Chill Out

New attractions lined up for DSF 2008

2008-01-29T07:53:00.000+04:00

The Dubai Shopping Festival continues in the emirate until February 24.
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.
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.

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.
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.
The closing ceremony will take place at Al Khor Park on February 24, where various DSF 2008 awards will be issued. Source

"Islamic Arts" exhibition

2008-01-23T18:41:00.000+04:00

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.

Dubbed: "The Treasure" from Nasir Al Khalili's collection, the exhibition is widely regarded as one of the biggest Islamic arts in the world.

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.

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.

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)

New museum in Abu Dhabi to showcase Bedouin life

2008-01-14T13:07:00.000+04:00

A new museum dedicated to the Bedouin way of life is being planned in Abu Dhabi, an official said.
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.

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.

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.

The museum will be well connected with schools, educational institutes and universities both within the country and abroad, the official noted.

A research section and an audio-visual hall will showcase the Bedouin heritage. Source

Dubai Shopping Festival Office And Al Futtaim Group Announce The Lexus Mega Raffle.

2008-01-02T19:28:00.000+04:00

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.

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.”

“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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.”

“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.

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. Source

Al Mawal Lebanese Restaurant

2007-10-14T12:36:00.000+04:00

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.
A highlight is the nightly show that begins at 11pm and continues until well after 2am.

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.

Disney to hold musical charity

2007-10-06T10:23:00.000+04:00

A one-day charity event, the Disney Symphony — the magical music of Walt Disney — will be brought to Dubai by Dubai Cares.
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.

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.
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.
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.
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. Source

Ramadan rendezvous

2007-10-01T08:16:00.000+04:00

Ramadan tents across the Emirates represent a confluence of traditions and modernity.
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.
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.

“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.
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.”
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.
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.
The crowd is usually a mixed one, comprising people belonging to various nationalities. But predominantly it’s a yuppie gathering.
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.
Charity is the essence of Ramadan
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.
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”

Hundred films to contest in the Middle East Film Festival

2007-09-30T08:01:00.000+04:00

The Middle East International Film Festival - Abu Dhabi has announced the Official Competition slate, with filmmakers competing for the coveted Black Pearl awards.
More than 100 films from 38 countries will be shown in the festival.
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.

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.
There will be competitions in Fiction Films, Short Films and documentaries. Source

Christian Behavior During Ramadan

2007-09-12T10:01:00.000+04:00

A Non-Muslim Guide for Respecting Islam during the Holy Month

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.
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.
Ramadan
“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’.”

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.”

The Conflict
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.”

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.

Remedy
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. Source

Al Qasr

2007-09-07T13:11:00.000+04:00

Restaurant review: Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab

2007-08-31T20:51:00.000+04:00

‘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'.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

The bill (for two)

Mineral water Dhs70
Scallops tart Dhs110
Abalone soup Dhs110
Truffle lobster Dhs360
Turbot Dhs360
Chocolate sphere Dhs110
Strawberry composition Dhs110

Total (including service) Dhs1230

Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab (04 301 7600).

Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-12 midnight.

All major credit cards accepted

Source

Cafe Bateel

2007-08-30T18:34:00.000+04:00

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.
The venue, in Burj Dubai, will be the first of 30 cafés planned for the Middle East region by the end of 2008.
The luxury date and patisserie brand already has confectionery shops in locations around the world, including one on London’s Bond Street.
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.
The retail consultancy was handed a brief to create a brand identity and café interior, as well as in-store graphics and packaging.
According to Paul McElroy, partner at Kinnersley Kent, the concept for the café is ‘contemporary European’, but retains underlying Arabic elements. Source

Secret Dubai On Display

2007-08-30T18:22:00.000+04:00

A new lifestyle television show intends to give viewers a glimpse of Dubai’s hidden secrets.
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.
And they promise to highlight undiscovered activities and events each week.
"We will present a balanced show focusing on lifestyle activities, sports events and venues, art and restaurants," said Verma.
The programme has already filmed in locations such as Bastikiya, Jumeirah, and Deira.
"You are sure to find something new every week, with each new episode, no matter how long you have been in Dubai," said Verma.
"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."
The team behind the show is a multinational one, perfectly reflecting Dubai’s multicultural diversity.
"Our team of seven brings in with them every aspect of Dubai and is reflected in the show," said Verma.
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.
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.
"We will have about five or six new features in every episode of the hour-long show," said Verma.
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.Source

Malaysian Celebration

2007-08-28T13:21:00.000+04:00

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.
Buffet Price: AED 170 per person
Date: 31 August 2007
Timings: 7.00pm to 11.30pm
For bookings and information please call Restaurant Reservations on +9714 406 8999 or email JBHBoxoffice@jumeirah.com.

Chocolat-The, Dubai

2007-08-17T16:41:00.000+04:00

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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The bill (for two)

Evian Dhs16
Apple juice Dhs10
Orange juice Dhs15
Full breakfast Dhs45
Smoked salmon RB Dhs32
Chocolat-thé Dhs22
Dome Dhs20
Misèrable chocolate Dhs20
Total (including service) Dhs180

Ghaya Residences, Sheikh Zayed Road, behind Dusit Dubai (04 321 1098).

Open daily 7.30am-11pm. All major credit cards accepted.

Source

We saw it today: Traditional Dance "Yolla"

2007-08-16T21:07:00.000+04:00

Everything's Made of Ice at Dubai Bar

2007-08-11T13:06:00.000+04:00

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.
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.
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.
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.
``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.''
Not everyone is so impressed. Some rush out after only a few minutes in the 21-degree temperature.
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.
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.
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.
``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.''
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
``There are hundreds of cold storages in Dubai,'' said Ebenezer.
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.
``It's a cool oasis in the middle of the desert,'' said Ebenezer.
``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.''
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.
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.
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.
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.
``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.
Thuraya Amory, a 24-year-old Moroccan who works in sales, brought her mother, Amina, who was visiting from their homeland.
``It's the first time that I experience cold in Dubai,'' she said. ``It's nice to do it from time to time.'' Source

Motorsport Festival in November

2007-08-11T13:00:00.000+04:00

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.
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.
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.
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.
The event will see the Dubai debut of the Speedcar Series, which will have Jean Alesi, Johnny Herbert, Narain Karthikeyan and Stefan Johansson. Source

Chinese Art Exhibition coming to Dubai

2007-08-09T20:58:00.000+04:00

Nakheel, one of the world's largest privately-held property developers, is hosting a Chinese art exhibition at the Dragon Mart 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. Source

Works of seven Emiratis at art exhibition

2007-07-28T19:01:00.000+04:00

An exhibition of contemporary arts of seven UAE visual artists opened on Tuesday at the Dubai Community Theatre and Art Centre in the Mall of the Emirates. The exhibition will run until September 2.
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.”
“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.
In ‘Cardboard and Coir’, veteran artist Hassan Sharif uses cartoon boxes, paper, coloured tissue, glue and ropes to create original shapes. Source

Etisalat Academy celebrates 7th annual eSummer

2007-07-25T23:44:00.000+04:00

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." Source

Potter has Dubai spellbound

2007-07-22T20:08:00.000+04:00

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.
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.
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.
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.
But why? As Hibah said, “It’s different from any other book. When you start reading it, you can’t stop.”
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.
“I’ve reserved a copy, but I wanted to get my hands on the book as soon as possible,” she said.
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.
“Ron and Hermione will die and Harry will have to kill Voldemort all on his own,” Sarah said.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. Source

Harry Potter: Spellbound In Dubai

2007-07-19T23:57:00.000+04:00

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.
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
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. P-Day is on Saturday, July 21. For anybody that hasn’t heard it yet that means the seventh, and final, Harry Potter novel is almost here.
And businesses in Dubai are cashing in.
Bookshops are going head-to-head in an attempt to attract fans, young and old, of the wizard’s adventures.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jashanmal bookstore is also giving fans plenty of bang for their book.
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."
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.
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.
GET THE BOOK
Booksplus
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.
Borders
The store in the Mall of the Emirates 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.
Jashanmal
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.
Magrudy’s
Only the Deira City Centre, 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.
It will be deducted from the eventual price of the book, which is yet to be disclosed. Orders can be placed until July 20.
TOP SECRET
With the release of the final instalment of the Potter series looming, strict security operations have come into effect.
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.
The books are in sealed pallets fitted with alarms to prevent tampering.
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.
A spokesman for Borders, the bookshop chain, said the ban means "we can’t even line the shelves before then". Source

Chefs cook up a storm at Dubai Festival

2007-07-04T22:01:00.000+04:00

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. Source

Hooters to open in Dubai

2007-06-20T16:26:00.000+04:00

US restaurant chain Hooters, 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.

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. Source

Paul Potts singing Opera

2007-06-14T15:22:00.001+04:00

Next Pavarotti??

Paul Potts singing Opera on Britain has got Talent 1st audition Show. "Nessum Dorma" from the Torandot opera.

Ocean's 13 hits Dubai

2007-06-12T21:57:00.000+04:00

Shrek 3 kicks out on the 7th of June

2007-06-02T10:33:00.000+04:00

Being king isn't for everyone, especially if you're an ornery ogre who smells like the shallow end of a swamp. When Shrek married Fiona, the last thing he wanted was to rule Far Far Away, but when his father-in-law, King Harold, suddenly croaks, Shrek is quickly fitted for the crown. Now, unless the reluctant would-be king can find a suitable replacement, he'll be royally screwed for the rest of his days. As if Shrek didn't have enough on his plate, Princess Fiona has another little surprise on the way. Reeling from the duties of running a kingdom and impending fatherhood, Shrek sets off on a quest to find the only other possible heir to the throne, Fiona's long-lost cousin Artie, a medieval high school outcast. While the ogre is away, his old nemesis Prince Charming rears his handsome head and returns to the kingdom of Far Far Away with redemption on his shallow little mind. Even with Donkey and the ever-so-suave Puss In Boots by their side, it's going to take an ogre-sized effort – and a whole lot of help from Fiona and her band of princesses – for Shrek and Artie to save the day and find their own "Happily Ever Afters."

Directed by Chris Miller, the film features the voice talents of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Justin Timberlake, Julie Andrews, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Cheri Oteri, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Amy Sedaris, John Krasinski and Ian McShane. This film is rated PG for some crude humor, suggestive content and swashbuckling action.

Movie Review: Spider-Man 3

2007-05-23T22:53:00.000+04:00

Spidey is back!
The film has some really interesting storylines, and the opening credits gives viewers a quick catch up on what’s been happening with the previous two films in the trilogy. This time around Peter Parker is a well established hero in New York and his girlfriend Mary-Jane Watson is starting her career on Broadway - but as all things go up, they must come down. Peter is still dealing with the demons of being caught up in the Osborn murder and faces new challenges with new villains Sandman and Venom. A mysterious entity falls from the sky and bonds with human genes and amplifies their emotions and feelings to the fullest. And if all this isn’t enough, Peter Parker is struggling to keep his personal and professional life under control, including popping the big question to the love of his life.

Festival of Art

2007-04-26T16:46:00.000+04:00

From 15th of April to 15th of May Dubai Festival City is hosting the Festival of Art.

Every week of the festival is highlighting a theme: Dance, Music, Theatre and Art.

Currently, during the second week the program is featuring a number of plays and entertainment acts which highlight theatre and fashion.

To name a few:

Silk Acrobats, a talented Colombian troupe of three people, performing breathtaking acrobatic show.Hun Lakorn Kek fromm Thailand is another exiting attraction.

For all the Dubai fashionistas, the Festival of Art has organised podium modeling shows presenting the newest collections of selected retailers present at Festival Waterfront Centre: Marks & Spencer, Patrizia Pepe, Gas, Levi's, Dockers, Chevignon and Hang Ten.

All together the Festival of Art is offering great fun for the whole family.

Iranian Artwork Exhibition

2007-04-05T13:17:00.000+04:00

A three-week exhibition will open in Dubai on May 10 to display Iranian artwork and highlight the film and music industry of the country. Paintings by prominent Iranian artists including Ra'na Farnud, Aria Eqbal, and Mitra Kavian are to be showcased at the event. Photographers Ali Zare' and Naghmeh Qasemlu will display their latest works at the exhibition. Filmmakers including Rakhshan Bani-E'temad, Mehrdad Oskuee, and Khosro Sinayi will also take part in the program. Workshops on sculpture, painting, and theater are scheduled to be held on the sidelines of the exhibition.

Gambling at the Races

2007-03-25T08:06:00.000+04:00

An amazing AED 250,000 is up for grabs in the new Super Trio competition, one of many fantastic competitions featured at this year’s Dubai World Cup meeting on March 31.
To claim the bumper prize, racegoers will have to predict who finishes first, second and third in the last three races on the card, the Dubai Sheema Classic, the Dubai Duty Free and then the Dubai World Cup.
Each purchaser of a DWC pen who is over 16 will receive a complimentary entry form for the Super Trio competition.
All forms have to be deposited in the collection boxes before 7pm on race day. The pens cost AED10 and there is no limit on how many you can buy.
The hugely-popular Pick Seven competition will also challenge the public’s racing knowledge. Select the winner of all seven races and you could be galloping home with some fabulous cash prizes.
Forms will be available at each entry gate, with collection points distributed throughout the race course. But remember, the Pick Seven forms must be submitted by 4.30pm.
Meanwhile, Emirates, the title sponsor of the 2007 Dubai World Cup, is offering all racegoers the chance to win 1,000,000 Skywards miles in the Skywards ‘Thanks a Million’ Draw. For just AED 20 per raffle ticket (or AED 100 for six) you could walk away from the Dubai World Cup one million Skywards miles richer, the equivalent of 25 Dubai – Europe return trips, or 20 trips to the Far East! There will also be two additional prizes of 250,000 Skywards miles each. With hundreds of destinations to choose from, you will have a lot of globe-trotting to look forward to! The ticket sales will go towards Riding for the Disabled Association of Dubai – a therapeutic riding programme for children and young adults with special needs.

Shakira at the Autodrome

2007-03-23T14:32:00.000+04:00

So finally the fever has hit Dubai and you too can shake your booty with Shakira at the Autodrome.
Though Shakira has been very restrictive about the details of this tour right from its conception; she has promised the world that she will throw in all of her physical energy and creativity behind it. The blonde sensation says this is the most important tour of her life.
And as all best things in life do take a toll on us, so did this tour for Shakira when she was taken ill in February with bronchitis and had to cancel the concerts in Netherlands and Germany only to reschedule them for March.
But no such delays are on the cards in Dubai where the concert is expected to open to a record breaking 25,000 people, making this the largest ever contemporary music concert in the Middle East. After Dubai Shakira hits Mumbai and Cairo, so if some of you don’t get enough tonight there is more booty-bashing to follow in neighbouring cities.
Coming back to Dubai, there are number of funfair activities to keep the crowds all charged up until the hip shaking begins at the Autodrome. The tour promotes Shakira’s Oral Fixation Volume 2 album but the audience can expect to hear a selection of her new songs and many of her greatest hits including Whenever-Wherever, La Tortura, Underneath Your Clothes, Don’t Bother, Objection, Hips Don’t Lie and many groovy tunes.
After a refreshing performance at the 2007 Grammy Awards, Shakira too is excited about her Dubai concert as many of her fans here, the Latino diva had this to say, “I have heard a lot about Dubai and performing in the Middle East for the first time will be something special. The Dubai show will be one of the biggest shows on my 2007 “Oral Fixation Tour”.
And if it is the anticipation of a traffic jam or an overcrowded car park that is bothering you –then fret no further there are shuttle bus services running from Mercato, Ibn Battuta and the Irish Village, to the Dubai Autodrome। Other than the rocking music that the show promises, Shakira is also well-known for her dancing. The moves are based on the age old art of belly dancing (which many girls here are also familiar with) and which is part of Shakira’s Lebanese heritage and she learned as a young teen (as did many of us) to overcome her shyness. So girls maybe you can challenge Shakira to some sensational hip shaking —there is really no reason to stay home tonight! Source

Record print run for final Potter

2007-03-16T15:41:00.000+04:00

A record 12 million copies of the final Harry Potter book are to be released in its first US print run.
Publisher Scholastic said July's release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows would be supported by a multi-million dollar marketing drive.
The six previous books about the boy wizard have sold 325m copies worldwide and spawned four hit films to date.

The writer had always planned seven books, each following the characters for one school year at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Rowling has revealed that two characters die in the final book, prompting bookmakers to take bets on whether Potter could be one of them. We hope Harry to survive. There are adult wizards too....

Nad Al Sheba Park

2007-03-06T19:33:00.000+04:00

The Dhs12.7 million Nad Al Sheba Park, which offers unique recreational facilities for the residents, was opened to the public today by the Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, Hussain Nasser Lootah. The ceremony, which marked the formal start of the 27th Plantation Week in Dubai, was also attended by Jassim Darwish, Secretary General of the UAE Municipalities, senior officials of government departments and the civic body. Lootah said the municipality is working vigorously towards achieving the strategic objective of turning eight per cent of Dubai's urban land by 2012. The park is one of the best residential parks built by the municipality. It boasts of a red jogging track and a green cycling track with lots of greenery that includes some 55 date palms, 351 trees of various kinds, 1373 small plants, 861 cactus plants, 1925 square meters of soil-cover. The total greenery covers an area of 17,555 square meters where as the total cultivated area amounts to 2.7 hectors. Other facilities of the park include dedicated playgrounds for football, basketball, and volley-ball with separate entrances, play areas for kids of 3-6 years and those for 7-12 years, a central piazza, parking lot, administration block and toilets. Basic requirements of special needs people are taken into consideration such as ramps, toilets, and parking.

Aida in Abu Dhabi

2007-03-03T10:28:00.000+04:00

Opera Aida , one of the most popular operas in the world, will be staged in Abu Dhabi on March 29th, it was announced here Friday.Aida, which was first staged in Cairo in 1871 and now in every opera company's repertoire, is brought to Abu Dhabi by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) in conjunction with Emirates Palace Hotel. In May 1987, one hundred and sixteen years after it was first performed, the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi's famous opera Aida was staged amid the ruins of ancient Thebes, the city in which parts of it are set.The Abu Dhabi show is expected to draw over 500,000 viewers from around the world, including a glittering cast of singers, dancers and extras.Aida is based on an idea by the French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette.The story turns on the rivalry between the Pharaoh's daughter, Amneris, who is in love with the young general Radames, and Aida, taken captive after her father, the king of Ethiopia, is defeated by Radames. Condemned for treason because of his love for Aida, Radames is entombed in the death chamber.

Al Ain Classical Music Festival starts tomorrow

2007-02-28T21:19:00.000+04:00

Al Ain City will witness tomorrow the launch of the Seventh Al Ain Classical Music Festival at held at Jail Fort March 1 to 3.The event is which is organized by Abu Dhabi Classical Music Committee and is patronized by its Chairman and the UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan will run from held at Jail Fort in the city from March 1 to 3.The prestigious festival will be featuring some of the best names in the music world including Musici Fiamminghi, the renowned orchestra from Belgium which will perform under the direction of Rudolph Werthen at the historic Fort of Jahili and the Municipality Theatre.Set to underline the long-standing cultural ties between Europe and the Arab world, the festival will also present a concert concentrating on classical Arab music, to be performed by a number of soloists from the famous Cairo Opera ensemble. This year's edition of the event is held under the title "Oasis in Harmony" will present in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage and the Abu Dhabi Authority for Tourism its special theme for this year, "Europe celebrates 50 years of Union".The prestigious cultural event will be reflecting Europe's outstanding cultural creativity and diversity and will open the month of celebrations in the UAE of the continent's 50 years of Union. Source

America's Next Top Model

2007-02-28T21:05:00.000+04:00

We have watched and still are watching the America Idol, Survivor, The Contender. All of the shows are quite absorbing and keep people from all ages in front of the TV regularly.

Well, the best is starting just tonight: America's Next Top Model - Tyra Banks obsession. The show will begin with two hours premiere.

More about Abras

2007-02-05T21:44:00.000+04:00

The Abra (Link) is a traditional means of water transport across the creek linking Deira and Bur Dubai districts.Dubai Municipality is restoring the heritage of Dubai by maintaining the traditional way of water transport and through its Public Transport dept.,has given special attention to the preservation of Abras (small traditional boats used to cross the creek). Abra was, and is still, used as a mode of transportation in the Creek. Such efforts made the Abras safe and secure to use.

The stations are positioned across the Creek are the Creek park station and the Public Library station,
The fares are very resonable and oldfashioned in comparison to all ski-roceting prices in Dubai.
Rowing Abra cost AED 30 per hour and crossing the creek AED 1 per passenger.
The Motorised Abra it is small motorized dhow that can seat 20 passengers. About 150 Abras ply on two routes to and from 04 stations carrying about 15 million passengers annually. The fare is cheap at 50 fils and the cruise across the creek takes less than 10 minutes. Pleasure trips are available at Dh 50 per hour.
The Public Transport department is responsible for issue/renewal of Abra permits and for ensuring safe and trouble-free operations. The Abra stations are built and maintained by the Dubai Municipality.
Abra Route Change
Operation of Bur Dubai Station & Close Of Ministry of Finance Station(Temporary)
1st: Operation of Bur Dubai Station on 14/12/2005.

2nd: Close of Ministry of Finance Station (Temporary) on 14/12/2005.

3rd: Line of Rout: From Bur Dubai Abra Station to Al-Sabkha Station.

Harry Potter’s Final Act Is Set for July 21

2007-02-02T16:38:00.000+04:00

J. K. Rowling, the author of the record-setting Harry Potter books, announced yesterday that the seventh — and last — installment in the series, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” (Link) will be published on July 21.

That will be just eight days after the release of the film version of the fifth book in the series, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” promising a huge summer for fans of the young wizard.

Millions of fans around the world are fiercely anticipating the final installment. But the end of the series, in which Ms. Rowling has hinted she may kill off one of the main characters, comes as a bittersweet finale not only for readers but also for the publishing companies, booksellers and licensees that have cashed in on the international phenomenon since it began more than nine years ago with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”

It is hard to imagine how the publishing industry will ever replace the sensation that spawned midnight parties and all-night lines to get the books the moment they went on sale. When “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” the sixth in the series, was published in July 2005, it sold 6.9 million copies in the first 24 hours.
For this final installment the cover price will rise to $34.99, from $29.99 for the previous volume. Hopefully will be available at the bookshops across Dubai at the middle of July.

Men Love Romantic Movies Too

2007-02-01T09:26:00.000+04:00

As Valentine's Day (Link) approaches, I have got romantic movies on my mind. Apparently so do many men! According to recent U.S. study, men are more fond of romantic movies than originally suspected (Link). Kansas State University psychology professor Richard Harris surveyed 250 men and women, having them watch a romantic film together and rate it from 0 to 7, 7 being the highest. The average score from women was about 6, while men rated the film 4.8 - much higher than expected. Reuters article say
"Everyone thinks that women like romantic movies and that they drag guys along with them", Harris told Reuters.He said movies studio executives should put aside stereotypes about "chick flicks" and recognize the fact that there is a moderate interest among men in romantic movies.
"There are a lot of men who go to these romantic movies and enjoy them. I wouldn't write off the male audience just because it is a romantic film. I would suggest marketing to the men in the audience."
The label like "chick flick" is an automatic deterrent when couples are trying to choose a movie the will both enjoy. Also, nowadays "chick flick" implies something insubstantial and silly, which seems to become a comment on women and kinds of things we find interesting and relevant. Ultimately, movies don't have to have a gender assigned to them. Romantic film is just a romantic film.

Blood Diamond

2007-01-30T19:21:00.000+04:00

Diamonds are forever” the ads say, but they don’t say that some of these precious stones are used to fund rebellion and terror. Taken from his family, Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) is forced to work the diamond mines in Sierra Leone and finds a large, rough stone of incredible value and buries it. Soldier of fortune and pro smuggler Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio link) learns of the valuable rock and wants it for himself. Circumstance and war throw the two together and they team to recover the hidden stone in “Blood Diamond” (Link).
The movie covers old ground but with a current twist as it deals with modern issues of terrorism, political upheaval and armed conflict. But there is also the personal story of familial lover, father and son, friendship and the hint of romance. It is a nice package, well done.
It has been released last August after several months worth of controversy. Leonardo DiCaprio has been nominated at the category Best Actor earlier this month by the Oscar Academy Awards (Link).
Hopefully the movie will be screened across the cinemas in Dubai before 25th of February when the award will be announced.

Bird Watching

2007-01-28T12:25:00.000+04:00

Bird Watching in Dubai has been attracting not only limited numbers of bird-watching tourists, mainly from Europe, but many residents and passionate photographers. The most popular spot is at Khor oppsit the Rugby Club and the Country Club.

The most attractive species include Great White Egret, Spoonbill, Greater Flamingo, Marsh Harrier, Spotted Eagle, Osprey and Caspian Tern. The area can be viewed from around the perimeter adjacent to the main roads to Hatta and Al Ain. This site has been declared a Wildlife Sanctuary (the country’s only one so far) by Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, whose interest in the high numbers of Greater Flamingos occurring throughout the year encouraged him to build a breeding island in the centre of the lagoon. The area is patrolled by the police to prevent disturbance to the birds and you may be asked to leave. This restriction may not be enforced if they see and understand you are simply watching the birds. Passes can be obtained from Nad al Sheba police station.

The Black Dahlia

2007-01-27T11:33:00.000+04:00

One of the movies screened at the cinemas in Dubai is "The Black Dahlia", which was released by Universal Studio on September 15th 2006.
"The Black Dahlia" weaves a fictionalized tale of obsession, love, corruption, greed and depravity around the true story of the brutal murder of a fledgling Hollywood starlet that shocked and fascinated the nation in 1947 and remains unsolved today. Two ex-pugilist cops, Lee Blanchard (Aaron Eckhart) and Bucky Bleichert (Josh Hartnett), are called to investigate the homicide of ambitious silver-screen B-lister Betty Ann Short (Mia Kirshner) A.K.A. "The Black Dahlia"-an attack so grisly that images of the killing were kept from the public.
While Blanchard's growing preoccupation with the sensational murder threatens his marriage to Kay (Scarlett Johansson), his partner Bleichert finds himself attracted to the enigmatic Madeleine Linscott (two-time Oscar® winner Hilary Swank), the daughter of one of the city's most prominent families-who just happens to have an unsavory connection to the murder victim.

Shakira to have Dubai dancing to her tunes in March

2007-01-24T20:17:00.000+04:00

Singing sensation Shakira is coming to Dubai - and 25,000 people are expected to see her perform.
The star will be performing at Dubai Autodrome on March 23 as part of her Oral Fixation Tour.
"I have heard a lot about Dubai and performing in the Middle East for the first time will be something special. The Dubai performance will be one of the biggest shows on my 2007 tour," Shakira said in a statement.
Shakira, who was born to a Colombian mother and Lebanese father, hit the big time in Latin America in the mid-1990s and became a worldwide star following the 2001 release of her first English-language album, Laundry Service, which has sold 15 million copies.
She is being brought to Dubai by Mirage Promotions. Tickets will go on sale soon at venues to be announced.

Source

Harry Potter's final secret: The Deathly Hallows

2007-01-21T08:54:00.000+04:00

Few days before Christmas (Link), the British author JK Rowling (Link) has revealed the title of the final Harry Potter book - 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows'.

Fans of the schoolboy wizard series discovered the title of the highly anticipated seventh book after finding and solving a hidden puzzle posted by the British author on her website (Link).

Rowling's publishing house, Bloomsbury (Link), has confirmed the title but refused to reveal when the next instalment will hit shelves.
The 41-year-old author has not yet finished the manuscript, which will take about six months to edit, so the earliest publication date is being touted as next summer.
Rowling recently revealed that she has mixed feelings about finishing the final chapter of the Potter saga.
She said: "I am now writing scenes I have planned for a dozen years.
"I feel alternately elated and overwrought. I both want, and don't want, to finish this book. But don't worry - I will."

Bobby

2007-01-20T19:27:00.000+04:00

Starts with the night Robert F. Kennedy was shot at the Ambassador Hotel in 1968 and then show how the lives of those at the hotel that evening intersected.
The movie is set against the cultural background of the time...with racism and class issues dominating the day. Al those didn't make it to The Golden Globes Awards (Link), received a warm response in Dubai during the Dubai International Film Festival (Link).

Bobby Kennedy was 42 when he captured the California Democratic primary in 1968. It looked as if he was on a trajectory to the presidency when a disturbed 24-year-old Palestinian named Sirhan Sirhan shot him while the candidate was walking through the hotel kitchen.
The cast of the film is impressive:.
Anthony Hopkins is a retired doorman who returns every afternoon to the hotel lobby for a game of chess with his long time friend, Harry Belafonte.
Demi Moore effectively plays an alcoholic singer whose career is in decline but is still able to headline the nightly show at the hotel.
Sharon Stone, who has strikingly aged and coarsened herself, is a hairdresser married to hotel manager William H. Macy. He is having an affair with lonely phone operator, Heather Graham.
Christian Slater is his kitchen manager. Macy has just fired him for his racist attitude.
Helen Hunt is the insecure wife of Martin Sheen, a well-heeled businessman and Democratic supporter, who suffers from depression.
Lindsay Lohan, who keeps piling up impressive performances while keeping her party girl image secure in the tabloids, is a troubled teen who is marrying Elijah Woods just to keep him from being posted to Vietnam.
Aston Kucher is unrecognizable but cool as the in-house drug dealer who turns two young Kennedy campaign workers onto LSD in the movie’s only real attempt at humor.

The film ends with a recorded speech by Kennedy read over scenes showing him as a charismatic, caring leader.

Bobby is currently showing at Cinestar Cinemas Deira City Center (Link) and

The Best Hot Chocolate at Segafredo Zanetti

2007-01-19T20:36:00.000+04:00

If you are visiting Wafi Mall (Link) don't miss the hot chocolate at Segafredo Zanetti. It is the best I ever had.

Segafredo Zanetti (Link) is the undisputed leader in espresso coffee sales to the Cafe, Hotel, Restaurant and Catering sector. The quality and range of products it offers are the hallmarks of this great brand.

Segafredo Zanetti is a completely integrated company, from its own plantations in Brasil, through to green coffee trading, on to state of the art roasting facilities, and finally to thousands of coffee shops and millions of domestic consumers situated throughout Europe, as well as over 200 franchised Coffee Boutiques.

The true flavour of an Italian espresso Bar range offer you quality at competitive prices with all other coffee shops in Dubai.

Apart from my favorite hot chocolate there is an incredible range of coffees.

Extra Bar Range is the range of coffee, upon which ‘Segafredo's’ international reputation has been made, is full bodied with plenty of flavour. It includes the famous Extra Strong Blend, which is a favourite all over Europe.

Cafe Senza - decaffeinated Espresso is a superb decaffeinated espresso coffee. The caffeine is carefully washed out with hot water, a process that takes many days. This process retains all flavour, body and aroma of the coffee, which is then carefully roasted. It's available as beans or in pre-ground sachets.

Hot Ciok Luxury Chocolate Drink is easily prepared by adding to milk and cooking by steaming quickly on your espresso machine."Outstanding!" is the opinion expressed by every one tasting this powerful chocolate and I recommended to quite a few already. It's available in 1 kilo bags or individual cup sachets.

I can't say more - you have to taste it!

The Grosvenour House

2007-01-18T11:58:00.000+04:00

The Grosvenour House (Link) is relatively new to Dubai landmark of Le Meridien Hotels (Link), but is fast gaining the reputation of the most luxurious spot where celebrities and top rich are easy to spot.

The hotel is located in the fast developing Marina area of Dubai, which is around 30 km from Dubai International Airport. The hotel is well located for business travellers with the Internet and Media cities being nearby and the Jebel Ali Freezone a short drive away. Leisure guests can take opportunity of access to the beach and water sports facilities at Le Royal Meridien, which is only about 1km away by shuttle bus on request.
I personally prefer different atmospheres - with more class and character, or simply unique. The interiors of the Grosvenour House are very modern and mixed up for my test and I cant identify any particular style or trend.
Some outlets as the Indian restaurant Indigo and the Turkish one are suitable for private occasions as Valentine or wedding anniversaries. Slouns is a buffet and therefore most suitable for business dinning. Very popular is The Budda Bar (Link) and there is a talk around town that is good to be seen there as it's a place where movers and shakers unwind.

Bar 44 is a very stylish cocktail bar located on the top floor with unsurpassed views over Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah coast line. The lounge area has a circular bar with comfortable seating and is decorated in a Manhattan contemporary deco style with a very extensive range of champagnes. A live pianist adds to the ambiance. Here are the pictures (Link)

Continue here to view The Ladies Room (Link).

What do you think??

The 64th Golden Globe Winners

2007-01-17T09:06:00.000+04:00

The 64th Golden Globe (Link) awards were broadcasted on air last night by NBC (Link). And the winners are:

Best Motion Picture - Drama
Babel (Link)
Anonymous Content Production/Una Producción De Zeta Film/Central Films Production; Paramount Pictures/Paramount Vantage

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama
Helen Mirren – The Queen

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama
Forest Whitaker – The Last King Of Scotland

Best Motion Picture - Musical Or Comedy
DreamgirlsDreamWorks Pictures/Paramount Pictures

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy
Meryl Streep – The Devil Wears Prada

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical Or Comedy
Sacha Cohen – Borat:
Cultural Learnings Of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Kazakhstan

Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Jennifer Hudson – Dreamgirls

Best Performance by an Actor In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Eddie Murphy – Dreamgirls

Best Animated Feature Film (First time this has been awarded)
Cars
Walt Disney Pictures/Pixar Animation Studio; Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

Best Foreign Language Film
Letters From Iwo Jima (Japan, United States)
Warner Bros. Pictures/DreamWorks Pictures; Warner Bros. Pictures

Best Director - Motion Picture
Martin Scorsese – The Departed

Best Screenplay - Motion Picture
The QueenWritten by Peter Morgan

Best Original Score - Motion Picture
The Painted Veil (Desplat)Composed by Alexandre Desplat

Best Original Song - Motion Picture
"The Song Of The Heart" – Happy Feet
Music & Lyrics By: Prince Rogers Nelson

Best Television Series - Drama
Grey's Anatomy (ABC)Touchstone Television; ABC

Best Performance by an Actress In A Television Series - Drama
Kyra Sedgwick – The Closer (TNT)

Best Performance by an Actor In A Television Series - Drama
Hugh Laurie – House (FOX)

Best Television Series - Musical Or Comedy
Ugly Betty (ABC)Touchstone Television; ABC

Best Performance by an Actress In A Television Series - Musical Or Comedy
America Ferrera – Ugly Betty (ABC)

Best Performance by an Actor In A Television Series - Musical Or Comedy
Alec Baldwin – 30 Rock (NBC)

Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made for Television
Elizabeth I (HBO)Company Pictures/channel 4/HBO Films; HBO

Best Performance by an Actress In A Mini-series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Helen Mirren – Elizabeth I (HBO)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Bill Nighy – Gideon's Daughter (BBC)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Emily Blunt – Gideon's Daughter (BBC)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Jeremy Irons – Elizabeth I (HBO)

"The Apprentice"

2007-01-15T13:22:00.000+04:00

In America and many other parts of the world Donald Trump (Link) recently made the headlines once again with his show "The Apprentice" (Link) . The latest news is that the show is moved from it's home town New York to Los Angeles. Still the premiere didn't get many exited as it use to be. Now even Ivanka Trump is added and some spicy remarks about the loosing team sleeping in tents, could get people exited about the new season.
What happened?
Did Trump bizarre bickering with Rosie turn people off? (For the one who doesn't follow: Rosie was Trump's coo-host until they fight and start throwing street insults at each other in very public manner on the Internet and the TV)
Or are we just finally sick of looking at his hair?

Desperate Housewives

2007-01-14T21:19:00.000+04:00

Tuesday night between 9 and 11pm most of my friends are hooked in front of their TVs by the Desperate Housewives. Two episodes are running just one after the other. It's on ONE.TV.

The 10 Best Books of 2006

2007-01-13T14:57:00.000+04:00

Here are the top 10 books from 2006:

Fiction:

1. Absurdistan
2. The collected stories of Amy Hempel
3. The Emperor's children
4. The lay of the land
5. Special topics in calamity physics

Nonfiction:

6. Falling through the earth
7. The looming tower
8. Mayflower
9. The omnivore's dilemma
10. The places in between

Read more here (Link):

Elf

2007-01-06T12:42:00.000+04:00

Don't miss It!

It will be shown tomorrow evening on ONE TV.

I guess the timing is a bit wrong as Christmas (Link) was 2 weeks ago, but still the movie is great and worth seeing it. A hilariously funny and absolutely precious family film, ELF (Link) is lots of fun even if you don't have any kids to take along. The movie has got what it takes to be a memorable Christmas film you'll wanna watch again each year.

Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised in the North Pole to be an elf. After wreaking havoc in the elf community due to his size, Buddy heads to New York City to find his place in the world, and track down his father. But life in the big city is not all sugarplums and candy canes. His father is a "Scrooge" and his eight-year-old stepbrother doesn't believe in Santa.

The Dubai Community Theatre & Art Centre

2007-01-06T11:04:00.000+04:00

The Dubai Community Theatre & Art Centre (Link) is something new to our city. It is set at the heart of the Mall of The Emirates (Link)and on the second floor precisely.
The Dubai Community Theatre & Art Centre brings together a wide variety of the performing and visual arts all in one location, opening its doors to the very best entertainment, education and the exploration of all art forms.
Centre for Musical Arts
The Centre for Musical Art has five teaching studios offering curricular rooted in western classic, jazz and Arab region traditional music from individual to group teaching across all ages. There are also workshops and master classes offered by visiting artistes who will be performing at the theatre complex.
The Old Library
As its name suggests, The Old Library has been operating in Dubai since 1969, offering a diverse collection of books to suit all ages and tastes. A resource to the community from a prime community location, the library also offers a cozy children’s corner.
Motivation for Little Ones
There are specially designed dedicated classes to nourish the creativity of children and young people from the age of 6. Classes are presented in a multi-cultural array of languages and styles, and include pottery and sculpture, dance and drama, drawing and painting, origami, creative arts and crafts and art media workshops.

The Making of a Legend: Gone With the Wind

2007-01-02T17:09:00.000+04:00

When I was teenager my favorite book and movie was The Tree Musketeers and D'Artanyan - means gentlemen, heroes, dignity and beautiful dresses along with the beautiful dames.
Later on as a young woman I fall in love with Gone with The Wind ( Link) and is still my favorite movie of all time. Last night while cruising trough the channels of Orbit I come across a very moving documentary on TCM (Link) , which is the home of films with outstanding films from all genres, tailor made documentaries and exclusive interviews with the biggest stars.
The Making of a Legend: Gone With the Wind is an insightful documentary charting the extensive production of MGM's classic romantic story set around the Civil War starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh and produced by David Selznick. This is the movie that has won 7 Oscars back in 1939 and until now has topped all box offices of all times with the record profit of 840 Mil US $.
I guess there is no one who haven't watched or haven't heard of it.
Scarlet O'Hara (Link) is an inspiration even today - few senturies after her time.

To my surprise at the documentary she was called "bitch" by one of the women who commented on the movie and to some may pass as one, but to me she is exceptional mixture of feminism, shrewd cunning brain, strong character and all the rest. Reth Butler is dream of my heart - tall, dark, handsome, dangerous and generous, a man to dream for and rare to find now a day.

Babel

2006-12-31T15:23:00.000+04:00

The other big name at the Box offices across the Emirates for few weeks in a row is Babel. It was nominated for a Golden Globe award earlier this month and was the final curtain screening at the Dubai International Film Festival (Link) that ended on 17th of December.

This picture is from the Sydney's Premiere, where Cate looked stunning according the press (but not me). Brad Pitt, her co-star missed out the event as was busy with Angelina & Co.

In all cases the movie is successful and well worth seeing it.

Casino Royale : Why The New Bond Is Better

2006-12-30T14:05:00.000+04:00

5 weeks at the TOP of the US Boxoffice and as many at the Dubai cinemas and it's still going strong!
To be frank, I never truly got into the James Bond movies of yesterday. To me, they were silly, predictable, and in many ways, laughable. Sure, it's interesting to see a young, dashing Sean Connery, a kindly old uncle type. But the only other Bond I know is a Pierce Brosnan, who is a little prissy and who made for flimsy 007.
My feelings towards Bond changed when I saw the new movie, Casino Royale. The film tells the story of James Bond's origins and how he came to be involved in this continuous string of spy adventures. Daniel Craig's Bond is interesting in that he's less suave, less debonair, and more coarse than most of the other Bonds before him. He bumbles missions, makes mistakes, loses his footing, and lets his pride get in the way. He is smart and funny, but not all the time.
Particularly interesting is the interplay between Bond and his "handler" M, played but he ever- fantastic Judi Densch, which basically dismisses Bond's letter of resignation. I enjoyed relating to this Bond and feeling like it's a triumph for the "everyman'' when he does succeed. He is just like us, he falls in love and does dumb things and every once in a while throws out a zinger.

According to Entertainment Weekly (Link), the author of the Bond books, Ian Fleming, "never meant for Bond to be a hero. Said the author: "I intended him to be a sort of blunt instrument wielded by a government department". In this movie, you definitely get a sense of that.

The movie it self has a few flaws: It's rather on the longish side and a little more complicated than seems necessary. But the majority of the film is really interesting and enjoyable. It has a great balance of explosion-gunfire-beat-them-up scenes and quieter, calmer, or tension-filled scenes. The female characters are as usual either villains or victims. Having said that, however, the main Bond girl, Vesper Lynd ( Eva Green), is allowed a surprising degree of cleverness, wit sass, and sensitivity. She is neither utterly ruthless nor a nincompoop nor simple eye candy. In fact, as far as appearance go, she is in some ways an unlikely choice: pale and freckled, seemingly only a few years out of Britain's finest school for girls. I was consistently impressed with her ability to be sharp one moment and deeply vulnerable the next, and it's refreshing to see the writers/directors of a Bond movie allowing such trails in a GIRL!

J.Lo's "Dancelife"

2006-12-29T16:42:00.000+04:00

Have you heard? MTV will start airing in January 2007 the new Jennifer Lopez - produced reality series Dancelife(Link), which follow six dancers trying to land jobs on TV commercials and big name star's tours. This video clip is from the TV preview. I think it looks completely addictive - great dancing plus all the catty backbiting. A friend was suggesting just yesterday to join the First Fitness Club in some dance oriented activity. After seeing this, I am convinced.

Dance Passion

2006-12-17T10:59:00.000+04:00

Yesterday, December 16th, the Highland Hotel in Bar Dubai hosted the Gala Dance and lunch marking the end of the first term of the Ballroom Dance classes. The group of enthusiastic boys and girls along with their teacher Mrs. Margarita performed different classic dances as Cha-Cha, Samba and Waltz.
It was a hard work for the little ones and their parents, as the dance lessons are held two times a week for one hour each. Apart from that every different dance requires different costumes which have to be made by order at a tailoring shop.
The dance teacher Mrs. Margarita is originally from Russia and lives in Dubai for a number of years. Her own dancing experience began at age of 10 with professional gymnastic, but her heart really went to dancing and since age of 14 until today she brightens the dance floors with a lot of passion and dedication. Here I must say that the Russian dance performers are considered some of the best all over the world. A good example is the Rostov ballet which performed The Nutcracker and Giselle earlier this month at the Medinat Jumeirah Theatre.
To view more pictures of the event, click here.

The dance classes will begin again around 10th of January. For detailed information, feel free to call Mrs. Margarita on 050 7442184

Desert Safari

2006-12-02T12:41:00.000+04:00

We enjoyed the trill and fun of the Desert Safari. All together the experience is worth trying - scary, exotic and unforgettable. The dune bashing was the first stressful and adrenalin busting part of the trip. I don't recommend to entertain elder parents as they may not enjoy it. The rest of it is fun for all: barbecue dinner - veg/non veg, Arabic tea or coffee, unlimited soft drinks, photographs with local dresses, enchanting Belly Dancing, smocking shisha - Hubbly-Bubbly'', Henna painting & lot more.

If you like to try it , click here to visit the web site and book. It costs 180 AED (50$) per person and the pick up and drop off is included.

Dubai Creek by Abra

2006-12-01T16:42:00.001+04:00

This is the authentic style to cruse the Creek. The old wooden boats are called Abra. The trip between Deira and Bur Dubai costs 50 fills (0.13$). 1 hour trip could be privately negotiated for approximately 40 AED (11$).

Crusing the Creek

2006-12-01T16:37:00.001+04:00

This is a short clip on crusing the Dubai Creek . I guess similar speed both can be rent it for couple of hours from the Creek Golf & Yachts Club.The contact details are in the previos post.

Golf ??

2006-11-10T14:12:00.000+04:00

Shoppers or Not!
In the heart of Dubai, just across City Center, you may be surprised to find a green oasis where you can relax and enjoy - Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.
What is happening there?
A little bit of every thing!
Golf is the main theme.
Ladies coffee morning with the golf professionals at the Creek Golf Academy is on Wednesday morning. This is a good opportunity to learn golf in a package of lessons in a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere . Demo evenings for Par 3 tournaments between 6 to 8 pm are organised along with putting tournaments. The Junior Academy accommodates kids between 4 to 7 years old. (I am a parent who would love to raise the next Tiger Woods).
Apart from the Golf Dubai Creeks offers the facility of chartering boats for fishing, sports boats or luxurious yachts.
And of coarse the restaurants which are offering various cosines - The Legend Steakhouse, The Aquarium, Lakeview.
If you like to go in details, please click here (Link).

Abu Dhabi - Emirates Palace Hotel

2006-11-08T11:16:00.000+04:00

If at some point some one gets tired from Dubai despite the lucrative shopping opportunities, can a drive to Abu Dhabi is an option.

Last week after asuccessful morning there, I and a friend decided to treat our self’s for lunch. So we went to The Emirates Palace Hotel and in particular to the bufet restaurant at the lobby level. Most of the outlets are bellow the main level. We asked at the reception where we can have a buffet, but not lunch a La Cart and the concierge kindly directed us.

The atmosphere is faity tale like - suitable for celebrations. (Here no one should think that visitors are wearing tuxedos and ball gowns. On the contrary, majority were pretty casual except Businessmen.)
At the restaurant we have been treated very well and I can say that the service is appropriate for the 7 star reputation of the hotel.

The buffet was quite rich on choices – from traditional Arabic mazes to smocked salmons, shrimps and different kinds of pates. There are flexible options only for salad buffet or dessert buffet or all together. The full buffet was 195 AED and the salad 70 AED. What I found little bit high was the service charge of 20%. I guess it is according the 7 stars standard, but it is surprising because in Dubai the service charges are either inclusive or 10%, maximum 16%. However, we decided to choose the salad buffet with a large bottle of water. It all comes together to 169 AED, which is not an amount above reasonable expectations.
It’s a good option to change the atmosphere of Dubai and see the Emirates Palace Hotel.

Chill Out Dubai Style

2006-11-07T15:58:00.000+04:00

It is not that I recommend you to practice, as it is only traditional dance originating from Egypt related to child bearing and sexuality encouragement movements.
The video is from one of the Arabic Night Clubs in Dubai.

Lavender (click on the link)

2006-11-07T12:27:00.000+04:00

http://www.purplehazelavender.com

The Lavender it's popular for it's calming effects. It is the flavour of many products beginning from the full range skin care at the Body shop and reaching the shelves of Carrefour with fabric's softeners, soaps and shamppos.

50 Cities in 50 Days International Intern Search and Insider City Guides

2006-11-06T11:31:00.001+04:00

Technorati Profile