Holidaymakers visiting Dubai can hope to avail its luxurious hospitality and
a bite from its duty free markets. But, there is more for grabs apart from
the city’s leisure outlets, and it is the thrill of adventure that you
should be knowing about. Dubai Autodrome is one such place one should look
forward to spending plenty of time at while visiting this city. The
autodrome is  an F.I.A. sanctioned, world class motorsports circuit,
measuring 5.39 km of tracks in length. The place has been home to some top
level racing events in the recent times, these include the final round of
the 2004 Formula Renault V6 Eurocup season, the December 2005 A1 Grand Prix
and the FIA GT Championship from 2004 to 2006.

Dubai Autodrome was conceived and started in 2004 to help develop the UAE’s
national motorsports at various levels. Not only the professional race
drivers, marshals and race officials, volunteers and support staff, but also
friends, family and fans of those taking part in competitive events can ask
for membership at the Dubai Autodrome Motorsport Club (DAMC), a body
managing competitive and non-competitive events at this circuit.

Following are some key Dubai Autodrome events that one should watch out for:

1- The UAE Touring Car Championship over eight days, which allows the
participation of a wide range of automobiles, thus providing a great fillip
for the battle of supremacy in each class.

2- The UAE Sportbike Championship in two classes, one combined for 1000cc
stock and 600cc Superstock machines and the other for 600cc stock
motorcycles.

3- The Gulf Radical Cup Series, which has grown popular in the whole of
Middle East. The event is overseen by GulfSport Racing, an exclusive
distributor of the British made Radical Sportscar.

4- The DAMC Red Line Challenge for all standard road cars. Obviously this
draws the maximum participation in each event. There are two segments of
this Challenge, one for furnishing driving skills, and the other for speed
counts.

5 - The DAMC Sprint Challenge, a bridge between the Red Line Challenge and
the National Race Series, is held during each summer for cars and
motorcycles under a floodlit circuit.

6- A separate section for karting is also available at this circuit.
Kartdrome, as it is widely known, is an indoor and outdoor arena for karting
for adults of over 13 and the kids of 7-12 years.

Those unfamiliar to Middle East Cuisine, will find it has much to offer.  Eaten in moderation, one will also find it quite healthy.  However, one must be careful, as when you sit down for a meal in a Middle Eastern restaurant, that you must pace yourself.  Meals are usually served in courses, with the “mezzas” being served first.  Mezzas are what one would consider the appetizers, however, so much is usually served that you think it is the main meal.  Middle Easterners believe in hosting a full table, as they believe that no one should leave the table the least bit hungry.  I learned the hard way, the first time I attended a “Middle East Feast”.  The waiters brought out so much, that I thought that it was the dinner.  I filled up on all the wonder “mezzas”, and I had absolutely no room for the main course.  This did not go over well with my Middle East hosts, who kept on insisting that I must eat.  By the time I finished, I was so uncomfortable, I could barely move

Some of the common “mezzas” served are hummos (a dip made from chickpeas, garlic, and sesame seed paste), babaganouj (similar to hummos except it is made with roasted eggplant instead of chickpeas), warak ineb (grapeleaves stuffed with rice and meat or with rice and vegetables), tabouleh (a very popular salad made from parsley, tomatoes, cracked wheat known as burghal, olive oil, and lemon), and fatoush (one of my favorites, is a salad with baked or fried pita bread as croutons and laced with Sumac, a spice that adds some tanginess to the olive oil and lemon dressing).  There is also menakeesh, also known as fatayer, (these are made from dough, and are topped with meat, cheese, or zaater, which is an oregano spice mixture.  Most look like a form of Middle East pizzas, however some are in the shape of triangles and are stuffed with such things as spinach.)  Most likely guests will also find some olives, and pickled vegetables such as turnips, cauliflower, and stuffed eggplant to munch on, just to name a few.
Common to the Lebanese “mezzas”, one will find Kibbeh.  Kibbeh is a mixture of minced beef or lamb and burghal.  The most common ways to serve Kibbeh is either as Kibbeh Balls that are stuffed with meat, nuts, and spices and then fried, or raw, known as “Kibbeh Nayeh”.  There are many more, based on the region, but these are some of the most popular.
Next, is the main course.  Common foods found during the main course are Beef and Lamb Kebabs, Shish Tawook (this is marinated chicken that is then grilled), and Kofta (minced beef or lamb with an array of spices).  If one is near the ocean, then usually Sammak (fish) and seafood is added to the menu.  In the Gulf Region, Hammour and shellfish are popular.  If alcohol is served, Arak is the most well-known.  Similar to the Greek Ozo, this clear licorice-tasting drink turns milky when water is added.  Those trying it for the first time must be forewarned, this drink is very potent!

Dinner usually ends with a large platter of fruit for the guests to enjoy, along with some Baklawa (a sweet dessert usually made from phyllo dough or shredded wheat, nuts, and covered in honey or attar (a sugary syrup).   Those who partake in a bit of the “Sheesha” (a water-pipe used to smoke flavoured tobacco) will usually indulge themselves at this time.  For those who do not smoke, the aroma of the “Sheesha” is quite pleasant, especially compared to that of cigars and cigarettes.

One is in for a real gastronomic treat dining Middle Eastern style, just remember everything in moderation.  With so much food to offer, you will definitely need to pace yourself, both with the food and the Arak.  (Otherwise, you will pay the price for your overindulgence.)

Another bit of advice, if you indulge a bit to much in the Arak, do make sure to take a cab.  In Dubai, although alcohol is served at many of the restaurants, there is a “Zero Tolerance” for Driving While Intoxicated.  One must remember this is an Islamic country, and the rules are much stricter here.  You do not want to find yourself in jail.  With this information, and the friendly tips to guide you through the meal, you are sure to enjoy the feast.  Bon Apetite!

It’s that time of year again!  Beginning on January 15, 2009, Dubai’s annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), known in Arabic as “Layali Dubai” will return to the city.  This month long event scheduled in the first quarter of the year, will go thru until February 15, 2009.  During this time, Shopaholics from around the world, will make their annual pilgrimage to the “City of Gold”, to take advantage of the deep discounts that merchants offer, in addition to the tax-free advantage Dubai offers its visitors.

The Dubai Shopping Festival started in 1996.  It was originally intended to revitalize the retail market of Dubai, but it has gained so much popularity, it is now a major tourist attraction for the Emirate, with daily fireworks, exhibitions, and events scheduled throughout the month .  During its origination, the concept of developing a global shopping village where nations from all over the world could come and share their culture and wares with others was established.  This concept became reality with the creation of the Global Village, located off Emirates Road in Dubailand.   In addition to the Global Village, over 2300 of Dubai’s retail outlets participate in the event, offering everything from gold, jewelry, clothes, electronics, cars, cosmetics, and hand-crafted items.  Also participating in the event are many of Dubai’s hotels, airlines, and tour companies, offering their own deals on airfares, tours, and accommodations while attending the event.  Emirates Airlines, who is a key sponsor of the event,
even offers an additional baggage allowance, to room for its patrons to transport their additional “goodies” back home.

Becoming a major tourist attraction, Dubai has enhanced the festival by the addition of other attractions, which include fireworks, light and laser shows, fashion shows, and concerts, including the Dubai International Jazz Festival which runs for 3 days during DSF.  Many Arabic entertainers, such as Nawal Zoghby, Najwa Karim, and Amr Diab, have performed at DSF in the past.

Another popular event during the festival is the daily raffle drawings.  Giveaways include such things as cars, 4×4s, gold, and money.  Guests can participate in the raffle by purchasing raffle tickets, or by shopping at participating merchants who will give away raffle tickets to those purchase a certain amount in goods or services.

Concerns have been sited about DSF 2009 due to the global economic crisis the world is facing, however, others see it as increased opportunity to get even better deals, and to avoid the massive crowds typically associated with the annual shopping event.  At present, it appears that Dubai intends on promoting this year’s festival as it has done in the past, and that will mean that the promotions and entertainment that is typically associated to the event will continue as usual.  In addition, there have been a few additions to the city of Dubai, which guests are sure to enjoy.  First, is the opening of the Atlantis, with its new family-oriented, water-themed Park, Aquaventure.  Also new to the scene this year, is the new Dubai Mall, touted as the largest shopping mall in the world.  This mall is sure to enhance the shopping experience of any pilgrim making their way to the Shopping Mecca of the World!

Anyone visiting Dubai that is looking for a unique shopping experience needs to visit the famous Karama District, located near Dubai Business and Commercial District of Bur Dubai.  Karama’s shops offer great deals on Pashmina Shawls, Tableclothes, and Pillow Coverings, and those that love to bargain this is the place, as you can really practice your skills with the merchants here.  But, it’s the shopping behind the closed doors that people really go to Karama for.  My friends and I recently took a shopping trip to Karama.  If I had not been already educated on how much of the business was performed here, I probably would have been quite nervous when a small Pakistani man approached us and asked if we were “interested in brand names”.  When we gave him a positive response, he told us to follow him, as he walked us several blocks, down some side streets.  Had I not been with several women (a large enough group, that I felt the safety in numbers), and had not been aware of the “business conducted behind closed doors”, I’m sure that I would have run the other way.  We finally arrived at what looked like an apartment building, where we got into an elevator and took a ride up several floors.  When we got off, he walked us down the hall to an apartment, where he made a special knock on the door.  A few seconds later, the door opened and our escort ushered us in.  Yes, it was an apartment, but it was stocked with designer label items from floor to ceiling in every room.  From designer handbags, wallets, and cellphone cases, to designer watches and designer sunglasses, they had it all!  All the top designer houses were represented, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Chloe, Prada, Versace, Christian Dior, Baby Phat, Juicy Couture, Rolex, Monte Blanc, and yes, even Hermes.  You would have thought you were in Couture Heaven!

As we went around asking “how much?” the typical response was “No worries ma’am, pick what you want, and I give you good deal.”  So, it is just best to pick out everything you are interested in, and put in a grouping, for them to price out.  Keeping in mind, the more you buy, the better your bargaining power.  As you begin to wrap up, allow yourself plenty of time for negotiating, at this is an art form, and the merchants are skilled craftsmen in this area.  If you are not one who is skilled at bargaining, it is best to make sure that you bring along a girlfriend or family member that is, even if it is old Aunt Martha that you can stand being in the room for more than 10 minutes with, as it will be worth the savings!  On average, you can expect to get about a 40 - 45% discount from their originally quoted price, but that does require time and some negotiation skills.

Once the deal is complete, your escort will usually provide you a card, so you can call the next time you’re in the area to do some shopping.  These escorts are obviously on commission, so they want you to continue to work with them.  I suggest you take the card, and if they have not offered, ask them for one.  It is helpful for 2 reasons: First, you don’t have to wait to be approached by someone, and go through the uncomfortable process of following a stranger to a strange place to view their merchandise.  This is especially helpful if you are not with a large enough group to feel safe.  Calling in advance, you can meet your escort, and have some level of comfort with who he is and where he is taking you.  Secondly, you might on occasion have purchased a flawed item.  The merchants are more than willing to exchange the defective item for you, but you have to know how to be able to reach them.   I have heard of a couple of incidents where this has happened, and the merchants were very cooperative in taking the defective purchases back and allowing the customer to exchange it for something else.  Just beware, as the return trip may cost you even more if you happen to see more things that catch your eye!

The Grand Opening Celebrations at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai, was one for the memory books.  At a cost of nearly $20 million, it is touted as the most expensive private party in history.  With over 2000 celebrities in attendance, its guest list included such names as:  Denzel Washington, Michael Jordan, Janet Jackson, Lindsay Lohan, Cherise Theron, and Quincy Jones.  The night’s entertainment was a cross-cultural event with the famous Lebanese Singer, Nawal Zoghby, opening the show, and at a cost of $4 million, Kylie Minogue was the Headline Performer.
Security for the event was quite intense.  Access to the Palm Jumeirah, where the Atlantis is located, was restricted.  Unless you are a resident of the Palm, or a guest of a resident (guests needed to arrive before 4:00 p.m. to gain entrance), you were not allowed access.  It was approximately 5:30 as we approached the entrance way into the Palm Jumeirah.  There were police barricades and security turning much of the long line of traffic away.  Without the proper resident access card, gaining entrance was futile.  We finally made our way past security and all the barricades to the villa, where we settled in to enjoy the evening’s festivities.   Located on Frond F, the beachfront property was the ideal spot, with an unobstructed view of the Atlantis before us.  We enjoyed an evening of barbequing and drinks, as the sun set and we watched the magnificent display of images reflected onto the façade of the hotel.   The most amazing was the 3D images of 2 Aladdin Lamps appearing.  These hologram images were so realistic, one would think that they were actually part of the Atlantis.  An amazing sight, but nothing compared to what was in store for us later in the evening.  As the evening progressed, we could hear the “La la la, la la la la la” of Kylie’s famous “Can’t Get You Out of My Head”.   At approximately 11:30 p.m., the children had long since fell asleep, security was making its beach rounds, and we asked when the fireworks were scheduled to begin.  We were told “Soon, very soon!”  (Dubai is notorious for not following a committed schedule.  When first announced, we were told that the firework display would be held sometime between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.)  Soon after midnight, we could tell that the fireworks would soon begin, so we awoke the children, to prepare them for the show, but nothing was to prepare us for the amazing display of pyrotechnics.  What we were expecting was a beautiful display of fireworks over the Atlantis, what we got was an interactive display, with us being right in the middle of the show.  Fireworks were going off up and down the Frond, and all around us.  It was truly an amazing sight!   As I watched in amazement, I realized that this was bigger than just the Atlantis, and must be going on throughout the whole Palm Jumeirah.  I thought “What a magnificent sight this must be from the air”.  The 20 -30 minutes of fireworks exploding all around us seemed to go on forever.  Jaw dropped, I was overwhelmed by the magnitude of the display.  Each time the fireworks would lessen, and I thought they were coming to an end, another series would start up with great intensity.  When the show finally came to a close, the deep silence and smoke filled sky that left one with the impression that they were standing in the middle of a battlefield in war-torn Bosnia.  All I could say was “WOW”!

When I was first preparing for my move to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, I was asked many times how I felt about moving to a place where I would be required to “Cover Myself” and where women’s activities were restricted.  This common misconception couldn’t be further from the truth, as the United Arab Emirates is quite different from its neighboring Saudi Arabia.  The UAE is a modernized country that is very accepting of Western Culture.  In 1966, with the discovery of oil, a large influx of foreign workers came to Dubai.  Now, as the focus has turned to creating one of the Top Business and Tourist Hubs of the World, the number of foreign workers has increased even more.  Throughout this time, the Royal Family has always promoted cultural diversity.   At present, over 80% of the population is Expats.

As an Expat living in Dubai, I do not find any major differences in lifestyle, except for the fact that people appear to be far friendlier, and the quality of life is a bit better here for those of us who come from the Western World.  Although it is an Arabic Country, English is spoken fluently here.  Most business is conducted in English, and signs are in both Arabic and English, so it is easy to get around.

The Shopping Malls are as good, if not better, than those in the States and in Europe.  Dubai is a “Shopper Paradise” with some of the Largest Malls in the World.  As one walks the Malls, you would hardly notice that you are in an Islamic Country except for the scene of “Covered” women and local men dressed in their traditional style of clothing walking along side of others dressed in the most modern western styles, and the occasional call to prayer that you may hear ringing through the Malls during certain times of the day.   Also, out of respect for others, it is expected that couples do not participate in public displays of affection, although holding hands is acceptable.

Grocery shopping is comparable to that of the Western World.  Supermarkets are in abundance, and one can find most western products or their equivalent, although it might not all be found in one store.  In some ways, the stores offer more choices than those in the West.  While visiting the butcher’s area of the shop, one might see that there is a choice of Australian Beef, Egyptian Beef, Brazilian Beef, New Zealand Beef, etc.  The same goes for produce.  Pork is a little harder to find, and a bit more expensive.  Pork is found only in certain Grocery Markets and Chains in an area depicted as “Non-Muslims Only”.

Alcohol is permitted in most places, as it is served in most restaurants and hotels.  Those staying in a place other than a hotel, such as an apartment or villa, may want to buy their alcohol at the duty-free area of the Airport, as retail stores outside of the Airport are hard to come by, and you must have a Liquor License to buy.  There is a limit to the amount you are allowed.

As for other aspects of a woman’s life, there are no real significant differences either.  Women ARE allowed to drive, and if you have a driver’s license from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or most European Countries, you can easily transfer it the UAE without being required to take any classes or tests.  Driving here is not much different than driving in the US or Europe, except that at times the Road Signs can be a bit unclear, and with the amount of construction going on, you may find that you are being put on a detour more often than usual.

One aspect in which the quality of life is better is that with the low cost of labor, it is quite common for Expat Families to have a maid.  Most maids are “Live-In” and many of the villas and apartments have a “Maid’s Room”; however, many people will also hire a maid to come in and clean a few days a week.  You have to admit, that alone makes Dubai well worthwhile!

Dubai was founded in 1833 when the Bani Yas tribe, lead by the Maktoum Family, settled at the mouth of what is currently known as Dubai Creek.  Soon Dubai became a popular spot for fishing, sea trade, and pearl diving.  By the early 1900’s Dubai had become a successful port.  From there, the history of Dubai sounds more like a Cinderella Story, going from rags to riches.

The Maktoum Family (the Ruling Family of Dubai) is well-known for their foresight and innovativeness of making Dubai what it is today, and in the creation what it will be in the next 10-12 years.  This started in the 1950’s with the costly decision to dredge the creek by its Ruler at the time, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.  This visionary decision, lead to the expansion of Dubai’s cargo handling capabilities, making it one of the Region’s major trading ports.  In the 1960’s, oil was discovered, and Sheikh Rashid decided to reinvest money made from its oil production back into the infrastructure of Dubai.  Focus was on the development of schools, roads, hospitals, a modern telecommunications network, and Jebel Ali (the largest man-made harbor in the world).  With the discovery and production of oil, came a large influx of foreign workers.  Through cultural diversity, the Sheikh also focused on making expatriates feel welcome in the area, in addition to making Dubai a tax-free zone.  (Expatriates now make up over 80% of the Dubai population.)   With his visionary leadership, Sheikh Rashid found a winning combination. The result was the creation of one of top Business and Tourist Hubs of the Gulf Region.  In 1971 - 1972, after gaining independence from Great Britain, Dubai joined in with Abu Dhabi and the 6 other states to form a federation of the United Arab Emirates, which became the one of the richest countries in the world.

In the 1980’s and early 90’s, the Ruling Family, knowing that there was a limit to the oil reserves, put its sites on making Dubai an international tourist and financial center to be reckoned with.  With further work on developing tourist attractions and infrastructure, these strategic decisions have brought about a major economic boom in the city that has already began to pay off handsomely.  In 1994, construction started for the development of Burj Al Arab, a unique and iconic structure that has become the symbol of Dubai.  In the shape of a sail of the “Dhow”, a traditional Arabic Style boat used to transport goods in the Arabian Gulf, the Burj Al Arab opened its doors in December of 1999 to become the only 7 Star Hotel in the World.  The architecture of the Burj Al Arab is not only innovative and unique in shape, but the hotel stands on a man-made island developed to support the structure while keeping the eco-system of the Gulf intact.

The Ruling Family then took its creative visionary leadership to the highest level, when they formed plans to increase the Dubai Coastline and its waterfront property in a very unusual way, with the development of The Palms Trilogy (Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Palm Deira, known as the 8th Wonder of the World), and The World Islands, bringing with it outside investors.  When it was first announced, many thought it impossible for the vision to become reality, but with the opening of the Palm Jumeirah, and the completion of The World Islands’ foundational infrastructure, the Royal Family proved that their creative vision was sound.

The first chapter in the Palm Trilogy, Palm Jumeirah was completed in 2007.  The Palm Jumeirah houses many deluxe apartments and villas, in addition to the Trump Dubai Hotel and Tower.  Opening in October 2008 on the Palm Jumeirah is the long awaited Atlantis Hotel which will include the Aquaventure Water Park and many other water venues and attractions on its grounds.  The second Palm, Palm Jebel Ali is slated for completion in 2009, and the final Palm of the Trilogy, the Palm Deira is scheduled for completion in 2020.  Upon its completion, Palm Deira will become the largest man-made island in the world.

Making The World Islands a reality was a true challenge as there many of what appeared to be insurmountable obstacles that were faced.  First was the amount of sand that was required for the project.  One would think this not a problem as Dubai sits on the edge of the desert; however, this type of sand is not suitable to be used as a supportable foundation. Much of the required sand that was used needed to be shipped in.  Special equipment was used to blow the sand in the exact locations to create the structure of the world with its 7 continents.  To create the largest amount of waterfront property possible, small islands were created and lumped together to develop the larger structures of the continents.  Second was the issue of the breakwater.  How could a breakwater be developed that would protect the real estate situated on the islands without obstructing its view?  A tiered breakwater was developed and tested, and after much trial and error in a monitored environment, a successful design was created.  Lastly, there was the issue of ensuring that the water throughout the entire design was kept in constant motion.  Stagnant water would attract bacteria and algae that would bring with it, a stench that would deter from the area’s desirability.  Much thought and preparation was needed to avoid this dilemma, and even then, many adjustments were made to the plan after repeated tests were conducted on the currents and water flow throughout The World Islands.  This process was very time-consuming, but in early 2008, the foundational infrastructure was completed, and the next stage in the development consisting of the real estate development of hotels and housing along with its supportive infrastructure got underway.

Another innovative idea created in the middle of the desert land of Dubai is Ski Dubai, the first Indoor Ski Resort in the Middle East.  Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai houses 22, 500 square metres and 5 runs with varying degrees of difficulty, including a black run.  Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, or just building an old fashioned snowman in its winter playground.

When one speaks of Dubai, the word Dubai it is synonymous with such terms as “Biggest”, “Tallest”, and “One and Only”.  Scheduled to open in June 2009 is the Burj Dubai, with approximately 141 floors and standing close to 700 metres high, it will be the tallest building in the world.  The Hydropolis, an underwater luxury hotel located 66 feet below the Persian Gulf’s surface is scheduled to open in 2009.  In 2010, the first major phase of Dubailand, a multi-themed amusement park is targeted for opening with Universal Studios Dubai, Ernie Els Golf Course, Formula 1 Theme Park, Dubai Outlet City, Plantation World, and the Global Village.  Dubailand will also house Legoland Dubai, Marvel Entertainment Park, Tiger Woods Championship Golf Course, Six Flags Dubailand, Aqua Dunya Water Park, Hit Entertainment Park, and City of Arabia with one of the largest shopping malls in the world, all scheduled for completion by 2012.  The second phase of Dubailand which will consist of countless other projects and expansions is targeted for completion by 2020.  When complete, it is estimated that Dubailand will be 20 % larger than DisneyWorld in Orlando, Florida.

Dubai is also known as a “Shopper’s Paradise” with over 30 major Shopping Malls, and counting.  It will soon house some of the largest Shopping Malls in the world.  In addition to the malls, there are many traditional style souks for visitors to enjoy.  Visitors can enjoy the Gold and Spice Souks, the Textile Souk, and if one is looking for the best of both worlds, Madinat Jumeirah offers posh designer shops in the traditional look and design of a Souk Style setting”.

Dubai has so much to offer its visitors, with its many first-class hotels and resorts to choose from.  In addition, it is home to many of the major sporting events, such as:  The Dubai Desert Classic, a major stop on the PGA Tour; The Dubai Open Tennis Tournament; and The Dubai World Cup, known as the Richest Horse Race in the World; all of which attract hundreds of thousands of people each year.  With its miles of immaculate white sandy beaches, and the vast array of experiences and attractions that Dubai has to offer, visitors will not be short of things to make them fall in love with this beautiful playground of a city.

In addition to all the fine things Dubai has to offer, visitors can feel safe in the city of Dubai.  Voted the safest holiday destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine in 2003, Dubai has a reputation of being one of the safest cities in the world.  For those living in Dubai, they will find that Dubai is virtually crime-free compared to other places in the world.

With its visionary leadership, and fairy-tale growth story, Dubai Tourism is expected to grow at a 10% rate each year, and this is a conservative estimate.  Under its present plan, Dubai should reach the Number 1 spot as the World’s Top Tourist Destination by 2020.  Dubai is a must-see for everyone!