With Eid Al Fitr just around the corner, if you're not heading overseas for the holidays, it might be a good time to take a staycation for a change of scenery and some much-needed rest and recreation.
The first day of the Eid holiday is predicted to fall on April 10 with most people enjoying either a four or five-day holiday.
Hotels across the country have plenty of Eid offers available to book, whether you fancy a beachfront stay on Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, a scenic escape in Fujairah or an adventure in the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. Here are 13 of the best deals available this Eid Al Fitr, with something to suit everyone.
1. Hatta is calling at Terra Cabins by JA Hatta Fort Hotel
Eid Al Fitr marks the perfect time to make a break for the mountains, with a stay in the Terra Cabins at JA Hatta Fort Hotel. With pinewood facades and peak views of the Hajar Mountain range, these cabins come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable getaway including walk-in rain showers, multimedia projectors, minibars and comfortable beds.
Guests can use all of the facilities at the JA Hatta Fort Hotel including swimming pools, in-room dining, restaurants and leisure activities. There’s a two-night minimum stay over Eid to avail of the JA Moments offer which includes discounted rates and daily breakfast. And there are pet-friendly cabins too if you want to bring your pet along.
From Dh4,171 excluding taxes for two nights, two adults and two children under six; JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Hatta; www.jaresortshotels.com
2. Waterfront views at Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain
Rolling waves and a pristine shoreline are on offer at Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain this Eid Al Fitr. Less than an hour from Dubai, the compact emirate has gorgeous natural surrounding and interesting historical sites as well as being home to Dreamland Aqua Park – a brilliant day out for families, and a lot cheaper than many alternatives across the UAE.
The Vida Beach Resort is set along the beautiful coastline, with chic decor inside as well as being both family and pet-friendly. Even better, over Eid they have 20 per cent off on staycation rates for UAE residents.
Rates from Dh1,253 over Eid; Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain; www.vidahotels.com
Read The National's first-hand hotel review of the property here.
3. Serenity and scenic views at Banyan Tree Dubai
You can be among the first to stay at Banyan Tree Dubai on Bluewaters Island. A world of serenity awaits at this tranquil escape right on the waterfront.
Hip Chinese dining at Demon Duck, impressive international cuisine at Alizee and lazy days around one of the city’s biggest swimming pool complexes are all on the menu for your stay. Children will love the splash park and children's club, and you’ll also have front-row seats to Dubai’s Eid fireworks from the spacious balcony.
This Eid, there's up to 20 per cent off room rates, plus daily breakfast, early check-in and late check-out. Guests can also enjoy 20 per cent discount on dining and spa services.
Rates from Dh2,200, including breakfast; Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island; www.banyantree.com
4. Kid-tastic fun at Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai is a family-friendly playground inspired by Thailand and Arabia. Over Eid, you can book an all-inclusive packages at the resort that allows children to eat ice cream, take part in fun activities and have yet another apple juice without parents having to worry about being hit with a huge bill at the end of the stay.
With nine restaurants, a children’s spa and an action-packed water park with cliff-diving platforms, rope-climbing course and small splash pad, the whole family will have plenty to do over the holidays.
Rates from Dh2,000; Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, Dubai Islands; www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Read The National's review of the hotel here
5. A desert embrace at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
The desert is waiting this Eid Al Fitr at the truly stunning Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Set in Abu Dhabi's Empty Quarter, it’s around two and a half hours from Dubai and well worth the drive.
Burnt orange dunes and serenity abound at this Arabian-style resort where you can unwind by the lagoon-like swimming pool, head out on a nature walk, try some desert activities or indulge at the spa, where there's a multitude of treatments on offer. There’s also several dining options including a stunning rooftop bar which is the perfect spot for sundowners.
Half board stays in a Deluxe Garden Room start from Dh2,700 over Eid; Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi; www.anantara.com
6. A city stay at Address Sky View in Dubai
You can grab front row seats to Eid fireworks as well as a stunning city staycation in Downtown Dubai at Address Sky View. The skyscraper hotel has an infinity pool for adults on level 54 where in-water loungers and a huge decking area make the most of the city skyline views.
Qix Kids Club is open to little ones aged four to 12, and the family pool at the lobby level is for everyone. The Sky Retreat package this Eid will get you daily breakfast, 20 per cent off food and beverages and 20 per cent off spa treatments.
Rates from Dh2,349; Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai; www.addresshotels.com
7. Outdoor adventures at Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah
For something a bit different over the coming holidays, Ras Al Khaimah is offering a stay on the UAE’s tallest mountain – at the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp.
Special packages include an overnight stay for two people and three activities per person. Take your pick from high rope courses, abseiling, rock-climbing, hiking, archery or air-rifle shooting. Accommodation comes in the form a shipping container with bunk beds, a picnic table and barbecue facilities.
From Dh449 for two people; Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah; reservations@beargryllscamp.ae
8. Waterside living on Dubai's Queen Elizabeth 2
Dubai’s only floating hotel is welcoming guests on board over the Eid holidays. The QE2 is the place to discover maritime history and enjoy a drink in the city’s oldest pub.
Rooms come with uninterrupted sea views, and if you want to find out more about the fascinating story of the royal ship, a heritage tour shows what life was like on-board the ship during her sailing days.
This Eid, packages include complimentary upgrades to sea-view rooms, daily breakfast, late check-out and a special Eid dinner at Lido Restaurant.
From Dh549 for a classic room; Queen Elizabeth 2, Dubai; www.qe2.com
Read The National's review of the hotel here.
9. Fields of dreams at Al Habtoor Polo Resort in Dubai
Surrounded by expansive polo fields, the Al Habtoor Polo Resort is just 20 minutes from the heart of Dubai but feels a world away. The equestrian-inspired retreat has a beautiful Andalusian design and a gorgeous palm-lined infinity pool with a swim-up bar.
Active types can enjoy the tennis courts, archery and driving range and there are also equestrian activities on site. Over Eid, guests staying two nights in a deluxe room can enjoy complimentary breakfast at Andalusia restaurant and indulge in afternoon tea at the Equestrian Lounge.
From Dh1,840 per couple; Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai; www.habtoorpoloresort.com
10. East coast vibes at the Address Beach Resort Fujairah
On the UAE’s east coast, Fujairah is a stalwart destination when it comes to staycations and one of its most recent additions is offering great deals over the Eid holidays. The Address Beach Resort Fujairah is set on the popular coastline of Al Aqah, and its three swimming pools and spa overlook the ocean.
Backed by the Hajar Mountain range, the temperatures here tend to be a little cooler and the ocean is thriving – with turtles, colourful fish and rays. The hotel’s Adventure Package makes the most of the marine magic, including a stay in a deluxe room with pool view, daily breakfast and a snorkelling trip for two.
From Dh1,700 per night; Address Beach Resort Fujairah, Al Aqah; www.addresshotels.com
11. Go glamping at Pura Eco Retreat Al Ain
A glamping experience awaits at Garden City, at the foot of Jebel Hafeet Mountain. Pura Eco Retreat offers two types of accommodation – a luxury safari-style lodge that's perfect for privacy or fully-equipped bubble dome tents that come with private plunge pools and epic stargazing windows.
The Unesco-listed surroundings are best explored via a nature walk or hiring a bike and you can enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the camp, under the star-filled night sky.
From Dh1,900 including breakfast; Pura Eco Retreat, Al Ain; visitabudhabi.ae
12. Creekside serenity at the Park Hyatt Dubai
The serene Park Hyatt Dubai is the place to escape to this Eid for something special. With a Riviera vibe along the Dubai Creek, this resort feels as though it's been transplanted directly from the Mediterranean.
The Amara Spa is the place to go for pampering while the Lagoon Beach by Twiggy, with its 100m infinity pool and private beach, is the perfect place for adults to unwind. Children can enjoy the family pool and children's club.
Over Eid, guests can enjoy early check-in and late check-out, plus complimentary breakfast and Dh200 towards dining at Brasseries Du Park, Noepe, The Lounge, The Thai Kitchen and Boardwalk.
From Dh2,287; Park Hyatt Dubai; www.hyatt.com
13. A palatial stay at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Opulent and elegant, the sweeping Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on the West Crescent of Dubai's Palm Jumeirah coastline is one for those looking for an elevated Eid escape.
Inspired by the Ottoman Empire, it is lined with glistening chandeliers and features 30,000 square metres of marble stone. Bragging rights with a stay here come from the fact that the decadent lobby was the setting for a scene in Tom Cruise's Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.
Action films aside, it's home to a stunning private beach, temperature-controlled infinity pool, fantastic children's club and the country's largest spa. This Eid, UAE residents can enjoy up to 40 per cent off room rates, complimentary breakfast and spa treatment upgrades. An Eid-themed buffet will also be served over the holidays, from Dh260 per person.
From Dh1,504; Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai; www.jumeirah.com
Brief scoreline:
Tottenham 1
Son 78'
Manchester City 0
F1 The Movie
Starring: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Rating: 4/5
MATCH INFO
England 19 (Try: Tuilagi; Cons: Farrell; Pens: Ford (4)
New Zealand 7 (Try: Savea; Con: Mo'unga)
The biog
Age: 46
Number of Children: Four
Hobby: Reading history books
Loves: Sports
Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.
Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.
“Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.
“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.
Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.
From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.
Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.
BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.
Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.
Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.
“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.
“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.
“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”
Who has lived at The Bishops Avenue?
- George Sainsbury of the supermarket dynasty, sugar magnate William Park Lyle and actress Dame Gracie Fields were residents in the 1930s when the street was only known as ‘Millionaires’ Row’.
- Then came the international super rich, including the last king of Greece, Constantine II, the Sultan of Brunei and Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal who was at one point ranked the third richest person in the world.
- Turkish tycoon Halis Torprak sold his mansion for £50m in 2008 after spending just two days there. The House of Saud sold 10 properties on the road in 2013 for almost £80m.
- Other residents have included Iraqi businessman Nemir Kirdar, singer Ariana Grande, holiday camp impresario Sir Billy Butlin, businessman Asil Nadir, Paul McCartney’s former wife Heather Mills.
Hunting park to luxury living
- Land was originally the Bishop of London's hunting park, hence the name
- The road was laid out in the mid 19th Century, meandering through woodland and farmland
- Its earliest houses at the turn of the 20th Century were substantial detached properties with extensive grounds
5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
MATCH INFO
Serie A
Juventus v Fiorentina, Saturday, 8pm (UAE)
Match is on BeIN Sports
FIGHT CARD
1. Featherweight 66kg
Ben Lucas (AUS) v Ibrahim Kendil (EGY)
2. Lightweight 70kg
Mohammed Kareem Aljnan (SYR) v Alphonse Besala (CMR)
3. Welterweight 77kg
Marcos Costa (BRA) v Abdelhakim Wahid (MAR)
4. Lightweight 70kg
Omar Ramadan (EGY) v Abdimitalipov Atabek (KGZ)
5. Featherweight 66kg
Ahmed Al Darmaki (UAE) v Kagimu Kigga (UGA)
6. Catchweight 85kg
Ibrahim El Sawi (EGY) v Iuri Fraga (BRA)
7. Featherweight 66kg
Yousef Al Husani (UAE) v Mohamed Allam (EGY)
8. Catchweight 73kg
Mostafa Radi (PAL) v Abdipatta Abdizhali (KGZ)
9. Featherweight 66kg
Jaures Dea (CMR) v Andre Pinheiro (BRA)
10. Catchweight 90kg
Tarek Suleiman (SYR) v Juscelino Ferreira (BRA)
The National photo project
Chris Whiteoak, a photographer at The National, spent months taking some of Jacqui Allan's props around the UAE, positioning them perfectly in front of some of the country's most recognisable landmarks. He placed a pirate on Kite Beach, in front of the Burj Al Arab, the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland at the Burj Khalifa, and brought one of Allan's snails (Freddie, which represents her grandfather) to the Dubai Frame. In Abu Dhabi, a dinosaur went to Al Ain's Jebel Hafeet. And a flamingo was taken all the way to the Hatta Mountains. This special project suitably brings to life the quirky nature of Allan's prop shop (and Allan herself!).
SPIDER-MAN%3A%20ACROSS%20THE%20SPIDER-VERSE
%3Cp%3EDirectors%3A%20Joaquim%20Dos%20Santos%2C%20Kemp%20Powers%2C%20Justin%20K.%20Thompson%3Cbr%3EStars%3A%20Shameik%20Moore%2C%20Hailee%20Steinfeld%2C%20Oscar%20Isaac%3Cbr%3ERating%3A%204%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
More from Mohammed Alardhi
The specs: 2018 Audi Q5/SQ5
Price, base: Dh183,900 / Dh249,000
Engine: 2.0L, turbocharged in-line four-cylinder / 3.0L, turbocharged V6
Gearbox: Seven-speed automatic / Eight-speed automatic
Power: 252hp @ 5,000rpm / 354hp @ 5,400rpm
Torque: 370Nm @ 1,600rpm / 500Nm @ 1,370rpm
Fuel economy: combined 7.2L / 100km / 8.3L / 100km
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COMPANY%20PROFILE
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EName%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESmartCrowd%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarted%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2018%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFounder%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESiddiq%20Farid%20and%20Musfique%20Ahmed%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EDubai%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EFinTech%20%2F%20PropTech%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInitial%20investment%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E%24650%2C000%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECurrent%20number%20of%20staff%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2035%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestment%20stage%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESeries%20A%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EVarious%20institutional%20investors%20and%20notable%20angel%20investors%20(500%20MENA%2C%20Shurooq%2C%20Mada%2C%20Seedstar%2C%20Tricap)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
MOUNTAINHEAD REVIEW
Starring: Ramy Youssef, Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman
Director: Jesse Armstrong
Rating: 3.5/5
The specs
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged and three electric motors
Power: Combined output 920hp
Torque: 730Nm at 4,000-7,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel consumption: 11.2L/100km
On sale: Now, deliveries expected later in 2025
Price: expected to start at Dh1,432,000
'Gold'
Director:Anthony Hayes
Stars:Zaf Efron, Anthony Hayes
Rating:3/5
