DM unveils vital public amenity project in the city
DM unveils vital public amenity project in the city
Dubai Municipality in cooperation with Med K & K Advertising and Marketing Company announced yesterday one of the latest urban projects that many of the advanced big cities of the world are lacking, public amenities. The Dhs50 million project, which is aimed at building 100 public toilets in different areas of the city of Dubai, especially along the roads and squares, will be commenced from 2008. The toilets will be built as per high international standards both in its modernity and hygiene angle. Eng. Abdullah Rafeeu, Assistant Director General for Environment and Public Health Affairs announced the project in the presence of Mona Makki from Med K&K Advertising and marketing and George Chehwane of Group Plus at the joint press conference. He said according to the World Health Organization statistics one third of the world population is suffering from this problem as they use open areas for this purpose thereby posing the threat of spreading contagious diseases of which 1.8 million people, 90% of them children less than five years, die annually. Rafeeu said Dubai Municipality has initiated setting up and management of public health amenities from the beginning itself in the sixties. “This project goes along with the development currently being witnessed by the city. We have provided public health amenities in public places with excellent hygiene specifications matching the best technical applications available in the most advanced cities of the world,” he said.
“In fact, Dubai city, which has a promising future, is facing a lot challenges in the field of public health and environment. The growth of trade and tourism, which will result in the presence of an increased number of people on the streets, markets and public places, will demand provision of public hygiene amenities in all places and markets. Dubai Municipality controls these facilities and takes care of cleaning them in order to prevent the spread of any communicable disease,” said Rafeeu. He said the public health services, cleaning and protection of the environment will benefit all the individuals of all categories in the society.
Rafeeu said public health amenities in Dubai are not new, but it is undergoing continuous enhancement in order to keep pace with the urban development, economic prosperity and global tourism witnessed by Dubai.
“It also becomes another step in beautifying the image of the city with an attractive and beautiful design, which could be seen on our streets by August 2008,” he said. “Dubai has gained the nickname of “city of business and tourism.” It is not just one of the emirates in the UAE but it has been accepted by people in all countries of the word,” said Mona Makki of Med K & K Advertising and Marketing Company, “This achievement of the city has not come as a surprise but as a result of the great effort and hard work as well as the insistence for uniqueness and excellence by sincere people, on top of them is UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum,” she said.
“This has made Dubai match the big developed cities of the world in terms of modern road network, communications and buildings, festivals and exhibitions with global dimensions, technology and media,” said Makki.
The project, which is going to be taken up by the city of Dubai, is a pioneering project in the whole Middle East, she said, adding that a nominal amount of Dhs2 will be charged for the users of the toilet.
“While designing these facilities, we have taken into consideration the religious aspect and the climate of the region. A team, in coordination with Dubai Municipality, had visited Italy for getting briefed about the operation of such facilities and their construction techniques. The team had also held a meeting with an authority formed by Milan Municipality there,” said Makki.
Giving details of the specifications of the project George Chehwane, Managing Director of Group Plus said the doors of the toilets cannot be opened except by the person inside. “The toilets also will have fire fighting equipments and emergency phone facilities. The toilets will have most modern facilities such as the ones available in cities like New York, Paris and Rome. The advertisement boards on the toilets will add colour and beauty to the city. The toilets will also have automatic cleaning facility so that it remains clean and dry all the time,” he said.
“Studies by world class laboratories have proven that the cleaning facility in these types of toilets exterminates 99.9% of germs and bacteria compared to 30-40% of manual cleaning in the ordinary public health amenities. It is similar to the sterilization of surgery rooms of the operation theatres,” said Chehwane.
Prominent features of the amenity include automatic sensing system for flushing water, sanitizing liquid, tissue papers and hand drier to avoid germs infection; system for washing, cleaning, purifying and sterilizing the walls, toilet seats and floor after each use with water and air with high pressure; automatic opening and closing of doors; due to safety reasons these facilities will be automatically closed from midnight to morning; air conditioning system; automatic voice messages to inform and warn people about the specialties; facilities are controlled online to get accurate statistics and information about the usage, break down and preventive maintenance works; the units are environment friendly as they are designed to consume the lowest amount of electricity and water; protection to resist natural elements, scratches and graffiti; equipped to receive people with special needs; equipped with weight sensing system to prevent doors from locking in case a single child or two adults together; availability of water sprayer to wash the toilet after each use; equipped to set up advertisements inside and outside. This facility is considered to be one of the most important public sector projects implemented by private sector.
Chehwane said the first phase of the project had started way back in September 2005 and the first unit will be operational early 2008 and all units would become operational by next August.
“Dubai will become the first city in the Middle East to have set up such a system. By this Dubai will maintain its position of a pioneering city,” he said.
DM issues guide to regulate smoking in public places
DM issues guide to regulate smoking in public places
Dubai Municipality has issued a guide to help shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, cafes and other public facilities in the city to effectively regulate smoking in public places. The guide clearly defines areas where smoking is prohibited, where it is permitted, and lays down conditions for designated areas for smoking, licensing requirements, health and safety regulations. The guide also lists types of violations and the proposed fines for them. This was announced in a press conference held by the municipality and attended by Salem Bin Mesmar, Director of Public Health Department, and Zohoor Al Sabbagh, Head of Clinic and Community Health Section. Mesmar said the municipality’s decision to regulate smoking comes in line with the Dubai Strategic Plan (2007-2015) which seeks to protect public health and improve quality of life for nationals and expatriates residing in Dubai and in line with the Strategic Plan of Dubai Municipality which provides for ensuring purity of interior air and prevention of smoking in public buildings.
He noted that the municipality had already undertaken two phases of this programme under which smoking has been regulated in all shopping centres and malls with effect from 15 September 2007 and in all restaurants and cafes with effect from 18 November 2007. During the next phase, smoking will be regulated in hotels and hotel establishments including motels, resorts, dormitories and furnished apartments.
He said the guide would offer management of the public facilities, where smoking is being regulated, general instructions on the dos and don’ts of the programme that will help them effectively implement it. It would also help educate the general public on areas where smoking is not permitted inside a facility such as entrances, walkways, lifts & escalators, stair cases, lavatories, amusement & entertainment areas, places of employees, offices, cinemas, meeting & conference halls, stores, food courts, prayer rooms & ablution areas, closed car parking lots, shops & showrooms, reception & waiting areas, rest areas, and places close to food services. It also lists areas where smoking is permitted such as the specially-designated areas in the public buildings.
The types of violations, as listed in the guide, include violation of rules and regulations pertaining to import and distribution of tobacco and tobacco products, violation of rules and regulations pertaining to sale of tobacco, smoking in a prohibited place – individuals (, non-adherence by shopping malls, hotels and hotel establishments with the guide, non-adherence by restaurants and cafes with the guide, non-adherence by mass accommodations and health establishments with the guide, non-adherence by amusement and recreational centres with the guide, non-adherence by owners of public libraries, theatres, clubs, music party halls, museums, art galleries, wedding halls…etc, and violation of general rules and regulations on areas designated for smoking.
BP to work on LNG safety programme with Qatar
BP to work on LNG safety programme with Qatar
By Himendra Mohan Kumar, Staff Reporter GULF NEWS Published: December 19, 2007, 23:54
Abu Dhabi: Global energy major BP and Qatar Petro-leum have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop and fund a world-class liquefied natural gas safety research programme in Qatar.
The MoU is in partnership with the Qatar Foundation, and Texas A&M University and its affiliates. The agreement was signed by Mohammad Bin Saleh Al Sada, Qatar’s minister of state for energy and industry affairs.
“We at Qatar Petroleum believe that this MoU represents a significant step in our quest to develop the Qatari human resources, and we are sure partnerships with leading institutions will contribute to the advancement of science, and enhance technical skills of safety in the LNG industry,” said Al Sada.
“We are proud to be a part of this programme which will certainly be a remarkable achievement for Qatar Petroleum and the oil and gas industry in Qatar,” he added.
The programme, which will extend and complement the existing BP-sponsored programme run at the Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, will help advance the technical understanding of key safety issues impacting the worldwide LNG industry.
The research will be carried out at the Texas A&M University branch campus within the Qatar Foundation university campus in Doha and will encompass practical testing at Qatar Petroleum’s Ras Laffan Emergency and Safety College which is currently being constructed at Ras Laffan Industrial City.
“As Qatar continues to develop its leading role in the LNG world, such activities will facilitate the transfer of relevant technologies and build human capacity in LNG safety for the benefit not only of Qatar but also the LNG industry worldwide,” said Steve Peacock, president of BP’s Middle East and South Asia Exploration and Production Unit.
Qatar is the world’s largest exporter of LNG and aims to more than double its exports to 77 million tonnes per year by 2011 on the back of multibillion dollar projects.
Linde sets up joint gas venture with Adnoc
Linde sets up joint gas venture with Adnoc Reuters Published: December 19, 2007, 23:54
Frankfurt: Germany’s Linde has set up a joint venture with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (Adnoc) for the production and long-term supply of industrial gases to customers there, it said yesterday.
Gases and engineering group Linde said it held 49 per cent of the venture, named Elixier, and that state-run Adnoc owned the remaining 51 per cent.
“This joint venture is of major strategic importance to us and is the logical expansion of the previous collaboration of our engineering division with Adnic in the petrochemical industry,” Linde executive board member Aldo Belloni said.
Adnoc has access to about 90 per cent of Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas reserves, considered the fourth-largest in the world.
In the first phase of the joint venture, the companies will build a $65 million air-separation plant in the industrial zone of Ruwais, Abu Dhabi.
By the end of 2009, the plant will supply nitrogen to industrial customers in Ruwais and will produce liquefied nitrogen and oxygen.
All for fun and fun for all
All for fun and fun for all By Cindy L Bailey, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59
Families in the UAE are spoilt for choice when settling for
a weekend of serious fun.
A hard week in office demands a fun weekend. Now, having fun may be a state of mind in some hick town due to a lack of options, but not in the UAE. Dubai and the other emirates throw up seemingly endless opportunities for the family for a weekend of fun and frolic. Seek and you shall find.
Whether it’s spending time at the many beaches or parks in Dubai, visiting the exciting water parks or enjoying the adrenalin rush while indulging in some serious dune bashing in one of the seven emirates in your four wheel or on an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), the UAE prides itself in having something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Clare Hadley, mother of two children, Alexander, four, and Daniel, one, says, “As my boys are so young I can only really take them to the beach. We are quite limited to what we can participate in due to their age.
“Parks are great, Alexander likes to ride his bike (in the park.).
There are so many things to do in Dubai. There are a lot of options, although we tend to observe rather than join in. There are powerboat and hot air balloon shows. They all cater well for children. We do like to go to the Jebel Ali Sailing Club, the boys can play in the pool and play with the other children there.”
Kay Robinson, mother of Summer-Jane, seven, and Megan, five, shares what she does to keep her daughters entertained. “My girls love the beach. They love to build sand castles and play in the sea. Wild Wadi is also one of their favourite haunts. I’m happy to take them wherever they can get fresh air, I don’t like to keep them inside all day. Dubai’s weather is great and I like to take full advantage of that, obviously we have to be very careful during the summer months, but on the whole I like to involve them in anything that keeps them active.”
The beach isn’t just for children as parents can also take advantage by sitting back and relaxing while watching their children play and enjoy the sun, sand and sea.
Andrew Kirk, a Dubai resident, is father of Jessica, 11, and Adam, nine and describes what his family likes to do in their free time.
“The beach is always a popular choice with my kids, they never get bored with it. Whether they are playing soccer, volleyball or just rolling in the waves, they are always entertained. And it’s always nice for Sarah (his wife) and me to have some down time too.
“We always try and go to a water park once every few weeks. Now that the weather has cooled down we will be spending a lot more time on the beach, it was a little too hot for the kids during the summer. We could only take them before noon or after 3 pm. Our favourite water park is Wild Wadi with Juha’s Dhow being quite high in the popularity stakes.
“Of late, a personal favourite is spending the day at Dubai Creek Park. It has a great picnic area and we play rounders — Jessica and Adam love it. We have a great time. That is one of the things I love about Dubai. There are so many places that parents can spend quality time with their children.”
Wild Wadi is not the only water park where families can enjoy quality time together, Wonderland, Dubai, also includes a family water park.
“The park is divided into three areas: the main street that includes a special water mist cinema show, (films are projected on to a thin layer of water) the theme park that has roller coasters, go carts and restaurants, and Splashland water park with a host of water-based activities and pastimes to keep the whole family amused. The park also offers a ‘families only’ special on Thursdays.
“Wonderland is a family favourite. It’s an amusement park and water park rolled into one and keeps my whole family entertained; we love spending the odd weekend there,” says Marcus Bumby, father of two children, Cameron Reece, eight, and Annalise, four.
“My son loves to play football, so I take him to the park or beach most days after school. I am very conscious about keeping my children active. I want them both to be as healthy as possible and I believe an active lifestyle will ensure that.
“I don’t really like them playing videogames and watching TV all the time so my wife and I try to rustle up activities that involve them. Annalise loves to just join in with anything that Cameron does, whether it’s kicking a ball around on the beach or playing at the park.”
Great Outdoors – A mountain playground
A mountain playground
By Shikha Mishra, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59
The rugged landscape of Ras Al Kaimah draws avid trekkers and sports enthusiasts.
“We perceived the town of Ras el Khyma rising from the water line at the foot of lofty mountains.”
— JS Buckingham, 1825. (From the book A Portrait of Ras Al Khaimah, by Shirley Kay)
Driving down the highway to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) can be a surreal experience as the rush hour traffic jam in Sharjah melts into stark rocky mountains and miles of sand dunes. However, not all the topography of this emirate is desolate and barren. Lush green fields, wadis over-run with fresh water, gurgling waterfalls – RAK has earned its title of outdoor playground as hundreds of adventure lovers flock to it looking for their next adrenalin rush.
“RAK is the only emirate where you can enjoy the mountains to the beach to the sand dunes within a 10-20 minute driving distance from one another,” says Nagarajan J Udupa, General Manager, Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa.
The hotel has tied up with RAK Events and promotes sand dune and mountain driving, desert safaris, sand surfing, camping in the desert, trekking and mountain biking in the emirate. “Overnight camping in the desert is very popular and it is safe as well. For the adventurous ones, RAK is the right place to be as long as all the safety precautions are taken,” says Udupa.
Among the numerous mountain biking trails in RAK, three major tracks start from the Khatt Hotel. “There are a numbers of wadis in the area, the most prominent being Wadi Bih, Wadi Tayeba and Wadi Oraiyah. In the Wadi Oraiyah area there is a spectacular waterfall,” says Udupa.
Mahesh Sarna, a 33-year-old banking professional based in Sharjah has driven his 4×4 through Wadi Aimah, a popular, but extremely tough route through the Hajjar mountains. “Wadi Asimah can be accessed through Ghail, a small village in RAK. The wadi offers mountain driving over all types of terrain and conditions – from deep green foliage to small water bodies to dreary rocks – it has it all,” says Sarna.
John Falchetto of Mountain Extreme, an RAK based eco-adventure company specialising in adventure tourism and sports, organises a hike to Shaikh Saoud’s Mountain Palace in RAK.
“This trek is the most popular right now. It offers a chance to climb to the highest peak in the area, Jebel Jays, and a chance to enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley below, which extends all the way to the Arabian Gulf. This hike is also a great way to reach the top of Jebel Jays also known as the Stairway to Heaven, without having to cross exposed ledges. This is not an easy trek, an effort of five to six hours is required to reach Shaikh Saud mountain palace, but the climb is worth the magnificent scenery at the top,” says Falchetto.
Khalifa Al Khatri of Aryam Tours says that the government is making an effort to promote tourism in RAK. “Wadi Bih is the most popular wadi in RAK. It has beautiful off-road driving options apart from stunning mountain views, and is great to drive through.
The mountains in RAK have a lot of potential — you can do biking, hiking, quad biking, desert safaris, camping, desert sports, walks and horse and camel riding. The costs range between Dh150 to about Dh450 depending on the size of the group. Water sports, fishing, snorkelling, and sea boat trips are also great options to enjoy the variety of sea activities that RAK offers,” he says. And then there is Mountain Day.
In 2003, the UN General Assembly designated December 11 as International Mountain Day. “International Mountain Day is an opportunity to create awareness about the importance of mountains, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to build partnerships that will bring a positive change to the world’s mountains and highlands,” says Falchetto. On December 14 Mountain Extreme led a hike into the hidden mountain villages of the UAE to celebrate this day and create awareness.
Hikers were able to visit an authentic Shihi mountain village with houses, animal pens, a wheat mill and terrace fields, besides getting to see water springs, artefacts, wooden doors and tools dating back hundreds of years. An option to explore the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Yibir was also eagerly sought by avid hikers.
Apart from the mountains, the RAK beach is a popular venue for outdoor activities. The Hilton RAK has a diving centre, apart from activities such as fishing, boat trips, beach volleyball and football.
“Our main business comes from tour operators and the leisure market in the UAE. RAK is a great weekend destination and holidays such as Eid, Christmas and New Year apart from the long weekends get busy.
Our high season runs from November to the end of April because of the pleasant weather,” says Fadi Banat, Sales Manager, Hilton, RAK.
Great Outdoors – Park here!
Park here!
By Esha Nag, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59
Dubai’s parks are the emirate’s breathing space.
The UAE, in spite of its desert topography and dry climate, has beautiful and well-maintained public parks that offer a host of facilities. The directives of the Dubai Government to increase the number of green areas have provided an additional incentive to the Dubai Municipality to implement various plantation projects all over the emirate.
Dubai’s parks have turned out to be the emirate’s breathing space, besides being major tourist attractions. Says Ahmad Mohammad Abdul Karim, Director of Public Parks and Horticulture Department, Dubai Municipality, “Dubai now has a total recreational area of nearly 600 hectares with six public parks, 19 residential parks, eight landscapes, 32 community facilities (playgrounds) and two open beaches.
“More such facilities are under construction and will continue to be undertaken by the municipality in order to meet the needs of Dubai’s residents.” Currently the most popular parks include the Safa Park, Zabeel Park, Al Mamzar Park, Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai Creek Park and Mushrif Park.
By 2010 the Municipality intends to build 16 parks. These will include Nadd Al Hamr, Leisili, Hatta-1, Hatta-2, Al Barsha-2, Mamzar-2, Al Quoz, Al Nahda, Mirdiff 2, Al Warqa-2, Al Barsha-2, Al-Barsha-3 and Nadd Al Buhaira Pond Park.
“Public parks are a very important amenity, particularly in a city such as Dubai where so many residents live in apartments and do not have access to a garden. With the introduction of running surfaces around the perimeter of Safa and Zabeel Park, many people have taken to walking or jogging around the parks. The area is safe from traffic and there is plenty of parking space. The provision of toilets in the park is also very helpful,’ says Graham Rafferty, coordinator of the Dubai Road Runners.
The Dubai Road Runners meet every Saturday at 6.30pm in Safa Park.
“We also have events in Creek Park and Mushrif Park. Both are very pleasant to run in. A special running surface is currently under construction in Mushrif Park. I really feel we need more parks in Dubai because the traffic is heavy here and people don’t want to travel far to reach a park,” says Rafferty.
In order to maintain the beauty of the parks, the Public Parks and Horticulture Department has set up special organisational units to take care of maintenance and horticultural activities.
From horticultural maintenance to developing sports services as per the requirements of park visitors to cleaning services and privatisation, these units are responsible for the daily upkeep of these public spaces.
Says Deborah Dixon, who runs the Stride for Life aerobic walking and running programme at Safa Park: “In Dubai people work very hard and spend a lot of time commuting to and from work. This can be a fun, fast-paced life, but it can also be very isolating and physically and emotionally draining. Being near nature and other people can be a powerful stress reliever and mood booster.”
The Safa Park, Dixon feels, is a fantastic space in the heart of Dubai. “It is large enough to feel as though one has escaped from the city for a while. The park has wonderful trees and gardens, lakes and children’s play areas. The landscaping is such that there are areas suitable for field sports as well as hills, which will improve your fitness levels. There are also basketball and tennis courts here. We meet regularly at Safa. The outside pavement has been rubberised to provide an excellent shock absorbent surface on which to walk and run.”
Sharjah is also set to have 10 more public parks as part of a Dh15 million project to revamp its public spaces. The project, under the guidance of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, will also see the parks being used as venues for social events. The move aims at developing public park facilities, park expansions and landscape development.
In addition to its existing 35 parks, Sharjah Municipality is adding 10 new parks in the city, which will be fully equipped and designed to accommodate families and children.
Abu Dhabi also has several well-maintained parks, which reflect the commitment of the ruling family to the beautification of the city.
Most of the parks contain water features and children’s play areas.
The Abu Dhabi Municipality recently opened the Khalifa Park, a new recreational landmark in the UAE capital.
The 500,000-square-metre park can handle more than 5,000 people at a time. Its designs are inspired by Arabic and Islamic architecture and consist of various attractions, including gardens, party halls, a dedicated area for women and children with a swimming pool and an amphitheatre, all linked by a train.
The park’s museum traces the UAE’s history to the prehistoric era.
Parks of Dubai
Mamzar Park
Location: Mamzar residential area, on the extension of the corniche and Mamzar creek, neighbouring the main road that leads to Sharjah.
Facilities
— Modern, well-equipped and air-conditioned chalets with special areas assigned for barbecue and recreation. Charges for the big chalet are Dh200 a day, while a small chalet costs Dh150 a day. There are 15 chalets, which have parking nearby. The chalets are not furnished for sleeping.
— Five separate beaches with changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas, toilets, showers for beach swimmers and canteens. There are also lifeguards and safety buoys.
— Playgrounds for football, volleyball, basketball and tennis. There is also a special place for roller-skating. Beach visitors can use these facilities without any fees.
— 38 barbecue areas equipped with modern barbecue tools, umbrellas and benches.
— Large swimming pool with three recreational swimming areas for different age groups, wooden benches, umbrellas and sun beds in addition to changing rooms, showers and canteens.
— Children’s games and equipment such as slides and climbing bars, train and bike rides.
— A theatre that seats 10,000 people.
Mushrif Park
Location: Mushrif, Deira.
Facilities
— 56 spots for barbecue and picnics. These are equipped with wooden shades, seats, modern grills and wooden toys.
— Separate swimming areas for men and women.
— Rotating horses, flying camels, children’s cars, circular train, recreational jumping apparatus, swings, slides, seesaw and climbing ropes for children.
— Tracks for sports enthusiasts and reserved ground for volleyball, football and basketball.
— Restaurant with air-conditioned game halls.
Safa Park
Location: Off Shaikh Zayed Road on Interchange 2.
Facilities
— Grounds for football, volleyball and tennis and a set of physical fitness equipment.
— Peripheral jogging track with special running surface around the outside of the park.
— 21 barbecue areas equipped with modern barbecue tools, umbrellas and benches. More barbecue areas will be added soon.
— Children’s games and equipment such as slides and climbing bars, installed according to the latest international specifications. Visitors can enjoy swings, ride a train and rent bicycles.
— Electric cars, ferris wheel, traffic village, horse rides, boat rides and fun jumping. In addition, the park also has a labyrinth with foyer and corridors surrounded by fences and bushes with only one exit. Whoever enters the labyrinth shall find only one exit.
— Restaurant and games hall. There are three canteens spread across the park.
Jumeirah Beach Park
Location: In the residential area of Jumeirah, overlooking the Arabian Gulf and alongside Jumeirah Road.
Facilities
— Rental sun beds and umbrellas at reasonable rates, with the park crew offering the necessary help.
— Safe swimming areas off the beach with safety buoys.
— Recreational facilities such as speedboats, banana boats, and parachutes.
— Two beach football courts and two beach volleyball courts.
— Two barbecue areas, each with seven barbecues, umbrellas and seats.
— Slides, skating tracks and other high-quality games enjoyable for children of different age groups.
— Large restaurant with an air-conditioned billiards court.
Creekside ParkLocation: Alongside Dubai Creek on the Bur Dubai side.
Facilities
— Entertainment areas.
— Three helicopter pads.
— First-aid room and modern communication devices.
— Mini golf course, with 18 holes.
— Theatre area with capacity to hold around 400 people.
— Aflaj Heritage Village
— Children’s City and Snow World.
Zabeel Park
Location: Near World Trade Centre in the heart of Dubai in the Zabeel area. The park is divided into three sections — A, B and C.
Suspended pedestrian bridges and an internal train connect the three sections.
Facilities
— Party area.
— Maze modelled on the solar system
— Lakeside restaurant complex.
— Exhibition building.
— Cafeteria
— Cricket ground.
— Open-air theatre.
— Separate areas for technology, sports and entertainment.
— Main theatre for celebrations and programmes as well as for establishments wanting to host international shows.
— Health club
— Star Gate, a project with an estimated cost of Dh220 million.
Five domes, partly underground, are linked via air-conditioned tunnels. The domes are Saturn, Moon, Earth, Mars and UFO. Each dome is dedicated to different types of entertaining scientific activities.
Great Outdoors – Under the stars
Under the stars
By Cindy L Bailey, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59
All you need to know to camp in the UAE.
Some experiences are better lived than read about. Camping in the UAE is one of them.
There are still some camping rules where there is a little regulation that should be followed to not only keep out of harm’s way, but also to make each camping session magical and memorable.
There are no official camping grounds in the UAE but desert camping is still a very popular activity enjoyed by many, in areas such as Hatta, Liwa, Hameem and the Moreeb Dunes.
The Dubai Municipality website is a great source for camping tips. It includes hints on how to protect the environment while enjoying that fun day out in the great outdoors.
The Environment Department, Environment Protection and Safety section in the website elaborates. “The desert is a sensitive environment. Vehicles traveling over the sand pose a threat to habitats and dune stability.
“Drivers should avoid making new tracks in the sand and stay on paths that have already been made. Driving over the desert kills plants and spoils the compact soil, making it difficult for new plants to grow.
“Desert plants protect the desert from erosion and provide a source of nourishment and protection for desert creatures. Desert animals should not be disturbed.” The website also advises campers on how to approach areas that support wildlife. There are also beach camping rules.
“Do not drive vehicles in the inertial zone at the beach. Dubai Local Orders prohibit acts which may damage the natural environment of any protected area, including damage to wild, marine or plant life or any actions affecting the aesthetic values of any reserve.
Protected areas include the head of Dubai Creek, the coastal strip and adjoining marine waters west of Jebel Ali Hotel.”
In the UAE, keeping the harsh summers in mind, camping is not just about the where and how. It’s also about when.
The best time to pitch a tent in the UAE is during the winter months. Temperatures are not extreme (unless one is camping in the proper desert, where temperatures are known to plummet at night).
Also, do keep in mind to drink up to two litres of drinking water per person, per day during extended camping sessions in the desert.
Rosy pictures of a crackling campfires are picture perfect vignettes for the family album. But a lot goes into that Kodak moment, which brings us to the camping equipment.
To set up camp you will need equipment that can withstand hard ground, cold nights, sand and bugs. For shelter, choose a low-profile exoskeleton tent. Its seam-sealed floor keeps out insects while the self-supporting frame allows the tent to be moved around easily. Each person in the party should have his/her own sleeping bag.
Animals, insects, and sand are inconveniences one can’t help considering while camping out. Place clothes and shoes in bags at night and remember to shake out clothes and sleeping bags before use to ensure that there are no scorpions and spiders piling on for the ride.
Health is of paramount importance when out camping. Even on cool days it’s advisable to protect yourself against too much sun with a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, sun block cream and comfortable clothing.
Keep the young ones well protected. It is also important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration. “Feeling weak, dizzy, tired, exceptionally thirsty, getting a dry mouth muscle weakness and headaches are the symptoms,” warns Dr Denis Hardy, paediatrician at the Manchester Clinic, Dubai. Carrying a first-aid kit is a must.
Follow rules indicated in the Dubai Muncipality website. “Beaches and desert areas should not be littered with barbecue ashes.
“If you intend to make a fire then take your own wood or charcoal or use dead wood. Do not pull limbs from ‘ dead'” trees or uproot dead shrubs.” Know that any form of waste would take decades to decompose, so don’t forget to bring rubbish bags to discard of any waste.” For information regarding camping applications, contact 04 206 4244 or 04 206 4245. More details can also be found at http://www.environment.gov.ae
CAMPING OUT
Essentials for an overnighter
Here is a list of everything you will need for a safe camping trip:
Tent
Sleeping bags
Pillows (for small children)
First-aid kit
Sunscreen
Lanterns or flash lights (Be sure to have extra fuel or batteries.)
Insect repellent
A cool box with several litres of water
Dry foods such as sandwiches, crisps, canned foods and bread.
Tin opener
A small disposable grill
Matches or a lighter
A small saucepan
Plastic knifes, forks and spoons
Wet wipes
Rubbish bags
Great Outdoors – Thrills & Spills
Thrills and spills
By Andrea Anastasiou, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59
From riding the dunes to skimming the skies and diving into the azure blue of the Arabian Sea, the Top 10 list of outdoor activities in the UAE is a thrill fest.
The end of another uncomfortable UAE summer signals the start of the season for people to enjoy the great outdoors. During the next few months, there is an abundance of outdoor activities and events to be enjoyed by families, thrill seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Here are ten of the absolutely ripping best.
Dubai Seaplane
Seawings offers you the opportunity to enjoy and marvel at the ever-changing Dubai skyline from a Cessna 208 Caravan Seaplane. There are three tours to choose from, and some of the sights that are to be enjoyed from 1,500 feet are the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek.
Location: Jebel Ali Hotel
Cost: Starts Dh795 per adult
Contact: Seawings (+97148832999) or visit: http://www.seawings.ae
Movies under the stars
Every Sunday from 8 pm you can enjoy some of your favourite movies under the stars at the Wafi City garden rooftop. There is a different theme every week, with Ghost, Seven and American Pie being some of the past movies shown. Giant beanbags, popcorn, pizza and hot dog stands heighten the chilled out ambience.
Location: Wafi City Rooftop, entrance through Carters
Cost: Free
Contact: Wafi City (+971 4 3244555)
Absolute outdoor adventure
For true outdoor activity enthusiasts, Absolute Adventures offers all types of experiences at its beachfront facility in Dibba.
The centre is set among the region’s best trekking, mountain biking, kayaking, rock-climbing, diving and sailing areas, and is equipped with quality outdoor gear. For the full experience, take a group of friends and spend the weekend here and indulge in a fun list of outdoor activities.
Location: Karsha, Oman, on the UAE-Oman border
Cost: By quotation
Contact: Absolute Adventures (+9713459900)
Dubai Surf School
Take to the azure blue waters with Dubai’s first surf school, Surf Dubai, and learn how to ride the waves with the professionals. Dubai’s coastline suits the novice surfer due to the manageable waves. Lessons are offered daily, and specialised learner surfboards are provided.
All lessons are subject to sea conditions; you can receive daily Wave Alerts by signing up on the company’s website, (www.surfingdubai.com) and then call to book lessons at your convenience.
Location: Sunset Beach, Near Ladies Club, Dubai.
Cost: Starts Dh175 for adults, and Dh150 for children
Contact: Surf Dubai (+971505043020)
Desert safari
A popular outdoor experience is the desert safari; trips into the extensive desert are the ultimate UAE pastime. Many companies offer these excursions, with camel riding, dune bashing and safari skiing just some of the activities that are on offer whilst in the desert, in addition to the 4×4 wheel drive to reach ‘camp’.
Some packages include overnight stay with traditional Arabic entertainment in the form of belly-dancing, henna painting and shisha smoking.
Some companies that offer desert safaris are Arabian Adventures (+97143034888), and Desert Rangers (+9714 3402408)
Hot air balloon flight
You can now experience the moon-like landscape of the Hajj mountains, the Dubai skyline, and the giant dunes of the UAE from a hot air balloon. The trip lasts for approximately an hour and is suitable for most people, making it possible for families with children over the age of five to have an adventure in a safe environment.
Cost: Dh880
Contact: Balloon Adventure Dubai (+97142854949)
Dhow boat cruise
Take a dhow cruise on the Dubai creek to marvel at the city’s architecture and changing skyline. Many different tour companies offer cruises with some offering packages including food and beverages and live entertainment such as belly dancers and Arabic music. Some companies that offer Dhow Boat Cruises include Creekside Leisure (+971 4 3368407) and City Smart (+971 4 2246 181).
Tandem Sky Dive
The thrilling experience of a tandem sky dive from 12,000 feet is a must for adventure seekers, and this can be done at the UAQ Aeroclub in Umm Al Quwain. Accelerated free falls are also on offer for the extremely brave.
Location: Umm Al Quwain
Cost Tandem sky dive with an instructor, Dh1000.
Contact: (+971067681447)
Camel racing
Camel racing is a deep-rooted traditional sport that finds its origins in the desert culture of North Africa and the Middle East. The UAE has 15 racetracks with spacious and well-kept stadiums for viewers. Camel races take place from late October to early April, and periodically throughout the rest of the year. The races generally take place on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays throughout the winter season or on five-day events held in the UAE’s larger centres.
Contact: Nad Al Sheba Racecourse (+9714322277)
Water sports
Dubai International Marine Club is a beach resort that offers a large variety of water sports and pastimes including windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and scuba diving. There are also the Beach Olympics for incentive and corporate groups. The DIMC also hosts a number of racing events for vessels ranging from traditional dhows to modern yachts.
Contact: Dubai International Marine Club (+97143994111)
Photo Speaks – Passing Shots – Year 2007 that was
A Sadhu, or holy man, holds a poster of Indian cricketers and shouts slogans for their good luck at Sangam, the confluence of three rivers, the Ganges, the Yamuna and the Saraswati, in the northern Indian city of Allahabad March 12, 2007.
REUTERS/Jitendra Prakash
Kenji Nagai of APF tries to take photographs as he lies injured after police and military officials fired upon and then charged at protesters in Yangon’s city centre September 27, 2007. Nagai, 50, a Japanese video journalist, was shot by soldiers as they fired to disperse the crowd. Nagai later died.
REUTERS/Stringer
President George W. Bush departs the Oval Office of the White House for a day trip to South Carolina November 2, 2007.
REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque
A local farmer leads a row of camels at a tourism resort of the Kumtag Desert in Shanshan county, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region October 4, 2007. Kumtag desert has been developed as a tourist resort where visitors can have a full view of the magnificence of the desert without actually venturing out into it, local media reported.
REUTERS/China Daily
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