The Mina Effect

Welcome to the home of watersport...the Mina Seyahi Watersports Festival 2007 will be held at the Mina Seyahi complex (Jumeriah Beach) from 30th November to 8th December 2007 under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mayed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and in celebration of the UAE National Day - enjoy 10 days and 2 full weekends of water sports action!!!

Watch the drama unfold as 1000’s of competitors challenge each other in traditional AND modern Sailing and Rowing, Jet Skiing and Dragon boat racing! The Worlds Richest Ocean Kayak race, the US$53,000 Dubai Shamaal takes place on Friday 30th from 3pm and if that’s not enough, the highlight of festival will be the final two legs of the awesome Class I and Class III World Power Boating Championships - taking place over both weekends.

IF IT’S GOT ANYTHING TO DO WITH WATER – IT’S AT THE MINA! Download the Flyer and Schedule

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 02:26 PM | Permalink

Tang - an evening for your senses, in rich flavors, mind blowing textures and decor: With chef Mr. Stephane Buchholzer in control of the menu, Tang specialises in molecular gastronomy, designed to play with your senses to enhance your dining experience. Some of the forefathers in this arena include Hervé This-Benckhard and Harold McGee and molecular gastronomy has been embraced by chefs and authors such as Heston Blumenthal and Alston Brown and is also well known from La Terraza del Casino in Madrid.The restaurant itself is decorated with high chairs and sofas that gives you the opportunity for an almost private dining experience and provides you with a brief escape, so that you can focus on the food. Read the review

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 12:51 PM | Permalink

Dubai: The 1st heat of the traditional Rowing Race held at Mina Seyahi on Saturday November 24th, made for a pleasant contrast between the old and the new with the Palm Jumeirah construction in the backdrop. The race was a display of sheer strength, skill and excellent communication between skipper and rowers. Moreover it was a perfect show of endurance. The modernity of the area with skyscrapers dotting the island and seafront made for an excellent backdrop of the lifestyle of a city that is bustling all the year round yet firmly rooted in its traditions.

In what marks the start of the traditional rowing race of the season there was stiff competition, and this was evident in the facial expressions of the rowers, the enthusiasm of the teams and the encouragement given by the nakhoudah (skipper) who did not cease to spur his team on to the finish line.

The races were traditionally held at the creek to remind the youth of today of the past heritage of their forefathers, but due to developmental projects it was shifted to Mina Seyahi.  

The racers were divided into two batches. In the first race of 22 rowing boats, competition was rife between Al Matla’a, Wadi Wesam 1 and Al Zaabi with Matla’a making it to the finish line at top speed leading by a boats length. Skippered by Saif Khalaf Al Marri, Matla’a rowed furiously right from the flag off and it was a delight to see them cruise on. Wadi Wesam 1 and Al Zaabi were the next to cross the finish line respectively.

In the second batch of the race Dubai had RAK Motors and Najm Suhail 1 close on their heels leaving them little option but to row faster to make it with an inch distance from their rivals. Ahmed Rahman Al Mansouri steered his crew in Dubai to finish first followed by RAK Motors and Najm Suhail 1 in second and third place respectively.

Jubilation was rampant on the break water at Mina Seyahi as supporters of the teams cheered them on and when the wave of the chequered flag signalled the winners, the crowd burst into spontaneous chanting of traditional song and dance, much of a spectacle of revelry. Throughout the two rounds skippers encouraged their teams with chants of patriotic verses and stomping of the feet as the rowers rowed their boat in unison rhythmically.

The 3.5 km race route from inside the Palm Jumeirah to finish at the Mina Seyahi lagoon was witness to a certain transition from the old to the new. Speaking after the race, DIMC Managing Director, Saeed Hareb said, “Today’s race was a tough fight between 5-6 boats but you could see the enthusiasm in the rowers and the skippers. This event is a perfect showcase of the heritage and tradition of our forefathers and it is always exciting to see new faces among the youth who take this race seriously. The moment the green flag is raised there is no stopping the rowers who take off like a pack of herd competing with each other neck to neck”.

Saeed Hareb added, “Rowing races are an integral part of our tradition and we want to encourage the youth in the sport. They should not forget the hard work of their fathers and grand-fathers who have made the country what it is today. Thanks to rulers of Dubai for encouraging us to promote the traditional rowing races”.

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 12:43 PM | Permalink

As the festive season approaches, the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina is doing all it can to prepare for the best experience for our valued guests and patrons... a complete line-up of the season's dining and entertainment at the Mina's famed outlets is already available, so you can plan and reseve well in advance. Ready for a Sunny Christmas and New Year in Dubai?

Barasti

Christmas Day Dinner: Join us for a laid back dinner with a difference, al fresco at Dubai’s most popular beachfront restaurant and bar. At Barasti, you can dine on the freshest catch of the day plus seasonal favourites in a four course dinner in the most relaxed and informal of settings.

Sample an exotic cocktail, a glass of fizz or just a long cool sundowner. Sounds heavenly.

Tuesday, 25th December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm – Midnight

New Years Eve "Four Elements"

Come and indulge your senses this New Years Eve at Barasti. We have four major party zones each with a different ambience and each offering something unique to make your New Years Eve particularly spectacular.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 8:00 pm - 3:00 am
Upper Deck, Air Zone - Dhs 1,000 per person includes dinner buffet and house beverages

Middle Deck - Earth & Fire Zone - 550 per person
includes dinner buffet, half a bottle of wine & entertainment from Dubai's favourite band The Stompers supported by Emmanuel.

Lower Deck - Water Zone - 250 per person
Doors open at 8:00 pm includes ticket entrance on the beach & a BBQ plate. Featuring a Dubai 92
sound stage which will be LIVE on air all night presented by our resident DJ Martin Metcalf featuring other guest DJ's from Dubai 92 hosting this years biggest beach party to see in the New Year.

The Dhow

Christmas Day Dinner

The Dhow, Mina’s popular seafood and sushi restaurant moored at the marina, is presenting a special four course festive dinner which combines the traditional with the modern. This is an unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas Day. Live entertainment from the Mina Seyahi’s Jazz Duo.

Tuesday, 25th December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Dhs 350 per person

New Years Eve "James Bond"

Come and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere on the upper deck of The Dhow, with our Jazz Duo and a seven course set menu. Then, at midnight, experience the best views in town as you watch the fireworks all along the Jumeirah coastline. You will also receive free entry to barasti beach until the
early hours of the morning.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 2:00 am
Dhs 1,200 per person inclusive of all house beverages

Tang

Christmas Day Dinner

Tang is the place to be for the discerning food lover who is passionate about food and style. Chef Stephane brings culinary trends from New York and London to Dubai and showcases the best of molecular gastronomy and applications of liquid nitrogen in a unique and intimate setting. Five courses take you on a journey into an amazing world of tastes and textures. Prepare to be blown away!

Tuesday, 25th December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Dhs 395 per person

A Molecular New Years Eve...
 
Searching for new tastes and new experiences over the festive season? Tired of tradition or just seeking a radically different romantic dinner or special meal with friends?

Seven courses to challenge your taste buds and set you off on a divine culinary experience.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Dhs 850 per person Includes molecular cocktail on arrival and a glass of Rose champagne at midnight
Live entertainment : Resident Violinist

Ciro’s Pomodoro

Christmas Eve Dinner

Ciro’s Pomodoro brings you a delicious Christmas dinner to enjoy with your friends and loved ones. This promises to be a great Christmas Eve dinner and includes a four course menu & glass of house wine
with the best live music in town by Marwan Saade and DJ Giorgio!

Monday, 24th December 2007
Dinner : 7:15 pm - Midnight
Dhs 395 per couple

New Years Eve

This promises to be a superb end of year party with the best live music in town. Marwan Saade and DJ Giorgio will be providing the tunes all night and Ciro’s unique friendly ambience provides the best
backdrop for a truly fun evening with a five course set menu and house beverages.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 9:00 pm – 3:00 am
Dance Floor Area : Dhs 695 per person (five course set menu)
Dining Area : Dhs 550 per person (five course set menu)
Bar Area : Dhs 375 per person (three course set menu)

Bussola

New Years Eve "La Dolce Vita"
 
Live entertainment and superb musical arrangements which herald the most spectacular fireworks display. It’s the hottest table in town. The special five course menu is a gastronomic tour of Venice with regional specialities such as guinea fowl with porcini, lobster ravioli and black truffle.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm onwards
Dhs 600 per person including free entry to upper level

La Dolce Vita Party-Upper deck
10:00 pm – 03:00 am
Entrance to upper deck Dhs 150 per person

Waves

Christmas Eve Dinner
 
Celebrate with family and friends on this most magical night of the year. Entertainment by Emmanuel.
Add to this a whole host of salads, seafood and continental specialities for a night guaranteed to leave you full of festive cheer.

Monday, 24th December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Dhs 190 per adult
Dhs 100 per child (5-12 years)

Christmas Day

Why not do something completely different this year? Give the cook the day off and join us for a wonderful family get together on Christmas Day. This year at Waves there are more than 20 appetisers, salads and accompaniments as well as festive desserts such as Yule log, stollen and hot mince pies.
Entertainment is by Emmanuel and Santa will be appearing throughout the day to spread festive cheer.

Tuesday, 25th December 2007
Buffet lunch : 12:15 pm - 3:00 pm, Dhs 250 per person Children : Dhs 125 per child (Includes lunch & day use of beach, pool & Penguin Club facilities) Or Lunch Buffet only : 12:15 pm - 3:00 pm Dhs 190 per person, Dhs 125 per child (5-12 years) Live entertainment: Emmanuel & special appearance by Santa

New Years Eve Around the World
 
It¹s the night all of our chef¹s look forward to as they present their own signature dishes ­ in Arabic, Continental and Asian styles. Discover live cooking stations, a carvery and barbecue with dishes including lobster, venison, tempura, sushi & sashimi as well as tropical dishes from the islands. But save room for desserts from across the globe with national favourites mingling with local delicacies under a canopy of fireworks at midnight, entertainment from the Mina Seyahi¹s Jazz Duo.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 7:00 pm - 1:00 am
Dhs 399 per adult including welcome drink
Dhs 200 per child (5-12 years)

Corporate Party Ideas

Tang

Simply Tang: A leisurely three course dining experience for a small taste of Tang: Dhs 250pp
Deluxe Tang: Tailor made four courses to dine the night away in style inclusive of two glasses of wine: Dhs 350pp
The Tang Experience (lunch only): Taste passion with a luxurious five course menu, showcasing the best of Tang. (Inclusive of a welcome molecular cocktail and wine pairing): Dhs 450pp

All party ideas are for groups of 30 persons maximum.

Barasti

Christmas Tapas & Festive Cocktails: On Barasti’s private upper deck. (maximum 80 persons) Dhs 300pp

Christmas Dinner: Host a relaxed but refined Christmas party on Barasti’s main deck with the Chef’s special three course turkey dinner (maximum 25 persons) Dhs 220pp
 

The Dhow

Dine al fresco in the Mina Lagoon on the Dhow’s  From private upper deck. Tailor made menus by Chef Afi and buffets available. Lunch bookings only and private entertainment available at additional cost. Set menus for 10-30 persons and buffets for 30-60 persons. Dhs 250PP

Waves

Host your Christmas party in Waves, a stylish brasserie that features an international buffet together with seasonal themes and live entertainment. Dhs 250PP

All corporate offers are valid throughout the month of December

The Marquee

New Years Eve "Hawaiian Night"

Dig out your party frocks and floral shirts and drink in the atmosphere as we whip up a tropical storm complete with a sumptuous buffet which will include island delicacies and exotic cocktails. At midnight join the countdown to the fireworks and then continue partying until the early hours.
A fun, frantic and frankly wild night like no other in town.

Monday, 31st December 2007
Dinner : 8:00 pm– 3:00 am
Gala dinner buffet
Dhs 825 per person
Dhs 100 per child (5-12 years)
Includes house beverages
Live entertainment : Havana Gas Band

DOWNLOAD THE MINA FESTIVE BROCHURE:

To view the Festive Program in PDF Format, CLICK HERE (To download, right click and select Save As..to save the file to your computer)

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 09:05 AM | Permalink

Barasti Bar wins award in "Loving the Weather" category!

Last night, Sir Richard Branson hosted the inaugural I ♥ DXB awards at Bussola, at the new Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina to celebrate the very best of the city as voted for by Virgin Atlantic passengers travelling on the London to Dubai route.

The awards celebrated a successful year of Virgin Atlantic’s route-dedicated inflight magazine, DXB. This is the world’s first ever city-specific magazine, produced by HOT Media Publishing, who set out to revolutionise inflight media with the travel-sized guide to Dubai, which has proved an invaluable resource for tourists.

Awards were given in 8 categories based on visitor experiences which DXB-reading Virgin Atlantic passengers voted on, ranging from dining at the finest restaurants and enjoying al fresco entertainment, through to the things that make Dubai such a unique city - everything from architectural wonders to outstanding shopping.

The winners were
Loving the Shopping - Mall of the Emirates
Loving the Romance - Zheng He's  @ Madinat Jumeirah
Loving the Nightlife - 360 @ Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Loving the Weather - Barasti  @ Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Resort and Marina
Loving the Fun - Wild Wadi @ Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Loving the Future - The Palm Jumeirah
Loving the Food - Verre @ The Hilton Dubai Creek
Only in Dubai - Ski Dubai @ Mall of The Emirates

Sir Richard Branson, President of Virgin Atlantic Airways said:

‘Dubai is one of the world’s fastest growing holiday destinations and our inflight magazine is a great resource for our passengers, which is why we felt it was important to give them the opportunity to vote on their experiences. The winners are a testament to Dubai’s success in making this such a popular holiday destination’

Victoria Hazell, Commercial Director of Hot Media, commented:

'We’re naturally delighted with the success of DXB, which is the first of many magazines we plan to launch for Virgin Atlantic Airways. Each will offer passengers targeted, useful information about their holiday destination instead of the usual generic lifestyle features you find in other airlines’ inflight magazines, and we look forward to producing the next title in this series early next year.'

Michael Scully, Complex General Manager of The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina added:

“We are thrilled to have been part of this event, it has provided an excellent opportunity to show case the new Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina which will be opening in March 2008. The Westin Dubai will combine excellent location, stunning design and above all a personal guest experience and therefore we felt provided the perfect venue to host this  inaugural awards evening.”

The One and Only Royal Mirage Rooftop received a highly commended certificate in the Loving the Romance category. Also receiving highly commended certificates were The Budhar Bar at Grosvenor House for Loving the Food, Dubailand for Loving the Future and Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr Brunch and the Burj Al Arab, who both received the highly commended honour for the category Only in Dubai.

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 11:28 AM | Permalink

The much anticipated 'International Latin & Salsa Festival Dubai' is set to debut at the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre from 22 - 24 November! Whether you're in Dubai on holiday or stay here, a definite must-attend for beginners and experts alike... practice your moves or compete for a place in the World Salsa Championship Qualifiers. Visit dubailatinfestival.com for more details.

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 12:02 PM | Permalink

The Air Show Gala Dinner was held at the Mina Seyahi Complex in Dubai this year and was dubbed by the head of the organizing committee to be “..the best AIR SHOW GALA DINNER we ever had through the years”. Accolade for the flawless execution of the event aside, which hosted thousands of VIPs and celebrities, the Gala Dinner was also a fun event, with the likes of Diana Ross performing live for an enraptured audience.

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 10:58 AM | Permalink

Above: General Manager Michael Scully addresses Health & Safety quiz participants on the value of Health & Safety measures and due diligence.

The end of October saw the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi and its associates brainstorm, discuss and act on health and safety issues at the resort complex. The Annual Health and Safety week was a great success in proactively identifying and combating possible hazards and risks that guests and/or associates may encounter. The week's activities were conducted in conjunction with all levels of the hotel and included poster, photo gallery and quiz competitions.

Posted by Mina Effect Team at 10:39 AM | Permalink