Though we don't have an established street food culture, the increasing number of food trucks has helped to create an urban buzz, at least during winter. Dubai is becoming a culinary hotspot with steps up such as Last Exit off Sheikh Zayed Road and features 10 food trucks from some of the emirate's most popular outlets. And, as The National reported yesterday, Abu Dhabi's already-licensed restaurants will also have the opportunity to set up their own food trucks and apply for a licence from the Department of Economic Development.
While this is good news, it only benefits those restaurateurs who are already in business. We hope these licences will soon be available to entrepreneurs who can’t afford permanent premises. A great variety of cuisines should be available in different price brackets to cater for all segments of society. As long as there is available space and hygiene and other standards are maintained, we should encourage start-ups to join the food revolution.
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Director: S Shankar
Producer: Lyca Productions; presented by Dharma Films
Cast: Rajnikanth, Akshay Kumar, Amy Jackson, Sudhanshu Pandey
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
Date: Sunday, November 25
Iftar programme at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Established in 1998, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding was created with a vision to teach residents about the traditions and customs of the UAE. Its motto is ‘open doors, open minds’. All year-round, visitors can sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch or dinner meal, as well as a range of walking tours, including ones to sites such as the Jumeirah Mosque or Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
Every year during Ramadan, an iftar programme is rolled out. This allows guests to break their fast with the centre’s presenters, visit a nearby mosque and observe their guides while they pray. These events last for about two hours and are open to the public, or can be booked for a private event.
Until the end of Ramadan, the iftar events take place from 7pm until 9pm, from Saturday to Thursday. Advanced booking is required.
For more details, email openminds@cultures.ae or visit www.cultures.ae