Sake pairing has a special place in Japanese history. Often referred to as the “drink of the Gods” in antiquity, the history of this simple rice wine reportedly dates to the Nara period (710-794 AD) in Japan. While the actual origins of this “rice wine” are mysterious, for centuries it has been used for social gatherings, religious ceremonies and song and dance events in Japan. The growth of the international financial market in the 20th century prompted for mass production of this favorite Japanese alcohol and it soon an international favorite at Japanese restaurants and bars all over the world. Boasting one of the largest special imports of sake in the UAE, Okku is clearly one of the best Japanese dining spots in town in which to experience this revered drink. I headed there one evening to try the delicate art of pairing several courses with a particular sake brew.

Delicately prepared and full of fresh flavors, I was immediately enlightened by Armenian cuisine from the first time I ate at Mayrig’s charming Beirut restaurant. While similar in many ways to Lebanese fare, what was so memorable about Mayrig’s dishes were their distinct flavors – tastes like I’d never experienced before. That first experience stayed clearly in my mind for many years, until I recently was able to try the restaurant’s new Dubai restaurant.

Atelier M, an exciting new dining concept located within a stunning Art Dec interior, has officially opened its doors in Dubai Marina. The venue, which includes a bar and dining area with the capacity to seat up to 140 people, offers guests exquisite French contemporary cuisine with an Asian twist.

The 22nd edition of the Dubai International Boat Show has announced that it will exhibit 30 luxury boats all of which exceed 21 meters in size, including 19 super yachts. The show will also display the largest boat in the history of the show. The show will also feature 840 exhibiting companies and brands – 12 percent increase over 2013, which reflects the UAE’s rising importance in the international luxury maritime market.

Burj Al Arab has proved that luxury can be green. After a comprehensive sustainability audit, the hotel has now added the Green Globe Certification (GGC) to its long list of accolades. The Burj Al Arab scored high throughout all areas of the audit. It particularly excelled in water usage reduction, gray water recycling, as well as in managing its energy output and carbon footprint.

Alif Art Gallery, specializing in art from Central Asia, is exhibiting work at ‘Avenue for the second time. Among the works exhibited is Northern Song, a piece revealing an enchanting forest landscape that is akin to the image of a tapestry woven from tree branches.

Currently on view at Taymour Grahne’s New York space is Kesh Angels, a solo exhibition by Moroccan-born, UK-based artist, Hassan Hajjaj. The exhibition marks the artist’s first in New York and presents an innovative take on the vibrant street culture of Morocco – a constant theme running throughout Hajjaj’s oeuvre. On display are a series of photographs, limited edition objects, an installation and a video.

Now in its second year, Jeddah Art Week (JAW) has announced an exciting program of 13 art exhibitions, a series of public performances and a one-day international conference on global visual culture all spread across venues in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The inaugural event of ‘21,39’ Jeddah Arts signals a newfound presence for Contemporary art in the Kingdom. The event is comprised of exhibitions, educational workshops, artist studio visits, gallery openings and talks, all of which highlight the development of art in Saudi Arabia. Focusing on the history of the Kingdom’s Modern and Contemporary art movements, this first edition presents audiences in Saudi Arabia and the larger Middle East with the opportunity to further explore art at home.