The definitive guide to the emirate’s hidden gems.
Anyone who has been to Dubai before is bound to be well acquainted with the city’s most popular tourist attractions—think soaring skyscrapers, sprawling shopping malls and luxurious beach clubs. But steer ever so slightly off-course and away from the standard travel book recommendations to uncover the under-the-radar spots that are loved by UAE locals.
The homegrown café favoured by the health set
From a variety of dishes made using organic eggs to wholesome, satisfying grilled meats and a nutrient-packed homemade bone broth, Hapi is a healthy hub offering dishes to suit all taste buds. Located bang in the middle of Alserkal Avenue’s trendy galleries, the space also doubles as a parkour studio, so you can work up a sweat before you nosh, or work off the effects of the food with a walk through the artsy hood. (instagram.com/hapi.ae)
The insider’s surf school and hangout
Keen to hit the waves while you’re in town? Head straight to Surf House on Jumeirah Beach Road. Housed within a beachfront villa, the centre offers surfing and standup paddle along with early morning yoga classes in the indoor studio. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a healthy breakfast at the café, which just happens to serve one of the tastiest acai bowls in town. (surfingdubai.com)
Late-night Lebanese street food
When the munchies kick in, those in the know hightail it to Al Reef Bakery (located on Al Wasl Road, near Safa Park) for a freshly baked mana’ish topped with melted cheese, za’atar and meat. If you fancy something sweet, grab a plate of assorted baklava sweets—and take home a box for friends and family. (+971 4 3945 200)
Just-caught seafood loved by fishermen
This story is from the August - September 2018 edition of Condé Nast Traveller India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August - September 2018 edition of Condé Nast Traveller India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS 2023
The ranking of India's 50 most exciting restaurants was revealed at a glittering ceremony at the Taj Lands End, Mumbai. Returning after a three-year hiatus, the event was a true celebration of the industry and the brightest stars of the fraternity showed up to support and cheer each other on!
ON THE GO
Our pick of the most stylish finds and travel related news
TANGIER RISING
THE CREATIVE VISIONARIES OF MOROCCO'S OFT-ROMANTICISED PORT CITY ARE TELLING A NEW STORY.
BRUSHES WITH NATURE
On the snowy Japanese island of Hokkaido, a rich seam of creativity and craftsmanship is deeply rooted in the physical world-and in a sacred Ainu tradition that has survived here for centuries
KOLKATA: A WINDOW TO THE FUTURE
In a city filled with colonial nostalgia, a a new restoration story and fresh approaches are changing the narrative, one building at a time.
VICTORIA BECKHAM
From Paris to Portofino via Los Angeles, the fashion designer shares the places and personal stories that have inspired her first fragrance collection
SHOPPING IN SEOUL
South Korea's capital may have grown into a pop-culture powerhouse, but its artisans are keeping ancient craft traditions alive.
POSTCARD FROM COLOGNE
Rimowa's Emelie De Vitis on her favourite places for espressos, botanical cocktails, relaxed dinners, art, architecture, and history in the German city that she and the cult luggage brand call home
DEEP DIVE DUBAI
Residents know there's more to this diverse emirate than meets the eye. The ones who shaped it share their favourite spots.
Winter Wanderlust
Embrace the best of the season with these standout winter experiences.