In the heart of the Middle East, Qatar emerges as a beacon of modernity and cultural richness. Fueled by a commitment to rapid development and diversity, the nation has achieved global affluence. Doha, its capital, stands as an open-air architectural marvel hosting masterpieces like I. M. Pei's Museum of Islamic Art and Jean Nouvel's National Museum of Qatar. This architectural prowess has fostered a thriving art scene featuring works by renowned artists such as Damien Hirst and Richard Serra. Despite the rapid modernization, Qatari culture remains deeply rooted in tradition, evident in the coexistence of towering skyscrapers in West Bay and the century-old Souq Waqif, where local spices and traditional garments are showcased. The juxtaposition extends to the gulf, where wooden cargo boats called Dhows contrast with the timeless spectacle of camel races in the desert and the enduring tradition of falconry.
It started with a vision. A vision for a retail destination of unrivalled quality at the center of Downtown Dubai, the de facto area for all things groundbreaking. Thus, in 2008, spanning 550,000 square meters across four levels and accommodating more than 1,200 retail outlets, Dubai Mall opened its doors. The mall, under the shadow of Burj Khalifa, is the beating heart of an already industrious Downtown Dubai complete with Dubai Opera, Waterfront Promenade, Dubai Fountain and Burj Park. Perhaps this is the reason the founder of Emaar Properties, Mohamed Ali Alabbar, describes Dubai Mall as «a city within a city.».
In fact, Dubai Mall is a horizontal city, bringing the shopping, entertainment, culture and hospitality worlds under one roof. The retail offerings at the mall are unmatched, with its shining jewel, Fashion Avenue, housing more than two hundred boutiques from the most desirable brands. Not to mention the mall's expansive entertainment options: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; Dubai Ice Rink; At the Top, Burj Khalifa; Zabeel Sports District; and Dubai Dino. Then there are the unlimited dining possibilities. And for a particularly memorable experience Souk Al Bahar, an Arab-style dining-and-entertainment development, is an ideal choice to become immersed in the region's rich cultural heritage.
But this shopping-and-leisure gem is not just wide boulevards, incredible attractions and breathtaking atrium spaces-it is the epitome of five-star service and hospitality, going above and beyond to attend to every comfort. Constantly growing, evolving and expanding, Dubai Mall never fails to amaze. Explore the many wonders of Downtown Dubai in the pages of Dubai Mall: A Mall Like No Other, with original photography by Oliver Pilcher.
Step into a world of timeless beauty and cultural splendor with the release of «Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE,» a magnificent volume that brings to life the archaeological treasures and ancient artifacts of the United Arab Emirates.
Unveiling the rich heritage of one of the UAE's most important archaeological sites, Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE is an exquisite volume that explores the ancient wonders of Mleiha, a region that has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia.
This visually stunning publication showcases the incredible artifacts and historical discoveries that have positioned Mleiha as a vital center for understanding the UAE's deep cultural and historical roots.
Nestled in the heart of Sharjah's desert, Mleiha is home to a wealth of archaeological treasures, including Bronze Age tombs, pre-Islamic forts, and ancient tools that trace the UAE's development from early nomadic societies to a flourishing hub of trade and innovation. These pages feature detailed imagery of iconic finds such as ancient pottery, jewelry, weapons, and intricate grave sites, all of which tell the fascinating story of Mleiha's role as a cultural and commercial center.
Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE serves as both an educational resource and a visual masterpiece designed to appeal to history lovers, scholars, and collectors alike. It celebrates the UAE's enduring commitment to preserving its ancient heritage, even as it rapidly modernizes.
