu Dhabi coastline. It is a powerful symbol linked to the history and culture of Abu Dhabi.<br />There will be competitions in Fiction Films, Short Films and documentaries. <a href="http://www.wam.org.ae/servlet/Satellite?c=WamLocEnews&cid=1190822735803&p=1135099400295&pagename=WAM%2FWamLocEnews%2FW-T-LEN-FullNews"><strong><em><span style="color:#666666;">Source<br /></span></em></strong></a></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-50200839519560048482007-09-12T10:01:00.000+04:002007-09-12T10:06:12.670+04:00Christian Behavior During Ramadan<div align="justify"><strong><em>A Non-Muslim Guide for Respecting Islam during the Holy Month</em></strong></div><div align="justify">The holiest month in the Islamic calendar is the month of Ramadan. Your conduct, as a Non-Muslim and Christian, will dictate how you fare.<br />Religious tolerance takes on a different meaning for those living outside a country where their religion is in the majority. At certain times, members of a minority religion expose themselves to situations that cause conflicts. At no time is this more insidious than during the holiest month in the Islamic year; the lunar month of Ramadan. Here are a few guidelines for Christians to follow that will reduce the chance of confrontation.<span class="fullpost"><br /><strong>Ramadan</strong><br />“Allah praised the month of Ramadan out of the other months by choosing it to send down the Glorious Qur’an, just as He did for all of the Divine Books He revealed to the Prophets. Imam Ahmad reported…that Allah’s Messenger said: ‘The Suhuf [Pages] of Ibrahim were revealed during the first night of Ramadan. The Torah [Jewish holy book] was revealed during the sixth night of Ramadan. The Injil [the Christian Bible’s New Testament] was revealed during the thirteenth night of Ramadan. Allah revealed the Qur’an on the twenty-fourth night of Ramadan’.”<br /><br />During this month, Muslims are to refrain from eating, drinking and indulging during the daylight hours. But it is more than a simple fast. As Mr. Ashed Ali, Imam of the Mosque at Caahokala Kashmir, Pakistan said; “Ramadan is more than just not eating. It is a time to sacrifice, reflect and give….Every night after Iftar [the daily breaking of the fast] we are to pray, help the poor and then eat ourselves.”<br /><br /><strong>The Conflict</strong><br />Non-Muslims may find the tasks involved in Ramadan difficult to understand, let alone observe; however, they are willing to respect the custom. The conflict comes with the phrase, “respect the custom.”<br /><br />Most Western nations are considered secular societies, which clearly separate Religion and Politics. However, in Islamic nations, the State must abide by the Religion. Conflict arises in the application! Western respect is considered tolerance, as understood in secular societies; while Muslim nations understand respect not only as human tolerance but also care for Islamic traditions and laws. Misinterpretation of this concept can be insulting during this sacred time.<br /><br /><strong>Remedy</strong><br />For the Non-Muslim living in an Islamic Nation, the solution is not that difficult. A few basic actions will allow one to comfortably co-exist with their Muslim neighbors.<br /><br />Learn the important holidays in the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is based upon the lunar calendar so the dates change from year to year. Travelers can find this information beforehand and adjust their plans accordingly. Residents can find out the days in local papers, radio and TV.<br />Learn the Islamic “do & don’t” of the holiday. You are not required to partake in Islamic laws but you should understand what is insulting to Muslims while they are fasting. Business will take things into account and usually provide for non-fasting individuals. Work will close from 1-4 PM (or end the day at 2 PM) so there is plenty of time to go home for lunch.<br />Don’t get upset that your neighbors eat and socialize at midnight. The day begins after Iftar (sunset) and it is normal to see individuals up all night.<br />Cars park everywhere during Iftar, so understand that a 2 lane road (one direction), completely blocked with parked cars outside a mosque, is also normal.<br />Don’t walk around in provocative western clothes. Cities like Dubai and Bahrain are famous for Western dress; however, during Ramadan this attire is insulting. Men should wear pants and a shirt while women should wear either long dresses or a conservative top and pants: no tight pants, sweaters, blouses or short, low cut tops in public.<br />Give a present to your neighbors or a worker you see. A box of dates after Iftar will go a long way in presenting your understanding of religious customs.<br />These few actions will make your time far more enjoyable and you will make many new friends. The old adage “When in Rome…” has never had more meaning than for a Christian during Ramadan in an Islamic Country. <a href="http://religious-freedom.suite101.com/article.cfm/christian_behavior_during_ramadan"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-37771021792329871012007-09-07T13:11:00.000+04:002007-09-07T13:13:25.093+04:00Al Qasr<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FXXJjVynnY8"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FXXJjVynnY8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><span class="fullpost"><br /><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-41281307691847393532007-08-31T20:51:00.000+04:002007-08-31T20:57:56.450+04:00Restaurant review: Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab<div align="justify"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RthIJlNzFnI/AAAAAAAAAe0/KzmJTCYPdJE/s1600-h/Picture1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5104909507070465650" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RthIJlNzFnI/AAAAAAAAAe0/KzmJTCYPdJE/s320/Picture1.jpg" border="0" /></a>‘Is this a real submarine?' asked a Chinese tourist, as a computer-generated fish swam past the window. Our sea captain for the evening, a petite Filipino lady who had quite clearly never spliced the main brace or shivered her timbers in her life, giggled and cocked her head sympathetically. ‘Yes, in your imagination, sir'.<br />To be fair, it was hardly a scene from Das Boot. We were buckled into seats in a fairground submersible, which rumbled and trembled in simulated motion, while video screen portholes flashed images of weed-strewn rocks and a rippled seabed. Our captain told us not to be afraid, but to hold on tightly, presumably in case we encountered an overgrown CGI haddock or something. Then we gently jerked and shuddered to a ‘halt' at the door to Al Mahara, the flagship seafood restaurant at the Burj Al Arab.<br />It may have been a daft way for grown men and women to be carrying on, but all was forgiven when Al Mahara's stunning aquarium loomed into sight. Known as ‘The Oval', the sweeping 360-degree tank contains 300,000 litres of deep-blue salt water, and a crazy haul of brilliantly named fish. As a Big Eye Trevally winked at my dining partner, and a Black Spotted Sweetlips blew me a watery kiss, we chose our catch from the menu.<span class="fullpost"><br />My soup featured thinly sliced but substantially textured baby abalone, which melded subtle seafood hints and a suggestion of oyster mushroom in its complex flavour. It floated in a rich miso tea next to wagyu beef cheek wantons that disintegrated in the mouth in a meaty and delicately doughy pulp. Across the table, my friend was flirting with the tart of soft hand-dived scallops with potent black truffle and creamy leek. Both appetisers were accompanied by black squid ink bread and other soft rolls with a peppery butter spread.<br />As a Moorish Idol danced around the tank with a Halfmoon Damsel, my turbot ‘au champagne' drifted up to the table. The slab of soft, moist flaky fish slathered in thick creamy sauce and pilaf rice was given added bite by some crisp, fresh seasonal vegetables. Meanwhile, a giant square plate dotted with hunks of warm lobster, smears of suquet potato puree, a scattering of tatsoi leaves and bubbles of white truffle foam was being busily swept up opposite me. Both main courses were superb.<br />We glanced through the Burj's aquarium ‘I Spy' book to confirm that, indeed, the little fellow with what looked like a police baton stuck up his nose was the Unicorn Fish, and then our desserts appeared. The Valrhona chocolate sphere collapsed under a stream of warm Jivara sauce infused with Darjeeling tea to reveal a clutch of crimson, chocolate drenched raspberries. I sank a spoon into the strawberry composition, with caramelised brochette, Chantilly cream, sorbet and mini macaroons, and surfaced with a smile on my face.<br />There's no doubt about it, Al Mahara brings all hands on deck to offer you a supreme seafood experience, and you pay handsomely for the privilege. But while we'd arrived in a submarine, we left through a side door. Maybe that's because, after such fine food, excellent service and serene surroundings, a gimmicky theme park ride just doesn't cut it anymore. Either way, if you're planning to visit Al Mahara, you should wholeheartedly immerse yourself in all its folly to appreciate its true delights. </span></div><span class="fullpost"><div align="justify"><br /><strong>The bill (for two)</strong> </div><div align="justify"><br />Mineral water Dhs70<br />Scallops tart Dhs110<br />Abalone soup Dhs110<br />Truffle lobster Dhs360<br />Turbot Dhs360<br />Chocolate sphere Dhs110<br />Strawberry composition Dhs110 </div><div align="justify"><br />Total (including service) Dhs1230 </div><div align="justify"><br /><strong>Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab (04 301 7600). </strong></div><div align="justify"><strong>Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-12 midnight. </strong></div><div align="justify"><strong>All major credit cards accepted</strong></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=498770%3Arestaurant-review-al-mahara-dubai&Itemid=1"><em>Source</em></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-85739820986919797312007-08-30T18:34:00.000+04:002007-08-30T23:13:30.781+04:00Cafe Bateel<div align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RtbWGVNzFRI/AAAAAAAAAbo/QxQhleXIFSQ/s1600-h/Bateel+Cafe.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5104502631933613330" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RtbWGVNzFRI/AAAAAAAAAbo/QxQhleXIFSQ/s320/Bateel+Cafe.jpg" border="0" /></a>Confectionery brand Bateel today makes its first foray into the premium café market, with the launch of The Bateel Café, devised by Kinnersley Kent Design.<br />The venue, in Burj Dubai, will be the first of 30 cafés planned for the Middle East region by the end of 2008.<br />The luxury date and patisserie brand already has confectionery shops in locations around the world, including one on London’s Bond Street. <span class="fullpost"><br />Kinnersley Kent was commissioned in 2005 to create the interiors for the Bond Street store, and according to head of marketing Lindie Champion, the café concept is a natural development of this work.<br />The retail consultancy was handed a brief to create a brand identity and café interior, as well as in-store graphics and packaging.<br />According to Paul McElroy, partner at Kinnersley Kent, the concept for the café is ‘contemporary European’, but retains underlying Arabic elements. <a href="http://www.designweek.co.uk/Articles/135864/Bateel+opens+Dubai+caf%C3%A9+.html"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-43856113025625843622007-08-30T18:22:00.000+04:002007-08-30T18:34:17.332+04:00Secret Dubai On Display<div align="justify"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RtbUdlNzFQI/AAAAAAAAAbg/BNDtG-SQzd0/s1600-h/tv_homepage.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5104500832342316290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7tHPfujuX1g/RtbUdlNzFQI/AAAAAAAAAbg/BNDtG-SQzd0/s320/tv_homepage.gif" border="0" /></a>A new lifestyle television show intends to give viewers a glimpse of Dubai’s hidden secrets.<br />Presenter Punam Verma and producer Reim Al Houni said the new Dubai One show Out and About, due to start its weekly run on September 7, is a cross between a ‘Lonely Planet Guide’ to Dubai and a weekend guide to the city.<br />And they promise to highlight undiscovered activities and events each week.<br />"We will present a balanced show focusing on lifestyle activities, sports events and venues, art and restaurants," said Verma.<br />The programme has already filmed in locations such as Bastikiya, Jumeirah, and Deira.<br /><span class="fullpost">"You are sure to find something new every week, with each new episode, no matter how long you have been in Dubai," said Verma.<br />"The way we work is that we hear about different spots, then we investigate and research them before filming with our team," added Al Houni. "In two weeks of filming we have uncovered more than what long-time residents of the city know about it."<br />The team behind the show is a multinational one, perfectly reflecting Dubai’s multicultural diversity.<br />"Our team of seven brings in with them every aspect of Dubai and is reflected in the show," said Verma.<br />The Out and About team said that they depended on each other’s experiences and public feedback during investigations, to hunt for different locations and activities to highlight on the show.<br />With more than 1.3 million residents and in excess of 7,500 restaurants, Dubai is home to people from over 200 countries and cultures. And this fact makes Verma confident that the show will not run out of activities to cover.<br />"We will have about five or six new features in every episode of the hour-long show," said Verma.<br />British-born Verma got her start in radio in her native Birmingham. She is also a singer/songwriter with an album under her belt and has also sung at major concerts.<a href="http://www.xpress4me.com/news/uae/dubai/20002898.html"><strong><em><span style="color:#006600;">Source</span></em></strong></a><span style="color:#006600;"><br /></div></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-69671708693858745492007-08-28T13:21:00.000+04:002007-08-28T13:27:13.092+04:00Malaysian Celebration<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RtPqWwK4XXI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/RwF7akd8vlg/s1600-h/MalaysianCelebration.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5103680479349464434" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RtPqWwK4XXI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/RwF7akd8vlg/s200/MalaysianCelebration.jpg" border="0" /></a>On Friday 31 August, Beachcombers restaurant is hosting a feast to celebrate Malaysian National Day. Join us for tasty Malaysian cuisine, energetic entertainment and traditional Malay crafts. Beachcombers is a family-friendly restaurant and this once a year celebration is perfect for a memorable weekend catch up.<span class="fullpost"><br />Buffet Price: AED 170 per person<br />Date: 31 August 2007<br />Timings: 7.00pm to 11.30pm<br />For bookings and information please call Restaurant Reservations on +9714 406 8999 or email JBHBoxoffice@jumeirah.com.<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-81597661664384328152007-08-17T16:41:00.000+04:002007-08-27T01:33:21.708+04:00Chocolat-The, Dubai<div align="justify"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RsWZH4vAjzI/AAAAAAAAAzM/14D21cuAau4/s1600-h/chocolate-mousse_main.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099650513834643250" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RsWZH4vAjzI/AAAAAAAAAzM/14D21cuAau4/s320/chocolate-mousse_main.jpg" border="0" /></a>When we heard that a new chocolate restaurant was opening up in town, we wondered how it would survive the heat. But then we realised it wasn't actually a Wonka-worthy palace made out of confectionary (using fresh cream as cement and sprinkles as roof shingle, presumably), but a brasserie style boutique-cum-restaurant that sells the stuff. And with that, our Gingerbread House-inspired daydreams of licking the walls and chomping down the cutlery promptly, but wistfully, died.<br />Tucked behind Sheikh Zayed Road, even the most dedicated cocoa cognoscenti could be forgiven for mistaking the classy glass exterior for one of those ‘designer' food stores, the kind where defensive sales staff judge you the moment you saunter in. Fortunately, this candy store couldn't have been sweeter. Dozens of suited, smiling staff welcomed us hastily inside, past the shelves of meticulously arranged morsels on the ground floor (including rather interesting chocolate ‘cat tongues') to the upstairs restaurant.<span class="fullpost"><br />Following a quick nibble test, we confirmed that not even the menu was crafted from chocolate - although a small selection of complementary squares made its way to our table to prevent blood sugar levels dropping dangerously low during the perusal period. ‘My dream began with childhood days spent at granny's during teatime...' explained Belgian chocolatier Jean Galler in the menu's prologue. Looking around at the 70s-style curvy orange seating, floor-to-ceiling windows and stylish art deco adverts, we realised his granny wasn't as fixated with doilies and Dean Martin as ours is.<br />It also seems a Tetley and a Digestive might not quite cut it for her. As well as a compendium of chocolate-based concoctions, from crêpes and pastries to cocoa soup, far-flung teas from Japan, China and India, and all manner of roasted coffees, there were even sandwiches, salads and scrambled eggs for those lacking a sweet tooth.<br /><br />We plumped for the intriguing smoked salmon salad with white chocolate dressing, and the challenging-sounding full breakfast. Within minutes, our decadent drinks had arrived: one cauldron-sized teapot topped with polyfiller-thick molten chocolate for my friend, and the signature chocolate-thé itself for me - rich hot chocolate with bitter green tea at the centre.<br /><br />Just as we thought we were going to drown in larynx-clogged delight, brunch arrived. Alongside the light salmon rolls, the salad seemed nondescript enough at first taste, apart from a generous spattering of nuts. But then, every fifth mouthful or so, a pang of white chocolate rippled across my taste buds, giving away the true source of the salad's sweet glaze. Far from a fry up, my friend's full breakfast was a crumbly carb celebration - a selection of mini pastries, alarmingly good French bread, and dinky pots of jam, marmalade and chocolate, leaving her certifiably full.<br /><br />Battling to the end, and in full view of the crowd of staff peeking out from the kitchen's cabin hole, we accepted defeat after just a few mouthfuls of the chocolate misèrable (a thick milk chocolate cake with vanilla crème centre) and ‘dome' (a mini-auditorium of dark truffle chocolate with solid biscuit base). However, that was only after making sure we could bag it up to savour at our leisure, which we did - scraping it from the box after it had melted on the backseat of the car.<br /><br />Stumbling away, rubbing our sore heads and sickly stomachs, the pain was a small price to pay for this sticky-faced, self-indulgent pleasure, made socially acceptable in such sleek and stylish surrounds.<br /><br /><strong>The bill (for two)</strong><br /><br />Evian Dhs16<br />Apple juice Dhs10<br />Orange juice Dhs15<br />Full breakfast Dhs45<br />Smoked salmon RB Dhs32<br />Chocolat-thé Dhs22<br />Dome Dhs20<br />Misèrable chocolate Dhs20<br />Total (including service) Dhs180<br /><br /><strong>Ghaya Residences, Sheikh Zayed Road, behind Dusit Dubai (04 321 1098). </strong></span><br /></div><div align="justify"><span class="fullpost"><strong>Open daily 7.30am-11pm. All major credit cards accepted.</strong> </span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&amp;amp;id=497943:chocolat-the&Itemid=0"><strong><em>Source<br /></em></strong></a><br /><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-39612263370423409482007-08-16T21:07:00.000+04:002007-08-16T21:08:01.002+04:00We saw it today: Traditional Dance "Yolla"<embed src="http://www.liveleak.com/player.swf" width="450" height="370" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" flashvars="autostart=false&token=6bf_1184503203" scale="showall" name="index"></embed>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-79971800448684023062007-08-11T13:06:00.000+04:002007-08-11T13:09:51.125+04:00Everything's Made of Ice at Dubai Bar<div align="justify">Outside it was a sticky 111 degrees, but Ali Hamdan was shivering under two parkas as he sipped hot chocolate, surrounded by tables and chairs made of ice.<br />Chillout, its owners say, is the Middle East's first ice lounge - the latest venture in this desert Gulf emirate, which has been transformed by a mania for the biggest, first or most outlandish.<br />Gulf men in traditional white robes with wives covered in black cloaks, teenagers eager to experience their first cold blast and Westerners who miss the chill are flocking to the bar-restaurant to hang out in what amounts to a freezer.<br />Everything is made of ice: the walls, tables and chairs; cups, glasses and plates; the art on the wall, the sculptures depicting Dubai's skyline, the beaded curtains, the 7-foot-chandelier and the bar.<br />``It was the first time that I've been in such a cold place,'' said Fatima Ali, a 13-year-old Emirati, as she emerged from the restaurant, still breathless from the adventure. ``It was fantastic. I took pictures to show my friends so they would come too.''<br />Not everyone is so impressed. Some rush out after only a few minutes in the 21-degree temperature.<br />The $17 cover charge gets you one drink and the rental of a hooded parka, woolen gloves and insulated shoes. Customers don them outside, then spend a few minutes in the Buffer Zone, a room set at 41 degrees to adjust before entering the restaurant.<br />Sami al-Muhaideb, a 25-year-old Saudi travel agent, warned his friend Yousef Badr going in to expect a blast of cold air, like a freezer. Thirty minutes later, Badr emerged shivering, with a red nose.<br />Hamdan, 22, who works at Dubai customs, looked miserable as he sipped hot chocolate, an extra parka covering his legs. He hadn't quite dressed for the occasion, coming in a T-shirt and Bermuda shorts.<br />``He's not happy,'' his colleague Marwa Kharsa, a 25-year-old from Atlanta, said with a laugh. ``But I'm extremely happy. I miss the cold.''<br />While the new, $3 million hangout, which opened in a Dubai mall in June, is expected to become a must-see tourist destination, it also is expected to raise questions about already high energy consumption in this desert land.<br />The average person in the Emirates puts more demand on the global ecosystem than any other in the world, according to the World Wildlife Fund.<br />Energy consumption in the Emirates runs high for many reasons, particularly because of the air conditioning that cools houses, malls, cars and public places not only during the furnace-hot summers but in the warm winters.<br />Making matters worse are Dubai's audacious developments. The emirate has transformed itself into a financial and tourism center, building up its name with dramatic projects - the world's tallest skyscraper, island resorts in the shape of palm trees and maps of the world, even an indoor ski slope that still creates snow amid the inferno of summer.<br />Mike Ebenezer, business manager at Sharaf Group, which owns Chillout, insists it consumes only as much energy as a cold storage facility for frozen foods does.<br />``There are hundreds of cold storages in Dubai,'' said Ebenezer.<br />Ebenezer said that Chillout is the ninth such ice bar in the world, with others in the U.S., Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, London and Italy.<br />``It's a cool oasis in the middle of the desert,'' said Ebenezer.<br />``We want it to be a fashion and lifestyle statement for the Dubai people,'' he added. ``It's the kind of place where you want to be seen.''<br />It took 40,000 tons of ice to build the decor of the 2,400-square-foot restaurant. Every item was designed, carved and cut at a studio freezer at Iceculture Inc. in Canada and then shipped to Dubai.<br />Diffused lighting, from low-heat LED bulbs, constantly changes colors as it filters through the ice blocks. Sheepskin rugs cover the seats for the diners' comfort. Cocktails - which are nonalcoholic in a nod to Muslim culture - are served in ice glasses that are later discarded.<br />Hot drinks and food, from an Asian fusion menu, are served in stainless steel thermos containers - but still get cold within 15 minutes, diners are warned.<br />Putting on their parkas, newlywed Lebanese couple Yousef and Obeida Bissani, who live in Dubai, said they are used to cold winters in Lebanon but wanted to see what it's like to sit on an ice bench and drink from an ice glass.<br />``We didn't want to go to Ski Dubai because we have (the Lebanese) ski resort of Faraya,'' said Obeida Bissani, 23, who works in advertising.<br />Thuraya Amory, a 24-year-old Moroccan who works in sales, brought her mother, Amina, who was visiting from their homeland.<br />``It's the first time that I experience cold in Dubai,'' she said. ``It's nice to do it from time to time.'' <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,,-6841291,00.html"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-70171554286603386252007-08-11T13:00:00.000+04:002007-08-11T13:01:42.267+04:00Motorsport Festival in November<div align="justify">The Dubai Autodrome is proud to announce the advent of the Dubai Motorsport Festival to take place at the region's premier motor racing facility on 15, 16 and 17 November 2007.<br />Three days of non-stop action high quality international motorsport activities aimed at the racing aficionados and casual fans who want to be part of the big event experience.<br />The Dubai Motorsport Festival will add a motorsport element to the city's already well established and prestigious sporting events such as the Dubai World Cup, the Rugby Sevens, the Tennis Open and the Desert Classic.<br />Unlike previous seasons, when the running of the Motorcity GT500 was limited to one category of international motorsport, the Dubai Motorsport Festival will host three very different but equally exciting international series and three classes of the burgeoning UAE national racing classes.<br />The event will see the Dubai debut of the Speedcar Series, which will have Jean Alesi, Johnny Herbert, Narain Karthikeyan and Stefan Johansson. <a href="http://www.gulfnews.com/sport/Motor_Racing/10145725.html"><strong><em><span style="color:#999999;">Source</span></em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-21141883465186769872007-08-09T20:58:00.000+04:002007-08-09T21:08:02.461+04:00Chinese Art Exhibition coming to Dubai<div align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RrtJkLDnTpI/AAAAAAAAAyw/onrsh8lRgOU/s1600-h/Duck.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096748289091915410" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RrtJkLDnTpI/AAAAAAAAAyw/onrsh8lRgOU/s320/Duck.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dubaichronicle.com/search/label/Nakheel"><strong><em>Nakheel</em></strong></a>, one of the world's largest privately-held property developers, is hosting a Chinese art exhibition at the <a href="http://www.chinamexmart.com/english/index.jsp"><strong><em>Dragon Mart</em></strong> </a>Complex 11am-9pm 12-13 August 2007. The exhibition titled 'An Ode to China' will showcase more than 160 unique paintings created by dozens of Chinese artists. The images depict people and landscapes from all over China, reflecting the great diversity of the country. The exhibit will be displayed exclusively in Dubai and will not be shown elsewhere in the region. The pictures have been displayed in China and Malaysia, but have traveled even greater distances before coming to Dubai as they were launched into space as part of a special initiative by the Chinese government to symbolize the accomplishments of China. The show will open with a reception held by the Dragon Mart Complex on Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Abdullah Lootah, General Manager of the Dragon Mart Complex, will welcome the Chinese dignitaries during the official opening of the exhibition. The entire display will reach 27 meters in length and will be open to the public in the main entrance of the Dragon Mart Mall. <a href="http://www.wam.org.ae/servlet/Satellite?c=WamLocEnews&cid=1179092036394&amp;amp;p=1135099400295&pagename=WAM%2FWamLocEnews%2FW-T-LEN-FullNews"><strong><em><span style="color:#666666;">Source</span></em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-47928864753026055502007-07-28T19:01:00.000+04:002007-07-28T19:04:37.918+04:00Works of seven Emiratis at art exhibition<div align="justify">An exhibition of contemporary arts of seven UAE visual artists opened on Tuesday at the <a href="http://chilloutdubai.blogspot.com/search/label/Culture%20Venues"><strong><em>Dubai Community Theatre and Art Centre</em></strong></a> in the Mall of the Emirates. The exhibition will run until September 2.<br />The exhibition features the works of seven Emirati artists belonging to three different generations — Hassan Sharif, Hussain Sharif, Mohammed Ahmad Ibrahim, Mohammed Kazem, Abdullah Al Saadi, Ebtissam Abdul Aziz and Nuha Assad.”<br />“The works on display here break conventions and challenges traditional perceptions of art to create debate and engage the viewer in thoughts, ideas and comments on today’s society. Their works and thoughts ironically denote the daily life and behaviours of present crowded cities and calm mountain areas,” said Abdul Raheem Sharif, an organiser.<br />In ‘Cardboard and Coir’, veteran artist Hassan Sharif uses cartoon boxes, paper, coloured tissue, glue and ropes to create original shapes. <a href="http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticleNew.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2007/July/theuae_July851.xml§ion=theuae&col="><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-4491536178692028872007-07-25T23:44:00.000+04:002007-07-25T23:46:07.179+04:00Etisalat Academy celebrates 7th annual eSummer<div align="justify">Under the patronage of Sheikh Majed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum, Etisalat Academy today launched its 7th annual eSummer Program for the children of the United Arab Emirates. Ali Al Sharid, Chief Executive Officer Etisalat Services stressed that the annual cultural and entertainment summer event is a crucial part of Etisalat's strategy to continually develop its relationship with the community.Etisalat makes every effort to reach all parts of the community through its continuous social initiatives and program. The eSummer Program this year attracted over 160 children from all over the UAE with a range of cultural and entertainment events.All facilities and care are provided through the eSummer program so that children can benefit from and enjoy the summer vacation. Different educational, sporting, cultural, and crafts activities have been arranged for children between the age group of 6 and 12.Al Sharid said: "The annual cultural and entertainment summer event is a crucial part of Etisalat's strategy to continually develop its relationship with the community. Etisalat makes every effort to reach all parts of the community through its continuous social initiatives and programs.This initiative aims at supporting and spreading Information Technology throughout the UAE. The program, which was first launched in 2001 has experienced great success and has exceeded our highest expectations.The program has developed its own identity as a cultural, educational and entertainment program held every year during summer." <a href="http://www.wam.org.ae/servlet/Satellite?c=WamLocEnews&cid=1179091952273&p=1135099400295&pagename=WAM%2FWamLocEnews%2FW-T-LEN-FullNews"><strong><em><span style="color:#999999;">Source</span></em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-50936693442876944902007-07-22T20:08:00.000+04:002007-07-22T20:14:04.198+04:00Potter has Dubai spellbound<div align="justify"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RqOCNrDnTiI/AAAAAAAAAyE/J4Map-KT1Ug/s1600-h/harry-potter-deathly-hollows-art-400.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5090055175266586146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s-CH_eInMaw/RqOCNrDnTiI/AAAAAAAAAyE/J4Map-KT1Ug/s320/harry-potter-deathly-hollows-art-400.jpg" border="0" /></a>At 3.01am, the gleeful nine-year-old Katya Sheth ran into Magrudy’s, received her pre-ordered copy of the Deathly Hallows, struggled to hold the book high in her small hands, and gasped: "I like the magic. And Hermione!" She then sprinted away to immerse herself in the spell-binding story.<br />Hundreds of fans began lining up outside bookshops across the UAE from early Friday evening with some dedicated fans, like 13-year-old Abdulla Moaswes, travelling from Sharjah to Ibn Battuta Mall where some of the biggest celebrations were held.<br />As Potter aficionados joined the serpentine queues, a magician conjured card tricks and stilt walkers amused the visitors, while at other malls, coffee after coffee was served, wizard quizzes completed and wands and witches' hats created.<br />Hibah Abuhamdieh, 14, her sisters and friends waited nine and a half hours in a queue, until 3.01am yesterday, to be among the first few to get their hands on the last book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, in JK Rowling’s series.<br />But why? As Hibah said, “It’s different from any other book. When you start reading it, you can’t stop.”<br />Hibah has read the series several times and the sixth book, her favourite, 11 times. Sarah Husain, 21, stood in the queue from 9pm on Friday and remarked, “Some people do go a bit overboard,” but wasn’t taking any chance with her copy.<br />“I’ve reserved a copy, but I wanted to get my hands on the book as soon as possible,” she said.<br />In the run-up to the book’s worldwide launch at 3.01am due to an embargo and high security, avid readers of the hugely popular series re-read previous instalments and made their predictions for the final book.<br />“Ron and Hermione will die and Harry will have to kill Voldemort all on his own,” Sarah said.<br />Rohit Iyengar, 12, had an even more dire conclusion. “Harry Potter is going to have to kill himself because he finds out Voldemort is part of him,” he said.<br />But despite all the hints from the author and predictions from readers, the fans said nothing would beat reading the book, something sales have already indicated.<br />Jashanmal's Retail, Marketing and Development Manager Nusrat Ebrahim said the store had recorded more than 1,800 reservations for the book and, according to media reports Amazon had 2.2 million orders.<br />Meanwhile, at Jashanmal's Mall of the Emirates, 'Harry Potter' himself, well Dhaval Dave of India, made a special appearance to launch the first book.<br />After he waded through a frenzy of Potter fans, he pulled out the first book to the cheers and applauds of the ecstatic crowd.No sooner did children and adults alike get their hands on the book then the first page was turned, the last page only hours away for many as they planned to lock themselves in their rooms and homes devoid of any possible interruptions to find out exactly what is in store for Harry Potter and his friends. <a href="http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticle.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2007/July/theuae_July668.xml&section=theuae"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-4771354959511263572007-07-19T23:57:00.000+04:002007-07-20T00:08:37.365+04:00Harry Potter: Spellbound In Dubai<div align="justify">In the dark of night, long after the witching hour has struck, hundreds of figures clad in cloaks are set to glide through the city. Guided by the light of a desert moon they will congregate at a small handful of shops.<br />We want the finale of the Harry Potter series to end with a bang. Nusrat Ebrahim, manager of retail, marketing and development of Jashanmal National Company<br />It’s a scene that could have been written by J.K. Rowling herself – but for Dubai’s Harry Potter fanatics the fantasy they have been waiting for is all set to become a reality. <a href="http://chilloutdubai.blogspot.com/2007/02/harry-potters-final-act-is-set-for-july.html"><strong><em>P-Day is on Saturday, July 21</em></strong></a>. For anybody that hasn’t heard it yet that means the seventh, and final, Harry Potter novel is almost here.<br />And businesses in Dubai are cashing in.<br />Bookshops are going head-to-head in an attempt to attract fans, young and old, of the wizard’s adventures.<br />With some stores opening at 3am to start selling the book (a worldwide embargo and a huge security operation mean it will not be available before then) there is competition to attract readers.<br />Magrudy’s is hosting a party at the Ibn Battuta shopping mall. There will be magicians and activities for Potterphiles. There will be goodie bags for anybody buying the book and the store expects to be busy.<br />A spokesperson for the store said the final book has attracted immense attention and they expect crowds to be much larger than in the previous years.<br />Even non-Harry Potter fans will be indoctrinated into the worldwide obsession. Anybody who spends more than Dh200 on a single visit to any Magrudy bookstore will be given a copy.<br />Jashanmal bookstore is also giving fans plenty of bang for their book.<br />Nusrat Ebrahim, manager of retail, marketing and development of Jashanmal National Company, said: "Jashanmal has taken the launch of the last book to a new level this year with a lot of activities planned. We want the finale of the Harry Potter series to end with a bang."<br />Customers at this store will receive a free stationery set and have the choice of a gift with the book. Either a Harry Potter poster or fantasy book Alchemists of Barbal by David Clement Davies. Relentless fans waiting in queues will be offered complimentary Caribou Coffee and can mingle with a professional Harry Potter lookalike.<br />It’s not just bookstores either. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is joining in the festivities. A wizard breakfast has been arranged at Latitude on July 21 from 5am till 8am. For Dh295 families of four will be served breakfast, experience magic and receive a copy of the book. There is a set witches and wizards dress code for all guests.<br /><strong>GET THE BOOK<br />Booksplus<br /></strong>The Town Centre store will open at 3am on July 21. According to their PR company, the book will retail at Dh99 but staff members said this could not be verified until the day of the launch. To pre-order, a Dh50 deposit is needed along with your name and contact number. The advantage of this is not only are you guaranteed a book, but you will receive a 10 per cent discount on it. The store will also have prizes for the first 10-15 customers.<br /><strong>Borders</strong><br />The store in the <a href="http://dubaimalls.blogspot.com/search/label/Mall%20of%20The%20Emirates"><strong><em>Mall of the Emirates</em></strong> </a>will open its doors at 3am and remain open until the mall closes. To order a copy of the book call and leave your name and number and they will gift you a stuffed owl, just like the one Harry himself has.<br /><strong>Jashanmal<br /></strong>Anyone who orders a book from this store will be able to choose to receive either a Harry Potter poster or a science fiction book. A Dh20 deposit is needed to reserve the book along with your name and telephone number. The branch at the Mall of the Emirates will be open from 2am where a Harry Potter lookalike will be there to entertain the crowds and pose for photos.<br /><strong>Magrudy’s</strong><br />Only the <a href="http://dubaimalls.blogspot.com/search/label/Deira%20City%20Centre"><strong><em>Deira City Centre</em></strong></a>, Jumeirah and Ibn Battuta branches of the store will open at 3am to provide Potter fans with the final instalment in the series. To pre-order, Dh25 must be paid.<br />It will be deducted from the eventual price of the book, which is yet to be disclosed. Orders can be placed until July 20.<br /><strong>TOP SECRET</strong><br />With the release of the final instalment of the Potter series looming, strict security operations have come into effect.<br />The trucks Bloomsbury, the publishing house, will use are fitted with satellite tracking systems costing up to £1,000 (Dh7,300) each, which will reveal whether any of the vehicles deviate from their route.<br />The books are in sealed pallets fitted with alarms to prevent tampering.<br />All retailers have had to sign a legal embargo preventing them from divulging any of the book’s content or selling copies before the release time.<br />A spokesman for Borders, the bookshop chain, said the ban means "we can’t even line the shelves before then". <a href="http://www.xpress4me.com/life/uae/localscene/20002089.html"><em><strong>Source</strong></em></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-65900360053569447622007-07-04T22:01:00.000+04:002007-07-04T22:07:38.070+04:00Chefs cook up a storm at Dubai Festival<div align="justify">Dubai Festival City, the world-class waterfront lifestyle resort, is hosting its exclusive Dubai Summer Surprises’ event ‘Junior Chef of the Year 2007’ during the Food Surprises Week. In association with Jumeirah Hospitality, the various culinary competitions will be held daily from 12pm noon until 10pm at the Festival Waterfront Centre, Dubai Festival City.The competition attracts chefs from hotels, restaurants and cafes in the UAE and is open to amateur chefs holding the position of Chef De Partie or below. This year’s event will have categories ranging from cake decoration to ice and chocolate carvings. In addition, the competitors will prepare and serve up a complete Arabic or Emirati inspired five-course gourmet dinner. Tom Miles, Senior General Manager Retail, Dubai Festival City said, “We are proud to host the Junior Chef of the Year 2007 for our visitors and food enthusiasts. They will experience a week of phenomenal cooking and food preparation competitions among chefs and culinary professionals.“Dubai Festival City will soon be home to 90 restaurants and cafes where visitors can experience high-quality dishes in our upscale dining venues such as Casper & Gambini, Biella, Scoozi and Café Blanc,” he continued. The winner of the competition will be judged by a panel of international chefs and will receive the Chef of the Year trophy.Throughout Food Surprises Week, customers to Dubai Festival City can expand their culinary knowledge when visiting workshops on culinary delights and ice carvings exhibitions. Two new anchor stores, Paris Gallery and Toys R Us will open their doors in July. Also, opening this month, are Japengo, La Chateau and Bread Talk, where customers can rest their feet and tickle their taste-buds.Dubai Festival City’s 2.1 million sq. ft. retail resort comprises Festival Waterfront Centre and Festival Power Centre and will be home to 550 shops, 20 flagship and anchor stores, 90 restaurants and cafés. Additionally, a Skywalk Entertainment level will be home to a 12-screen Grand Cinema Complex, Electronics Collection, Bowling City, a Skywalk food court, Fitness First and Magrudy’s. Dubai Festival City is a key destination and central component of Dubai Summer Surprises 2007 offering customers the best possible shopping and entertainment experience in Dubai. <a href="http://english.alarabonline.org/display.asp?fname=2007%5C07%5C07-04%5Czentertainmentz%5C986.htm&dismode=x&ts=04/07/2007%2004:39:04%20%C3%A3"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2602182204001059886.post-90309396284671372662007-06-20T16:26:00.000+04:002007-06-20T16:33:05.599+04:00Hooters to open in Dubai<div align="justify"><a href="http://www.sandiegorestaurants.com/restaurant.cfm/restaurant/33/Hooters"><strong><em>US restaurant chain Hooters</em></strong></a>, renowned for its scantily clad waitresses, could open its first of three outlets in Dubai by the end of the year, the company’s local partner said on Tuesday.“I am trying to secure a location to open one restaurant this year and a year from now I will have two to three potential locations,” Jamal Al Shaheen, a Kuwaiti investor with franchise rights to Hooters in Dubai, told Dow Jones. Al Shaheen said the location of the first restaurant should be finalised by the end of the summer, with it opening around six months later.</div><div align="justify">The restaurant will open somewhere in the Jumeirah area, he added.The opening would mark the restaurant chain’s entry into the Muslim world, and could spark controversy due to the waitresses’ famous uniforms, which consist of revealing singlets and hotpants.Al Shaheen said he does not anticipate any hostile response over the uniforms, claiming they are no more revealing as what can be seen on Dubai’s many beaches.The first Hooters was originally meant to open on the Palm but delays in the development’s construction have forced Al Shaheen to change his plans, he said. <a href="http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=494903:hooters-to-open-in-dubai&Itemid=76"><strong><em>Source</em></strong></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1