$8 billion budget for Expo 2020 Dubai

The budget for the Expo 2020 Dubai site is estimated to be between $8.1 billion and $8.7 billion, according to the latest BNC report commissioned by The Big 5.

Situated midway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the Expo 2020 site will be served by a world-class road network, a brand-new extension to the Dubai Metro system and three international airports, Expo 2020 organisers announced.

The Al Maktoum International Airport will be expanded in order to handle up to 200 million passengers by 2020, thanks to an investment of approximately $32 billion.

Josine Heijmans, The Big 5 Event Director, said: “The airport is part of the secondary infrastructure that will support the Expo 2020 Dubai. This project is not entirely dependent on hosting the event, but responds to the rise in expected numbers of travellers to Dubai.”

Bringing together more than 180 nations and an international audience of 25 million visitors, the Expo 2020 Dubai is currently under development on a 438-hectare area in the Dubai South district.

According to BNC’s report for The Big 5, $30 million is being allocated to develop the Expo Village at the Dubai Exhibition City in Dubai South. This project, which is currently in the tender phase, consists of a residential development providing full-time housing facilities for participating countries’ staff working on the Expo. After its completion, expected by 2018, pavilion construction activities will start.

The UAE Pavilion will cost approximately $30 million. The 15,000 sqm project will include exhibition areas, an auditorium, food and beverage outlets and VIP lounges.

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and inspired by a falcon in flight, the UAE Pavilion will be located in Dubai South.

The Big 5 2016 construction event will be held from November 21-24 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Source: 7days

Legoland Dubai’s opening day wows visitors

DUBAI // The sheer scale of the models at Legoland Dubai brought a wow factor to visitors on its opening day on Monday.

Hundreds of visitors who poured through the turnstiles at the opening of Dubai Parks and Resorts’ latest attraction were greeted by an oompah band, dancers and popular characters from the hit Lego movies.

Lego models recreating the Dubai cityscape seemed to impress many but, with some still being built and many of the rides yet to open, others were a little disappointed.

Countless hours have been spent putting together each of the models to recreate the Marina, Downtown, DIFC and the Burj Khalifa, which takes centre stage as – appropriately – the world’s largest Lego construction.

One ride that was open for use was the Kids Power Tower, a seated ride that gently rises, then drops back to ground level.

Katerina Kovalenko, from Russia, said it was perfect for young children including her daughter Liya, 4.

"This is our first visit to a Legoland so didn’t know what to expect," said Ms Kovalenko, who lives in Dubai. "The buildings are amazing but the rides that are open seem more suitable for younger children.

"There are a few things that are not finished yet, but they’ve done well to open on time."

Harold Charette, an American working in Abu Dhabi, was visiting with his two children Ruben, 10, and Nick, 19, and their mum Eileen.

"We lucked out as we bought a Lego kit and won free admission, so we had to come," said Mr Charette.

"I’m sure it will be popular with tourists and families living here. The buildings are impressive and I love the model of Petra. The detail is amazing, you can see the fisherman pulling in their reels."

The day, however, had some critics.

"It was an opening day so I expected everything to be perfect and open, ready to use," said Sanjay, who lives in The Green community.

"It was a bit disappointing, particularly when you see how much work is still being done."

Once inside, children can explore six themed lands, each offering entertainment and educational activities.

At the City zone, they can fly a plane at a mini airport, steer a boat or earn a Lego driver’s licence.

Model dragons, squires, maidens and knights are scattered throughout the Kingdom zone, although work is still being done to complete the dragon rollercoaster.

Kids can race cars and younger children can learn how to build in the Imagination zone, while the Adventure area gives young explorers a submarine adventure, and challenges them to dodge water blasts as they discover ancient ruins and the Pharaoh’s treasure.

Miniland hosts the Dubai skyline and a tour of the factory shows how the bricks are made. A nearby Lego water park, also due to open later this year, is aimed at children aged between 2 and 12.

Other parks sitting alongside Legoland include the Indian-themed Bollywood Park, feature film attraction Motiongate, and Lapita, a Polynesian-themed attraction.

Legoland, off Sheikh Zayed Road opposite the Palm Jebel Ali, is the latest brick in the path towards Dubai’s goal of becoming a global family destination.

How to get around Dubai in dirhams 1, 2, 3

Explore every inch of the city without even breaking the bank.

Dubai has now become one of those cities where it's possible for someone to not own a car and yet stay well-connected.

Thanks to the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, getting from one place to another is a breeze, and cheap!

Abra - Dh1

The abra is one of Dubai's oldest modes of public transport. Connecting Bur Dubai and Deira since the early days, the abra is not only a cheap mode of transport but also a cultural experience in itself.

Water Bus - Dh2

The water bus is a cheap and interesting alternative to walking around the Dubai Marina. Offering scenic views along the cruise, fares start at Dh2 and you can try roundtrips for Dh4. With three stations, you'll get to see the entirety of the Marina for a total of Dhs6!

Bus - starts at Dh3

The RTA bus is the cheapest and best option to reach virtually any point in Dubai. Bus lines operate all over the city and prices start at a mere Dhs3! Bus stops are also air conditioned so one doesn't need to worry about standing in the heat.

Tram - Dh3

A fresh entry in the public transport scene of Dubai, the Tram operates around the JBR and Al Sufouh areas and charge only Dhs3 whichever station you alight on. See and experience the beauty of Dubai Marina and JBR's The Beach on the cheap.

Metro - starts at Dh3

The Dubai Metro, next to bus is the fastest way to get to both ends of town from Jebel Ali all the way to Deira; it also has dedicated airport stations for backpackers and travelers who opt to go off the beaten path. The Metro works in tandem with the bus to guarantee that you'll reach any and every sort of destination you might have in Dubai.

Source: khaleejtimes

11 fun things to do this weekend in the UAE

This weekend in the UAE promises delectable food, parties and quite a few adrenaline pumping events. Here are our top picks.

1. Shimmers at Madinat Jumeirah

Indulge in Greek flavours at Shimmers offering lunch and dinner in view of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The soothing atmosphere and delicious fresh Mediterranean cuisine by Greek Chef Yiannis Katsik is a must-try this week. The fresh items on offer include traditional spicy feta cheese dip served with freshly baked pita bread; zucchini kefta or exquisite tender chargrilled octopus.

Location Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam Cost A la carteTimings Lunch 12pm to 5pm Dinner 7pm to 11.30pm Dates DailyWebsite 

2. UAE against Thailand in FIFA 2018 Qualifier

The UAE football team is in the last and final qualification stage, playing against Thailand this weekend before what is expected to be a decisive game in Jeddah. The top-two teams in this pool of qualifiers will automatically qualify for the World Cup in Russia while the third-placed team has to negotiate further play-offs to secure a spot. UAE is in the fourth spot as of now after Australia, Saudi Arabia and Japan in the first three positions.

---

(A still from the qualifier game between UAE and Australia on September 6)

---

Location Mohammad bin Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi Cost Dh200 onwards Tickets 

3. James Morrison at Dubai Opera

This weekend will see the much talked-about event at Dubai Opera with James Morrison. He was just 21 years old when his debut album rocketed to the top of the charts in 2006. He has sold over four million copies of his music worldwide and has performed live shows across the world.

Location Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai Cost Dh295 to Dh695 per person (Box tickets available) Timings Doors open at 8.30pm Main act 10pm onwards Dates Friday, October 7 Tickets Website

4. Tiger Sessions’ Deep House gig

Tiger Sessions presents a one-off monthly gig with exciting and upcoming international DJs from the deep house music scene. The season kicks off with international artist and DJ Habischman - so if you fancy a chilled-out evening with an Asian street food corner to tickle your taste buds, you know where to go.

Location Pure Sky Lounge, Hilton Dubai The Walk, Dubai Dates Thursday, October 6 Timings 6.00pm to 3am TicketsFree entrance all night More details here

5. Evolve Fun Speed Run 2016/2017 - Round 01

The motorsport season in the country will begin soon. To get you in the mood, take your car and head down to the Dubai Autodrome. Throw it around the track a bit. The fun speed run is open to everyone with a car (except an SUV or 4X4). If your car (or better half) won’t allow you to enjoy the driving experience, then head down regardless – it’s open to spectators. Make sure you read their registration information and rules via the link below.

Location Dubai Autodrome Cost Dh400 + Dh100 for a helmetDates Friday, October 7 Timings 11.00am to 5:00pm Facebook Event Page 

6. Go Pink with A.O.C French Brasserie

A.O.C French Brasserie present a pink take on their regular Friday brunch with a Rose station as well as thematic pink beverages. With an oyster bar, home-made foie gras and indulgent eclairs, this brunch makes for a great Friday outing.

---

---

Location Sofitel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Cost Dh345 per personTimings 1pm to 4pm Date Friday, October 7 Website 

7. Tale of Us at Blue Marlin Ibiza

Party all night this Friday with Berlin-based Tale of Us (Karm and Matteo) and Subb-An. The Tale of Us pair bring a fusion of house and techno with influences from pop, disco and even rock music. Ashique Subhan, or Subb-An as he is popularly known, is a leading DJ rocking the underground house-music scene in the United Kingdom.

Location Ghantoot Al Jazira Hotel, Dubai Cost Free (Reserve in advance) Timing 1pm to 11pm Date October 7 Contact +971 56 113 3400 Email reservation@bluemarlinibiza-uae.com

8. Oktoberfest Yas Island

Back by popular demand, the event will feature traditional German Oktoberfest icons, including authentic German beverages, pretzels, food and fun along with a live band direct from Munich. It is a win-win as there will be daily raffle draws for a chance to win airline tickets to Germany in addition to lots of other great prizes. With family activities in the Kindergarten to keep children entertained, this is a family-friendly event.

Note: Every visitor under the age of 21 has to leave the venue at 10pm

Location du forum, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Cost Dh175 onwards per person Timings and dates October 6 (Thursday) 7pm to 2am October 7 (Friday) 4pm to 2am Tickets 

9. Brunch at Bistro de Arts

Not in the mood for a typical Dubai brunch? Bistro de Arts has come up with a unique brunch concept which promises to transport diners to the streets of Paris. The new offering at the restaurant includes a ‘social table’ for the guests to indulge in while the ‘creperie’ section offers sweet treats. Wash it all down with hot and cold beverages including coffee, tea and juices.

---

---

Location Address Marina Hotel, Dubai Marina Cost Includes unlimited selection from the ‘social’ table, one serving from ‘cuisine’ section and one serving from ‘creperie’ section Dh99 per person (with one hot beverage, fresh juices and water) Dh199 per person (with two half-litre jugs of select beverages, one hot beverage, fresh juices and water)Timings 8am to 2pm Dates Friday and Saturday Contact +971 455 11 576 Email info@bistrodesarts.ae

10. 360°’s Battle of the DJs

If you’ve been battling with your boss all week, head down to 360° Dubai and watch others battle instead. For the first time ever, 360° will be giving all of Dubai's hip-hop and RnB DJs a chance to compete for a Residency at Thursday's hip-hop night.

Location 360°, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai Dates Thursday, October 6 Timings 5.00pm to 3am More details on participation here

11. Bounce in Al Ain

Now you can ‘Bounce’ in Al Ain too. The venue in Al Ain, which is the third in the UAE, is around 25 per cent bigger than the one in Dubai and showcases a whole host of new features such as a 20 metre tumble track, a super tramp – a high performance trampoline twice the size of a standard trampoline and a giant airbag to practice those Hollywood stunts. You can even book party rooms for birthdays and events.

Location Floor 3, Remal Mall, Al Ain Cost Dh80 onwards Timings and dates Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 10pm Thursday-Friday 10am to 12am Website 

SOURCE: gulfnews