Mapped Out with Ahmad Daabas
WHAT TO DO IN… DUBAI
Dubai isn’t known for subtlety or moderation. A city of glamour, gold and excess, this is a place to come for shameless opulence, innovative architecture and serious retail therapy. It may offer unlimited indulgence, but Dubai also boasts a growing culture scene with futuristic museums, contemporary art galleries and souks. Content creator Ahmad Daabas has lived in Dubai for over a decade and knows what makes it tick. Here, he talks us through the must-see spots, from the best beaches and restaurants to the historic neighborhood that offers a taste of Dubai’s past.
Dubai style looks like...
“It’s a multicultural city so there’s no specific style that’s considered ‘typical Dubai’. That said, I can’t deny that people love to dress up and stand out, even if they’re just going for a stroll at the mall.”
How has living there impacted your approach to style?
“If anything, my look has become more dynamic. My style used to be more classic and less laid-back but being in a vibrant city meant I was able to combine both easily.”
My weekend wardrobe consists of...
“My go-to weekend look is usually nice pants (I tend to stay away from jeans), cool white sneakers and a T-shirt or shirt. My favourite T-shirt brand is Valentino and I turn to Common Projects for sneakers. When it comes to pants, the styles that fit me perfectly are by Acne Studios.”
A normal weekend is...
“Beach, late lunch and party – this sums up a nice weekend with close friends. Given that Dubai is a major tourist destination, there is always someone visiting and I’m always ready to entertain, whether taking them for a good cup of coffee or for a nice dinner out on the town.”
“My favorite club is SKYBAR. I also like Monkey Bar, a newcomer that recently opened – the crowd is younger, and the vibe is chill.”
“I have a few. Jumeirah Beach Road, with its small coffee shops and restaurants, will always be a classic and a personal favorite for any afternoon. I also like DIFC (Dubai International Financial Center), which is full of art galleries and great restaurants.”
“Heal Coffee – beautiful interiors and perfect coffee.”
“Kite Beach, both day and night. I love spending the day there and grabbing a bite by the shore. In the evening, you can just walk by the water and enjoy a drink.”
“Cipriani restaurant in DIFC. This place truly reminds me of being in Italy, the food, the staff, the noisy Italians – it’s authentic Italy in the heart of Dubai.”
