CommunityBuzz! - The Dubai Do 2012 15 - 17 June

Folks,

We've got just on 2-weeks to go. The suspense is nearly killing me. We're actually full, 2-weeks prior to the event kick-off. You can waitlist for the brunch and the Airport/EK components separately, but I can't promise anything. We'll be updating the flights/hotels section shortly as well as the event attendee details.
Register here:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/3499490069

Here's the agenda as it stands today. All attendees must register via the Eventbrite page, which is here http://www.eventbrite.com/event/3499490069. This is for the actual 3-day event, plus the individual days - such as brunch etc. The only event you have to send a deposit for is the brunch. I know we have gone back and forth re the brunch location, but the final venue will be the Park Hyatt. A lot of us are using this as our base, they were good to us last year and the Summer Special 3-day package is not bad value. Not FlyerTalk amazing, but not bad all the same. Plus, if you do choose to stay at the Park Hyatt, you receive 20% of all food and beverage, including the brunch.

AGENDA
Thursday 14 June
Welcome Drinks - InterContinental Hotel, Festival City
Ground floor bar (see photo). You can be sure the barman won't be smiling after he's had a bunch of FlyerTalkers for the evening.
6pm till late (or we fall over). We had a great time last year.
*Everyone pays their own way. But you can buy me as many drinks as you want ;)

http://img864.imageshack.us/img864/2163/interconbar.jpg

Friday 15 June
Brunch 12.30pm to 4pm
The Park Hyatt

http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/7507/traiteurm.jpg

We have a dedicated area for us - and you will need to pre-pay the balance of your meal prior to sitting down. I know it sounds a little rude - but it's the only way the hotel will be able to keep track of things (as there are 3 options). I know from personal experience how hard it is to try and settle a tab at 4pm, after eating and drinking like Roman Kings and Queens. Someone always ends up getting the short end of the straw so to speak. Everyone who has registered for the brunch via the Eventbrite page, will have paid a deposit of US$73. The balance payable to the hotel will be able to be paid via cash or card and will be charged in AED.

The hotel have promised to make the payment and registration process a lot easier this year, so all meet from 12-noon onwards at the top of the stairs (near the coffee shop) and at the end of the lobby.

Dress: Smart Casual

Lunch Options.
1. Just the meal AED395
2. The meal plus free-flow wine and beer AED495
3. The "Prospero". This is the fully monty. Free flow wine, beer, Mohitos and french champagne. AED595

Back to lunch logistics. Each person will be given a coloured wristband which will correspond to your choice.

The cut-off for the brunch is the 12th June - as we have to advise the hotel of final numbers on Monday the 13th and prepay the holding deposit. So if you haven't decided, you have just under a month to eat steamed vegetables, drink a lot of tea and hit the treadmill. Or something like that.

Here's a great write up of what to expect by a serious foodie.
http://www.whatihadfordinnertonight.com/?p=11520

Meet in the lobby from 12-noon for a coffee and a chat...it really is a cracker of a hotel. The staff have also been very professional and attentive. Ised, Khalid26 and I visited the Park Hyatt on our recon mission about a month ago and it just so happened to be on a Friday, so we thought we should have brunch. We needed a good lie down afterwards.

Directions: http://dubai.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/services/maps/index.jsp?icamp=propMapDirections

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/3681/theterrace.jpg

Afternoon activities (for those of you who think you will be able to move)
4.30pm - To the top of the Burj.

Saturday 16 June

Morning activities (optional)

1. Skiing with eightblack. 2 hrs probably. We'll meet at 10am at the front entrance to SkiDubai. http://www.skidxb.com/ Or whenever time I wake up and recover from the brunch and drinks the day prior. Don't call me. I'll call you. If you don't hear from me after emailing and texting me, start delivering double espresso's to my room every 15-mins.

What you need to bring:
- Gloves and a hat (as they don't rent these due to health reasons. But they will sell them to you - probably at a cost which would make brunch at the Park Hyatt look cheap).
- Cost is AED180 for the 2-hours. Or approx US$50. Covers all equipment rental (jacket, pants, disposable socks, boots, skis and poles). Check the website for more details.

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/2685/skidubai.jpg

2. Dune Bashing
The official event on Saturday morning is the dune bashing for those who don't want to go skiing. Don't worry though, you don't have to step into the sun. 4WDs/ SUVs will pick up people at their hotels at 9 am. There'll be one hour of dune bashing out in the desert from 10 am to 11 am. Expect to be back in the hotel by noon. If you haven't done this (or roller-coasters) before, I'd recommend coming on an empty stomach.

We're going to be doing this with Arabian Adventures and they are offering a price of AED 200 (US$ 55) per person based on 6 people per car (we'll let them figure out the logistics of that).

If you are interested, please send me a PM or indicate your interest on the thread as we need indicative numbers to make the booking. I'll add names to the list below:

For those who are arriving early, leaving late or not participating in some activities and have a free evening, you might be interested in doing the full blown desert safari including campsite BBQ, belly dancing, camel rides etc.

Strangely, this works out to AED160 (US$ 44) with Llama Tours (this is a special price - PM me and I'll send you details of who to contact) or AED 330 (US$ 90) with Arabian Adventures (this is the regular price though we can provide a contact person if required). Word has it Arabian Adventures offers a nicer experience, but this is entirely up to attendees. Just suggestions - not a part of the DO and not being organized as a group activity.

http://www.adventure-travel-tales-and-tips.com/images/desert-safari-dune-bashing-in-dubai-21284156.jpg

3. Burj (for those who didn't end up going on Friday). If anyone wants to volunteer to lead this, then let me know. I think there are already 7-8 of you signed up for this.

Dinner
We're going to go local and head to something very casual, which is what we did last year. Zol has made a terrific recommendation, which is here http://www.reemalbawadi.com/index.php

Sadly, they don't serve alcohol, so I will be staying at home. Kidding ;)

4. Private Cocktail Party (location to be advised)
This is for FT'ers only, (and the reason you need your duty-free). You wont be allowed entry unless you bring an offering. If you are unsure as to what to contribute, PM me and I will provide some suggestions.

Sunday 17th June

Airport Tour and EK Event - Details still being finalised

Do Etiquette:
1. Sense of humor is compulsory
2. Be adventurous. Have fun. There is no official "start" or "end". You come and go as you please.
3. No one will laugh at you if all you want to talk about is miles and status and elite levels. Think of it as speed dating, but without the complications in the morning
4. No means no. As in, if you don't want to participate in anything, and you want to sit in your room in your underwear and chant, then go right ahead.
5. It's perfectly fine if you don't drink alcohol. Apparently there are some FlyerTalkers who don't drink. I've never met one mind you.
6. You will be given name-tags. They are trendy. Wear them with pride.
7. Check the Dubai Do thread daily for agenda updates, compromising photos and a general recap of what's going on. Or went on. You know what I mean.
8. If you complain about the heat - the first round of drinks is on you. Remember, we are in the middle of the desert. It's summer in Dubai. Even the locals aren't happy about the weather. Taxi drivers are even less impressed. It's because of this weather that they invented beer.
9. Do not post photos of fellow FT'ers on FaceSpace, FT, or whatever the hell other social media thingy you belong to without their permission. Seriously.
10. Yes of course you may buy me a drink. You can buy me many. I am built for events such as these.
11. Any questions, please PM or ask. I will have my iPhone with me the whole time, so you can either text me or email me. All complaints, please refer to Ung1, between the hours of 0200 and 0210 on the 17th June, 2035.

Register here:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/3499490069
* * * * * * * *
Attendee Listing

GOLD

eightblack
mrtdxb
khalid26
dedehans
Ung1
lsed
PanGalactic
jetsetr
jac747
FriendlySkies
ParanoiaTX
asiadxer
KU104
father_ted
Top Of Climb
deirdre
whimike
AF 001
From NYC
Golden Toque
LF Corsten
LF Corsten +1
Xlr
G_G
pjm1300
cawhite
Weatherboy
dolphinchicaddd
desert weasel
desert weasel +1



Only confirmed, regsitered attendees will show on the above list now.

Events

Top Of The Burj

eightblack


SkiDubai With Simon

eightblack


Dune Bashing with Ung1

Ung1


Desert Safari

sorry I missed the last one, I've put the dates in my calendar, hopefully they still will be free when Do time comes^

I'll be transiting on the 30th, - I might be able to make it if it's matinée, but gotta move my connection to EK953.

I'll be there. :-)

Could have done beginning of June but leave by 5th. Pity cos last years looked great.

I just PM'd you Simon, my summer repat is June 16-July 15 thus I'll miss this one. Damn as I just got a status match to EK Gold and want to connect with the airline and events. I try and get out of the 120 degree heat whenever I can, thus I will be back in the US visiting family during that time. Hope for another opportunity to do something with EK and will gladly assist with anything.

^

I'm a probable... :)

Wow summer in Dubai. That would be interesting.

I just noticed this is just a few days after Nome DO but may be able to squeeze in both.

Damn! I'm in DXB the week before :( :( :(

Very interested

I really don't like planning this far in advance but i plan on booking an award ticket tomorrow using my AS miles for the tentative dates (thank you change fee/redeposit waivers). I found availability in premium cabin even though i have to go from USA through Asia.

Any plans on a discount at the host hotel? I know its early. The AAA discount rate is $1000 USD for the nights i will need (Itin has a 4am arrival in DXB on 6/27)

Ok, let's do it again...

Tentative dates are June 28/29/30 and July 01. Park Hyatt will be the base. Not sure about including EK again, but it's too early to tell and will depend on how many "newbies" attend versus Alumni.

Brunch will be on Fri 29 June
Saturday will be a mega-event
Sunday - lie down and go home.

Start planning now...and yes, I know it's hot and the middle of summer, but there are good hotel and flight deals during this time.

Cheers

SIMON
(eightblack)

possibly again but only with +1.

Possibly. UA is currently $2100, with no NC availability. If the fare drops, I'm in.

Very interested in attending ^

Any plans on a discount at the host hotel? I know its early. The AAA discount rate is $1000 USD for the nights i will need (Itin has a 4am arrival in DXB on 6/27)

Hotels are dirt cheap in Dubai at that time of year. It's not worth wasting points when you can get a 5* for £50 a night.

Hotels are dirt cheap in Dubai at that time of year. It's not worth wasting points when you can get a 5* for £50 a night.

I learned that mistake last year.

Anyway, I had to cut my trip short last year, but hope to stay for at least 2 days this time.

Count me in.

Though, I think this time i won't be flying EK LAX-DXB non stop, that flight was WAY too long.

Though, I think this time i won't be flying EK LAX-DXB non stop, that flight was WAY too long.

I have an award ticket picked out from ORD-DXB via HKG on CX. Long but i need to burn some miles and i could never survive in Y.

I might be able to make it this time around. Hope to see you folks there. :)

I have an award ticket picked out from ORD-DXB via HKG on CX. Long but i need to burn some miles and i could never survive in Y.

I was flying EK J class, 777-LR.
Though I should have followed Eightblack's advice, and routed the flight to IAH (for reasons EK flyers will understand)

LAX-DXB, turned out to be 17 hours, close to 18. :eek:
I'm never doing that again. Even in F.

Since I probably won't have anyone to pick up the tab to fly EK this time, I'll probably be flying UA :eek:.

Note : United's flight, as of May 2012 continues on to DOH (IAD->DXB->DOH). So if you have a reason to go to DOH, you could easily sneak in a "stopover".

Newbies (to EK) welcome??

Mrs NoY & I may actually be in Dubai this time around. Mrs. is EY Gold....me a refugee from *A!

I should be around, a bit too late in my opinion... Most people (that live in Dubai) bail out the week before.

Interested, as that was a lot of fun. Just a bit too early for me to know for sure yet.

Newbies (to EK) welcome??

Mrs NoY & I may actually be in Dubai this time around. Mrs. is EY Gold....me a refugee from *A!

Without wishing to step on our fearless leader's toes (EightBlack) I would like to say that you would both be most welcome!

H Simon,

Thanks for the great 1st Dubai DO ^

Count me in for the second :)

Very interested



+1.

Inshallah.

Hate heat and humidity.... But am gonna try and make it this time around. Though I will be complaining a lot. :D :D.

Put me down in the maybe column. I loved seeing all the pics from the first. June is a bit far out for me to know my schedule for sure.

its everyone welcome to go ? I think the EK tour makes it very tempting.... and Dubai its on my bucket list. Long way from MCO but doable.

its everyone welcome to go ? I think the EK tour makes it very tempting.... and Dubai its on my bucket list. Long way from MCO but doable.

Yes of course, DO's are open to the entire FT community...

I'm in (would be rude not to since I live here!)

Definitely interested. Confirmation of an aviation component would switch me to confirmed/move heaven and earth to get to DXB, having seen last year's EK event pics.

Definitely interested. Confirmation of an aviation component would switch me to confirmed/move heaven and earth to get to DXB, having seen last year's EK event pics. Where can I see the pictures from last year, if the EK tour it's in, I'm in.

Ooooh...veeeery tempted to come back for round two.

Last year was a blast! I think the bits I don't remember from very late Fri night (Sat morning) were fun too... :D

I was flying EK J class, 777-LR.
Though I should have followed Eightblack's advice, and routed the flight to IAH (for reasons EK flyers will understand)

LAX-DXB, turned out to be 17 hours, close to 18. :eek:
I'm never doing that again. Even in F.

Since I probably won't have anyone to pick up the tab to fly EK this time, I'll probably be flying UA :eek:.

I came back DXB-IAH in EK F (J reward op-upped). 16 hours and I enjoyed every minute. :) But since CO/UA and EK parted ways that's not gonna happen again. :(

Why IAH over LAX?

Definitely interested. Should be finished with chemo about three weeks prior so it would be a nice post treatment trip.

I was searching for the DO hotels park Hyatt its 190USD a night, Does anyone as a coupon code, do most FT memebers stay there. I'm making my plans to go, when will we know the exact dates.

Simon put me in the maybe list, so far I'm going, I plan to book my ticket in the next 2 weeks.

Folks,

We may bring the date forward a little, as we're probably pushing the boundaries of the heat and general weather. The issue we need to be mindful of is fitting in with the overall DO calendar and ensuring we don't overlap (if we can help it).

Standby. Don't book tickets just yet.

I will update shortly

Cheers

SIMON

I'll be in the plausible category depending on the new dates. Mostly because I want to meet Simon and all you other flying addicts.
I've done some work with Hyatts here in the States and some in Europe for group rates with conferences has anyone approached or would be willing to do so for the DO?

Folks,

We may bring the date forward a little, as we're probably pushing the boundaries of the heat and general weather. The issue we need to be mindful of is fitting in with the overall DO calendar and ensuring we don't overlap (if we can help it).

Standby. Don't book tickets just yet.

I will update shortly

Cheers

SIMON

This is great news for me. Looking forward to attending as I leave the middle of June for a month.

Definitely interested. Confirmation of an aviation component would switch me to confirmed/move heaven and earth to get to DXB, having seen last year's EK event pics.

Looks like some FTers that I've been looking forward to meeting are attending. I might just have to find a way to travel through time to get to work on Monday morning!

New dates fit for me. Count me in.

The new dates don't work for me I'm afraid. I can only come if it's the old dates. Moreover I had already booked time off work from Jun 26 to July 1st so that I could attend :-( . Too late to change my time off work now :-(. Might have to go somewhere else if the meet dates are changed.

Yes yes yes! That happens to be a long bank holiday weekend in the UK and as lady luck would have it (for once) I already had booked segments to DXB to finish off my AONE4 that weekend. If those are the dates we are going with then confirm me down, aviation component or not! (Though something aviation-y would definitely be icing on the cake, no pressure... ;) )

Noooo, I can't make it for the new date, will be in VIE till the 9th of June :mad:

Down from probable to very doubtful now :(

Those new dates work very well for me. Its a long bank holiday weekend for UK flyertalkers

New dates won't work for us.:td:

do any ladies come to these 'do'es' or is it all chaps?

Last DO we had some. But by far not the number of guys we were.

Mr. Mod,

You may want to change the Poll a bit. Airline Event Day could happen but a sim tour will DEFINITELY NOT. All my softball buddies either work for CAE (who makes and maintains all the EK sims) or are trainers for EK. Currently and not going to slow up they are booked 24/7 and even beyond that. They are still sending pilots to Airbus in France to get more captains certified on the 380 platform.

The poll may swing slightly if a sim tour was removed...

-Phil

New dates will not work for me. I will be finishing a course of chemo around the middle of June so cannot travel until that is finished

Not sure if the dates will work, but I'll try my best.. I return from two weeks away/Oz Fest on 5/30.

Count me in for Round 2! Are the dates confirmed?

LFCorsten
LFCorsten+1

we will be in DXB.

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON

Not good for me :(

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON

Hi Simon,

Why end of june isn`t working ? it was almost the same dates as last year`s dates :confused:

Hi Simon,

Why end of june isn`t working ? it was almost the same dates as last year`s dates :confused:

Because we're trying to co-ordinate both EK and the Airport Authority and logistically, things are proving a challenge. We know that whatever we finally agree to, the dates wont suit everyone. I'm sorry for that in advance, but at one point in the not too distant future, I will make a decision based on trying to accommodate the majority...

Cheers

SIMON

Hmm, I'm a maybe depending on the new date.

Please put me down as a maybe. I should know by the end of Feb.
Am in the process of getting a new job, and obviously do not know it it will work out with work at the moment.

Because we're trying to co-ordinate both EK and the Airport Authority and logistically, things are proving a challenge. We know that whatever we finally agree to, the dates wont suit everyone. I'm sorry for that in advance, but at one point in the not too distant future, I will make a decision based on trying to accommodate the majority...

Cheers

SIMON

We are a maybe...doing oz first

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON


Any weekend in June that would maximize the experience both at EK and the Airport Authority would suit me great.

Any weekend in June that would maximize the experience both at EK and the Airport Authority would suit me great.

+1. The start of June dates would suit me best but if juggling is needed to accommodate EK and the DXB Airport Authority then I will make whatever dates are needed work for me - because I have decided I am not missing out on this.

Highly probably would attend +1 for beginning of June as already in Dubai thanks to the long weekend. Would have to juggle stays a bit but was planning the PH Dubai anyway.

the more it will close to the end of the month, the more it will fit me

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON


Fine with me if you promise to celebrate my birthday on the 17th:D

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON
The beginning would be ideal for me. I am not 100% of my schedule for mid-June, so I can't commit to those dates.

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMON

Perfecto

I'd love to go once the date settles down. Middle of June works for me, airfare permitting. Beginning of June has some crazy airfares.

Looking forward to date being set - this year I'm going to make this DO!

the more it will close to the end of the month, the more it will fit me

I will be in DXB from the 27th of June to the 30th of June. Cant come any earlier, I'm afraid.:(:(:(:(

Would do my best to join in again regardless of dates. Certainly, more fun with EK is preferred.

Might be a good excuse to use one of my UA SWU’s. Would likely take some days for Abu Dhabi as well. My last evening in DXB for Do 1, at the Hyatt Regency, I met a gent who’s involved with the Hyatt Capital Gate leaning hotel, and would love to check it out. His girlfriend is an FA with EK.

I've never been to DXB but it's on my bucket list and I'm interested. And EK is starting service to SEA in March, though need to earn UA lifetime miles...

I'm interested in attending. Would have probably preferred early June dates, but will see if I can make any date you settle on work. I know I can't attend June 16-17, though, must be at daughter's graduation.

Eightblack...are you close to confirming the dates?

Folks

We're still playing around with dates, so please bear with me as we have to co-ordinate several parts.

The end of June is not working, and the start doesn't look that great either. How would the middle of June suit everyone?

15/16/17 June 2012

Please advise...

Cheers

SIMONOne of my sons graduates from high school on June 15. Sorry.

Bruce

Any update on the dates? If I can go, I'd like to get my flights booked ASAP.

Any update on the dates? If I can go, I'd like to get my flights booked ASAP.

+1 ^

Eightblack, is the date firm?. Advise us on your #1 post when that happens.

Side-topic : What is the weather like first week of June?. As I recall, its not yet too hot. Still May weather...?

Hey All,

Cost-wise I would prefer the first weekend but schedule-wise I would prefer the last weekend in June. I imagine it is difficult to confirm everything this early but it would be nice to take advantage of decent fares now.

Definitely interested!

I have some copter training in Italy in June/July though so I'll wait until the DO dates are confirmed, otherwise I'd already be jumping around and waving my arms, shouting ME ME ME MEEEEEEEEEEE. :)

Would absolutely love if another EK tour can be included. Then I'd probably come even if I have to work. :D


For those interested in last year's Dubai DO, here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16546602-post324.html)'s the agenda and there are pictures and videos towards the end of the Dubai DO 2011 thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1174898-dubai-do-june-24-27-2011-a.html).



P.S. Would any ladies be interested in doing a pre- or post-DO activity? I have a few Khaleeji friends who are always up for meeting people from around the world. (women only though, as I doubt their parents/husbands would like them to be hanging out with a bunch of foreign men)

The middle of June is fine with me, I'm chomping at the bit.

Folks,

Sorry, I know we can't please everyone. But the dates are now June 15/16/17, as per my previous notes. Will update first post.

Kick off drinks at the InterContinental on Thursday night, brunch venue to be decided (but most likely Park Hyatt) and airport and EK tour to be confirmed. Liver cleanse before you come :)

Make plans. It's on.

Cheers

SIMON
(eightblack)

w00t!

embla, I'd be interested so long as it was adjacent days.

Sold. Having it at the beginning of June would have been nicer for my leave balance but the set dates work fine for me. I'll just have to sleep less and drink more. :D

GREAT!

w00t!

embla, I'd be interested so long as it was adjacent days.

Fabulous! I'll get in contact with them and see what we can set up.
Also, geek from Menlo Park? I want to meet you already! :)


Double-checking on my training dates before confirming... while looking up flights, of course. Sooo excited for this!

Too bad. Can't miss my son's high-school graduation. Maybe next year! :(

Bruce

Just booked myself and +1 (Hans).....arrive p.m of the 13th and leave p.m of the 17th.....staying at IC Festival city for now....

Arriving really early on the 14th from HKG and departing, well, I haven't booked that segment yet, but it'll happen. Waiting for some miles to transfer first.

Deleted

Where are you on the list ung1?

Where are you on the list ung1?

Good question. I'm actually going to make EK Gold in a couple of months, for the first time, but as far as the DO goes, I'm still working on my time machine. I guess I should put myself down as a Blue for now. *cringe*

Good chance I’ll make it for this year as well, but still a little too far in advance for me to know yet.

Also have a questions for those familiar: at the end of the last Do, I met someone who’s involved with Hyatt’s Capital Gate hotel in Abu Dhabi, the one that leans out more than the Tower in Pisa. If I wanted to head there for a few days as part of the trip over, is there some form of public transport to get from DUB to AUD; bus, or such?

Isn't it time we had a list of attendees? You know how it works - GOLD if you couldn't get enough last year and are back for some more, SILVER if you're all geared up for your first DXB Do (confirmed) and BLUE if you're still planning/ interested, but not yet confirmed.

Ok, I know there's iO too. If you're supplying the Dom, we'll put you down as one! ;)

(I'm including people who have confirmed after the new and final dates were announced in the list. Let me know if I've missed you out)


GOLD
eightblack
khalid26
asiadxer
dedehans +1
w00t


SILVER
deirdre
Top of climb


BLUE
ung1
SMART51
meFIRST
thomas199023
FriendlySkies
embla

Do we have new dates? I see two different times in the OP..

Do we have new dates? I see two different times in the OP..

Dates are correct in the subject (but not the body of the first post) and are reiterated here. (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/17935480-post82.html) (June 15, 16, 17)

Dates are correct in the subject (but not the body of the first post) and are reiterated here. (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/17935480-post82.html) (June 15, 16, 17)

Thanks. Calling UA to put tix on hold for airport purchase ^

I've got my return in the jaws of Continental booking. Inbound on OW, outbound on *A. Westbound all the way.

Also have a questions for those familiar: at the end of the last Do, I met someone who’s involved with Hyatt’s Capital Gate hotel in Abu Dhabi, the one that leans out more than the Tower in Pisa. If I wanted to head there for a few days as part of the trip over, is there some form of public transport to get from DUB to AUD; bus, or such?

Although not an authority on UAE public transport I am not aware of a scheduled bus service but there may be one ... you could always try to get onto the regular Etihad bus service from Dubai to AUH airport and taxi it from there - would be a free ride and from what I have heard I don't think that they check your flight details as long as you look like a passenger. A taxi would probably cost you less than USD100 all in so not bad really.

As a Dubai resident and barring last minute travel out of town please put me down as an attendee. Thanks.

Although not an authority on UAE public transport I am not aware of a scheduled bus service but there may be one ... you could always try to get onto the regular Etihad bus service from Dubai to AUH airport and taxi it from there - would be a free ride and from what I have heard I don't think that they check your flight details as long as you look like a passenger. A taxi would probably cost you less than USD100 all in so not bad really.

I don't think Etihad (or EK for that matter) will let you on the bus unless you are a passenger, as checked bags travel on the same buses, which poses a security threat.

But there is a public transport bus which costs something like $6 each way. I'm not sure about all the departure locations, but there's one from the Marina/ Ibn Battuta and it starts somewhere in Bur Dubai. When you get off at Abu Dhabi, you can take a cab back to the building (which is on the way), or there may be a bus stop close to it.

A cab from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is about $60-80.

Yes of course, DO's are open to the entire FT community...

I don't think ever going to DXB. Because this is Middle Eastern restrictions. So I cannot allowed go into DXB this time. Sorry.

The weather will very, very extremely hottest all summer long. It will get too sweat all over me. It could be reach 120 degrees out there.

Tickets are booked, so please add me to the confirmed list ^ I'll be at the Park Hyatt (most likely).

Tickets are booked, so please add me to the confirmed list ^ I'll be at the Park Hyatt (most likely).

Good. Hope you have a great trip to DXB. See you when you get back home from DXB.

Good question. I'm actually going to make EK Gold in a couple of months, for the first time, but as far as the DO goes, I'm still working on my time machine. I guess I should put myself down as a Blue for now. *cringe*

Hi ung1

Put me as Gold please :)

Isn't it time we had a list of attendees? You know how it works - GOLD if you couldn't get enough last year and are back for some more, SILVER if you're all geared up for your first DXB Do (confirmed) and BLUE if you're still planning/ interested, but not yet confirmed.

Ok, I know there's iO too. If you're supplying the Dom, we'll put you down as one! ;)

(I'm including people who have confirmed after the new and final dates were announced in the list. Let me know if I've missed you out)


GOLD
eightblack
mrtdxb
khalid26
asiadxer
dedehans +1
w00t


SILVER
deirdre
Top of climb
FriendlySkies


BLUE
ung1
SMART51
meFIRST
thomas199023
embla
I'd suggest letting the organizer of the Do eightblack post/edit the attendee list, it is the standard way for most Do's.@:-)
-

I'd suggest letting the organizer of the Do eightblack post/edit the attendee list, it is the standard way for most Do's.@:-)
-

Right, he will best eveerything he can. He will take care of it.

Good chance I’ll make it for this year as well, but still a little too far in advance for me to know yet.

Also have a questions for those familiar: at the end of the last Do, I met someone who’s involved with Hyatt’s Capital Gate hotel in Abu Dhabi, the one that leans out more than the Tower in Pisa. If I wanted to head there for a few days as part of the trip over, is there some form of public transport to get from DUB to AUD; bus, or such?

Interested in that too but perhaps only for a day trip...what is recommended?

Interested in that too but perhaps only for a day trip...what is recommended?

I was actually considering renting a car on the morning of the 15th and driving to Abu Dhabi (and maybe visiting all 7 emirates briefly over the course of my stay).

I was actually considering renting a car on the morning of the 15th and driving to Abu Dhabi (and maybe visiting all 7 emirates briefly over the course of my stay).

the 15th should be the day of the brunch and it's a must :)

the 15th should be the day of the brunch and it's a must :)

Oops, meant the morning of the 14th.

the 15th should be the day of the brunch and it's a must :)

Alas, I'm at a wedding on those dates.

I'd suggest letting the organizer of the Do eightblack post/edit the attendee list, it is the standard way for most Do's.@:-)
-

Well in all fairness ung1 was eightblack's partner in crime last time around, so I'm sure they're sorting it all out between drinks and we'll have a shiny new first post in due time. :D

I was actually considering renting a car on the morning of the 15th and driving to Abu Dhabi (and maybe visiting all 7 emirates briefly over the course of my stay).

Not so sure about this.....I am going to PM you..

Thanks dede -- I'm okay with getting a guide if I can find one before I arrive. It'd be kinda fun to have others go with.

Part of the joy of the Emirates from a Traveler's Century Club country-bagging goal: each emirate counts separately on their country list (http://travelerscenturyclub.org/join-the-club), so there's seven quite close together.

I'm hoping to get to 75 countries by the end of the year so I can join as a provisional member.

Part of the joy of the Emirates from a Traveler's Century Club country-bagging goal: each emirate counts separately on their country list (http://travelerscenturyclub.org/join-the-club), so there's seven quite close together....Oh, that's good to know. Then I have two "countries" from my last visit to Dubai, not just one. I'm getting awfully close to that century mark!

Bruce

I have also interest. (Blue)

Thanks dede -- I'm okay with getting a guide if I can find one before I arrive. It'd be kinda fun to have others go with.

Part of the joy of the Emirates from a Traveler's Century Club country-bagging goal: each emirate counts separately on their country list (http://travelerscenturyclub.org/join-the-club), so there's seven quite close together.

I'm hoping to get to 75 countries by the end of the year so I can join as a provisional member.

I'm interested in you Abu Dhabi hop ^

Isn't it time we had a list of attendees? You know how it works - GOLD if you couldn't get enough last year and are back for some more, SILVER if you're all geared up for your first DXB Do (confirmed) and BLUE if you're still planning/ interested, but not yet confirmed.

Ok, I know there's iO too. If you're supplying the Dom, we'll put you down as one! ;)

(I'm including people who have confirmed after the new and final dates were announced in the list. Let me know if I've missed you out)


GOLD
eightblack
mrtdxb
khalid26
asiadxer
dedehans +1
w00t
G_G


SILVER
deirdre
Top of climb
FriendlySkies


BLUE
ung1
SMART51
meFIRST
thomas199023
embla

I’m a combo of Gold, having been at the 1st Do, as well as Blue, in that I can’t yet confirm.

Was just looking at the Park Hyatt site, hoping to see some sort of deal there similar to what was on last summer, but nothing’s been posted yet. Might write to them to ask; if I do, I’ll post about any response.

Also, is there any public transportation way to get to Abu Dhabi other than cab or renting a car? Want to spend a day or 2 there, trying out that leaning Hyatt Capital Gate.

uhhh, nice. From NYC - looking forward seeing u again buddy! :)

I wasn't planning on a separate hop to Abu Dhabi, though it could be done that way I suppose given that it's in the other direction. Maybe it'd be better to do the pre-day trip to Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Quwain and arrange a separate something a little later (maybe also on the 14th) to Abu Dhabi for those interested in just that part.

I'm looking at guide services now, but it's difficult to evaluate them this far abroad with no prior significant knowledge of the area.

I'm interested in you Abu Dhabi hop ^

+1

uhhh, nice. From NYC - looking forward seeing u again buddy! :)

Well, not a sure thing yet, my friend, but seriously hoping, despite that heat.

Meanwhile, I heard back from the Park Hyatt that their summer rates/promotions aren’t yet finalized. Wrote that they’d let me know, but....

Well, not a sure thing yet, my friend, but seriously hoping, despite that heat.

Meanwhile, I heard back from the Park Hyatt that their summer rates/promotions aren’t yet finalized. Wrote that they’d let me know, but....

I am going to try and negotiate an FT rate for the Dubai Do with Hyatt. Standby. Already left messages...

I am going to try and negotiate an FT rate for the Dubai Do with Hyatt. Standby. Already left messages...

That would be great ^

Even $30 or $40 off per night on my $238 nightly rate would be appreciated :)

Also, is there any public transportation way to get to Abu Dhabi other than cab or renting a car? Want to spend a day or 2 there, trying out that leaning Hyatt Capital Gate.

Thought I'd post a link to that Hyatt. (http://www.abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/) I hadn't looked it up before, looks pretty neat!

That would be great ^

Even $30 or $40 off per night on my $238 nightly rate would be appreciated :)

Last year's summer rate was 600 AED (approx $160) and included a 10% F&B credit too (applied to the very pricey but mind-blowing buffet). Those of us who were there last year are hoping for a similar special...but maybe eightblack can pull off some magic. :)

Much like From NYC, I am very interested in doing this again, but I need to figure out how squeeze this into other travel/commitments and find some crazy F reward routing :D.

So I guess I'm Blue with a Gold alumni stripe.

If I come, I'm very much interested in an Abu Dhabi side trip.

That would be great ^

Even $30 or $40 off per night on my $238 nightly rate would be appreciated :)

I'd go for that rate and xl IC......oh, yes...

follow modus on :D

June 15 to 17 I'am interested, not yet confirmed, but will tickets on hold next week.

How are we doing on EK tour and simulator? If that is a go, I think I could confirm much sooner.

I am going to try and negotiate an FT rate for the Dubai Do with Hyatt. Standby. Already left messages...

I’ve just had a PM conversation with Jeff Zidell of Hyatt Gold Passport over some matters we discussed at the OWMD, and I wrote that I was looking to head back to Dubai again for this Do. Mentioned that I’d stayed at the Park the last time, along with several others, with some at the Grand, and that I was looking to spend a night or 2 at the Capital Gate, with some others tending interest. Nothing in stone yet. Asked if someone there might arrange backstage tours of the hotels and that I was hoping that summer rate might be announced in time to use one of my presently-existing suite certs.

He came back with an offer to put me, and I’d toss this eightblack’s way, with the Hyatt GP Director of Loyalty in Dubai.

Simon, shall I go ahead with this?

I’ve just had a PM conversation with Jeff Zidell of Hyatt Gold Passport over some matters we discussed at the OWMD, and I wrote that I was looking to head back to Dubai again for this Do. Mentioned that I’d stayed at the Park the last time, along with several others, with some at the Grand, and that I was looking to spend a night or 2 at the Capital Gate, with some others tending interest. Nothing in stone yet. Asked if someone there might arrange backstage tours of the hotels and that I was hoping that summer rate might be announced in time to use one of my presently-existing suite certs.

He came back with an offer to put me, and I’d toss this eightblack’s way, with the Hyatt GP Director of Loyalty in Dubai.

Simon, shall I go ahead with this?

From NYC - yes please. You're a star. Many thanks...:)

From NYC - yes please. You're a star. Many thanks...:)

Jeff asked for my email address to pass along to the Director of Loyalty, Dubai; I sent it to him and mentioned both your handle and your actual name as the person likely to handle the details. As soon as I get the email, I’ll do a cross-introduction.

Meanwhile, it’d be good to get a handle on how many people would go to Abu Dhabi either before or after the Do, so we know how many would stay overnight at the Capital Gate Hyatt. Please note if you’d prefer going there before or after the Dubai Do, or if either is okay.

WILL MAKE TIME FOR AN OVERNIGHT TO ABU DHABI & CAPITAL GATE HOTEL

From NYC - either; perhaps for 2 nights, certainly 1

Asiadxer - Before only

Khalid26 - Waiting for clarification

dedehans - Before

dedehans+1 - Before only

deidre - before

Friendly Skies - before

I'm in (would be rude not to since I live here!)

I'm going to have to go as a provisional for now, these dates are the same as the Le Mans 24hr race and I'm supposed to be heading there.
Not totally sure that the trip will happen though, so as I live in DXB it's no issue.

Very new person to these forums, shy and quiet individual, but as its an hours flight away. Why not, just make sure it stays during the weekend! I'll confirm by end of May since I'm a last minute person, sorry!

I´ll go for the maybe list for now :)

WILL MAKE TIME FOR AN OVERNIGHT TO ABU DHABI & CAPITAL GATE HOTEL

From NYC - either; perhaps for 2 nights, certainly 1

Asiadxer - Before only

From NYC I am definitely interested in the hotel tour and a maybe on staying the night.

Very new person to these forums, shy and quiet individual, but as its an hours flight away. Why not, just make sure it stays during the weekend! I'll confirm by end of May since I'm a last minute person, sorry!

Some of the alumni are a bit psycho but we don't bite. You are welcome to join

Jeff asked for my email address to pass along to the Director of Loyalty, Dubai; I sent it to him and mentioned both your handle and your actual name as the person likely to handle the details. As soon as I get the email, I’ll do a cross-introduction.

Meanwhile, it’d be good to get a handle on how many people would go to Abu Dhabi either before or after the Do, so we know how many would stay overnight at the Capital Gate Hyatt. Please note if you’d prefer going there before or after the Dubai Do, or if either is okay.

WILL MAKE TIME FOR AN OVERNIGHT TO ABU DHABI & CAPITAL GATE HOTEL

From NYC - either; perhaps for 2 nights, certainly 1

Asiadxer - Before only

Hans and I might be interested in night of June 14th.....but we would miss the brunch, I guess....we leave on the 17th...

From NYC I am definitely interested in the hotel tour and a maybe on staying the night.

Would this be for Before the Dubai Do, or After; or does it not matter to you?

Hans and I might be interested in night of June 14th.....but we would miss the brunch, I guess....we leave on the 17th...

Asiadxer wrote me that there was an express bus we could all catch in the morning that would get us back in time for the brunch. We would group taxi from/to the bus station to the hotel or wherever the brunch is being held.

BTW, haven’t yet heard from the Dubai Hyatt person. If I don’t by the beginning of next week, I’ll follow up with Jeff Zidell about that.

Would this be for Before the Dubai Do, or After; or does it not matter to you?



Asiadxer wrote me that there was an express bus we could all catch in the morning that would get us back in time for the brunch. We would group taxi from/to the bus station to the hotel or wherever the brunch is being held.

BTW, haven’t yet heard from the Dubai Hyatt person. If I don’t by the beginning of next week, I’ll follow up with Jeff Zidell about that.

Keep me posted. FT is not sending me emails subscribed threads for some reason....so I have to check FT more often...

Keep me posted. FT is not sending me emails subscribed threads for some reason....so I have to check FT more often...

Do, please check in here.

Meanwhile, are you interested in going to Abu Dhabi before or after DXB Do, or does it not matter to you?

Do, please check in here.

Meanwhile, are you interested in going to Abu Dhabi before or after DXB Do, or does it not matter to you?

Before but......we arrive pm June 13 and would be ready to go anytime on June 14........but....we leave on June 17 pm so if nothing happens in the preceding days we would be happy to go to Abu Dhabi any time in between...

We want to go to Abu Dhabi and will work with whatever you can do...

Dede

My tentative plan is to do the other five emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Quwain) tour early on the 14th (probably departing 9-10 am, back around 5 pm) and then going to Abu Dhabi for dinner. I like the suggestion for the Leaning Tower of Hyatt though I admit it freaks me out a bit since I live in an earthquake zone.

That way, we can get as many people who might just want a shorter visit to Abu Dhabi only.

I've found a couple of tour guide companies, but of course I'm a woman traveling alone, so I've always got that safety concern gnawing at the back of me, so I'd really appreciate others coming along. Or, failing that, recommendations for a reputable driver.

I'll be landing in DXB at 3:30pm (UA from IAD) on the 14th.. If there's enough time to visit Abu Dhabi, I'd be very interested.

I'll be landing in DXB at 3:30pm (UA from IAD) on the 14th.. If there's enough time to visit Abu Dhabi, I'd be very interested.

If we aim at leaving DXB for AUH around 5:30-6 pm, that should be plenty of time. I hope.

Edited to add: I arrive DXB on CX at 4:50 am, so I'll be there really early on the 14th. Probably going to be a very very long day!

Before but......we arrive pm June 13 and would be ready to go anytime on June 14........but....we leave on June 17 pm so if nothing happens in the preceding days we would be happy to go to Abu Dhabi any time in between...

We want to go to Abu Dhabi and will work with whatever you can do...

Dede

My tentative plan is to do the other five emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Quwain) tour early on the 14th (probably departing 9-10 am, back around 5 pm) and then going to Abu Dhabi for dinner. I like the suggestion for the Leaning Tower of Hyatt though I admit it freaks me out a bit since I live in an earthquake zone.

That way, we can get as many people who might just want a shorter visit to Abu Dhabi only.

I've found a couple of tour guide companies, but of course I'm a woman traveling alone, so I've always got that safety concern gnawing at the back of me, so I'd really appreciate others coming along. Or, failing that, recommendations for a reputable driver.

I'll be landing in DXB at 3:30pm (UA from IAD) on the 14th.. If there's enough time to visit Abu Dhabi, I'd be very interested.

If we aim at leaving DXB for AUH around 5:30-6 pm, that should be plenty of time. I hope.

Edited to add: I arrive DXB on CX at 4:50 am, so I'll be there really early on the 14th. Probably going to be a very very long day!

So, most folks seem more interested in going to AUD before, on the night of the 14th.

Here’s some info about getting between DXB and AUD:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Abu_Dhabi

“A viable alternative is to fly to Dubai International Airport in the neighbouring emirate of Dubai and continue onward by bus or, if really in a hurry, by taxi.

To/from Dubai airport:

A metered Dubai airport taxi direct to the Abu Dhabi town center will cost about Dhs 300.

To get a bus, you will have to go to one of several bus stations in Dubai to catch the Emirates Express to Abu Dhabi. See By bus section below.“

“By bus

You can get into Abu Dhabi from the other Emirates of Dubai, Sharjah, etc, by bus. The Emirates Express between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is operated jointly by the Abu Dhabi and Dubai municipalities. The 130 km route takes around two hours. The buses operated by Dubai's RTA are luxury buses that charge 20 Dirhams for the onward journey to Abu Dhabi and 15 Dirhams for the return journey. The Abu Dhabi transport buses charge 15 Dirhams each way. The first bus departs from the Abu Dhabi main bus terminal on the corner of Hazza bin Zayed the First (11th) St and East (4th) Rd at 5:30AM and the last leaves at 11:30PM; they leave at 30 minute intervals, or if the bus gets full sooner. From Dubai, the buses leave from 5:30AM, and run until 11:30PM, from the Al Ghubaiba station in Bur Dubai (opposite Carrefour Shopping). For bus times, see the timetable [5] publishd in the Government of Dubai website. “

Can’t seem to attach the .pdf of the bus schedule referred to right above. Please go to the webpage and just click on “5” above and you’ll get it.

Of course, if people coordinate times together, then sharing a cab may be an alternative. Personally, I haven’t yet set up my flights, so not sure when I’ll get in.

To review, here’s where we are with people interested in staying a night at the Leaning Tower of Hyatt, the Capital Gate in Abu Dhabi:

WILL MAKE TIME FOR AN OVERNIGHT TO ABU DHABI & CAPITAL GATE HOTEL

From NYC - either; perhaps for 2 nights, certainly 1

Asiadxer - Before only

Khalid26 - Waiting for clarification

dedehans - Before

dedehans+1 - Before only

deidre - before, and dinner only, not overnighting

Friendly Skies - before

From NYC I am definitely interested in the hotel tour and a maybe on staying the night.

Do you have a sense when you would come, if you did - before Dubai Do or after? The trending is to before.

To be clear: I'm not staying the night in Abu Dhabi. I'm just visiting, hopefully with other people and I'd be happy to meet up for dinner.

To be clear: I'm not staying the night in Abu Dhabi. I'm just visiting, hopefully with other people and I'd be happy to meet up for dinner.

Okay, I’ll make that change to the overnight count. If I can set up a tour of the hotel, I’ll try for late afternoon/early evening before dinner.

Put me in for BLUE please! I'd love to experience the wackiness that goes on in these DOs!

Do you have a sense when you would come, if you did - before Dubai Do or after? The trending is to before.

Before it is. So it would be 14th day time so we are back for the drinks in the evening?

Before it is. So it would be 14th day time so we are back for the drinks in the evening?

Ah, yes. Forgot about drinks the evening of the 14th. Was a nice introduction to everyone the last time.

I guess, for the Before People, there are 2 options -
1 - Arrive in Abu Dhabi the day/night of the 13th & make it back in time for drinks in Dubai on the 14th; or
2 - Stay overnight in Dubai the 14th and meet up with everyone at the brunch on Friday, the 15th.

Since I haven’t yet made my flight plans, I'm easy about this.

Ah, yes. Forgot about drinks the evening of the 14th. Was a nice introduction to everyone the last time.

I guess, for the Before People, there are 2 options -
1 - Arrive in Abu Dhabi the day/night of the 13th & make it back in time for drinks in Dubai on the 14th; or
2 - Stay overnight in Dubai the 14th and meet up with everyone at the brunch on Friday, the 15th.

Since I haven’t yet made my flight plans, I'm easy about this.

We would only be able to do the 14th and get back for brunch on the 15th....

We would only be able to do the 14th and get back for brunch on the 15th....

Understand; at about what time would you arrive, do you think? Just in terms of trying to sort out, if we can do such, a tour of the hotel or the like.

I would likely arrive on the 13th for The Leaning Tower of Hyatt; still deciding how long would stay.

Understand; at about what time would you arrive, do you think? Just in terms of trying to sort out, if we can do such, a tour of the hotel or the like.

I would likely arrive on the 13th for The Leaning Tower of Hyatt; still deciding how long would stay.

I thought we were all going to go together?? I wasn't looking for us to come by ourselves..

We would be ready to leave the hotel in DXB anytime morning of the 14th....spending the night in Abu Dhabi and coming back next morning in time for the brunch..

I thought we were all going to go together?? I wasn't looking for us to come by ourselves..

We would be ready to leave the hotel in DXB anytime morning of the 14th....spending the night in Abu Dhabi and coming back next morning in time for the brunch..

Well, it’s something that’s just coming together, so pardon some wrinkles.

Let me amend what I’m planning on doing: I’ll arrive on the 13th and head to AUD, and I will stay until the morning of the 15th, when I will head back to DXB in time for brunch and the rest of the Do. I’ll miss the drinks Thursday night under this scenario.

Everyone’s on a bit of a different schedule arriving and such, and can coordinate getting to the Capital Gate.

I will see about setting up a tour of the hotel for the 14th, once I have a sense of when people will actually be at the hotel; perhaps we can do one tour in the early afternoon, for those who arrive earlier there, with a 2nd tour later, for those who arrive closer to the evening. Given the travel time between AUD/DXB, it may not be possible to be part of the hotel tour and make the drinks session Thursday night. Folks’ll just have to choose what they want to do, unless everyone arrives in AUD on the 13th and we all more leisurely make our way to DXB the afternoon of the 14th.

I will see about setting up a tour of the hotel for the 14th, once I have a sense of when people will actually be at the hotel; perhaps we can do one tour in the early afternoon, for those who arrive earlier there, with a 2nd tour later, for those who arrive closer to the evening. Given the travel time between AUD/DXB, it may not be possible to be part of the hotel tour and make the drinks session Thursday night. Folks’ll just have to choose what they want to do, unless everyone arrives in AUD on the 13th and we all more leisurely make our way to DXB the afternoon of the 14th.

I second that. A tour on the morning of the 14th will give us plenty of time to get back for drinks but as you said it depends on everyone's arriving schedule. The drive is 90 minutes at most so leaving AUH by 16.30 on the 14th still gives everyone plenty of time

Oh no. These dates don't work for me! I am so bummed. I really wanted to be there this year.

On the 15th I need to be in the UK to attend my nieces wedding. Happy for that, sad that it means I can't make the Dubai DO

Well, it’s something that’s just coming together, so pardon some wrinkles.

Let me amend what I’m planning on doing: I’ll arrive on the 13th and head to AUD, and I will stay until the morning of the 15th, when I will head back to DXB in time for brunch and the rest of the Do. I’ll miss the drinks Thursday night under this scenario.

Everyone’s on a bit of a different schedule arriving and such, and can coordinate getting to the Capital Gate.

I will see about setting up a tour of the hotel for the 14th, once I have a sense of when people will actually be at the hotel; perhaps we can do one tour in the early afternoon, for those who arrive earlier there, with a 2nd tour later, for those who arrive closer to the evening. Given the travel time between AUD/DXB, it may not be possible to be part of the hotel tour and make the drinks session Thursday night. Folks’ll just have to choose what they want to do, unless everyone arrives in AUD on the 13th and we all more leisurely make our way to DXB the afternoon of the 14th.

I'm playing around with the possibility of flying in or out of AUD, to avoid the extra transfer to Dubai and try out a new airport (especially if I can pull off an Etihad flight). I may have to do that after the Do though, so not sure how much I can sync with everyone. Trying to use AA miles and I'm not as familiar with the intricacies of the program (as opposed to CO/*A), so it's taking longer to get something concrete put together. :(

I will see about setting up a tour of the hotel for the 14th, once I have a sense of when people will actually be at the hotel; perhaps we can do one tour in the early afternoon, for those who arrive earlier there, with a 2nd tour later, for those who arrive closer to the evening. Given the travel time between AUD/DXB, it may not be possible to be part of the hotel tour and make the drinks session Thursday night. Folks’ll just have to choose what they want to do, unless everyone arrives in AUD on the 13th and we all more leisurely make our way to DXB the afternoon of the 14th.

My flights were booked on the only award space I could get, so I am only able to come in on the 14th, but I'm coming in at 5 am.

Given that I seem to be the only person who wants to do an Emirate country-bagging tour, I may just do that on the 14th and hopefully get back for drinks. It'd be easier than trying to do two separate tours and their logistics.

Depending on timing, I could also do AUD later on the 17th, but my flight out of DXB is just after midnight on the 18th, so I'd need to make sure I'm back in time.

My flights were booked on the only award space I could get, so I am only able to come in on the 14th, but I'm coming in at 5 am.

Given that I seem to be the only person who wants to do an Emirate country-bagging tour, I may just do that on the 14th and hopefully get back for drinks. It'd be easier than trying to do two separate tours and their logistics.

Depending on timing, I could also do AUD later on the 17th, but my flight out of DXB is just after midnight on the 18th, so I'd need to make sure I'm back in time.

What tour are you planning exactly ? I'm arriving earlier than you at 1am and could be interested in.

What tour are you planning exactly ? I'm arriving earlier than you at 1am and could be interested in.

I was going to find a guide and visit the other six emirates. If there's a time to defer Abu Dhabi to, then the remaining five emirates. The UAE's small enough that it can be done as a day trip.

Can you guys put me on the DO list as blue please?

Cheers, ^

Pete

Confirmed: I will be in DXB during these dates, so I will attend. :)

Will not need a hotel as I already have a residence there but I will make all the events. Will probably be able to drive folks around if necessary as well.

Also - what is the difference between the Gold/Silver/Blue attendance lists? (idiot question)

Confirmed: I will be in DXB during these dates, so I will attend. :)

Will not need a hotel as I already have a residence there but I will make all the events. Will probably be able to drive folks around if necessary as well.

Also - what is the difference between the Gold/Silver/Blue attendance lists? (idiot question)

Gold = Buy Simon 10 drinks :D
Silver = Buy Simon 5 drinks :)
Bronze = Buy Simon 1 drink :mad:

Please add me to the list, I will be there.

Confirmed: I will be in DXB during these dates, so I will attend. :)

Will not need a hotel as I already have a residence there but I will make all the events. Will probably be able to drive folks around if necessary as well.

Also - what is the difference between the Gold/Silver/Blue attendance lists? (idiot question)

Look at my attendee list on Page 5.

Gold = you've been last year and are coming again
Silver = you're attending for the first time
Blue = you're still figuring out how to attend without buying Simon any drinks.


Please add me to the list, I will be there.

Great, I'll bring along all my boarding passes to prove to you I fly Y!

Look at my attendee list on Page 5.

Gold = you've been last year and are coming again
Silver = you're attending for the first time
Blue = you're still figuring out how to attend without buying Simon any drinks.
Hah! I see you've already got me down as a lowly Silver. ;)

Unless things change, I will be there. I may miss out on the Thursday drinks as I will be flying in from SIN, but will keep you folks posted. Look forward to meeting y'all!

Hah! I see you've already got me down as a lowly Silver. ;)

Unless things change, I will be there. I may miss out on the Thursday drinks as I will be flying in from SIN, but will keep you folks posted. Look forward to meeting y'all!

Really? How are you getting from SIN to DXB? I will be flying from SIN too and likely arriving Friday morning, if things work out.

Great, I'll bring along all my boarding passes to prove to you I fly Y!

:D

Hi there, please put me down as a BLUE for this DO. Hope to be able to pull it off. Thanks!

Really? How are you getting from SIN to DXB? I will be flying from SIN too and likely arriving Friday morning, if things work out.

Come via Delhi :D

Really? How are you getting from SIN to DXB? I will be flying from SIN too and likely arriving Friday morning, if things work out.

Come via Delhi :D

While that would be one creative way of going back in time, I would like to make the DO! :p

Hi All - I heard back from the Hyatt Director of Loyalty for Middle East and India the other day, and replied to her copying in Eightblack, since he’s our Fearless Leader for Dubai. She was naturally interested in how many people would be staying at Hyatts in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi and for how many nights as a prelude to trying to work something out for us.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off. The intention is also to see if we can include this hotel in any deals. Are there any others who’d be interested in staying there before or after Dubai?

Thanks.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Yes. Otherwise, I'll stick with my Hilton res.

After one earlier change where I switched from cash to points+cash, I'm not going to re-qualify for Hilton Gold anyway (without more work than I care to put into it), so now I'm more open to other properties.

Hi All - I heard back from the Hyatt Director of Loyalty for Middle East and India the other day, and replied to her copying in Eightblack, since he’s our Fearless Leader for Dubai. She was naturally interested in how many people would be staying at Hyatts in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi and for how many nights as a prelude to trying to work something out for us.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off. The intention is also to see if we can include this hotel in any deals. Are there any others who’d be interested in staying there before or after Dubai?

Thanks.

definitely staying in Hyatt in Dubai....Abh Dhabi up in the air....

I'd certainly like to attend if the timing works out. And yes it would be nice to bring it forward if possible. I'd like to get some golf in if I can stand the heat. I'd probably stay at the IC. I love the Park Hyatt, but I need to re-qual RA.

Even though I've flown the EK A380 in F twice, and I could get a status match if I wanted, I'm just lowly Blue for now.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc?


Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off..

Yes to staying at Park Hyatt (Or Grand Hyatt) in Dubai and would love a special rate offer and tour of any hotels. I lOVE site inspection tours and still work as a travel consultant so it would be very useful to me.

Abu Dhabi I am very interested in but on fence about....

I've been following this thread (like last years) and please put me down as a Blue for 2012.

Trying to see if flights, schedules, and cash works out and I'm able to attend.

Hyatt Dubai is ok with me, not interested in AUH.

I am going to work on a corporate rate code for all participants for all Hyatt properties in Dubai.

[/LIST]

Eightblack, I love how you operate. :D (corp rates) The new dates are tricky, I will know if I can make it the closer we get to the date. Unlikely, at this point, as I will be in DXB the month prior.

Hi All - I heard back from the Hyatt Director of Loyalty for Middle East and India the other day, and replied to her copying in Eightblack, since he’s our Fearless Leader for Dubai. She was naturally interested in how many people would be staying at Hyatts in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi and for how many nights as a prelude to trying to work something out for us.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off. The intention is also to see if we can include this hotel in any deals. Are there any others who’d be interested in staying there before or after Dubai?

Thanks.

Currently have a 3 night reservation at the PH. Would happily accept a corp rate ;)

Hi All - I heard back from the Hyatt Director of Loyalty for Middle East and India the other day, and replied to her copying in Eightblack, since he’s our Fearless Leader for Dubai. She was naturally interested in how many people would be staying at Hyatts in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi and for how many nights as a prelude to trying to work something out for us.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off. The intention is also to see if we can include this hotel in any deals. Are there any others who’d be interested in staying there before or after Dubai?

I have a suite at the Park Hyatt on my corp rate (had to burn the last 2011 suite upgrade on *something* :D ), but until I can secure the flights I need I'm technically not confirmed. I have the Capital Gate held as well, in hopes the flights will work out.

Of course an improved group rate is always welcome...

Also no one added me to the "maybe" list (as an alumni). :(

eightblack, would you mind starting a thread over on MP like you did last year? I can tend it and make sure people who respond there are added to the list here. Not everyone over there is active here.

Hi All - I heard back from the Hyatt Director of Loyalty for Middle East and India the other day, and replied to her copying in Eightblack, since he’s our Fearless Leader for Dubai. She was naturally interested in how many people would be staying at Hyatts in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi and for how many nights as a prelude to trying to work something out for us.

Last year, folks stayed in a lot of different chains and other hotels.

So, just for discussion’s sake, would you be willing to stay in a Hyatt if there was a special offer on rate, extra points, tours of the hotel, etc? If not, please also indicate in a reply. Understand that we won’t be getting any challenge offers such as happened during the recent and past airline-related BiggieDo’s.

Also, there are about 5 people who’re interested in staying at least one night at The Leaning Tower of Hyatt (Capital Gate) in Abu Dhabi before the Dubai takes off. The intention is also to see if we can include this hotel in any deals. Are there any others who’d be interested in staying there before or after Dubai?

I have a suite at the Park Hyatt on my corp rate (had to burn the last 2011 suite upgrade on *something* :D ), but until I can secure the flights I need I'm technically not confirmed. I have the Capital Gate held as well, in hopes the flights will work out.

Of course an improved group rate is always welcome...

Also no one added me to the "maybe" list (as an alumni). :(

You've been on the Blue list a while. There's no special status for alumni+maybe, but the perk is that you get to skip Silver when you confirm. ;)

Btw look at page 5, the list there is the most up to date. Eightblack will probably update his when scouring the Internet for spare livers.

Folks

Apologies for the lack of updates on this thread. I am typing this from EK409, on my way to the Sandpit to talk with the people we need to talk to re this years Dubai Do. I promise to update everything this weekend.

Cheers

SIMON

I'm likely to be a DXB resident by June and will know more in the next few weeks, insha'allah.

Hotels are dirt cheap in Dubai at that time of year. It's not worth wasting points when you can get a 5* for £50 a night.

Which 5* are you referring to?

You've been on the Blue list a while. There's no special status for alumni+maybe, but the perk is that you get to skip Silver when you confirm. ;)

Btw look at page 5, the list there is the most up to date. Eightblack will probably update his when scouring the Internet for spare livers.

Page 6 on my browser - at the risk of being branded a pedant!

I'm in. I'll be arriving into Dubai on the morning of the 15th or 16th depending on how bored I get in Europe.

Hi All -

Apologies for the delay in posting more about Abu Dhabi, but I'm now ready to take this to the next stage. I’ve heard back from Hyatt, and have connected eightblack with them for the Dubai portion of the Do. I will handle things for those interested in going to Abu Dhabi for a night or two before or after Dubai. Personally, I'm looking to spend 2 nights at the Hyatt Capital Gate (what I call The Leaning Tower of Hyatt), the 13th and 14th, making my way to Dubai the morning of the 15th. The hotels leans at an angle of 18 degrees. http://abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp?null

Before I can see if Capital Gate will offer us any special breaks on rates and such, I need a hard idea of who will be coming when. So, if you’d like to stay a night or longer there as well, please send me a PM so that I can keep track easily without trolling through this thread. Even if you’ve written me before that you’re coming, please send me a new PM with the title “Hyatt Capital Gate in June”. I’ll then see what Hyatt will do, if we have a sufficient number staying there.

Also, if you’d just like to come for the day and see what’s up there, also PM me so that I can tell them how many would like to see the hotel, even if not staying a night.

Thanks.

PS - among the fun things to do in Abu Dhabi is Ferrari World: “Ferrari World
Located 20 minutes from the hotel and sitting beneath its iconic red roof in the heart of Yas Island is the world’s first Ferrari theme park, the largest attraction of its kind. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an intense multi-sensory experience and a must-visit for enthusiasts, fans and families. Offering more than 20 unique rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a celebration of Ferrari’s past, present and future. The park is one of the signature features of Yas Island, a 2,500-hectare island dedicated to leisure, entertainment and lifestyle.

Location: Yas Island
Tickets can be purchased at the park and are based on visitors’ heights.“
http://www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com/

http://www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com/doesn't look like one can actually drive a ferrari, too bad.

Hi All -


Tickets can be purchased at the park and are based on visitors’ heights.“
http://www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com/

As long it is not weight i am fine.;)

doesn't look like one can actually drive a ferrari, too bad.

Ferrari World is part of the Yas Island Park, where one can get behind the wheel of, or take a ride as a passenger in...
http://www.yasmarinacircuit.com/en/Activities_and_Experiences.aspx

Aston Martin GT4, Formula 1 car, Supersport SST, Chevy Camaro (even on just a drag strip), etc.

I’ve heard back from the Hyatt Capital Gate. While they would adjust the rate once I know how many people would be staying there, they’re prepared to offer, at this stage right now, a nightly rate of 500AED, which is 20AED less than the advance purchase rate, and better than some corporate rates I’m aware of.

This comes to about US$136/night, or Euro102/night.

As of now, I’ve only heard back from one person about actually staying there the 13th & 14th, like me. Naturally, the rate would come down the more folks we become. We could share a cab back to Dubai the morning of the 15th.

Further, even if you don’t stay overnight but would come for the day, they will be happy to organize a tour of the building once we settle on a time.

So, again, if, before the Dubai Do, you’d like to stay a night or two at the Hyatt Capital Gate (The Leaning Tower of Hyatt), please send me a PM of the dates of your stay. If you’d like to stay there after, let me know and I'll see if they’ll offer you the small discount as well.

Let me see if I can rebook my flights into HKG and DXB for one day earlier. If I can, I'll do the Capital Gate. If not, I won't.

As of now, I’ve only heard back from one person about actually staying there the 13th & 14th, like me. Naturally, the rate would come down the more folks we become. We could share a cab back to Dubai the morning of the 15th.


I am interested, as I would like to stay at a different Hyatt each night.

I am interested, as I would like to stay at a different Hyatt each night.

Well, when you’re ready to commit to a date, please send me a PM.

Have we gotten any word from the Park Hyatt about a discount rate?

Have we gotten any word from the Park Hyatt about a discount rate?

Same question....

I am unsure about Abu Dhabi right after arrival on Wednesday night late....waiting to see what the rest of the plans are....

It looks like I could move my inbound flight to the 13th, but I'd need to move the earlier segment, too, and that seems more problematic. I'll get back to you, but for now I'm a "maybe" on the Capital Gate pre-Do.

There's a strong possibility that I'll make it - Count me in as a Blue (shudder) please...

I got a little too excited and booked two tickets instead of one to get to the Do. I guess I'll be there, one way or another. But either way, not via BLR!

Same question....

I am unsure about Abu Dhabi right after arrival on Wednesday night late....waiting to see what the rest of the plans are....

It looks like I could move my inbound flight to the 13th, but I'd need to move the earlier segment, too, and that seems more problematic. I'll get back to you, but for now I'm a "maybe" on the Capital Gate pre-Do.

If you do decide to come to AUH for a night or 2 before DUB, please PM me so that we’re both sure I add you to the listings.

FWIW, SPG is now offering discounts to members at many of their hotel restaurants around the world, regardless of you staying there otherwise. Can get points as well. There are 5 restaurants in DUB that are part of this, with a discount of 20%, plus getting points in SPG:
1 - Antique Bazaar
Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai, Khalid Bin Walid Street,
2 - Vivaldi Restaurant
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, Baniyas Street/Creek Road,
3 - Chelsea Arms
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, Baniyas Street/Creek Road,
4 - Creekside Restaurant
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, Baniyas Street/Creek Road,
5 - Yesterday Restaurant & Pub
Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai, Mankhool Road

http://www.spgrestaurantsandbars.com/united-arab-emirates/dubai

Well, my calendar just exploded, so I'll have to wait and see what's going to happen. So I stubbornly stay at maybe for AUH and will send a PM if/when I know for sure.

If you do decide to come to AUH for a night or 2 before DUB, please PM me so that we’re both sure I add you to the listings.

I am still waiting to hear event plans for that weekend. The ever talented and also busy eightblack and ung1 have yet to fill us in...

I am still waiting to hear event plans for that weekend. The ever talented and also busy eightblack and ung1 have yet to fill us in...

We are working on things. Sorry for the radio silence. I am back in Dubai mid April and will post the schedule and activities as soon as I have everything confirmed.

Just something to note. Sunday June 17th is supposed to be marked as an Islamic holiday, so lots of hotels will not see many check-outs on a Saturday (GCC "weekend" tourists leave on Saturdays) or they might require a minimum 3-night stay for that particular weekend if UAE announces Sunday as a holiday.

Please list me as a maybe. I'd love to join -- just need to work out some logistics with PTO at work. Would also like to join into Abu Dhabi for a night beforehand -- will send a PM to From NYC.

Please list me as a maybe. I'd love to join -- just need to work out some logistics with PTO at work. Would also like to join into Abu Dhabi for a night beforehand -- will send a PM to From NYC.

As with anyone else who decides to come a little early for AUH, just send me a PM of your dates, so that I can easily keep track of everyone and let the hotel know.

Hey EB! I was on the list, now I'm off. What gives? :cool:

Hey EB! I was on the list, now I'm off. What gives? :cool:

You're still on it. Look at the one on page 5...

You're still on it. Look at the one on page 5...

Page 6 on my browser ...

Hey EB! I was on the list, now I'm off. What gives? :cool:

Ignore everything else but PAGE ONE. You're back on. Sorry for the error. Only one list will be maintained and thats within the first post.

Does anyone have any suggestions or recommendations on some decent but not-too-expensive hotels in Dubai? I believe someone mentioned that there were 50 Euro hotels, 5-star hotels during the summer months. Could you someone tell me what those hotels might be? Thanks!

You're back on. Sorry for the error. Only one list will be maintained and thats within the first post.

Thanks and I see you have upgraded me to Gold! You have some awesome powers at EK. :)

Hey EB! I was on the list, now I'm off. What gives? :cool:

Ignore everything else but PAGE ONE. You're back on. Sorry for the error. Only one list will be maintained and thats within the first post.

Ok - deleting mine since you're keeping track of it on the main post as well.

An update on the AUH pre-Do gathering at the Hyatt Capital Gate: including myself, there are now 3 of us confirming for at least one night there.

From NYC - 6/13/ & 6/14; may arrive in DXB/AUH on the 12th and stay that night at the Park Hyatt AUH just to check it out before switching over to The Leaning Tower of Hyatt;

Asiadxer - 6/13/ & 6/14; arriving at hotel mid-morning the 13th;

Cawhite - 6/14; awaiting clarification about 6/13, when arrives in DXB.

We will return to DXB the morning of the 15th and see everyone at the brunch.

Tickets aren't booked yet, but I'm in!

Just something to note. Sunday June 17th is supposed to be marked as an Islamic holiday, so lots of hotels will not see many check-outs on a Saturday (GCC "weekend" tourists leave on Saturdays) or they might require a minimum 3-night stay for that particular weekend if UAE announces Sunday as a holiday.

Just noticed this.......

From NYC: Apologies for being a pedant, but DUB is the IATA code for Dublin Airport, Ireland... DXB refers to Dubai. FT'ers are of course most welcome in Dublin, should they end up here due to navigational errors!

eightblack: Consider me a Gold under the new rules (flights booked and attendance almost certain). Looking forward to meeting everyone!

From NYC: Apologies for being a pedant, but DUB is the IATA code for Dublin Airport, Ireland... DXB refers to Dubai. FT'ers are of course most welcome in Dublin, should they end up here due to navigational errors!

I'm glad you said it as I did quite the double-take myself. Some nice non-representational artwork available in either location. :)

Put me down as a maybe; when would you need to know by?

Hey eightblack, now you've changed the gold/silver/blue classifications to mean definite/maybe/interested rather than been/newbies/maybe can I get that tier bump to gold too? :cool:

From NYC: Apologies for being a pedant, but DUB is the IATA code for Dublin Airport, Ireland... DXB refers to Dubai. FT'ers are of course most welcome in Dublin, should they end up here due to navigational errors!

I'm glad you said it as I did quite the double-take myself. Some nice non-representational artwork available in either location. :)

A momentary disconnect between brain and fingers, now corrected. Thanks for pointing it out.

Fortunately, I didn’t have the same disconnect when I made my flight plans, now confirmed: flying in on UA, arriving DXB on the 12th around 3:50PM, and will make my way to AUH. Departing DXB at 12:10AM on the 18th.

Hey eightblack, now you've changed the gold/silver/blue classifications to mean definite/maybe/interested rather than been/newbies/maybe can I get that tier bump to gold too? :cool:

Well I feel dumb. When I read the OP long ago I thought it was EK tiers. If its commitment tiers, please move me to the silver/maybe tier. With last minute business deals always a possibility, I have to remain a maybe for now.

Just something to note. Sunday June 17th is supposed to be marked as an Islamic holiday, so lots of hotels will not see many check-outs on a Saturday (GCC "weekend" tourists leave on Saturdays) or they might require a minimum 3-night stay for that particular weekend if UAE announces Sunday as a holiday.

It is not a holiday as such, we do not get a day off or anything similar

It is not a holiday as such, we do not get a day off or anything similar

Hi SMART51 Will you be there ? :confused:
you're only blue (on the list :) )

Hi SMART51 Will you be there ? :confused:
you're only blue (on the list :) )

I am away from Riyadh at the moment, can not confirm till i get back there early June. I am taking my daughter later in June to China to visit a Panda reserve as a graduation present.

Some interesting photos and videos of AUH on the site for the St. Regis AUH:
http://www.stregissaadiyatisland.com/gallery

As some of you may know, Hyatt is once again having a Summer Promotion at each of their hotels in DXB and AUH. In order to qualify for it, you’d need to stay 3 consecutive nights at that particular hotel. With it, you get 20% off food, drinks and spa services in addition to a lower rate.

I’m going to be staying 1 night at the PH AUH, 2 nights at The Capital Gate AUH, and then 2 nights at the PH DXB, so I wouldn’t qualify under the present rules, although the Capital Gate folks have brought their rate down to match.

I’ve just asked my contact at Hyatt if it would be possible to offer us a variation of the Summer Promotion whereby if one stays 3 consecutive nights at any of the Hyatts in DXB or AUH it would apply. This way, if someone wanted to come to AUH for a night, and then have 2 nights in DXB, the Summer Promo rate and benefits would be available at each hotel, despite the shorter stays. Perhaps this would be an incentive for some of you to try AUH for a night or 2.

I don’t yet know the outcome. Each hotel would have to agree, and there’s no way of knowing how that will turn out yet. But I thought I’d ask Hyatt and see if they’d all agree.

I’ll report back once I read back.

I’ve removed this post while certain details of the Hyatt offer regarding the Summer Promotion being extended to other hotels are cleared up. Will re-post once all is certain. Sorry for any confusion.

Okay, here’s how Hyatt’s responded, which, while nice, isn’t as flexible as I’d hoped it might be. The normal Summer Promotion rate requires a minimum 3-night stay at a hotel for you to qualify. You get a special rate, and 20% off food, drinks, spa services, and can use the facilities at other Hyatts in DXB and AUH. If you then go to another hotel in the Emirates, you’d need to stay 3 mights there as well to get the Promotion.

Hyatt’s offered us a special deal in that, once you’ve completed a 3-night stay under the Summer Promotion at one hotel, any additional nights you stay at any of the participating hotels, even less than 3 consecutive nights, will also have the Summer Promo offerings. However, the 3-nights-at-one-hotel must come first, and all subsequent stays must be consecutive nights after.

So, I'm going to can my one-night stay at the Park Hyatt AUH so that I have 3 nights at the Capital Gate (12-15 June), then stay at the PH DXB for 2 nights. Had the offer been that the 3-night minimum could come later, I probably would’ve shifted the night of the 14th to the PH DXB, but that’s not how the promo’s working.

However, if you want to take advantage of this, you must use the reservations center highlighted in the notes below, and you must quote “Dubai Do”.

Further, I’m going to confirm with The Capital Gate that the rate extended to us for shorter stays before the Do starts, still is in effect, even if it doesn’t include the 20% off aspects.

Here’s the email’s relevant portions:

“We are pleased to confirm that if the Dubai DO delegates book three consecutive nights in one of our hotels (see below for the participating hotels) they will receive the summer package rate and value-added benefits. In addition, should they choose to add an additional night/s (must be a consecutive night after their 3rd night) to any of the Hyatt hotels within the UAE, we will extend the summer package rate and benefits (subject to availability).

PACKAGE OFFER:

Minimum length of stay of three nights at a special rate at any of the five hotels in the UAE
20% discount on spa services in any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE
20% discount on food and beverage at any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE
Complimentary use of the swimming pool, gymnasium and recreational facilities of any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE

PARTICIPATING HOTELS: Park Hyatt Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi and Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi

Note there are different rates for all of the hotels. The best way to handle your reservations is to instruct the delegates to contact the UAE central reservations directly at reservations.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com or tel - 0097143171700. Mention "Dubai DO" and this code will allow the reservations team to know your group is applicable for this offer.“

I would *love* to attend again this year, but a friend is getting married the same weekend a full eight timezones away. Put me on the tentative list for next year's event though. Have fun, everyone!

-snip-

Further, I’m going to confirm with The Capital Gate that the rate extended to us for shorter stays before the Do starts, still is in effect, even if it doesn’t include the 20% off aspects.

Here’s the email’s relevant portions:

“We are pleased to confirm that if the Dubai DO delegates book three consecutive nights in one of our hotels (see below for the participating hotels) they will receive the summer package rate and value-added benefits. In addition, should they choose to add an additional night/s (must be a consecutive night after their 3rd night) to any of the Hyatt hotels within the UAE, we will extend the summer package rate and benefits (subject to availability).

PACKAGE OFFER:

Minimum length of stay of three nights at a special rate at any of the five hotels in the UAE
20% discount on spa services in any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE
20% discount on food and beverage at any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE
Complimentary use of the swimming pool, gymnasium and recreational facilities of any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE

PARTICIPATING HOTELS: Park Hyatt Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi and Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi

Note there are different rates for all of the hotels. The best way to handle your reservations is to instruct the delegates to contact the UAE central reservations directly at reservations.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com or tel - 0097143171700. Mention "Dubai DO" and this code will allow the reservations team to know your group is applicable for this offer.“

Thanks for all of your hard work on this! I am hoping that I will be able to confirm my DO participation soon, and if and when that happens, your work with Hyatt for the benefit of the group is much appreciated.

Thanks for all of your hard work on this! I am hoping that I will be able to confirm my DO participation soon, and if and when that happens, your work with Hyatt for the benefit of the group is much appreciated.

Hope you can make it.

Heard back from The Capital Gate AUH and they confirmed that Do participants who stay there for less than 3 days before completing the 3-day minimum will still get the 500 AED rate. This is the Summer Promotion rate, but you won’t get the other aspects of the Promo - no 20% discounts.

If you go after completing a 3-day minimum stay, the full Promo and benefits would apply.

Again, please send me a PM if you’d like to stay at the Capital Gate before the Do for less than 3 days, and I’ll make sure you get the above deal. Send me your full name, GP #, and dates of arrival and departure.

Separately, I received a reply already from the UAE reservations center and they switched my dates around and were kind enough to cancel my pre-paid rate at the PH AUH without penalty. I will now be at The Capital Gate 12-15 June, PH DXB 15-17 June, with both stays under the full Summer Promo.

Right now there are 2 of us, Asiadxer as well, who’ll be at The Capital Gate and sharing a cab back to DXB the morning of the 15th.

We are working on things. Sorry for the radio silence. I am back in Dubai mid April and will post the schedule and activities as soon as I have everything confirmed.

Hi Simon
Can we expect any news soon ?:)

I'm ticketed. Spending either one or two nights in AUH before the DO, arriving back in DXB in time for the brunch on Friday. I'm really looking forward to this!

Very much interested but depends upon my business situation.

+1 dropping out of this do so I will be alone.

I am booked at the Park Hyatt.....is this where most are staying? I don't want to be alone across the river at the Grand Hyatt again as I was last year.

I'm ticketed. Spending either one or two nights in AUH before the DO, arriving back in DXB in time for the brunch on Friday. I'm really looking forward to this!

:cool:

dedehans: Not yet clear if I am going or not but I lean towards the Address Down Town or there abouts in general. So if I'm there, you won't be the only one not staying at Park Hyatt.

+1 dropping out of this do so I will be alone.

I am booked at the Park Hyatt.....is this where most are staying? I don't want to be alone across the river at the Grand Hyatt again as I was last year.

I am at the Park Hyatt too.

I am at the Park Hyatt too.

Thank you and KU104 for responding.....will stay with PH for now but am interested in IC too if anyone is staying there....

I am at the Park Hyatt too.

+1

+1

Getting very happy with my PH res! :)

I’ll also be at PH after AUH.