Dubai city watch 3
We bring you the pick of what’s happening in August and September in Dubai, London and New York, by James Fryer and Francesca Syz.
Splish splash
What could be more perfect than a dip in the pool on a hot summer’s day? For a dip with a difference, take the family to Wild Wadi, one of the world’s most advanced water theme parks situated between the iconic Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotels. The park is designed around a tale from Arabian folklore and boasts a whopping 30 interconnecting rides and attractions. Defy gravity on the Flood River Flyer, body board on the real waves at the Flow riders or climb the 27 metre-tall Jumeirah Sceirah (pronounced scarer for obvious reasons) and zoom down the tallest and fastest speed slide outside North America at breakneck speeds of 80km/h. If you are lucky enough to be the four-millionth visitor (expected in the next couple of months) you will win return flights to New York and a stay at Jumeirah Essex House – more reason than ever for a splash. Visit www.wildwadi.com for details.
Read all about it
Book-lovers will be spoilt for choice come September as one of the world’s biggest and best bookstores – Borders – makes its first appearance in Dubai. The inaugural store will open its doors at Mall of the Emirates and is expected to stock a plethora of titles from local and international authors alike. If you fancy whiling the hours away with a latte and copy of Dan Brown’s latest blockbuster, the in-store Starbucks should prove the perfect escape from the bustling mall. What’s more, a host of book-signing sessions are expected to have bookworms flocking to the new store. And the anticipated book readings will provide the perfect opportunity to be introduced to some of the Middle East’s finest authors and share your own favourites with likeminded readers. Call Mall of the Emirates on + 971 4 409 9000.
Cool school
If you still haven’t taken the kids to our very own winter wonderland in the desert then now’s the time with ‘Get Ready for Cool School’ summer camps for August. The five day Ski Dubai camps will give budding snow bunnies a flying start on skis or boards as they’re tutored by professional instructors, some from the world-renowned Ecole Du Ski Francais. New camps start on every Saturday of the month and cater for seven to 12 year olds and 13 to 18-year-olds. All the necessary equipment is available for hire so strap on your ski boots, don the obligatory puffy jacket and start tearing down the slopes. Camps are priced $180 for children and $210 for teens. Call Ski Dubai on + 971 4 409 4000.
Playing about
Madinat Jumeriah will bring theatre lovers something special this August and September with four top shows in its elegant theatre. Marc Salem will be kickstarting the season with his August 8 to11 Mind Games, a hit Off Broadway where it captivated audiences by exploring the power and possibilities of the mind. From August 29 to September 1, London’s longest-running comedy, the fast and furious The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) has the Bard-busters acting out every one of Shakespeare’s plays in 90 minutes. Kylie fans can get into disco diva mode with the 100% Kylie tribute show from September 12 to 14 and last but not least, September 19 to 22, see Neil Simon’s peerless comedy California Suite, which explores the complexities and absurdities of human relationships. For details, call the Madinat Theatre box office.