< Previous60 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com What a concept All the boutiques and concept stores you need to know about Sneaker District Shoppingtimeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 61 Malls area dime a dozen in Abu Dhabi, with almost all your favourite high street brands available across the city. But if you’re looking for something really unique, you need to be heading to a concept store or a boutique. It’s there that you’ll Ànd those unique buys that have people asking “where did you get those shoes” for years to come, or those gifts that people truly cherish. If you’ve just moved and you’re looking to turn your house into a home, a few quirky cushions or other furnish- ings will go a long way to helping you settle into your new apartment or villa. Luckily for us, there are a number of amazing boutiques and concept stores dotted around Abu Dhabi that Àt the bill, and we’ve made your life a lot easier by rounding them up for you right here. Happy shopping! ETHER Due to open in Yas Mall later this month, ETHER comes from the brains behind Abu Dhabi-based coworking concept Cloud Spac- es. The new concept store will showcase both local and international businesses, and you should look out for beautiful leather acces- sories from Leder, Emirati streetwear brand Bunka, delicate pieces by Coe Ceramics, and Honestry’s range of healthy food products. Spaces are being rented by businesses on shorter contracts than traditional stores, so you’ll need to visit again and again to see what new brands are being stocked. O Opening soon. Yas Mall, Yas Island, etherbycs.com. ETOILE LA BOUTIQUE Stocking both the biggest names in interna- tional fashion (think Etro, Jason Wu, Monique Lhuillier, and Victoria Beckham), as well as up-and-coming local designers, Etoile La Boutique is every fashion-lover’s dream, and the Baroque-inspired interiors form the perfect backdrop for a serious round of Àttings. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, etoileboutique.com (02 626 6922). LOCAL Building on past success, lifestyle brand Local now has two concept stores in Abu Dhabi: the original sneaker store in Al Zeina and the new- er more lifestyle-oriented store on Soul Beach at Mamsha Al Saadiyat. The latter stocks a curated selection of fashion, lifestyle, and homeware brands, including Aries, Comme des Garçons Parfums, Medicon Toy, and Sui- coke. If you’re looking to source a brand you can’t Ànd elsewhere in the UAE, chances are you’ll Ànd it right here. O Al Zeina: Open daily 7am-10pm. Al Zeina, localco.ae (02 555 3339). Mamsha Al Saadiyat: Open daily 8am- 11pm. Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, localco.ae (02 555 3339). SAUCE There are a number of Sauce boutiques across the UAE, but here in Abu Dhabi you’ll be able to get your Àll of fashion, lifestyle and home decor at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. The items here are perfect for upgrad- ing your next beach day (making the location even better), with unique bags, jewellery, beachwear and swimwear. O Open daily 10am-7pm. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, shopatsauce.com (02 811 4444). SNEAKER DISTRICT Claiming to be “only for sneaker freaks”, Sneaker District is the place to go for all your footwear-related needs. Apart from the latest sneakers, including limited-releases and designer collabs from the likes of Adidas and Nike, the store also stocks street-fashion brands such as Filling Pieces and Market. The concept store also features a café and basketball court. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. WTC Mall, World Trade Center, sneakerdistrict.com (02 645 5678). THE CONCEPT STORE The unoriginally named The Concept Store is perfect for those who can’t work out unless their outÀt is on point. The multi-brand store, located at Abu Dhabi Ladies Club, stocks leggings, tops and other sports gear that will look as good in the gym as it does outside of it (there’s no judgement here – our leggings get more work at the grocery store than on the treadmill). O Open Sat-Thu 11am-8pm. Abu Dhabi Ladies Club, Khor Al Maqta, theconceptstore.ae. THE LIGHTHOUSE You might be more likely to pop into Dubai-ex- port The Lighthouse for breakfast or lunch than a bit of retail therapy, but this spot on Yas Bay Waterfront is part-café, part-concept store. In the concept store part, you’ll Ànd accessories, gifts and more to peruse. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-midnight; Fri-Sat 8am-1am. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, thelighthouse.ae (02 236 7831). Local62 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com With temperatures at their yearly low, there’s no better time to escape into nature for a brisk hike. Whether you haven’t laced up your boots since you did your Duke of Edinburgh bronze, or you’re an experienced terrain-trekker there are plenty of trails you can do across the Emirates. So, pack the snacks and we’ll see you on the trails. JEBEL HAFEET Al Ain may be known as the Garden City, but it’s the rugged good looks of the nearby Jebel Hafeet mountain range that you should be interested in. It will take four hours to move from base-camp to more suitable vantage points, where hikers can gaze out over the vast open desert, as well as Al Ain down below. One for the more seasoned hikers, don’t forget to wear in those walking shoes – lest you incur some serious blisters. Level: Intermediate. Starting point: Green Mubazzarah Park. O Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi. JEBEL JAIS The UAE’s highest peak is a trekker’s delight. With massive draws in the shape of The Balcony, Wadi Al Far and Wadi Shah, the tricky terrain is something to marvel at. That said, some elements pose a daunting proposition, so do your research before setting off. Otherwise, you’ll be in for a brutal test of your hiking ability. The lower segment trails – of which there are Àve – range from 0.7km to 6km, while the Ghaf Summit gauntlet in the upper tier of the range totals 4.3km of testing ground. Pick your lane wisely. Level: Beginner to intermediate. JOIN A CREW ABSOLUTE ADVENTURE An award-winning global adventure company that knows its way around the UAE’s and Oman’s best hikes. Prices vary depending on the route length and difÀculty. O adventure.ae. HIKE UP BREATH IN! Combing breathing sessions with hikes, connect with your nature and yourself with this fun-loving group. O @hikeupbreathin. UAE TREKKERS This group puts on various hikes you can join depending on your level of experience. You can pick from ‘Àrst time hike’ all the way up to ‘challenge’ level and even go on a family-friendly route. O uaetrekkers.com. Sport & Outdoor Starting point: Wadi Ghalilah Dam. O Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah. JEBEL QADA’AH One of the highest peaks in the UAE can be found between the UAE and the Musandam Mountains in Oman. Both beginner and experienced hikers will feel comfortable here as there are both easy to moderate routes to choose from. Keep an eye out for the Secret Staircase, a staircase carved into the sand by local goat herders. And if you’re hiking the entire route pack your passport, as it lies beyond the Oman border. Level: Beginner to intermediate. Starting point: There are two routes to choose from so put either ‘Jebel Qada’ah route 1’ or ‘Jebel Qada’ah route 2’ into Google Maps. O Wadi Al Beeh, Ras al Khaimah. SHOWKA DAM This one is only around an hour in the car from Dubai and, importantly, has routes that cater to most abilities. You’ll need a decent pair of legs to scale the man-made staircase cut into the Àrst range of mountains, but once at the top there’s a choice of slaloming loops (up to 10km) back to base-camp (the car park in this case). The views are ace and the air up there Àlls your lungs differently – trust us. Level: Beginners. Starting point: Put Showka Dam into Google Maps, there’s a car park here. O Wadi Showka, Ras Al Khaimah. Take a hike Lace up your boots and try one of these top UAE hiking routes this winter Showka Damtimeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 63 STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN One of the more difÀcult trails, at 17km from start to Ànish, this trail at Wadi Ghalilah is one for seasoned hikers only. At its highest point, it takes adventurers 1.5 clicks above sea level, meaning it won’t just be the views that leave conquerors breathless. Comfortable shoes are a must, as this one could well hurt. Level: Intermediate to experienced. Starting point: Wadi Ghalila Dam. O Wadi Ghalilah, Ras Al Khaimah. WADI LASAL While this circular strip found in Sharjah stretches for nearly 10km, it’s well-suited to beginner hikers. The terrain is Áat and simple, so you can even bring the kids along for a leisurely three-hour hike and some quality time. Just keep an eye out for bikers as this trail is a popular route for them, too. Level: Beginners. Starting point: Put Wadi Lasal into your maps. O Wadi Lasal, Ras Al Khaimah. Jebel Hafeet64 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com During the winter months, we try to spend as much time as possible outside to make up for the summer. It doesn’t matter what time of day – from the early mornings when it’s still a bit chilly, to the height of the heat when we’re dowsed in sunscreen – we’re determined to make the most of it. If you’re the same, you’ll no doubt be looking for ways to get your kids off the screens and into the sunshine, which is exactly why we’re rounded up some of our favourite places to visit outdoors. Wholesome family fun is guaranteed. BAB AL NOJOUM This camp in Hudayriyat offers a superb daycation experience for families. Each little camper, or group of campers, will get their own beach tent for the day, access to the water-sports centre and kids’ play area, as well as a beach cinema experience. There are loads of free activities to choose from (think hoola hoops, giant jenga, beach volley, sunset tunes and karaoke), as well as some paid options (including paint your own mug workshops, make your own kite workshops and pony or horse rides) on offer, plus a number of food options to choose from. O Dhs89 (day use), Dhs125 (day use with snack box), Dhs249 (day use with lunch or dinner), free (kids under Àve), Dhs40 (kids under 12). Daily 10am-sunset. Hudayriyat Island, babalnojoum.com/offer/tent-day-use. CORNICHE BEACH Another option for those looking to head to the sandy shores of Abu Dhabi, Corniche Beach is super popular with families. There are a number of different sections of the Family & Kids two-kilometre beach, including two which are perfect for those with little ones (gate two and three). There are volleyball courts, football pitches and a children’s play area, as well as cycling and walking paths. O Dhs10 (adults), Dhs25 (per sunlounger), Dhs5 (kids). Open daily 7am-midnight. Abu Dhabi Corniche. JUBAIL MANGROVE PARK You can combine outdoor fun with a spot of learning over at Jubail Mangrove Park. Go for a stroll along the walkways, stopping off at signs on the way explaining the climate in the area, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife like crabs, Àsh and birds. Want to take it to the next level (or should that be down a level)? You can also book in for a kayak tour around Get outdoors Make the most of the great weather with your little ones with this ultimate guide to outside fun Yas Waterworld Jubail Mangrove Parktimeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 65 Jubail Mangrove Park, which is suitable for everyone aged three and up (although under 18s have to be accommpanied by an adult). O Dhs15 (adult boardwalk experience), Dhs110 (adult kayaking tour), Dhs5 (kids boardwalk experience), Dhs90 (kids kayaking tour). Open daily 7am-9pm. Jubail Island, jubailisland.ae. RAHAL RANCH Youngsters can enjoy a day out horse-riding at Rahal Ranch. The ranch offers lessons and rides for beginners and intermediaries ages 3 and up, starting out from Dhs75 for a 25-minute pony ride, while more experienced riders can partake in the group desert rides. And if you’re really, really skilled on horseback, you can even sign up for lessons where you’ll learn how to pull off moves only seen on the silver screen. O Dhs75 (pony ride), Dhs150 (group lesson). Open daily 8am-7pm. Al Wathba, rahalranch.com (056 698 8848). YAS MARINA CIRCUIT Open to the public on Mondays and Wednesdays between 6pm and 10pm, the famous F1 circuit is a great place to take kids for a bike ride. Best of all? Bike and helmet rental is absolutely free. And while the kids scoot around on their bikes, parents can cycle, walk or jog the Àve-kilometre track too. Make sure you check the Yas Marina Circuit website before heading down, as motorsport events may lead to sessions being cancelled. O Free. Mon, Wed 6pm-10pm. Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, yasmarinacircuit.com. YAS WATERWORLD Promising buckets full of fun (get it?), Yas Waterworld is suitable for kids of all ages, from babies to teens. There are loads of fun rides to go on, including the Jebel Drop and Slither Slides, water-balloon Àghts to win and pools to splash in. All you have to do is book your ticket and remember to bring your sunblock. And if you want to make a day of it, don’t forget than you can book a pass with access to two parks in one day. Yas Waterworld followed by Warner Bros. World? Sounds like a winning combo to us. O Dhs270 (adult day pass), Dhs220 (kids day pass). Open daily 10am-6pm. Yas Island, yaswaterworld.com (02 414 2000). ZAYED SPORTS CITY If you’re looking to help your little ones burn off energy, get yourself down to Zayed Sports City. There, you’ll be able to play sports including basketball, beach volleyball, football, netball, padel, tennis and more – meaning you’re bound to Ànd an activity your little ones will love. During half term and other school holidays, ZSC runs also runs camps to keep your kids busy. O Various prices. Zayed Sports City, szc.ae.66 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com Dhs60 BB SOCIAL DINING has made a name for itself thanks to its banging bites, bowls and barbecue, and the Dubai-export has onally made its way down to the capital. Now open as a pop-up at Huna in Yas Mall, and with a soon-to-open permanent outlet at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, we thought it was time to introduce you to one of our favourite dishes: the show-stopping Habibti bao. HYPE DISH DISSECTION What goes into the Abu Dhabi plates that everyone bangs on about Meaning “darling” in Arabic – this beautiful bun might look sweet on the ’gram but it packs a punch, too. “Just look at it. How can you not fall in love? And, have you ever eaten a whole crab all at once?” says bao expert, executive chef and co-founder of BB Social Dining, Alex Stumpf. And it’s so popular that BB Social Dining serves up an average of 600 Habibti baos each week – you don’t need to be a maths whizz to know that’s a lot of baos – nearly a whopping 30,000 per year. Want to know more about what goes into the most Insta-tastic crab in town? Stumpf spills the beans on what makes this bao an absolute banger. O Huna, Yas Mall, Yas Island and Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, thisisbb.com. THE SOFT SHELL CRAB “Our crabs come from Myanmar where they’re smaller in size. The special marinade is put on for 30 minutes to avoid over-marinating.” THE SAUCE “We use freshly- grated wasabi in the mayonnaise dressing for that extra kick and zingy freshness.” THE BAO “Our baos are homemade and prepared in-house every night using the freshest of ingredients.” Want the bao recipe? “Well, that’s a secret…” Habibti bao at BB Social DiningAhmed Ahmed Show 8:30pm / Tickets AED 160 www.thelaughterfactory.com march 3RD – 11th the ‘Axis Of Insanity’ tour Rick Kiesewetter Chris Forbes LF_MARCH_Timeout_R1.indd 110/02/2023 1:48 pm TO DUBAI ADS.indd 110/02/2023 14:38For more information or dining reservations, please contact +971 2 811 4342 or email JSIrestaurants@jumeirah.com Saadiyat’s ultimate dining destination with a plethora of award winning restaurantsNext >