Christophe Viseux
French connection
The much-hyped Louvre Abu Dhabi is finally open. Is it an oasis of culture in a desert of extremism, a building that embodies global understanding or a theme park of airbrushed internationalism?
City saviours
It takes just one passionate patron or business owner to start turning round a city’s fortunes. From encouraging back rare birds to battling poverty, meet our crack squad of urban fixers.
Sunny outlook
During monsoon season, Oman’s second city turns into a lush oasis in the Arabian desert. Ripe for discovery, it’s ready to give its Gulf neighbours some competition in the year ahead.
Designer plans
Dubai wants to be known for more than skyscrapers. We visit the city’s design district and meet the makers trying to turn it into a bastion of Middle Eastern craft and creativity.
