Imagine a city that has emerged from the desert sands which has now become a symbol of innovation, progress, and cultural diversity. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum once said, “The race for excellence has no finish line”. In that regard, Dubai continues to gain the ability to make larger-than-life-dreams come true. The sky is the limit.
My city known for its grandeur, opulence, and visionary spirit. When I think of Dubai, I think of magic and its ability to push the limits of what is and what can be. However, in a city that continues to evolve drastically year on year, populated by 90% expats, it begs the question – how then, do I find the heart and soul of the city? As concierge, it is our mission to unlock those doors and watch the magic unfold.
Life in Dubai wasn’t always glitz and glamour. To understand its roots, we invite you on a private journey to unravel its history by venturing into the empty quarter formerly home to the Bedouins. Be captivated by the presence of camels, Arabian oryxes, Gazelles and falcons while you treat yourself to an enchanting journey into the desert. Learn more about the Bedouin lifestyle and indulge in local cuisine such as Lamb Ouzi under the stars. Don’t stop there, in the right hands, you may light up the night sky and enjoy your very own drone show to commemorate the occasion of life combining nature, culture, and innovation.
They always say the way to someone’s heart is through food. Discovering the flavours of Dubai could be tricky as the country brings in some of the best chefs from all over the world with new restaurants opening every week. Though, one homegrown restaurant truly exemplifies what Dubai cuisine is all about. Moonrise, a small 12-seater restaurant nestled in the heart of the city helmed by Chef Solemann Haddad personifies cultural diversity and pays tribute to all the hidden gems within Dubai. His 11-course menu takes you through his childhood, his experiences growing up in the city, and everything good about Dubai’s foodie culture. A dish to highlight is Khoory Kebab, paying homage to a small Iranian restaurant in Al Mamzar which locals describe as an institution.
In the mood to be inspired? Dubai’s architecture is one to leave even the best of us awestruck. Home to Burj Khalifa – tallest building in the world and the Palm Jumeirah – one of the largest manmade islands in the shape of a date palm, this city is a testament to the ability of mankind. There is indeed no better way to appreciate the beauty of this architectural masterpiece but in a two-seater Aeroprakt A-32 aircraft flown by an Emirati pilot overflowing with passion and love for his city.
The next time you think of Dubai, I want you to think of magic and the endless possibilities of life. Embark on a journey of a lifetime and supercharge your next adventure. Don’t just travel, travel with us.
Timothy Ahyong is a candidate for the 2024 Les Clefs d’Or Award. This article has been published in its original form.
Middle East & Asia Architecture Dubai United Arab Emirates Food Atlantis The Royal Manmade Island kebab desert
The magical world of the concierge profession is something I had the privilege of learning about from a sage of Les Clefs d’Or Philippines during my days at university. From the moment I heard the words “nothing is impossible” I was hooked. I was raised to be a man for others; combined with my passion to stay curious made being concierge a match made in heaven. In 2013, my journey began in Manila where I became an understudy of same professor who first inspired me. He showed me the beauty of conciergerie as well as the impact we make on every single person we encounter. I later moved to The Peninsula Manila where I earned my local membership for Les Clefs d’Or Philippines and eventually achieved my dream of being pinned my golden keys in 2018. As a member of Les Clefs d’Or, I have dedicated my time as an advocate for education by speaking in universities, hospitality establishments, and various companies about the concierge profession. Today I work as the assistant chief concierge at the iconic Atlantis The Royal in Dubai and have the privilege taking on the role of Assistant General Secretary of Les Clefs d’Or UAE.
The new iconic landmark of Dubai, Atlantis The Royal welcomes guests to an experience that will completely redefine their perspective of luxury. Crafted by the world’s leading designers, architects and artists, this is a destination where everything has been designed to challenge the boundaries of imagination. Atlantis The Royal ignites the horizon with a collection of 795 elegant Rooms, Suites and Signature Penthouses. Featuring stunning views of the Dubai skyline and Arabian Sea, 44 of them have private infinity pools. The resort delivers a curated array of awe-inspiring experiences, inviting guests to swim amongst the clouds in sky pools, be dazzled by fountains that breathe fire or dine at more celebrity chef restaurants than anywhere else in the world. Guests are taken on a journey of the impossible, with artful masterpieces, iconic entertainment and beautiful craftsmanship at every turn, where the highest level of service sets a new standard in excellence. Atlantis The Royal is the place where something incredible happens at every moment of every stay. This is Atlantis The Royal. This Is It.
theroyal.guestservices@atlantisdubai.com
+971 4 426 30 00
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