CONNECTOR.AE 3 Welcome As Alice Cooper said over 50 years ago, “School’s Out For Summer”, which in the UAE means that the fun and activities go up many, many levels. In this issue of Connector, we have included as much as possible on all the great things to do this month. Summer in Dubai can only mean one thing, Dubai Summer Surprises and all that comes with it. Read about the entertainment, concerts, raffles, prize draws and of course all the shopping offers on pages 11 to 13. Though schools are out, children still need to be kept entertained and active over the holidays, and where better than one of the many summer camps. From sports camps, to STEM and arts, we have found some that will keep little ones occupied whatever their interests. Last year the first edition of the Dubai MICHELIN Guide was launched, with the second edition recently announcing the 14 MICHELIN starred restaurants that Dubai boasts. Ever wondered what to expect from this creme de le creme of Dubai restaurants? Read our overview of the 3 two star and 11 one star restaurants on pages 14 to 19. That’s not all, there is loads more inside, so sit back, relax and enjoy reading it all as much as we enjoyed putting it all together. Have a great month and enjoy the issue. Chris Nicolaides chris@directreachmedia.com Concord Tower, PO Box 126732, Dubai Media City, Dubai, 04 454 9826, enquiries@directreachmedia.com Contents of this publication are copyright. No material may be reproduced without written permission. Notice and disclaimer. The material used in this publication is intended to be used for informational purposes only. A sincere effort has been made to report accurate information. However, one or more recognised authorities in health and nutrition may hold different views than those reported therein, and the reader is so advised. This publication is not meant to be an endorsement of any specific product or services offered. Nicole Pereira nicole@directreachmedia.com Vishakha Ramchandani vishi@directreachmedia.com Welcome V T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E P R E S E N T S F R I D A Y 1 3 O C T 2 0 2 3 THE BOYS ARE BACK I N TOWN ! ONE NIGHT ONLY TO SEE ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BOY BANDS WITH 26 NUMBER ONE HITS! BLUE BOYZLIFE FIVE V T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E P R E S E N T S T I C K E T S : 2 2 5 A E D S E A T E D G R A N D S T A N D 2 5 0 A E D G R O U N D S T A N D I N G D O O R S O P E N 7 P M S H O W S T A R T S 9 . 0 0 P M O V E R 2 1 ’ S O N L Y W W W . T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E . C O M @ T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E D U B A I W W W . 8 0 0 T I C K E T S . C O M F R I D A Y 1 3 T H O C T 2 0 2 3 A T D U B A I D U T Y F R E E T E N N I S S T A D I U M THE BOYS ARE BACK I N TOWN ! ONE NIGHT ONLY TO SEE ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BOY BANDS WITH 26 NUMBER ONE HITS! BLUE BOYZLIFE FIVE
CONNECTOR.AE 5 Ten To Try: Shawarma Importance Of Sun Protection 44 Say Yes To A Staycation In Dubai! Amazing Summer Camps For Children To Enjoy! 46 28 Day In The Life: Dr Andrew Foggitt 42 Contents 7 Monthly Events Shop Till You Drop At DSS! Dine At Dubai’s Starred MICHELIN Restaurants Prevalence Of Vitamin D In The UAE Introducing Banking For Children Comfort Food With Baked Cauliflower Meet The Students With Their Own Innovative Ideas For Targeting Water Crisis Chef’s Corner: Mohammed Zeeshan A round up of all the major events this June 11 14 38 34 24 54 21 14 46 28 26 Welcome leave your worries outside! Show starts at 8:30pm thelaughterfactory.com
CONNECTOR.AE 7 Out And About With activations taking place throughout the month, from concerts to Dubai Summer Surprises, there is always something to do to stay entertained and have a blast. To help make filling up the calendar an easy task, Connector has come up with some of the amazing big events taking place in the UAE that are sure to keep everyone busy. So keep reading and book tickets quickly! An exciting performance is taking place at The Agenda, Dubai Media City on 1 July. Iranian singer Masoud Sadeghloo, known for incorporating Persian melodies and contemporary pop, will grace the stage and sing amazing songs including ‘Bi Atefe’, ‘Mosaken’, ‘Zade Baroon’ and ‘Shabahangi’. Prices start at Dhs 149. www.theagenda.com OUT & ABOUT Looking for some amazing events and activities to enjoy during July? The UAE is the right place to be! Hussain Al Jassmi and Kadim Al Sahir Live 1 July Masoud Sadeghloo 1 July Get ready for a show of a lifetime with performances from two amazing Arabic artists, Hussain Al Jassmi and Kadim Al Sahir at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. With over four billion views, Hussain Al Jassmi is set to perform hits including ‘Raak Allah’ and ‘Ahebbak’. Kadim Al Sahir has been in the music industry for around 40 years and has performed around the world. Delight in songs like ‘Ana Wa Laila’ and ‘Ha Habibi’. Ticket prices start at Dhs 150. www.coca-cola-arena.com 1 2 V T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E P R E S E N T S T I C K E T S : 1 7 5 A E D D O O R S O P E N 6 P M S H O W S T A R T S 7 P M O V E R 2 1 ’ S O N L Y W W W . T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E . C O M @ T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E D U B A I W W W . 8 0 0 T I C K E T S . C O M S A T U R D A Y 4 T H N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 3 A T T H E I R I S H V I L L A G E LOADED F T . D J A N D Y B U C H A N TOP S T E R E O D O D G Y LOV I N CRIMINALS MC’S FUN L O A D E R 4 L I V E B A N D S P R E F O R M I N G T H E I R B I G G E S T H I T S
CONNECTOR.AE 8 CONNECTOR.AE 9 Out And About Out And About Who Killed The Hedgehog? Mohamed Abdo Parenting Hell Robby Collins 2 July 3 July 7 and 8 July Coca-Cola Arena is bringing legendary Saudi singer Mohamed Abdo to Dubai. Make it a night to remember as the ‘Artist of the Arabs’ performs. Having spent six decades in the music industry, Mohamed Abdo is set to perform in Dubai again, with the last show held five years ago. Ticket prices start at Dhs 295. www.coca-cola-arena.com Get excited for a hilarious show, sure to have everyone at the edge of their seats! Stand-up comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe, known for their popular podcast ‘Parenting Hell’ which has received over 50 million downloads, are bringing a live performance of the podcast to Dubai. The duo will share the best and most challenging things about being parents. Tickets prices start at Dhs 295. www.dubaiopera.com South African comedian Robby Collins is coming to the UAE, ready to send the audience into a frenzy of laughs. The Emmynominated writer and feature film actor has previously opened for Trevor Noah, as well as starred in the 2022 Netflix ‘Only Jokes Allowed’. The comedian will be performing over two days, on 7 July, at Movenpick JBR in Dubai, followed by a show at Park Rotana in Abu Dhabi on 8 July. Prices are set at Dhs 160. www.thelaughterfactory.com 7 and 8 July Looking to have a blast and laugh? Actor Bahram Afshari is set to take all those attending on a trip filled with laughs and funny observations. Performing in Farsi, Bahram Afshari will share the highs and lows of life, while also ending the show on a positive note, that things work out in the end. Held at The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, ticket prices start at Dhs 169. www.artforall.ae NLE Choppa 13 July Delight in a brilliant show with American hip-hop artist NLE Choppa. The one-dayonly concert at The Agenda at Dubai Media City will see the performer sing hits like ‘Walk Em Down’, ‘Go Stupid’, ‘Jumpin’ and ‘Do It Again’. The artist has been in the music industry since 2018, and has over 5 billion streams and 918 million views on YouTube. Prices for the show start at Dhs 249. www.theagenda.com DizzyTooSkinny And Wegz At Beat The Heat Series 15 July As part of Dubai Summer Surprises, the second edition of the Beat the Heat series at The Agenda, Dubai Media City, will see two performers take to the stage. Egyptian rapper and songwriter Wegz, will put on an electrifying set with tunes like ‘El Bakht’ and ‘Afareet El Asphalt’. Joining the lineup is Dubai-based artist DizzyTooSkinny, performing a mix of genres from hip-hop, R&B to afro beats. Prices start at Dhs 169. www.theagenda.com 3 4 5 6 7 8
CONNECTOR.AE 10 CONNECTOR.AE 11 Out And About Out And About Bassem Youssef Omar Kamal Cairokee And El Far3i At Beat The 15 July 22 July 22 July The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai is bringing funnyman Bassem Youssef for a hilarious one-night-only comedy set. Known as the ‘Jon Stewart of the Arab World’, the Egyptian comedian and former doctor will make the crowds howl with laughter, with his sharp wit and unique take. Prices start at Dhs 199. www.artforall.ae Omar Kamal is headed to Abu Dhabi for an amazing concert, sure to wow the crowds. The one-day-only event on 22 July will be held at Cultural Foundation, opposite Qasr Al Hosn, where the artist will explore themes of love, loss and hope through his songs. Prices for the show start at Dhs 300. www.culturalfoundation.ae Delight in a brilliant performance as part of the Beat the Heat series with Dubai Summer Surprises, as Cairokee and El Far3i, put on a show. Held at the Agenda, Dubai Media City, Egyptian rock band Cairokee that have been releasing music since 2003 and will perform hits including ‘Ana Negm’ and ‘Layla’. Palestinian-Jordanian musician El Far3i will also join the set, putting on a show that incorporates Arabic acoustic music and rap. Prices for the show start at Dhs 160. www.theagenda.com 9 10 11 The annual highly-anticipated event is on until 3 September. From electrifying performances to endless sales and entertainment for all the family, there is much to explore during the 26th edition. Opening Week The first week of DSS will see amazing concerts at Coca-Cola Arena. On 1 July, two brilliant Arabic artists, Hussain Al Jassmi and Kadim Al Sahir will perform, followed by a show by Saudi artist Mohammad Abdo on 2 July. Shopping Spree For over nine weeks, malls around Dubai will see around 800 brands with 3,500 outlets offering shoppers discounts of up to 70% on everything including shoes, clothing, accessories, electronics, sporting equipment, makeup and home decor. Shoppers can be in with a chance to become a SHARE Millionaire from 24 July to 3 September, when shopping at Mall of the Emirates and City Centre malls. Anyone can enter when spending Dhs 300 and more simply by scanning their receipts through the SHARE Rewards App. Another chance to win big is as part of the Back To School Raffle Campaign. Twenty lucky winners will get Dhs 5,000 each, on spending Dhs 200 or more at participating malls, from 7 August until 3 September. Shop Till You Drop At DSS! Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) is back for a new edition and is set to offer residents and tourists endless deals and entertainment.
CONNECTOR.AE 12 CONNECTOR.AE 13 Out And About Out And About Nakheel Mall, from 29 June to 29 July, will also host a Justice League activation including tournaments, workshops, and a VR experience, as well as meet and greets with Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Flash. Modesh World The amazing Modesh World at Dubai World Trade Centre has returned for DSS and will run until 27 August. Enjoy exciting and thrilling rides, relish in amazing food and explore the inflatable snow park during summer. Throughout DSS, Modesh and Dana will also make appearances at malls around Dubai including City Centre Deira, Al Khawaneej Walk, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Walk, DIFC, Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai Festival Plaza, The Outlet Village, Bluewaters, Mall of the Emirates, Nakheel Mall, City Centre Me’aesim, City Centre Barsha and Circle Mall, to say hi and take pictures. For more information, visit the Dubai Summer Surprises website - www.visitdubai.com Shoppers with Visa debit or credit cards can enjoy adding points to their Skywards Everyday App, from now until 5 July. Get 5 miles for every Dhs 3 spent on shopping, dining, beauty and wellness and Dhs 5 spent on groceries and at pharmacies. Raffles From now until 3 September, one lucky winner will be in with a chance to take home an exciting prize, a Cadillac Escalade worth Dhs 465,000, while shopping at Mercato Mall or Town Centre. Shoppers can get another chance to win a brand new car, where six lucky winners can win a Nissan X-Trail 2023 each as part of the Dubai Summer Surprises Raffle campaign. Running from now until 3 September at participating malls, shoppers who spend Dhs 200 will receive a digital coupon where they will be entered into the draw to win a car. More draws are also running from now until 30 September, with Idealz offering unmissable prizes. Spend Dhs 40 on the Idealz App or on the website to be in with a chance to win a cash prize of Dhs 1 million. Idealz, as part of the DSS Grand Prize, are running another raffle where Dhs 2.5 million in cash is also up for grabs for those spending Dhs 60 on the website or the Idealz App. Additionally, from now until 15 October, on spending Dhs 25 on the Idealz website or App, get a chance to win an apartment in Dubai. More cars are up for grabs with a chance to drive off in a Mercedes-Benz A 200, worth Dhs 170,000. To enter the draw, visit any ENOC and EPPCO petrol stations, ZOOM outlets, AutoPro service centres, ENOC Link Al Khawaneej Walk and Last Exit Al Khawaneej are set to host exciting roaming musicians from 2 July to 31 August. Every weekend, listen to brilliant live performances with melodic music on the violin and the saxophone. Summer Stays and Offers With children on summer break, it is the perfect time to explore Dubai like never before, with luxurious staycation deals available at hotels around the city. From 29 June to 31 July, families with children can make the most of Kids Go Free offers taking place at Dubai Parks and Resorts, with free entry at Motiongate, LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park. Aya Universe, X-Strike, Expo City Dubai, Madame Tussauds Museum, Reel Cinemas, Sky Views Observatory and more will also host amazing offers for endless familyfriendly entertainment. From 29 June to 29 July, Ibn Battuta Mall will give Batman fans the opportunity to explore Gotham City through virtual reality (VR). On shopping Dhs 200 and over from collectables to comics at the mall, people can register for the activation at the India Court. terminals and Ibn Battuta Mall, or the Idealz website or App, and buy a raffle ticket for Dhs 50, between now until 30 September. Looking to win gold and jewellery with Dubai Jewellery Group? From now until 23 July, shop at over 150 jewellery outlets, with offers of 50% discount on gold jewellery, and 75% discount on diamond and pearl jewellery. Gold coins will be given to all shoppers on purchases of diamond jewellery over Dhs 2,500. Also, on every purchase of Dhs 1,000, shoppers will be entered into a draw, where 20 lucky winners can enjoy taking home a Dhs 5,000 voucher on jewellery. Entertainment Central The Agenda at Dubai Media City is set to host weekly concerts, as part of the Beat the Heat music festival., by DSS Spotlight and Anghami. Delight in concerts from artists like WEGZ, Cairokee, Balti, Autostrad, El Far3i, Sharmoofers and more. Food Offers Foodies, DSS is the time to explore endless culinary options at Summer Restaurant Week. Tuck into a variety of cuisines at popular restaurants around the city, as well as sample dishes from world-renowned Chefs.
CONNECTOR.AE 14 CONNECTOR.AE 15 Dining Around Dining Around Dine At Dubai’s Starred MICHELIN Restaurants Dubai is a melting pot of nationalities and cultures and with it come all the different cuisines of the world, that people can try out around the city. Be it Middle Eastern, Italian to Indian cuisines, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from to enjoy a wonderful dining experience with loved ones. The MICHELIN Guide was launched in 1920 in Paris, before making its way around the globe to 41 cities, with the first Dubai MICHELIN Guide launched in 2022. Being included in the MICHELIN Guide and awarded a prestigious star is one of the highest distinctions given to any restaurant. With three MICHELIN star ratings, one star is given to restaurants that serve highquality cooking worth a stop, two stars for excellent cooking that is worth the detour and three stars for restaurants that have exceptional cooking worth a dedicated trip to the restaurant. The 2022 Dubai MICHELIN Guide saw 11 restaurants awarded with either one or two stars, and three new restaurants added to the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide, giving Dubai a total of 14 MICHELIN starred restaurants. With so many to choose from, deciding which to try out and why could be a challenge. To help, Connector rounds up all 14 amazing MICHELIN-starred restaurants. The two-starred fine dining restaurant, Trèsind Studio at Nakheel Mall serves diners a unique experience highlighting Indian flavours. The restaurant was awarded a one star rating during the 2022 Dubai MICHELIN Guide and due to their exceptional service, received a two star rating, as part of the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide. The restaurant is centred around the phrase ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, meaning ‘Guest Is God’, which emphasises the importance they have of serving delicious food to diners. The menu serves small dishes of food, featuring five different courses using locally sourced produce from the UAE. The restaurant is also ranked 11th on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. 058-8951272 Having been awarded two stars in 2022, STAY by Yannick Alléno at One&Only The Palm, maintained its two stars rating in the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide as well. With a ‘less is more’ concept, the restaurant offers diners a fine dining experience that celebrates tasty French flavours. Choose amazing dishes from the a la carte menu, with blue lobster poached in ginger beurre blanc sauce to pan fried foie gras. Diners that are looking to try out various dishes at the restaurant, can experience set courses, that change based on the season. ‘Emotions’, the four-course set menu has dishes like local pan fried red mullet, pike fish brioche and pears tatin, and the six-course menu ‘Experience’, serves king crab, sea bass and black truffle caramel fuseau. 04-4401030 Il Ristorante - Niki Romito at Bulgari Resort Hotel, Jumeirah 2 is one of the two restaurants that have retained their two star rating at the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide. With delicious flavours from Italy, the restaurant offers diners an exclusively curated menu by Italian Chef, Niki Romito. Some of the fresh ingredients used to create the dishes at the restaurant come directly from Italy. Among the many scrumptious fish and pasta dishes to try out, one that will make the palette sing is the linguini pasta, made with lobster and prawns. Diners looking to try a variety of dishes can delight in the seven-course menu, which serves smaller plates of food from the venue. While dining, enjoy marvellous views of the Arabian Gulf. 04-7775433 Trèsind Studio STAY by Yannick Alléno Il Ristorante - Niki Romito
CONNECTOR.AE 16 CONNECTOR.AE 17 Dining Around Dining Around Avatara at Voco Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the new restaurants included in the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide that received a one star rating. The menu at the restaurant serves only vegetarian food with flavours from India. Serving a 16dish set menu, where each dish has a backstory explained as it arrives. The aim of the restaurant is to highlight ways vegetarian food stands out in flavour, through exquisite dishes that are created using local and fresh produce and dairy products. Each dish incorporates traditional flavours from India and is turned into a unique dining experience. The restaurant also caters to vegan and gluten-free diets. www.avatara.ae Torno Subito at W Dubai - The Palm also retained its rating for two years in a row. The restaurant by Chef Massimo Bottura, responsible for the three-starred MICHELIN restaurant, Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy. Diners are transported back to the 1960s Italian Riviera, with a menu serving the tastes of Italy. One of the dishes recommended by Chef Alessio Pirozzi, Head Chef of the restaurant, is Ostrica, lightly steamed oysters in a glaze and served with puffed black ink rice. Diners can also enjoy dishes including risotto ‘Anni 80’ and the tiramisubito. www.tornosubitodubai.com Avatara Torno Subito Maintaining its one star rating for two years is 11 Woodfire at Jumeirah 1. With an open kitchen concept, diners are able to watch as their meal is prepared. As in the name, fire is the central theme of the restaurant and all the dishes from meat, vegetables and seafood are grilled, giving the food a rich smoky and earthy flavour. The highly raved Wagyu Burger is a must-try, offering perfectly balanced flavours and topped with gouda, mushrooms and siracha. The dishes stay true to the restaurant and always serve a flavour burst. www.11woodfire.com 11 Woodfire Moonrise at Eden House, Al Satwa is the third new restaurant to gain one star on the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide. The rooftop dining restaurant features an Omakase experience, where the Chef creates innovative dishes in front of the diners using fresh and seasonal ingredients. With stunning views of the beaches in Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline, the restaurant seats 12 people, serving a multi-course meal that uses Middle Eastern flavours as well as incorporates tastes from Japan. A unique dish to delight in is the milk and honey, a labneh sorbet made with an olive oil foam. www.moon-rise.xyz Located at the seven-star luxury hotel Burj Al Arab, Al Muntaha is a one-starred MICHELIN restaurant for two years in a row. The restaurant serves diners delicious Italian and French cuisine. Amazing dishes to try are the line-caught sea bass served with Jerusalem artichokes, sea scallops crudo and chocolate millefeuille. A six-course tasting menu is also served at the restaurant with dishes including Australian Wagyu beef and salmon trout. As the restaurant is on the 27th floor, diners can enjoy delighting in a stunning view of the coastline in Jumeirah. www.jumeirah.com Moonrise Al Muntaha Armani/Ristorante at Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa brings the flavours of Italy to Dubai. The restaurant received a one star rating as part of the first guide and maintained its rating for the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide. One of the Chef’s at the restaurant recommends the Vitello Tonnato, which is veal topped with caper powder. The restaurant also serves a tasting menu of five courses with dishes like pasta all’uovo, which is a tortelli pasta dish and piccione al rosa, which is spiced grilled pigeon breast. While tucking into tasty Italian flavours, diners can also enjoy views of the Dubai Fountain. www.armanihotels.com Armani/Ristorante
CONNECTOR.AE 18 CONNECTOR.AE 19 Dining Around Dining Around Hakkasan at Atlantis The Palm celebrates Chinese cuisine, by serving traditional dishes with a modern approach. The restaurant uses ancient recipes by incorporating them into the menu. The jasmine tea smoked Wagyu beef ribs, lychee lobster with yuzu pearl and Hakkasan signature Peking duck with caviar, are some unique and amazing dishes to relish in. Guests can enjoy a laidback atmosphere, with the restaurant featuring traditional Chinese motifs and dark wood screens, for the perfect ambience. www.hakkasan.com Everyone loves dining with a stunning view, and one-starred MICHELIN restaurant Ossiano at Atlantis The Palm is the place to visit. Inspired by the underwater world, diners can relish in a seafood menu, with dishes presented at the table in a unique way. Scrumptious dishes to enjoy are grilled tiger prawns, Hokkaido scallops, poached blue lobster and caramelised black cod. The restaurant looks into The Lost Chambers Aquarium, with over 65,000 marine animals swimming by, adding to the dining experience. www.atlantis.com Located on the 6th floor of Mandarin Oriental in Jumeirah 1, Tasca by José Avillez has maintained its one star rating since the inaugural 2022 Dubai MICHELIN Guide. Diners can enjoy the amazing taste of Portugal served in a contemporary way. Must-try dishes to tuck into include golden fried eggs, Mediterranean squid with squid ink rice, spoon tender veal and deconstructed beef Wellington. With indoor and outdoor dining offered, diners can enjoy marvelling at the view from the terrace with an infinity pool. www.mandarinoriental.com Hakkasan Ossiano Tasca by José Avillez Höseki at Bulgari Resort Hotel, Jumeirah 2, with its one star rating for two years in a row is the second restaurant from the resort included in the guide. Serving delicious Japanese flavours, the restaurant features a great Omakase experience, where the Chef caters the meal to the preferences of the diners, using fresh ingredients from the day. The menu offers a selection of appetisers and sushi, along with miso soup, a Japanese omelette and a fruit platter. As the meal is made in front of the diners, it is truly a wonderful experience as the chefs showcase their intricate knife skills. The restaurant seats only nine people and has captivating views of the Dubai skyline. www.bulgarihotels.com Another new addition to the 2023 Dubai MICHELIN Guide is Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah. With a two star rating at the London restaurant of the same name, the recent opening in Dubai received a one star rating. Creativity is at the forefront of the restaurant, with all the dishes served in a unique way where the flavours are sure to take guests on a journey. A must-try at the restaurant is the meat fruit, which is a chicken liver parfait in the shape of a mandarin. Created by Chef Heston Blumenthal, the menu at the restaurant is inspired by recipes from Britain’s past, with a modern and creative twist added to make it all the more memorable and delicious. www.dinnerbyheston.com Höseki Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
CONNECTOR.AE 20 CONNECTOR.AE 21 Dining Around Dining Around Ten To Try: Shawarma When in the UAE, one of the dishes that is always a musttry is shawarma. The popular Middle Eastern dish is made by roasting meat on a vertical rotisserie, which is then cut into thin slices. Commonly made with chicken or mutton, the meat is served in Arabic or saj bread and topped with garlic sauce, fries, pickles and more. Based on the cuisine of the restaurant, the dish is made in various ways, with some also opting to add cucumbers and fresh leaves to the shawarmas. The origins of the iconic dish can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century. It is from there, that shawarmas originated from along with gyros, a common dish in Greece. There are so many hidden gems across the UAE that serve amazing shawarmas, and if on the lookout, here are some amazing spots that Connector has sought out. Outdoor seating is plentiful, however with a large indoor area, set around a central bar, with full height and width glass doors, the same stunning views of the outside can be enjoyed even during the hot and humid summer months. The restaurant offers tastes from the Caribbean and Latin America, and the Peruvian influences are clearly seen with the range of ceviche on the menu. Our trio selection including, salmon with pink grapefruit, avocado and coriander, as well as Atun, bitesized tuna tacos and Hamachi, yellowtail with cucumber and macha sauce, were refreshing, full of flavours and with a little kick that did not overpower. New to the menu Tamoka - Caribbean And Latin American Flavours With Dubai home to somanydifferent cuisines, finding the tastes of any country is nearly always possible, however finding somewhere with a setting that can make you feel you are on vacation is not as easy. is the Edicion Limitada, a different and fresh ceviche dish that changes weekly. The starters offer something for everyone and our choices included sticky beef short ribs, with tamarind and pomegranate, a succulent dish with just the right amount of sweetness, a fantastic combination of chicken and scallops on a skewer, and the very moreish Provoleta Asada, melted provolone cheese served with toasted corn bred, a dish that could have kept us happy for hours. For mains, we shared the Filete De Lomo, beef tenderloin with a special Tamoka sauce and a Langositinos, a dish of grilled prawns, mashed potato and chicha morada sauce, a colourful purple corn and coconut sauce that was full of flavour in every mouthful. Every meal should be finished with dessert, and with nine options, choosing the best was going to be a challenge, however, we did it. The Torta De Queso, baked cheesecake with beetroot ice cream was not heavy and a great combination of flavours, and the Tiraditos De Pina, of pineapple carpaccio, passion fruit and kiwi, accompanied with coconut sorbet was the perfect refreshing end to the meal. The price for a three-course meal per person is around Dhs 350. Call 04-3186099 REVIEW
CONNECTOR.AE 22 CONNECTOR.AE 23 Dining Around Dining Around
CONNECTOR.AE 24 CONNECTOR.AE 25 Dining Around Dining Around Comfort Food With Baked Cauliflower Food has for years been a great for people to bond and come closer together. From sitting around the table for get-togethers to enjoying a comfort meal with loved ones, one of the best ways enjoy time spent with friends and family, is over food. While cooking a meal, anyone can vouch for quick and easy meals, especially with all the tiredness and busy schedules from the week, and a great way to lift spirits is through comfort food. A quick and easy dish to make that is sure to be a hit with everyone is baked cauliflower. Infused with Mediterranean and Asian flavours, the star element of the dish is the cauliflower, with chargrilled leek puree added, to enhance the rich flavour of the dish. The dish is created by Chef Sergei Andreichenko, Group Executive Chef at AIZA Hospitality, which manages Eva Beach House in Palm Jumeirah, and will surely be added to the weekly roster of meals. Recipe: 1. Prep the cauliflower by removing the stem and cleaning the it thoroughly. 2. Bring a small pot of salted water to the boil and carefully place the cauliflower in it. Boil for approximately 2 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to partially cook. 3. Remove the cauliflower from the boiling water and strain it. Pat it dry using a paper towel, ensuring excess moisture is removed. 4. Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance its flavour when grilled. 5. Transfer the seasoned cauliflower to a Josper oven, infusing it with a delicate smoky flavour. Grill the cauliflower until it acquires a beautiful golden colour, ensuring it is cooked thoroughly. Remove from the oven and set it aside. 6. To prepare the chargrilled leek puree, which adds a Mediterranean touch to Ingredients: 1 White Cauliflower 1 White Portion Of A Large Leek 3 Minced Garlic Cloves 50g Butter 3g Thyme 30g Vegetable Stock 50g White Miso Paste 10g Olive Oil the dish, place the leeks in the Josper oven, allowing them to roast until they develop a slightly charred exterior. This imparts a deep and smoky flavour that complements the cauliflower. 7. Transfer the roasted leeks from the oven and into a hot pan. Add olive oil, minced garlic cloves, butter, thyme, white miso paste and vegetable stock to the pan. Sauté the mixture, allowing the flavours to meld together beautifully. 8. Once the leek mixture is sautéed, transfer all the ingredients to a blender. Blend until it is a smooth and velvety puree, ensuring that all the flavours are well incorporated. 9. To plate the dish, generously spoon the chargrilled leek puree over the golden cauliflower head. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top of the cauliflower to add a burst of freshness. For a touch of Asian influence, serve the dish with a side of togarashi Greek yoghurt, adding a hint of spice and creaminess.
CONNECTOR.AE 26 CONNECTOR.AE 27 Dining Around Dining Around really special to me. It made me fall in love with cooking and sparked a lifelong passion for creating delicious dishes. What is your favourite dish from your country? Growing up in Lucknow, a city known for its rich culinary traditions in India, has greatly influenced my taste in food. When it comes to my favourite dishes from my country, I have a special love for Lucknow’s famous biryani and kebabs. The flavours and cooking techniques used in preparing these dishes are truly amazing. Lucknowi Biryani, in particular, stands out for its delightful mix of fragrant spices and tender meat, creating a burst of flavours that are hard to beat. The kebabs, on the other hand, are incredibly juicy and infused with a blend of aromatic spices, showcasing the city’s exceptional culinary expertise. What is the one go-to and easy snack you love making for midnight cravings? When it comes to satisfying those midnight cravings,mygo-tosnackhas tobe sandwiches or bhelpuri. They are easy to whip up and absolutely delicious. Sandwiches offer endless possibilities with different fillings and spreads, allowing me to get creative and tailor them to my mood. Whether it is a classic grilled cheese or a loaded veggie sandwich, they never disappoint. On the other hand, bhelpuri, with its tangy and spicy Chef ’s Corner: Mohammed Zeeshan Chefs are known for their role in creating the perfect dishes to serve diners. One of the people setting the benchmark is Chef Mohammed Zeeshan, Executive Chef at Trèsind Dubai, One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina, listed in the Dubai MICHELIN Guide for two years in a row. as one of the places to try in Dubai. Brought up in India, Chef Mohammed Zeeshan was born into a family with a background in the culinary industry, inspiring him to follow a similar path and trailblazing his journey in food. Having worked in India at Vivanta by Taj Lucknow and The Leela Palace in Bangalore, Chef Mohammed Zeeshan joined the pre-opening team of Trèsind Dubai in 2014. Starting out as a Junior Sous Chef, Chef Mohammed Zeeshan worked his way up the ranks, now working as the Executive Chef at the restaurant. In this feature, Chef Mohammed Zeeshan shares with Connector how he started out in the culinary industry to his favourite dishes to try out while dining at Trèsind Dubai. Howdid you get started in the food industry? My family has been a huge inspiration for me, especially when it comes to cooking. Both my brother and grandfather are incredible in the kitchen and have done amazing things in the food industry. Seeing them create delicious dishes and culinary masterpieces has left a lasting impact on me. My Mum and the environment I grew up in also played a big role in fuelling my passion to become a chef. The experiences and atmosphere of my upbringing always motivate and inspire me to strive for greatness in the culinary world. What is your earliest cooking memory? One of my first memories of cooking goes back to the time when I was in the kitchen with my Mum, making pickle together. It was amazing to watch her teach me the process of pickling. I remember how excited I was to choose the right ingredients, slice the cucumbers, and mix them with the perfect combination of flavours. That moment was flavours, is a burst of culinary delight. Mixing together puffed rice, crunchy sev, chutneys and veggies, creates a tantalising snack that hits the spot every time. So, whether I am in the mood for something warm and comforting or a burst of flavour, sandwiches and bhelpuri never let me down. What is the one raw ingredient you cannot cook without from your country? When it comes to cooking from my country, there is one ingredient that I absolutely cannot cook without, and it is garam masala. It is a special mix of Indian spices that adds incredible flavour to my dishes. It is like a secret ingredient that makes everything taste better. Whether I am making a curry, a biryani, or even a simple lentil soup, garam masala gives it that extra oomph. It is made up of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, which together create a fantastic blend of flavours. So, whenever I want to make a dish taste really good, garam masala is my go-to ingredient. What is the best dish to try at your restaurant? When it comes to dining at Trèsind Dubai, you will be spoiled for choice with amazing dishes. But if I had to recommend a couple, I would say you should start with our Modernist chaat. It is a fun and fancy version of popular Indian street food. You will love the mix of flavours, textures and how it is presented, it is a real feast for the eyes. For the main course, you absolutely must try our Khichdi of India. It is a special dish that we are really proud of, and it has gained quite a reputation. We have carefully crafted this khichdi using a whopping 20 different ingredients, each chosen to add unique flavours and create a truly unforgettable experience.
CONNECTOR.AE 28 CONNECTOR.AE 29 Kids And Education Kids And Education Amazing Summer Camps For Children To Enjoy! What time is it? It’s summer time! It is that time that all children look forward to, as schools around the UAE are out for the summer break. Though some people go on holiday during the summer break, many decide to stay back in the UAE, and the excitement from the days off can quickly turn into boredom for many children. There is never a shortage of fun activities and events to check out for children staying in the UAE, and summer camps are the way to go if looking for something to curb daily boredom while also learning something new. Summer camps in the UAE have a variety of options to choose from, be it STEM camps, that focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, sport-centred camps for sporting enthusiasts, ones packed with adventure or creative camps for art lovers. If looking for amazing summer camps to enrol children in, Connector is here to help. Parkour DXB Are children making the house a playground? Parkour DXB in Al Quoz, Port Rashid and JVC is the place to send children to this summer break. With two age categories, the first is for children aged 3 to 5 years old, where they can enjoy activities including art, craft and games, as well as develop their confidence, coordination and fitness. The second age group for children aged 5 to 13 years old, will explore parkour moves from jumping, climbing, vaulting and swinging. Prices start at Dhs 1,048 per week. www.parkour.ae Fun Robotics Fun Robotics on Sheikh Zayed Road is hosting a fun summer camp centred around STEM, where children can explore a variety of new interests and skills. Running from 3 July to 31 August, children can participate in a series of activities, with different themes to develop new skills every week including drones, programming with Minecraft, artificial intelligence, game development with Roblox and cyber security. Prices for the camp start at Dhs 1,000 a week. www.fun-robotics.com The Green Planet Parents looking for fun summer camps to beat the Dubai heat can enjoy sending their children to an interactive camp at The Green Planet from 10 July to 24 August. The only indoor biodome in Dubai is home to over 3,000 plants and animals, where children will be able to enjoy amazing encounters with animals, learn more about conserving the planet, extinct animals and natural habitats, as well as participate in games and art and crafts. Prices for the camp start at Dhs 200 a day and Dhs 600 for a week. www.thegreenplanetdubai.com Bounce From 10 July to 25 August, Bounce will offer children an action-packed summer break. Children can enjoy learning new tricks on the trampoline, as well as participating in a series of games to test their competitive spirits including red light - green light, tug of war, spoon race and more. Snacks and lunch will also be served. The camp has half-day and full-day options, with prices starting at Dhs 190 per day and Dhs 750 per week for half day and Dhs 250 per day and Dhs 950 per week, for full days. www.bounce.ae
CONNECTOR.AE 30 CONNECTOR.AE 31 Kids And Education Kids And Education Dubai Sports World The largest indoor sporting venue in Dubai, Dubai Sports World is hosting amazing summer camps for children. Twelve academies are participating with American Middle-Eastern Dance Conservatory hosting a dance and karate camp, badminton at Star Badminton Academy, Professional Sports Academy and Deepika Sports Academy, tennis at Tennis 360, basketball at Star Basketball Academy, basketball and football at MVP, as well as football at Irish Football Academy, IFA Sports Academy, Star Football Academy, Soccer Kids Academy and Real Madrid Academy. Registration for each of the camps happening at the venue is available via the academy’s websites, which can be found through the Dubai Sports World website. www.dubaisportsworld.ae Pure Minds Academy Running from 3 July to 24 August, Pure Minds Academy at three locations at Rove Hotel Downtown Dubai, Studio One Hotel and Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Spa, is hosting a brilliant camp to develop children’s skills in STEM. Held for children aged 4 to 14 years old, the camp will teach them how to increase their creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The programme includes topics like robotics, coding, cyber security and finance. Prices start at Dhs 1,150 for a week. www.stemforkids.ae Soccer Kids Football Academy Children that are sporting enthusiasts can benefit from this amazing summer camp at Soccer Kids Football Academy at Arcadia School. Running from 10 July to 25 August, the camp will train children in a variety of sports including football, tennis and basketball. Prices start at Dhs 150 a day and Dhs 600 for a week. 055-2073168 Courtyard Playhouse This summer break, let children explore their creative side at Courtyard Playhouse in Al Quoz. The camps are targeted towards children aged 4 to 14 years old, where they can explore different skills from storytelling, acting and performing. Each week the classes will have a theme where children will then develop their skills in. Prices for a week is set at Dhs 1,215. www.courtyardplayhouse.com Expo City Dubai From 10 July to 18 August, Expo City Dubai is bringing a oneof-a-kind experience for children to enjoy during the summer break. Held at Terra - The Sustainability Pavilion, children can unleash their creativity with fun activities from exploring Mars through robotics, camping at Terra, participating in scavenger hunts, water activities and more. The price for one day is Dhs 165, with one week set at Dhs 735. www.expocitydubai.com Splash n Party Summer is meant for fun in the sun and Splash n Party in Jumeirah is bringing a brilliant camp for children to have a blast. The camp will run from 3 July to 25 August and will offer a range of activities from time in nature, arts and crafts to sports. Prices start at Dhs 150 for a day and are set at Dhs 599 for a week. www.splashnparty.ae Street Maniax Street Maniax in Al Quoz is hosting a fun-filled summer camp to keep children entertained during their break. Running from 10 July to 25 August, children can have a blast participating in fun games and activities. To further keep the children entertained, a magic show will also be held. Prices start at Dhs 170 for a day and Dhs 749 for a week. www.streetmaniax.com Elite Sports Children that love learning new sports can benefit from the Elite Sports camp at four schools including JESS Arabian Ranches, Horizon English School, JESS Jumeirah and Victory Heights School. Children will be teamed up based on their age, and each day a new theme will be explored from teamwork, competitions and adventure day, with sports including dodgeball, hockey, football, mini Olympics and basketball. The camp will run from 10 July to 25 August and is priced at Dhs 262.50 for a day and Dhs 892.50 for a week. www.elitesports.ae Aventura Parks The largest zipline park in the Middle East, Aventura Parks is hosting fun summer camps for children, aged 5 to 12 years old. The camps will run from 10 June to 18 August and will be hosted at two schools, Bright Learners and Raffles International School. Each week the camp will have a specific theme from life in space, under the sea and sustainability. Prices for a week are set at Dhs 725. www.aventuraparks.com
CONNECTOR.AE 32 CONNECTOR.AE 33 Kids And Education Kids And Education Meet The Teacher: Sarah Moynihan Teachers play an important role in the all-round development of students. Be it by teaching them life skills that they will continue to use throughout their lives or, developing their knowledge in various subjects. Bringing her expertise to teaching is Sarah Moynihan, a Year 2 Class Teacher and Head of Mathematics at Ranches Primary School in Arabian Ranches 2. Born in Ireland, Sarah Moynihan has been teaching for 11 years, six in the UAE, and found her calling by seeing her teachers set a high benchmark in helping her and her classmates grow. Leading by example, Sarah Moynihan helps younger students develop in their formative years of learning, to achieve their potential. In this feature, Sarah Moynihan shares with Connector what keeps her motivated and her favourite school teachers. What inspired you to start teaching? My favourite primary school teacher, Miss O Leary inspired me to go into teaching. She was the kind of teacher that anyone would aspire to be on a daily basis, knowledgeable and kind, making those early memories from school so precious. She taught me more about friendships and feelings than I realised as a child, and is an aspect that I prioritise when I teach. How did you decide to teach your current subject? I have always been based in Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) in my career and truthfully, I adore the age group. The children have all the enthusiasm that you need to make every day fun and exciting in the classroom. It is also incredibly rewarding to be able to teach children how to read and watch their progress between the ages of 5 to 7 years old in particular, it is really remarkable. Why do you love teaching? I enjoy my life as a teacher because of the children. Every teacher knows how tiring and stressful the work-life balance can be at certain times of the year, and sometimes even the most passionate can feel deflated when there is so much to keep on top of. So if there is one thing that reminds me every day of why I do it, it is the children and the fact that they rely on you so much as their teacher. It definitely makes it worthwhile. Do you remember your favourite teacher from school? Miss O Leary has been and always will be my favourite teacher. In secondary school, however, it was Mr O Mahony, the most incredible English teacher who could recite all of Shakespeare’s plays by memory. How do you make everyday classes more interesting? Each day I always leave a small part of the day up to the children to decide what to do. Whether it is extra time to finish their art lesson, some independent research on a topic that they are interested in, or just some quiet time to read to themselves. I found that this sets a strong level of trust and respect between me and the children, allowing for the rest of our lessons to naturally run more smoothly and creatively. What is a unique part of the school? Ranches Primary School is renowned for being a community school but until I began working here a few years ago, I did not fully appreciate the extent of how accurate these words are. It really is a school where everyone knows everyone and we are all willing to help each other. The children truly are such fantastic ambassadors for the school too, proven time and time again at competitions and events held across Dubai. What would you do if you were not a teacher? If I were not a teacher, I would one hundred per cent be some type of events planner or organiser, as that is what I am known for.
CONNECTOR.AE 34 CONNECTOR.AE 35 Kids And Education Kids And Education Introducing Banking For Children Learning how to be financially stable is a great lesson to start incorporating from a young age. As children grow, teaching them the importance and value of money is a critical life skill that helps them in saving and using their money wisely. It also teaches them the benefits of saving, and helps create a habit which they can implement throughout their life. Many parents give their children pocket money, which they earn based on a number of things from tasks completed around the house, for excelling in academics, good behaviour, or participating and winning laurels in extracurricular activities. A great way to help cultivate a sense of financial independence is through parents setting up a bank account, where children can be given the ability to manage their money and how much they spend and save. By having a bank account, children are better able to understand how to save as they can check their accounts, see the balance and make decisions accordingly, teaching them the importance of saving. Additionally, rather than receiving the pocket money and using it immediately, when the money is deposited into a bank account, it offers a platform for children to keep their money safe, without spending it all in one go. Through teaching children about managing finances, they are also able to learn how to budget. When looking to buy something for themselves or planning outings, parents can sit with them and explain the importance of setting a limit on how much money should be spent. Some banks have special accounts for children, which give them higher interest rates, a great incentive to teach children to save more. Parents can also maintain access to the accounts, and ensure their child is managing their finances in the right way. With their own bank accounts, children can also set financial goals with the help of their parents, where they can save money to buy the items they want. Here are some banks accounts that Connector has found that offer special benefits for children, to get them started on their journey to managing finances. EarlySaver Account and Deposit: The EmiratesNBD EarlySaver Account and Deposit is a great account for parents that are looking to manage and transfer money for their children. With this, parents can get supplementary cards for their children allowing them to make transactions as well as can keep track of how much is being spent. With interest rates calculated daily, the money earned will be credited to the account monthly. The account also offers amazing deals for families to enjoy fun-filled activities. www.emiratesnbd.com Shaatir Savings Account: Dubai Islamic Bank’s Shaatir Savings Account is good for children to understand how to manage finances. With no minimum opening charge and maintenance fee, the account can bemanaged online and comes with a personalised debit card. The account shows how much money is in the account, making it easier for children to better understand managing money. www.dib.ae Neo NXT Account: The bank account for children aged 8 to 18 years old by Mashreq NEO is great to understand how to manage money. The account has zero fee charges and comes with a personalised debit card, for children to make transactions when going out and about. To make it easier for children to understand how it works and manage finances better, a dedicated app with a simple interface is available. www.mashreqneo.com
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