THE INSIDE STORY
Ilove a hidden gem. Who doesn’t? The sense of adventure as you explore an unknown corner, the joy of finding something authentic and unspoiled, the fact that you’ll be the first to pass on all this information to your friends. That’s how I felt when I discovered Juice World in Al Rigga, which, I know, is a) not exactly hidden and b) more of a bauble than a gem. It’s still brilliant, and I love telling people about it, and watching their faces when they see my pictures of the giant garlands made out of papayas. Priceless.
The UAE is chock-full of such finds, whether they are tiny hole-in-the wall restaurants or million-dollar enterprises hiding in plain sight. We’ve got both in this week’s edition of Friday.
I’m excited and honoured to be able to take you into the amazing world of Godolphin stables in Dubai’s Al Quoz neighbourhood. Like us, you’ve probably driven past the entrance and wondered what’s going on there, in the shadow of the city’s major new developments, yet unseen by those who don’t live in nearby towers. Friday’s deputy editor Mrinal Shekar and photographer Stefan Lindeque were lucky enough to be permitted into the stables, founded by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 1992. It’s been the home of many of the horses that have won the Dubai World Cup – the race that takes place tomorrow for the 21st time. A prize money of $30 million is up for grabs, so this is serious business, but for those who take care of these incredible athletes, it’s equally a deep-seated passion. Get a glimpse of their lives (including their 5am starts!) in our exclusive feature on page 22.
Now on to the kind of hidden gem the UAE is typically known for – restaurants. There are hundreds of restaurants that are too small (or don’t feel the need) to hire a PR to bombard people like myself with press releases on their new menu or new chef. Because they don’t need to change the menu, or the chef – they’re perfect as they are. But they may remain unknown.
Luckily we know someone who is passionate about finding gems – and kindly sharing them with the rest of us. Arva Ahmed, who runs Frying Pan Adventures’ tours around old Dubai’s nooks and crannies, is our gem. She’s going to be writing for Friday weekly, telling us not only about amazing places to eat, but also about the people who put time and passion into what they cook and serve. What are their stories? What’s the history of the bread we eat here, and did you know there’s such a thing as a desert truffle? Read her introductory column on page 15, and share your thoughts with us.