News Flash: Update to #myDubai Guide Part 2: The doors have closed at The Atlantic @ Souk Al Bahar. A replacement restaurant has been added for you to plan your itinerary.

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New Life is being injected into much of Jumeirah’s 3 seafront districts. A timely facelift for one of Dubai’s earliest populated areas outside Old Town.

Here, pearl merchants and fishermen settled and with them came commerce; roadside restaurants, beach cafés, supermarkets and speciality stores.

With beach access and man-made islands, travellers looking for sun and sand in Dubai might consider basing themselves at Jumeirah.

There’s a lot happening in this area so Jumeirah 3 pops up in #myDubai Guide Part #4 coming soon.

So for now, welcome to #myDubai Guide Part #3: Jumeirah’s Facelift!

Jumeirah 1

The borders separating each of Jumeirah’s 3 districts are a little blurred. For the sake of this guide, we’re using Al Diyafah Street in the north running west from World Trade Centre roundabout and Al Safa and 77B Street south from Dubai Mall.

This 9 square kilometre area holds its own in “the things we love” stakes with fabulous options to #eat #drink #explore #shop & #stay.

#eat

Flooka Seafood Restaurant (Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Ph: +971 4346 1111)

Dining with a gentle evening sea breeze makes fresh seafood taste even better and Flooka’s outdoor terrace is the perfect location.

Choose your own market fresh seafood from ice displays or allow the Chef to choose for you. Either way, you’ll be delighted by the simple fresh flavours of the sea.

The menu, reminiscent of a seaside restaurant in Byblos, our recommendations are the simply grilled squid with olive oil & lemon and prawns provençale with a touch of garlic & white wine.

The rocket salad with purslane & lemon dressing complements both of these dishes and if there’s room, add delicious seafood croquettes. Flavours are fresh and uncomplicated allowing the produce to shine.

Turkish Village (Jumeirah Beach Road next to Spinneys & Jumeirah Grand Mosque Ph: +9714344 9955)

For a taste of Turkey with Dubai Skyline views, stop by Turkish Village. With a menu catering to carnivores, pescatarians & vegetarians alike, Turkish Village provides a journey through flavours from clay pot cooking to charcoal grills.

Turkish Village is unlicensed so indulge in their traditional tea menu. You won’t be disappointed.

Masti Cocktails & Cuisine (Shop S 29, La Mer South, Jumeirah 1 Ph: 800-MASTI(62784) UAE only or +971 54 583 4555)

Masti sits on the beach at La Mer. Once construction is complete, views of the Arabian Gulf will be added to the reasons why Masti should be on your Dubai foodie itinerary. Inside, the colour palette and design features whisk you off to an exotic location.

The draw at Masti is the contemporary Indian cuisine, but what does that actually mean? Chef Hari Nayak has combined modern and international with traditional and local techniques and flavours to produce a menu of small plates designed to share.

Take the Pulled Tandoori Chicken Bao with tamarind glaze for example or Mustard glazed tofu with roasted coriander and zaatar tomato chilli chutney. South Indian Tempered Crab is paired with pomelo and a spiced mayonnaise and there’s even a Butter Chicken Pizza.

For the stalwart traditionalist, your Biryani may be served with kale crisps and saag paneer may be a lasagne but give it a try. Friday and Saturday brunches are perfect for sampling many of the menu options without committing to à  la carte.

#drink

Beach Bar (Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa. Ph: +971 4346 1111)

With your toes in the sand, sea breeze in your hair and a bar on the beach, you’ll think you’ve arrived in paradise. Oh, except for the continued land reclamation blocking all but a slither of the Arabian Sea views.

Order sundowners through the 3-hour Happy Hour from 5 pm saving 30% and suddenly the sea views become more acceptable.

Masti Gin Room (Shop S29, La Mer South, Jumeirah 1 Ph: 800-MASTI(62784) UAE only or +971 54 583 4555)

Masti isn’t simply somewhere to explore contemporary Indian cuisine, they also have a dedicated gin room. You’re going to love the cocktails!

With one of Dubai’s widest selection of gins, settle into a cushion clad banquette and pick your poison.

Recommendations:

T-Groni – Bombay Sapphire infused with 3 Teas, Campari, Casa Mariol (Spanish Vermouth) and smoked with apple wood.

So-Oolong Ceylon – Chivas 12, Bombay Sapphire, Mezcal, pomegranate liqueur, oolong tea syrup & Fever Tree lemon tonic.

For the less Gin inlined, try a Turmeric Tommies – Del Maguey crema de mezcal, Reposado Tequila, turmeric, agave, fresh lime & lava salt.

For a full list of delectable libations follow this link. Cheers!

Stars N Bars (Shop N52, La Mer North, Jumeirah 1 Ph: +971 4349 9903)

New to Dubai, Stars N Bars sports bar/ casual dining/ live music venue is off to a good start. Open from 11 am, with 3 hours of happy from 5 pm, Stars N Bars offers some great views from both inside and on the outdoor terrace.

Two levels give patrons the choice of how loud they like their live music. For the beer lovers among you, there are 18 on tap and 19 by the bottle while cocktails, spirits and a reasonable wine list take care of the rest of us.

There are bar snacks, burgers, salads and tacos; pretty much what you’d expect from a solid bar expecting to last the competitive Dubai hospitality distance.

#explore

Etihad Museum (Cnr Jumeirah Street & 2nd December Street, Jumeirah 1 Ph: +971 4515 5771)

This 25,000 sqm space houses temporary and permanent exhibitions of Dubai and the UAE’s history, development and politics. Details of the “founding fathers” and their place in the structure and development of the UAE have a permanent home.

Laws and rights of the Emirati people and residents of the UAE are shared while the future is presented through Space projects.

Said to be built on the very spot Dubai was founded, that in itself is reason enough to take a look.

The museum is open from 10:00 am until 08:00 pm daily.

Jumeirah Mosque (Cnr Jumeirah Street & 17B Street, Jumeirah 1. Ph: Contact Sheikh Mohammad Centre for Cultural Understanding)

The only mosque in Dubai open to non-muslims, Jumeirah Mosque has tours daily. Bookings are recommended but not required provided a timely arrival at the entrance to the mosque at 09:45 am is met from Saturday to Thursday.

Tours begin at 10:00 am and run for 75 minutes. Water, dates, Arabic coffee, tea and traditional pastries are provided for the AED 25 entrance fee.

Aside from observing the beauty of the mosque’s interior, included in the tour Emirati culture, religion and lifestyle are shared.

Be prepared: Ladies take a scarf or pashmina to cover your head and ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Gents, ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Traditional dress is available on a first come basis so be early or be prepared.

Jumeirah Public Beach (La Mer, 2A Street, Jumeirah 1)

For those days when all you feel like is lying on the beach with today’s paper and taking a dip in the sea head to Jumeirah Beach. With the multitude of private beaches along the coast claimed by 5-star resorts, free beaches are few and far between.

Part of Jumeirah’s facelift has been the development of La Mer. A seaside shopping, dining, entertainment district with free beach access. On completion, Jumeirah Beach will become 2 distinct north and south beaches. For now, access to the south beach is restricted by construction, but the north beach is open and well patronised.

Reservations can be made for private cabanas (not necessarily free) to stave off the UV rays. If a little more action is required a water theme park is close to opening. Hawa Hawa, a gigantic trampoline for kids (and adults) is already happening and there are whispers of a cinema opening soon.

#shop

Mercato Mall (Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1)

When you realise you’ve left the quintessential LBD at home or his shorts need to up the game a little for brunch, then the Italian Rennaissance inspired Mercato Mall is your go-to shopping destination.

Catering to Dubai residents and visitors this manageable mall (140 shops) may seem tiny after Dubai Mall but you can get in, get what you need and get out.

La Mer (2A Street Jumeirah 1)

Think sunnies, beachwear, activewear and accessories, all the things you need at the beach. There’s more you may not necessarily need but it wouldn’t be Dubai without retail therapy being administered.

Wander the meandering backstreets of the wharf through freestanding retail stores and there’s bound to be something you suddenly can’t live without. 😉

#stay

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa (Pearl Jumeirah Ph: +971 4376 6000)

Nikki Beach Club’s infamous “White” parties have been an attraction on the global beach party scene since 1998. Jack Penrod, at the request of the Miami mayor to revive Miami Beach, opened the first in honour of his daughter who passed away.

Now, with clubs in Spain, Greece, Italy, Turkey and Thailand, there’s finally one in Dubai.

Dubai makes a total of 4 only with resort and spa facilities and this exclusive property is on none other than the newest of Dubai’s manmade islands, Pearl Jumeirah.

Pearl Jumeirah will eventually become a destination island as Palm Jumeirah but at this stage, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa (or Nikki Beach Club) is the main attraction.

The signature all-white decor runs from the lobby through rooms, the spa, dining areas and the pool.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa is currently offering guests reduced rates through the summer season and while the island is developing. Take advantage now, this won’t last long.

 

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa (Jumeirah St, Jumeirah 1 Ph: +971 4346 1111)

One of the older beach resorts in Dubai and sadly, through coastal development, losing its “expansive Arabian Gulf views”, Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa (DBR) is still a great resort for families, couples and business visitors.

Within DBR you’ll find 14 restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The secluded kid’s pool along with a decent sized main pool are perfect for cooling off or step onto the sand for a beach swim.

In close proximity to local attractions; Jumeirah mosque, Etihad Museum & Mercato Mall, DBR is only 15 minutes from the CBD and the same from the Dubai International Airport.

City Walk

A relative newcomer to Dubai’s #eat #drink #explore #shop & #stay scene, City Walk is fast becoming a destination for visitors and locals alike. Its easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeirah Beach districts makes it a popular spot to pop in to shop for a couple of hours or to stay all day.

#eat

Lima Dubai (City Walk. +971 56 500 4571)

City Walk is fast becoming the go-to for some of the world’s most lauded chefs.

Virgilio Martinez’s Central in Peru is the 5th best restaurant in the world according to the World’s 50 Best awards. He has brought this contemporary Peruvian restaurant to City Walk via 2 sister restaurants in London.

Take a closer look through this article and you’ll be pleasantly surprised that this global fine-dining experience carries a wallet-friendly price tag.

#drink

Grapeskin. (La Ville Hotel Courtyard, City Walk. Ph: +971 54 309 5948 or +971 4 403 3111)

The casual indoor/ outdoor vibe at Grapeskin is perfect for a cocktail or 3. With daily happy hours, Ladies AND Gent’s nights and live music twice a week, Grapeskin also focuses on wine as the name suggests.

From the kitchen, cheese and charcuterie sharing platters of note are on standby for the peckish.

LookUp Rooftop Bar (La Ville Hotel, 5th floor. Ph: 054 309 5948 or 04 403 3111)

The cosy rooftop pool bar at La Ville Hotel has Downtown views centred by the Burj Khalifa. Open from 10 am offering cocktails and lounge service, take a dip, grab a snack or enjoy a catch-up snooze on a sunlounger. By evening with low lighting, the vibe smartens up with a chic urban crowd.

#explore

City Walk is still expanding with new venues and attractions including entertainment for the kids.

Dubai Arena, a 20,000 seat airconditioned stadium with automated malleable seating has the capacity to attract international entertainers to Dubai all year round. Due for completion at the end of 2018, Dubai can expect a lot more on the entertainment calendar.

#shop

City Walk (Sheikh Zayed Road Exit D71 at Al Safa & Al Wasl Streets)

Few will be immune to the retail bug’s bite at City Walk. With over 50 fashion outlets and dozens of speciality stores, the outdoor mall offers a shopping fix away from the indoor mega complexes.

#stay

La Ville Hotel (Al Mutaqua Street, City Walk Ph: +971 4403 3111)

Enter the cool open space of La Ville Hotel’s lobby and you know you’re in for a 5-star experience.

As part of Marriott Hotels’ Autograph Collection, attention to detail is a given. Freestanding baths and walk-in showers in marble bathrooms are standard throughout. Room sizes begin with a generous standard at 40 sqm. Interconnecting family rooms are available along with 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.

Marriott Rewards members automatically receive reduced nightly rates, free wi-fi, mobile check-in and depending on your tier, complimentary room upgrades.

La Ville Hotel and City Walk’s dining and entertainment surround you while the CBD and Downtown attractions are just a few minutes away.

Jumeirah 2 

When Dubai Canal entered the landscape only a year or so ago it separated Jumeirah 2. We’re using Dubai Canal as the border between Jumeirah 2 and 3. I apologise to all perfectionists out there, but I can guarantee this will make life easier.

So here’s where to #eat #drink #explore #shop & #stay in my Jumeirah 2.

#eat

Sea Fu (Ground Level, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Road Ph: +971 4270 77802)

Located beachside at the Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah, Sea Fu’s entrance through tropical greenery creates a chilled mood. Accompanied by the setting sun and the sounds of the sea, this Asian influenced seafood restaurant relies on fresh catch of the day to deliver sushi, sashimi, ceviche, tartare and the magnificent raw bar selection.

Four oyster varieties at surprisingly affordable prices are too tempting to resist, but for complete indulgence, a caviar pairing with chilled Russian vodka is perfect for that special occasion.

Sea Fu’s Saturday Seafood Brunch is a great way to wind down the weekend. From 1:00 – 4:00 pm tuck into Japanese savoury Okonomyaki Omelettes or the Akami Pizza with fresh tuna and many other delicious seafood delights.

Coya (Restaurant Village, opposite Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Road Ph: +971 4316 9600)

Rated highly in Dubai’s restaurant scene, Coya is another standout for those seeking Peruvian Cuisine. The village atmosphere and striking interior make a meal at Coya a fiesta.

Tiraditos or Peruvian sashimi include Salmón Curado – Cured salmon, cucumber, basil aji amarillo and black radish OR Tataki de Res Wagyu – Wagyu beef tataki, cashew nut puree, josper leeks.

Recommended Tacos are Atún – Tuna, yuzu, green chilli; Cangrejo – Soft shell crab, avocado wasabi tobiko and Aguacate – Avocado, quails egg, manchego, smoked yoghurt & seeds.

To take the pain out of ordering, a selection of set menus take you on a Peruvian journey. There’s even a complete Vegetarian Degustation.

#drink

Hendricks Bar (Level 1, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Road Ph: +971 4270 7806)

Tapping into our curiosity, Hendricks Bar takes us on Sir James Hendricks extensive global travels with region-specific cocktails.

66 (yes, 66!) gins are presented in 4 categories; Herbal & Floral, Citrusy, Fruity and Spicy. Choose your gin and let the experts do their work.

** Hendricks Bar allows smoking and has what cigar smokers tell me is a fine selection. If the smell of cigars is not your favourite fragrance then Hendricks Bar is not for you.

Sea Fu Bar (Ground Level, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Road Ph: +971 4270 77802)

On the beach, around a fire-pit, enjoy your chosen libation listening to the sounds of the sea in between the resident DJ’s sets (Tues – Sat).

Happy Hour 2 for 1 drinks between 5:00 and 7:00 pm daily make it a lovely sundowner location pre-dinner.

#explore

Jumeirah Beach Park (Jumeirah Beach Road, Ph: +971 4221 5555)

Shaded by trees with a white sandy beach, Jumeirah Beach Park is perfect for a picnic or grab a coffee from the kiosk after your morning swim. AED 20 gets your car in but it will only cost you AED 5 on your feet.

Lifesavers are on standby and Ladies, on Sundays and Wednesdays while the blokes are off doing, well, blokey things, we have the park and the beach to ourselves.

Dubai Canal Ferry Station (On the canal next to Jumeirah Beach Park)

From Dubai Water Canal Ferry Station enjoy the land view from the water, either on the way to Old Town (Al Ghubaiba) or Dubai Marina.

Check the ferry schedule for sailing times and don’t forget your camera.

#shop

Box Park (Al Wasl Road Ph: 800 – 637227 in UAE only)

This stretch of retail on Al Wasl Road makes tremendous use of discarded shipping containers. Not a new concept, but one that’s executed well at Box Park.

In the mix find containers of branded Surf and streetwear, fashion and footwear, homewares and gifts.

Feeling peckish? There are 20 containers dishing up deliciousness from burgers, kebabs and falafels to salads, desserts and gelato.

Catch the latest blockbuster or that arthouse film you’ve been meaning to see at the new Roxy Cinema. Settle back in your oversized armchair with footstool, blanket and pillow at the ready.

#stay

Four Seasons Resort (Jumeirah Beach Road Ph: +971 4270 7777)

The Four Seasons Resort leads the limited accommodation options in Jumeirah 2. There are far more at Jumeirah 3, Madinat Jumeirah and the Palm coming up in part #4 of #myDubai Guide.

Four Seasons Resort has a way you can massage your budget by offering savings on advanced reservations and multiple-night stays.

Until new years eve 2018 Four Seasons Resort is offering a saving of 15% for reservations of 3 nights or tack on 2 more nights and the saving increases to 20%. Reservations need to be made 30 days in advance. So if your plans are set, be sure to follow this link and take them up on their offer.

Four Seasons Resort’s Arabic design and influencers are an intoxicating reminder of your desert adventure.

Finally…

For general information on visiting a Muslim country please follow this link back to #myDubai Guide Part #1: The Historical Hub! Here you’ll find details on sensibilities, respectable dress, the weather and laws around alcohol.

Coming up next, #myDubai Guide, Part #4: The Palm and Marina. Until then, paraphernalians, do the things you love….

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