Dubai is one of the few cities in the world that has undergone such a rapid transformation – from a humble beginning as a pearl-diving centre – to one of the fastest growing cities on earth. Home to just over 2 million people from more than 200 nationalities, Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Constantly on the move, Dubai is an exciting hub where something new and different happens every so often, providing greater facilities and comfort for its residents and visitors.
WHAT’S NEW
New Royal Atlantis Resort construction approved
Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has given the go-ahead for the construction of the new Royal Atlantis Resort next to the existing Atlantis, The Palmresort on Palm Jumeirah, as well as a number of other major projects over the coming three years. The Royal Atlantis Resort will consist of 800 rooms, suites and 250 hotel apartments.
Emirates and Etihad Airways strengthen networks in United States
Starting March 8, 2015, Emirates will increase its service to New York (JFK), with new afternoon service departing to Dubai at 4:30 PM.
Etihad Airways is also expanding its U.S. network with the launch of new daily service from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on November 18, 2014. Flights to San Francisco will connect to destinations throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Etihad Airways will also be launching new service from Dallas/Fort Worth starting on December 3, 2014. The airline currently offers double-daily flights to New York (JFK) and daily flights to Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD) and Washington, D.C. (IAD).
New Reveal for The Legendary Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai added another milestone to its 16-year legendary history with the completion of its refurbishment project, unveiling 146 additional guestrooms and suites. All of this comes after their successful repositioning in February 2013, which coincided with the first stage of extension of the resort. The newly renovated wing of the resort also incorporates a brand new all-day dining restaurant, as well as the revamped Lobby Lounge and Library Bar. To meet the growing demand of family travelers, the resort’s renowned tropical meandering pools, water activities and the Ritz Kids Club have also been enhanced to offer a true family experience.
The Address Downtown Dubai Debuts Zeta Restaurant/Lounge
An exquisite new outdoor dining experience awaits visitors to Downtown Dubai, the world’s most visited lifestyle destination, at The Address Downtown Dubai. The city’s must-visit al fresco dining destination, Zeta Restaurant/Lounge, specialized in Asian fusion cuisine, opened doors on October 1. The restaurant is defined by the spectacular views it offers of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building; The Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain; and stunning sunset views.
Talise Spa, Madinat Jumeirah, offers Kung Fu and Tai Chi
The award-winning Talise Spa, Madinat Jumeirah adds another dimension to the spa’s holistic approach to wellness with the return of 34th generation warrior monk, Master Can, from the ancient Maling Shoalin Kung Fu Academy in China this October. Master Can will be available until the end of May 2015 to instruct one-to-one private Kung Fu and Tai Chi classes as well as group sessions for adults and children.
VENU by Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts
Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts is launching VENU, a new contemporary lifestyle brand. The new brand is inspired by the spirit of Dubai – bold, ambitious, energetic and cosmopolitan. VENU is designed to appeal to the modern millennial traveler seeking a clean and contemporary feel. The concept of the new hotel brand is that of a ‘social catalyst’ – allowing guests to feel that within a VENU space they have the freedom to create their own memories, their own narrative surrounded only by everything they need. The innovative brand will operate as a completely independent brand under the Jumeirah group and the first VENU hotel will be in Dubai.
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray accredited with Green Globe Certification (GGC)
Five-star luxury resort Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has been recognized with Green Globe Certification (GGC), credited for its paperless check-in, limiting promotional material in guest rooms and encouraging the use of iPads at concierge to display information to guests. The use of eco-wood in external areas of the resort, a solar water heater at Plaj restaurant and an organic garden in which crops and aromatic herbs are grown for chefs were other reasons why the hotel received this award. The hotel now joins a growing list of Jumeirah Dubai hotels which have already gained Green Globe Certification including Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Emirates Towers and Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residences.
DTCM and Dubai Culture sign MoU to raise awareness about cultural and heritage tourism offerings
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further unite their efforts in promoting Dubai’s cultural and heritage tourism offerings and implement the emirate’s vision and strategy. The agreement includes plans to develop programs and events to promote cultural and heritage tourism. It also includes the development of training programs for tour guides with a focus on Dubai’s culture, arts and heritage offerings as well as promoting these offerings internationally through DTCM’s global network of overseas offices.
Burj Al Arab’s 15th Anniversary Package
In celebration of its 15th anniversary, the Burj Al Arab has unveiled its ‘Best of the Burj’ special offer including a chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce Phantom pick-up, a luxurious suite, six-course dinner and signature spa experience. Starting at $1,630, the package includes a lavish 1,830 sq. foot suite with views of the Arabian Gulf; a Taste of Al Mahara culinary journey, with the finest dishes from the hotel’s signature restaurant; massage for him and her at the Burj Al Arab spa, blending Shiatsu, Thai, Swedish and Balinese techniques; and a full set of Hermès amenities, private butler and daily in-suite breakfast dining.
Madinat Jumeirah Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Dubai’s true Arabian resort celebrated 10 year of success this October. Madinat Jumeirah, features two grand boutique hotels, Al Qsar and Mina A’Salam, 29 traditional summer houses in Dar Al Masyaf, seven Malakiya Villas, more than 40 restaurants and bars, two grand ballrooms, an amphitheater and much more.
New City Sightseeing Dubai Experience
Visitors to Dubai are now able to see the world’s largest mall, tallest building, and other iconic city attractions from a new perspective. The City Sightseeing Dubai tour highlights all aspects of Dubai’s past and present – from Old Dubai and the Creek to the towering skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai and the Palm Jumeriah. City Sightseeing Dubai tours launched operators on October 2, and can be booked in advance or direct from the bus or any of their ticket booths around Dubai.
UPCOMING EVENTS
DECEMBER
Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens 2014 (December 4-6)
The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is back and promises to be even bigger and better than ever. The best players in the world will converge on The Sevens stadium for the three day annual rugby extravaganza with awesome action and entertainment on offer, and fantastic fun activities for the whole family. The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is the second round of the nine-leg HSBC Sevens World Series, and the first round of the IRB Women’s Sevens World Series. In addition over 220 teams will take part in the Invitation Tournament.
Dubai International Film Festival 2014 (December 10-17)
DIFF is one of the most prestigious and glamorous events on the Dubai events calendar. It is a celebration of Arab and international cinema and filmmakers attracting film buffs from around the world to Dubai from Hollywood, Bollywood and beyond, DIFF’s 2013 10th anniversary edition showcased 174 films from 57 countries, including 70 World Premieres, and over 100 films from the Arab world. The event regularly plays host to the who’s who of regional and international cinema.
New Year Dubai 2015 (December 31)
New Year Dubai is not to be missed. With festivities taking place across the entire city, there’s something for everyone in this city-wide celebration of fireworks and music. In 2014 Dubai rang in the city in spectacular style, setting a new world record for the largest ever fireworks display, marking the end of a memorable year that saw Dubai be named the host city for World Expo 2020. Firework displays take place at a number of iconic Dubai landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah.
JANUARY
Dubai Shopping Festival 2015 (January 1 – February 1)
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2015, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the largest shopping and entertainment extravaganza in the Middle East. Drawing visitors from across the globe, DSF kicks off Dubai’s calendar of events each year with a wide variety of events, activities and promotions. From international concerts, musicals and shows, to sports, outdoor, and fashion events, Dubai Shopping Festival caters to every age segment.
FEBRUARY
Dubai Food Festival 2015 (February 6-28)
Dubai Food Festival (DFF) is a city-wide culinary celebration that brings together some of the Dubai’s most popular business and consumer food events including Gulfood and the Dubai Food Carnival. DFF also features a wide range of food-related activities, tastings, offers and events that showcase the emirate’s diverse food offering – from Michelin starred chefs to street food – drawn from the cuisines of more than 200 nationalities. Launched in 2014, the inaugural DFF was held over 23 days.
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2015 (February 15-28)
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is the region’s premier tennis event. Taking place as part of both the ATP and WTA world tours, it sees the best tennis players in the world go head to head for what is widely considered one of the most popular tournaments on the circuit. In February 2014, Roger Federer and Serena Williams claimed victory defeating the likes of Del Potro, Djokovic, Jankovic and Radwanska.
Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival 2015 (February 25-27)
Launched in 2003, the Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival or Jazz Fest as it is popularly known now has attracted thousands of music lovers through the years.
MARCH
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2015 (March 3-7)
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is the Middle East’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word, bringing people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds together with authors from around the world to promote education, debate and, above all, a love of reading and writing, in a celebratory and enjoyable way.
For a complete listing and more information about what’s happening in Dubai, visit www.dubaicalendar.com
