Photo: Juergen Teller
It is no surprise that the streets of London are familiar with the Arabic language and its various dialects. This is a cosmopolitan that has engraved itself upon the hearts of travelers from the Gulf. From shopping at Harrods to zipping down the road in supercars, the English capital has been a favorite amongst people from the region for years, especially in summer.
The British city is used to Arabs flitting in and out of glamourous eateries dressed in their best, or the occasional royal seeping in its centuries-old allure. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was spotted by tourists in London just days ago. There is no shortage of things to do here, but for anyone planning a trip this summer, these four are absolute must-visits.
Annabel’s
Photo: Instagram.com/annabels
If there is a place that encapsulates everything that London is, it has to be Annabel’s. With guests like the Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Beatles, Anna Wintour and so many more, this private member’s club is perhaps one of the few places where you will find everyone from glamorous celebrities to blue-blooded aristocrats. Located in a Georgian mansion on 46 Berkeley Square in Mayfair, the club has a global reputation based on opulent eclectic interiors, exceptional service, and most importantly, exclusivity. While a membership at the institution might take years of scrutiny, guests are more than welcome if they accompany an existing member but of course, everyone must adhere to the strict dress code.
Arab Art at Christie’s
Photo: Instagram.com/barjeelart
From July 20 to August 23, London will be home to the largest exhibition of modern and contemporary Arab art the city has ever seen. Organized by Christie’s in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture and Youth, and the Barjeel Art Foundation, Modern and Contemporary Art of the Arab World is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for culture connoisseurs. The exhibition has been divided into two distinct sections – Kawkaba: Highlights from the Barjeel Art Foundation, and Emirati Art Reimagined: Hassan Sharif and the Contemporary Voices. While the first comprises 100 pieces on loan from the Barjeel Art Foundation, the latter features the work of pioneering Emirati artist Hassan Sharif along with other contemporary Arab artists.
Bicester Village
Photo: Instagram.com/bicestervillage
According to a recent Instagram post from Dubai and London-based influencer Ola Farahat, Bicester Village is her favorite new place to shop. “I had the best day playing dress up in their beautiful personal shopping suites, a definite must-visit if you’re in London,” she wrote in the caption. Located in a quintessentially English town almost an hour away from London, the destination is an ideal day trip from the city. Known for its charming atmosphere the village offers a wide selection of high-end fashion brands, designer boutiques, and exclusive outlets. For anyone who cannot imagine a summer in London without shopping, Bicester is an absolute must. Not to mention the picturesque architecture is everything one can want from an English village.
Claridge’s Restaurant
Photo: Instagram.com
Housed within the illustrious Claridge’s hotel which had once counted amongst its patrons Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Claridge’s Restaurant is the epitome of sophisticated dining. Having opened almost a month ago, the restaurant is still operating on limited hours, which is a fact that only seems to add to its air of exclusivity. While the stunning art deco interiors of the venue are reason enough to go, the British fare being served is just as tempting if not more. Expect to begin your meal with delicacies such as Dorset snails and scallop ceviche before heading towards the main course. While the Fruits de Mer platter seems like an obvious choice, the menu also offers stuffed lamb saddle, steak au poivre, and more. To finish this sure-to-be delectable meal, opt for desserts such as the chocolate souffle tart or the raspberry vacherin.
