Whazzup in Dubai!!!

Female UAE expats face new visa curbs to travel to Oman

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:21:00 +0000

From : Arabian Business

Non-GCC female UAE residents have been banned from travelling to parts of Oman without the permission of their employer or male relative.

The conservative UAE emirate Sharjah quietly introduced the new requirement last month. The regulation applies only at the Dibba border crossing with Oman, Sharjah’s only international land border, which is popular with UAE expats travelling to the picturesque Zighy Bay or joining a dhow cruise. It means female expats living in the UAE who do not have a passport from one of the other five Gulf Cooperation Council countries will need a no objection letter from their sponsor, typically either their employer or husband.

It does not apply to those on tourist visas.

The female visa follows a broader visa requirement introduced in September last year that requires every UAE resident that is not a GCC citizen to receive an Omani tourist visa in advance if they cross at Dibba. The restrictions are impacting on tourism operators near the Dibba border, many of whom rely on last minute bookings from UAE expats unaware of the new procedures. Sheesha Beach Travel and Tourism public relations manager Dylan Mangan said the new requirements were a “serious, serious” problem affecting the dhow cruise operator’s business, which relied on UAE expats for about 70 percent of its business.

“The majority of our business is from expats so it’s a huge, huge thing that’s going on. It’s driving us crazy,” Mangan said. The changes also were driving away business from large tour operators who were now choosing other activities to fill their itineraries. “We’ve got to get large numbers of people over the border and due to the new rules in place if all the passports, visas and letters etcetera aren’t given to us within a week of departure it’s even more difficult to get them across,” Mangan said. “It’s a serious headache in our eyes.”

Luxury resort Six Senses, on the shores of Zighy Bay, also is expecting the advance visa requirement to impact its business during the summer.
Spokeswoman Monica Majors said there had been little impact since the broader rule was introduced in September because majority of the resorts’ guests were from Europe and travelling on a tourist visa.

But they were concerned that the effects would be felt during summer when they relied on weekend escapes by UAE expats. Majors said many coming from the UAE booked at the last minute but that would now be too difficult, meaning the resort would lose business. Most potential clients were unaware of the new requirements and therefore did not book far enough in advance. “The problem is that they don’t publish the changes and regulations,” Majors said.
“We can’t entertain that last minute business because we won’t be able to assist our guests ... to ensure there are no issues at the border.”

The advance visa also is costing Six Senses Zighy Bay because the resort has chosen to process the visa free of charge for its clients in a bid to avoid any confusion at the border. A copy of the passport and UAE residence visa needs to be sent to the resort at least four days in advance. Women also need to send their letter of no objection, unless they are travelling with their husband, father or brother.

Sharjah authorities could not be reached for comment.

Amusement Parks in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 23:21:00 +0000

The Atlantis Marine and Waterpark is the latest of Dubai's attractions. The Dolphin Bay, Aquaventure(slides and rides), the Lost Chambers (65,000 marine animals in aquariums) and the Atlantis Dive Center are its main attractions.

Wild Wadi used to be the most popular water park until Atlantis burst on the scene. It is still more reasonable though. The Jumeirah Sceirah at 33 meters is the tallest and fastest free fall slide outside North America. Wipeout FlowRiders allows you to try body boarding, knee boarding or surfing.

Wonderland is a family fun park with multiple rides. The space shot which goes from 0 to 130km/hr in 2.5 seconds, the terminator which weaves in every possible direction and water rides at Splashland are what you can look forward to.

The Al Nasr Leisureland has rides for little kids and sporting facilities that include an ice rink, tennis courts, squash courts, swimming pools, boxing rings and bowling alleys.

Unusual Experiences in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 20:07:00 +0000

Desert Safaris
There are multiple companies offering this in Dubai and you will need to shop around for one that will suit you best. You can look forward to dune driving, sand skiing, camel riding, exploring wadis (dry river beds) and a Bedouin village sojourn ending in a feast in the middle of the desert.

Creek Tours
Creek tours along the Dubai creek are a wonderful way to see and contrast old and new Dubai along its banks. Abras are the local taxis and you can catch the one the locals use for 2dhs to cross the creek or you can opt for the evening cruises which include dinner aboard a dhow.

Helicopter Tour
There are a couple of companies which specialize in helicopter rides above Dubai. Most tour agencies have tie-ups with one of these companies and can book a trip for you.

Balloon Ride
Early morning hot air balloon rides offer a different way of viewing Dubai's skyline, the Hajar Mountains and giant sand dunes.

Big Bus Tour
Big Bus tours operate in Dubai too and offer both a day and night tour. The day tour mostly covers shopping malls, but does have guided walking tours in the historical districts. The night tour is a once round, 2 hour trip.

Wonder Bus Tour
Wonder Bus Tours uses amphibious vehicles that can move on road and in water. The tour is a 1.5 hour ride around town, but does not have the hop on, hop off facility of the Big Bus Day tours.

Camel Racing
Races take place on Thursdays and Fridays in winter. The race track is on the outskirts of the city and a traditional market comes up overnight and is dismantled when the races are over.

Horse Racing
Nad al Sheba is the country's largest racing track with races held during the cooler months. Gambling is prohibited but there are plenty of free raffles that are very popular for their generous prizes.

Bird Watching
Khor Dubai is the largest bird sanctuary in Dubai and is home to over 400 species and upto 15,000 birds in the winter season. The Mud flats – a tidal wetland – is a resting spot for thousands of flamingos, herons, ducks and shorebirds during their annual migration.

Special permissions are required to visit and it is best to contact a company that specialises in bird watching tours.

Birds of Prey Show
The Birds of Prey show features trained falcons, owls and vultures. The kids will love this one.

Picnics and Parks in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:18:00 +0000

Most parks in Dubai have special play areas for children and areas demarcated for picnics, which may also have barbeque areas where you can carry your equipment and food and grill onsite.

Mushrif Park is the largest of all at 24,500sq m. An international village here is home to 13 model houses from different countries. It has a large sports playground for basketball, football or volleyball. 56 barbeque sites are equipped with modern grills.

Creekside Park has beautifully landscaped gardens making it the most scenic of parks in Dubai. A 2.5km cable car ride offers a completely different view of the Emirate from 30 meters above the ground. Bikes can be hired inside the park to cover more area. You can also catch a show at the Dolphinarium. Children's City is an educational city devoted to children between 2 and 15. Abra rides give you a wonderful view of Dubai creek.

Zabeel Park is a 47 hectare technology based recreational theme park divided into an Alternative Energy Zone, Communications Zone & Techno Zone. The ornamental boating lake offers pedal, rowboats and battery powered motor boats for hire. There's also a mini-cricket pitch & football pitch. The panoramic tower, IMAX theater and space maze modeled on the planetary system are other attractions of this park.

Safa Park is the earliest park in Dubai with a range of sporting facilities. An electronic games parlor, giant wheel, Traffic village for children and a waterfall make this an interesting place for children on a picnic.

The Jumeirah Beach Park has sunbeds and umbrellas for hire and is one of the best beaches to visit with children because of the facilities available.

Sightseeing in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:23:00 +0000

While Dubai may seem like a very young Emirate, it does have some historical sites that have been converted to museums and attractions. Entry to most museums is free and the maximum you will pay is 5 dhirams.

Dubai Museum
In the Al Fahidi Fort, is the most popular of all the Heritage attractions in Dubai. It’s a good place to catch up on the history of Dubai, with a peek into Commercial, Domestic and Desert life of yore. There is also a section on pearl diving – the original economic activity of Dubai. Except for a few dhows and cannons, the exhibits are all inside and air conditioned.

A short walk from here will take you into the Bastakiya area, with the largest concentration of traditional houses within the city limits.

Heritage House
Originally built in 1890 and restored in 1994. The house gives visitors an idea of what a traditional Emirati furnished accommodation would look like right down to the bathroom (al zawiyah) and a brides room (al Hijla)

Al Ahmadiya School
The school is located right next to the Heritage House. Religious teaching was started here in 1922. This museum chronicles the development of formal education from religious education

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Built in 1896, this was once the seat of the local government. Its a fine example of Islamic art and design. Definitely explore the barajeel – wind towers – perhaps the world's earliest form of air conditioning.

Naif Museum
Situated in the Naif Fort in Deira, was the first headquarters of Dubai police and was also used as a prison. The museum explores the origin and developments in the police force of Dubai.

Heritage & Diving Villages
Handcrafters and Arab performers provide an insight into the traditional culture and lifestyle of the people of the UAE.

Jumeirah Archaeological Site
Believed to be over 1000 years old, excavations at this location are ongoing. But so far they have already identified residential buildings, a market, caravan serai and a mosque.To visit you will need to apply for permission from the Dubai Museum (04-3496874)

Hatta Heritage Village
This Heritage Village is 115km Southeast of Dubai located in the rocky Hatta Mountains. The history of the village can be traced back around 3000 years. There are 30 buildings made from different building materials. Special live events are held here during public holidays and the Shopping festivals.

Jumeirah Mosque
The only mosque in Dubai that is open to non-Muslims. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding conducts guided tours (1.5 hours) on every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am for 10dhs each. The purpose of the tour and the Centre itself is to bring down the barriers between different cultural groups residing in the UAE. Photography is permitted, remember to dress appropriately.

Shopping in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:27:00 +0000

During the summer months, when the sheer heat forces you indoors in air-conditioned environments, malls are your best bet for a day out. Malls in Dubai aren't just for shopping, they include entertainment, adventure and cultural outlets too. Options span from the High-end Burjuman mall and Boulevard for haute couture, the Gold Souk at Dubai Mall or Deira to the more reasonably priced Deira City Centre, Lamcy Plaza and Dragon Mart.

Most of the malls are based around a theme, which make them a sight seeing experience in themselves.

The Dubai Mall with its fountain to rival the Bellagio, largest single tank aquarium in the world, SEGA Republic and ice rink is currently the largest mall in Dubai.

The Ibn Battuta Mall is divided into sections designed to resemble the countries travelled by legendary traveller Ibn Battuta and is home to the UAE's only IMAX screen. Wafi City Mall has a Pharaonic theme to it and has a wonderful souk downstairs called Khan Murjan from where you can pick up souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Mall of the Emirates is home to Ski Dubai where you can enjoy the experience of Skiing on snow slopes even when the temperature outside is nudging 50C. DUCTAC - Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre is also on the premises with a wonderful library and theatre.

The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a mall but designed in the style of a Souk - semi-open and semi-air conditioned. You can take an abra ride here in sanitized conditions. The Madinat Theatre here normally has very high quality international companies performing.

Global Village is an outdoor shopping and entertainment destination that is usually only open in the evenings for 3 months in a year (November to February) with stalls and products from across the globe.

If the temperature is conducive to outside walking, you may want to explore the more traditional shopping souks that are so filled with character. The gold souk in Deira is bordered by the spice souk and a very well stocked fish and vegetable market across the road. The textile souk across the creek has materials from across the world and in every kind of fabric, colour and price range.

Karama is a shopping zone mid-way between a traditional souk and a low price mall. It’s a good place for daily shopping or bargain clothes. Do polish your bargaining skills before you head to this area.

Complete Works of William Shakespeare - Abridged

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:28:00 +0000

Watched a play after 3 long years. For some reason, although we did watch more than a couple of ballets, operas, music programs and stand up comedies in Egypt, we never really had an opportunity to watch a play in English.

We had heard good things about this play: Complete Works of William Shakespeare - Abridged which was to cover all 37 of Shakespeare's plays in 97 minutes, so we were really excited to hear that it would be playing at the Madinat Theater.

Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield's script did not disappoint. It was brilliantly funny. The acting by Nick Barclay, Chris Hampson and Peter Brooke, was masterful and it was an out and out comedy.

My favourites were Othello being performed as a rap song and Hamlet being performed in reverse in 30 seconds. The other highlights were Titus Andronicus as a cooking show and the entire histories as a game of American football!

Chris Hampson's two minutes or so of nothing but expressions, just before the interval were theatric brilliance.

But what truly moved me were the 2 speeches. The fact that they could move an audience that was rolling in the aisles with laughter into a serious, pensive mood, just by a change in lighting and dialogue delivery was stupendous.

I'd love to go on, but that would ruin the play for someone who hasn't seen it yet.

Its a must watch. We caught it on the last day, but if it does come back to Dubai, grab your ticket, fast!

Medical Insurance in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:41:00 +0000

After getting back from our holiday, dh has been laid low with some horrid symptoms which just got worse today. His sister is a doc back home and recommended some blood tests. So I spent the 1st part of the day checking out if there was a a diagnostic center in Dubai where I could get his blood tests done without a local doctors prescription.

Turns out that regular tests like sugar, cholestrol, liver function, malaria etc can be requested by a patient without a doctors prescription.

I called my husbands company to find the closest diagnostic center recommended by the company insurance providers (so I'd be sure we were going to a good facility) When we reached the diagnostic lab, the receptionist said that we would need to have a local dr prescribe the tests for the insurance cover to work on diagnostics.

They had a GP on the premises who fortunately did not seem to mind that we had recd advice from another dr, when he figured out that his sister knew his case history much better than any other dr ever could. But he also asked us some thorough questions and tried to get to the bottom of the problem and added a few more tests to those that his sister had recommended.

We told him which meds his sister had recommended that he take and the dr gave us a prescription for the local variants after making a few changes and additions of his own (which all seemed very logical)

We just had to pay 50 dhs for the consulting and a bit more for the general meds that weren't covered under insurance. (most of the medicines were covered under insurance) Ended up saving over 500dhs over the evening. This is the first time I am using an efficient insurance system, so I'm truly appreciative. Back home insurance only covers hospital stays for procedures that can't be done on outpatients and there so many complications with the paperwork, so I'd not even thought about insurance for diagnostics until the receptionist at the lab told me about it.

Its great to be in a country where some things work efficiently.

Barakat - Jallab

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:21:00 +0000

Picked up this drink from Spinneys the other day. It was my first time to taste this, but the ingredient list made it sound tasty (dates, raisins, pine nuts and rose - What's not to like?

Really enjoyed the drink, now looking for recipes which seem hard to come by.

The taste was akin to a nicer Roohafza (the ubiquitious instant "soft drink" served in Indian homes before Rasna's packets (powder and liquid in ighly concentrated colors) were widely available. Needless to say this was way before Coke and Pepsi gained a foothold in India.

The pine nuts floating on top gave a wonderful contrasting crunchy texture to the drink.

I've read online that any nuts ranging from pistachios to almonds to cashews can be used in a jallab, but I think I prefer the taste of pine nuts with this drink.

I hope it will still be available even after Ramadan (didn't see it before)

Michael Jackson Concert @ Mazaya Center

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 20:53:00 +0000

Had seen it mentioned in the newspaper and thought it would be a good evening outing on a Friday.

Wrote to the organisers, got a invitation emailed to me as was instructed in the article and print out duly in hand, we headed over to the Mazaya centre on Friday evening to arrive at 6:30 for a 7:00pm show (to find seats since it was free entry)

There were hardly 50 chairs and by 6:30, the place was already full and overflowing and people were seated on the stairs and central courtyardish raised platform behind the chairs and stage and a vast majority were also standing. The print out did not guarantee a seat and only contributed to global pollution.

The sheer human density in an otherwise empty mall, led us to believe that this would be a high quality program to have got such a large turnout. This was misconception number 2. We later figured that most of them were related to the performers and had come early to drop off their charges.

Since there was no seating space, we thought we would take a quick walk through Homes R Us to browse and perhaps buy articles for the home that are completely unnecessary, but look good in the shop. Fortunately we emerged outside by 7:00pm without opening our wallets.

On coming out, we saw that some children were standing in line in uniform blue silk shirts. This led us to believe the show would soon start. Huge misconception number 3. To spare you the boring details of how we whiled away an hour, lets just jump to the chase to state the fact that: The show did not actually start until 8pm. Mind you, over 50% of the audience was still standing around the stage till 8pm.

While waiting for the show to start, we headed upstairs to the restaurant overlooking the stage, in the hopes of having a coffee and getting a box seat view of the proceedings. They had a buffet on, very reasonable (50dhs a person and there were at least 3 varieties of prawns among 7-8 laden tables of food spanning Indian, Levantine and Persian cuisines) but just about average quality. Our Indian parents would love the extent of the spread for the price, but for us, we may only return there when our folks are in town to show them that it IS still possible to get a decently priced meal in Dubai.

The show started at 8pm and kicked off with those previously mentioned kids in blue singing "We are the world" One adult male, with a guitar took center stage for this song and had his mike volumes on high, with the kids mikes on low volume. We realised the wisdom of this decision a few minutes later.

Except for one South East Asian woman who had a rich, smooth and powerful voice and one male adult dancer, the rest of the show was excruciating to watch/listen to and we regretted our box office seats. Being Indian and having to pay full price for a buffet since we had already started, we would not be able to sleep well, if we hadnt maximised our returns on our money. So what if it was just 103 dhirams (3dhs for the large bottle of chilled Masafi water) and we were already on the 2nd course before the "show" began? Its genetically imbibed in us, that you have to get full value for what you are paying for! And so we sat there (scooted to the further end of the table) and ate and grimaced when someone hit a particular bad note.

The problem with airing shows like "So you think you can dance" and "Dancing with the Stars" is that you create millions of armchair critics. Suprisingly, none of these critics seemed to have made their way to this venue (or maybe not so surprising, as we too will now stay clear of such events) and the entire audience clapped enthusiastically when someone endlessly repeated the only step they could get right and so on.

Note to self: Only attend performances after confirming quality of talent.

With due apologies to parents whose children performed that day, who think their kids are just awesome. I'm sure they are, but excuse me for not being able to see it.

Dust and the problem of housekeeping

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:29:00 +0000

Thought I had left all the dust behind me in Egypt, seems it followed me here.

Shh, don't say a word, as of now they think its due to Saddam draining the marshlands in Iraq, little do they know that I'm the one to blame.

While Khamseen season in Egypt meant more dust than usual, in Egypt the dust was black and horribly fine which could only lessen if you mopped the place, else it would just rise in the air on dusting and then lovingly wrap itself around everything, when you thought you were done with the dusting and sweeping.

Called the Shamal in this part of the world, these dust storms seem to be on par for this part of the year although they seem to be gaining intensity each year. Global warming anyone?

Back to differences. This dust too is horridly fine, but its more brownish and yellowish in colour which is normal sandy colour and (Fingers Crossed) the dust will come to an end at the end of this season. Unlike the year round presence in Egypt

The other major problem with housecleaning here, is our cats fur. In Egypt it was spread out across many rooms. Here the house is much much smaller, the layout is all open and the central airconditioning is at roof height which sucks her hair upwards. This is going to make for some very embarassing dinner parties. "Excuse me Kim, but there's some cat fur in my soup" I'm cringing just thinking of the possibility of such a disaster.

Might have to just shave the cat clean. Will save me the weekly cleaning of the air conditioning filters too.

Article on the man behind the "Arabian Saluki Center"

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 23:31:00 +0000

Yesterday's Friday, had an interesting article on the man behind the "Arabian Saluki Center".

In a region where dog's are not the most favorite of animals, the Arabian Saluki, a constant companion to the bedouin is considered more than an animal, it is a part of the family.

The article on Hamad Ganem Shaheen Al Ganem, director, breeder and registrar general of the Arabian Saluki Center; board member, Emirates Falconers' Club; and consultant to the Environment Agency, Abu Dhabi. is an interesting one, worth a read.

It ends with a wonderful anecdote:
"When I met the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan he held my hand and told me: 'The saluki has different uses; not only hunting for you, but also feeding you and protecting you and your camels and sheep. They are an important part of our hospitality as they guide your guests to you.' It was then that it dawned on me that in the olden days people were lonely and used to welcome guests to their tents. Travellers came upon a saluki and knew there would be a house nearby, so they would follow them home. That to me is the ultimate story about the saluki."

Restaurant Reviews - May 09

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:33:00 +0000

Here are some more reviews for Restaurants I ate at, when I visited in May 09.

BaanThai @ the Oasis Mall

Japengo Cafe @ Dubai Festival City

India Palace @ The Walk

Marzano @ Old Town Souk

Fly Dubai (low cost carrier) starts operations

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 11:46:00 +0000

Flydubai, Dubai’s first low-cost airline began its commercial operations on June 1st.

The inaugural flight took off from Dubai International’s Terminal 2 at 10:30 bound for Beirut.

FlyDubai is currently flying to Beirut and Amman. They will start flights to Damascus and Alexandria next week and plan to expand rapidly to countries in the Middle East, GCC and India. The evenutal plan as stated on their website is to extend to Iran, Eastern Europe and North & East Africa.

Fares are really low. For eg there is currently a flight from Alexandria to Dubai for 825(LE) Egyptian pounds. When I checked a week ago. A return flight between Cairo and Dubai was roughly costing about 3000LE on Emirates airlines and 2100LE on Egypt Air.

How does flydubai keep its fares low?
1. The tickets are one way tickets for one person, priced on a system based on availability, demand, time of day etc etc. Quoted prices include all applicable taxes. Prices will be quoted in the currency of the country of departure of the flight
2. You pay to change: If for some reason, you need to change your flight, you pay 100dhs per ticket plus the price difference from your original ticket if upwards and get a voucher refunded to you if the price moves downwards. You do have to pay the 100dhs charge per ticket, no matter what the scenario. (There are "free to change" tickets too, but these are normally priced higher than "pay to change")
3. Changes or cancellations can only be carried out 24 hours prior to the flight. Any later than that, you lose the whole amount.
4. Children above the age of 2, pay full fare.
5. If traveling with a child below the age of 2, there is a service charge of 50dhs plus taxes.
6. Fares are lower if you book from the website. A service charge is levied if you book via their dedicated call center (35dhs) or through an agent.
7. The quoted fare allows you upto 10kilos of hand baggage. You have to pay higher for more luggage. If you pre book your extra luggage on the website, it will be cheaper than just arriving at the airport and then paying for the luggage.
For eg: Your 1st piece of checked in baggage (upto 32 kilos) if pre booked online will cost 40dhs, but if you do it at the airport, it will cost you 150 dhs. The 2nd piece will cost 100 and 150 respectively.
8. If you want to select your seat, you pay 5dhs.
9. If you want a seat with extra legroom, it is 50 dhs.
10. A boarding pass is issued as soon as you book your ticket.

In these times of Recession, this airline could really take off, if they find a large enough market segment.

As I see it, business and holiday travelers without much luggage could find this airline cheaper than its competitors.

For those people I have often seen in the Dubai airport ahead of me, trying to check in 5-7 suitcases each on Egypt Air flights back to Cairo while trying to semi-conceal another 4-6 pieces of hand luggage, this would not be an economical choice.

Nor would it work for people who travel to Dubai with the primary purpose of shopping. I have seen so many piles of new clothes and childrens toys unceremoniously dumped in heaps at Dubai's airport, because paying the excess baggage fee on Emirates airlines does not make those clothes and toys worth it. People seem to find it cheaper to just dump the stuff (some with tags not yet removed) than pay the excess baggae fee. These people aren't going to be travely FlyDubai any time soon.

This will work for people who just carry their laptop and a change of clothes or two. Its also just 40dhs more for 1 piece of checked in baggae provided you book it online at the time of booking your ticket. So this option will work for a weeks long travel.

I wonder if the airline allows toiletries in hand luggage with the above restrictions that they have placed. If they dont, it would be cheaper to buy and discard toiletries on arrival than pay 100dhs to check it in.

They must have researched their pricing before coming out with this strategy. It will be interesting to see how full their flights go. There is a large market, given that it is still impossible to get a ticket on a Thursday evening Emirates flight from Dubai to Cairo, if you haven't booked well in advance.

You can book tickets directly on their site:
http://flydubai.com/

Also Published on desicritics.org

New Restaurant Reviews up

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:07:00 +0000

Hey, just reviewed a couple of more restaurants from my last trip to Dubai.

Check them out:

Manvaar Restaurant

Bikanervala Restaurant

Il Fiume

Chop Chop

Calicut Paragon

Shakespeare And Co.

Dynasty

Doha museum stakes cultural claim

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 22:46:00 +0000

From The BBC

The museum is part of plans to make Doha a cultural capital of the world

By Lawrence Pollard
BBC News

A few years ago, prices in London auction houses went through the roof - not for the classic modern or contemporary art, but for works from the Islamic world.

Fabulous jewels, manuscripts and ceramics were fetching 10 times their estimate and more, and it soon emerged this was thanks to the al-Thani family, rulers of Qatar, the tiny gas-rich Gulf state.

They had tempted the veteran architect I M Pei - the man behind the glass pyramid at the Louvre - to design one last statement building, a spectacular museum on a purpose-built island in Doha, which would house only the best Islamic art.

Then they went shopping for their collection.

And this weekend the museum opens, a dramatic pile of white limestone shapes inspired by Islamic architecture and full of 800 of the finest examples of Islamic art.

Many of these things, as well as being objects of beauty have functional usage, but then hidden beyond that is the sense of transcendence

Navid Akhtar
Designer and writer

Not long ago, the idea of culture being a reason to visit the Gulf would have made other Arabs laugh. No longer.

The Syrian cultural historian Rana Kabbani sees a political element to the museum, putting Doha on the cultural map.

"I think all the rulers in the Gulf see what they really lack is culture on a grand scale, as a kind of imperial identity. It's a political-cultural lack. They have the means, and they're going for it."

The hope is that - like hosting a Grand Prix or buying a football club - a fabulous collection of art will bring prestige, attract tourists and create a brand.

That's why along the coast, two museums are planned for Abu Dhabi - branches of the Louvre and Guggenheim.

New conversation

But what exactly is the Islamic art in the collection? What can ceramics from southern Spain have in common with metalwork from the Silk Route city of Samarkand?

One thing which links them is the misconceptions about Islamic art held by both east and west.

Designer and writer Navid Akhtar explains: "The conversation tends to go: 'How come you don't paint people? Because its forbidden.'

"There's little understanding of the scriptures or commentaries, or the concept of art, so we're left with a limited conversation.

"There's a lot of figurative Islamic art. And the geometric patterns aren't just pattern."

There's not enough research and that's a mistake of the Muslims. There has to be a reawakening - they have to start studying their own history

Reem al-Faisal
Saudi artist-photographer

The Koran has no comment on the visual arts.

The prophet was firmly against idols, but then so were Jews, orthodox Christians and puritan Anglicans at various times.

Many religions mistrust images but their cultures still end up using them - Islam however has had less use for them.

"The Koran is not a narrative like the old or new testament, it doesn't tell a story, a narration you can illustrate," says professor Doris Abouseif, author of Beauty in Arabic Culture.

"The Koran is precepts, it guides but doesn't narrate."

Any museum will show Persian and Indian miniatures, or Arab pottery with figures of animals or people.

They won't be from a mosque, but the figure isn't banned from wider Islamic culture.

'Whole language'

One element Islamic objects have in common is intricate geometric patterns.

Some scholars think this is a craft habit, pure and simple, but to many younger Muslim artists the geometry holds something else.

"Pattern is a whole language of colour, form and shape," says Reem al-Faisal, a Saudi artist-photographer.

"Each colour symbolises a state of the soul or being. It's poetry translated into material elements."

Mr Akhtar agrees: "Many of these things, as well as being objects of beauty, have functional usage, but then hidden beyond that is the sense of transcendence that they create."

The chief curator of the new museum, Oliver Watson, is British, as are many of the staff.

The museum houses 800 artistic and historical works from three continents

The study of Islamic art is a western creation, which Ms Faisal says is not a problem so long as more Muslims now take up the study.

"I don't care if it's Muslims or Westerners - the problem is that there's not enough research and that's a mistake of the Muslims.

"They should have studied their own civilisation far more, they've been in hibernation for 500 years. There has to be a reawakening - they have to start studying their own history."

Qatar's museum will be just a glittering collection of greatest hits unless it manages to become, as promised, a centre of education and research into the history of this beautiful art.

Thai Express, Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 02:15:00 +0000

Thai Express
Dubai

. . . My food court stall of choice at the Dubai airport (04 220 0890/892).

Especially as this is normally my last dose of spicy food before returning to Egypt. The Airport branch often runs out of items or may not serve them even if they are on the menu.

The Khao Phad Thai(28dhs) is quite good. Its definitely not the best Thai in Dubai, but a great option at the airport especially if you are stuck in a stopover situation. . .

Read my entire review on My Resaurant Review Blog

Thai Chi, Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 23:29:00 +0000

Lovely decor and ambiance with the frontage of a Thai house sheltering the glass front of the kitchen. The head chef is the stern yet sweet looking matronly Thai lady who presents her dishes with a flourish across the counter at the glass kitchen.

A complementary dish of fried prawn crackers is served while you wait.

A bottle of water will set you back 18 dhs.

Read my entire review on my Restaurant Review Blog

Saravana Bhavan, Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 23:19:00 +0000

Saravana Bhavan
Karama
Dubai
04 334 5252/ 336 9109

I first had the good fortune of eating at the original Saravana Bhavan in Chennai over 12 years ago. At that time it was the low cost of quality food that drove me there. But with that initial experience I was hooked, I have since had the opportunity to eat at 2 of their US locations and now the one in Dubai too. What is outstanding is the adherence to quality, hygiene and strict standardisation, so the food tastes the same, no matter where in the world you are eating. . .

Read the entire review on My Restaurant Review Blog

Nandini Restaurant, Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 22:42:00 +0000

Nandini Restaurant
Karama
Dubai
04 335 4389

We were both huge fans of the Nandini chain of restaurants in Bangalore. This was also one of my husbands key accounts when he worked with Pepsi. He has eaten here so often that every biryani that he eats is compared against the Nandini biriyani.

The Nandini biryani is more of an Andhra style pulao. . .

Read the entire review on My Restaurant Review Blog

Mezbaan, Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 22:27:00 +0000

Mezbaan
Opposite Al Mansoor Video
Al Musallah Road
Bur Dubai
Tel: +971 4 351 7863

A little Hyderabadi joint tucked into a corner on a busy street. We discovered this by chance on our last trip to Dubai. We were walking along the street and my nose liked the smells wafting out of this restaurant. The husband never disagrees with my nose test :) so in we went and proceeded to eat one of the best biriyanis and assortment of kebabs I had eaten in a long while. . .

Read my entire review on My Restaurant Review Blog

Coconut Grove Restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 22:04:00 +0000

Coconut Grove Restaurant
Rydges Plaza
Satwa Roundabout
Dubai
04- 398 3800/2222

Small little restaurant located in the Rydges Hotel, it fills up fast, so get there early or try to make a reservation. the restaurant is done up with traditional decor from Kerala but serves food from Kerala, Goa, Mangalore, Chettinad, Balti & Sri Lanka.

We focused mainly on Kerala food with a Sri Lankan dish thrown in to taste and we LOVED it all. The food smelled so awesome, that I couldn't be bothered to take pictures before digging in. The crabs got my fingers all dirty and the camera was the last thing on my mind :)

Entire Review is on My Restaurant Review Blog"

Controlled substances (medicines) in the UAE

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:02:00 +0000

So many of the substances and medicines that we easily take into other countries are not allowed in the UAE without proper prescriptions to accompany them.

There is no official list available on what these controlled substances are, but this website has made an attempt to list all the substances that they know of.

Its a really useful site to check before you make a trip to the UAE, because that harmless cold & flu medicine you got over the counter in most countries could land you in a lot of trouble.

http://www.fairtrials.net/index.php/news/article/list_of_controlled_pharmaceutical_substances_in_uae/

Dubai firm launches Muslim image bank

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:59:00 +0000

Dubai firm launches Muslim image bank
by Lynne Roberts on Wednesday, 29 August 2007

Muslim Heritage Consulting has launched the world’s first Muslim history image library online.

The library, at www.MuslimHeritageImages.com includes manuscripts from the 10th Century as well as contemporary images of people, architecture and museum artefacts.

Collections telling the story of Muslim civilisation have been brought together from museums, archives and private collections across the world.

Many images recreate pivotal moments in history such as pioneering early surgical work carried out in the Middle East centuries before similar treatments were available in Europe.

Samia Khan, spokesperson for Muslim Heritage Images said with interest in the Muslim world growing, it was important to have a definitive and reliable source of images.

'One of the biggest challenges for museums, publishers and production companies has been trying to relate these stories from the past using imagery which is extremely difficult to find. Muslim Heritage Images has brought together thousands of images of manuscripts, and photos of Muslim culture, history and people and made it accessible using a simple online format,' she said.

A note of caution : I visited www.MuslimHeritageImages.com While the pictures are beautiful, they are all copyrighted. Only the minor thumbnails are clear, slight enlargement shows pictures with large watermarks which take away the beauty of the picture. I guess this is a site for commercial distribution of the images.

I am not against copyrighting, but it can be done tastefully like those at http://www.worldpressphoto.org (Refer my previous article : CIC World Press Photo 2007 Awards Exhibition) so that surfers who would just like to enjoy the beauty of the pictures can do so without any hindrance. But if you try to copy the image by any means, it disallows that and a polite message requesting you not to copy the picture pops up.