Dubai's best kept secret revealed

Inaugurated by Sheikh Mayed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and and attended by His Excellency Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the DIFC, DIFC Lifestyle offers a unique environment comprising high-end retailers, world-class restaurants and the best in international contemporary art and entertainment.

Beyond the landmark Gate building lies ¡®The Gate District¡¯, an eclectic mix of art, culture and stunning architecture, alongside chic eateries and fashionable shops. This unique integration of iconic buildings and contemporary living is fast becoming the epicenter of Dubai and a lifestyle people aspire to. Within a welcoming and relaxing environment, DIFC Lifestyle will provide an experience to fulfil every aspect of weekday and weekend life.

His Excellency Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the DIFC, said: ¡°DIFC Lifestyle signals the beginning of a new era at the DIFC, which promises an avant-garde experience for Dubai¡¯s residents and visitors alike. Originally created as a financial district, through DIFC Lifestyle, the DIFC will ensure the centre is accessible for all to enjoy and will act as an exciting retail and cultural magnet for the city. In line with the Dubai Strategic Plan, social development through creating a world-class environment, provides a better quality of life and an enriched cultural environment. As such, the DIFC is committed to contributing to the development of Dubai as a lifestyle choice as well as a professional hub.¡±

Considered ¡°Dubai¡¯s best-kept secret¡±, the exclusive, self-contained precinct currently includes high-end retailers, as well as artistic exhibitions and performances. The public are invited to enjoy the unique environment at the DIFC which is open on weekdays from 10am to 10pm and on weekends from 10am to midnight. Parking will be provided and will be free after 5pm and on weekends.

Mr Abdulla Bin Sugat, Executive Director of Retail for the DIFC added: ¡°DIFC Lifestyle is more than just a concept; it is a way of life. As the fastest emerging financial centre in the world, the DIFC has established itself as a leading international destination for those wanting to do business in the region. However, there is more to the DIFC than just business. DIFC Lifestyle offers 360¢ª living, with high end fashion, fine dining, rich culture and entertainment; there is something for everyone at the centre. With over 175 nationalities working in a variety of sectors within the DIFC community, this diversity will be reflected in the assortment of activities and experiences on offer. As such, we are confident that DIFC Lifestyle will no longer remain Dubai¡¯s best kept secret but will be appreciated by everyone living in and visiting the city.¡±

In celebration of the concept of DIFC Lifestyle, there will be a selection of activities and entertainment commencing today and continuing every day onwards. These will include classical and world music performances, mime artists, magic, living art and natural theatre.

Furthermore, today will see the official opening of the De Beers boutique in the DIFC. De Beers is widely recognised as the world¡¯s leading diamond experts, after introducing in 1938 the ¡°4Cs¡± (Cut, Colour, Carat, and Clarity) - the four most popular factors used to measure diamond quality which have now been adopted universally.

In addition to this, today there will be the book launch of ¡°India Chalo¡± by Brij Singh, followed by a book signing at Borders bookshop in the DIFC. The book, published by Harper Collins, with the title meaning ¡°Let¡¯s go to India¡±, takes a lighter look at more serious topics, focusing on current economic opportunities in India. Booming sectors, such as media and telecoms, as well as economic trends, including growth rates and consumption demand, are captured in a light-hearted way by the author. Mr. Singh was previously the CEO of Julius Baer Middle East, the first bank to receive a licence at the DIFC, and then went on to become the founding CEO of Baer Capital Partners, an India-focused asset management and advisory business, with its global headquarters in the DIFC, and offices in London, Zurich, Mumbai and Delhi.