Lifeby Ruman Baig2 hours ago In a grand 10-day celebration, Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei married Anisha Rosnah.The newest member of Brunei’s royal family, Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, stole the show with her irridescent-yet-modest outfits that defined the essence of regality.The highlight of the 10-day festivities, spanning from January 7 to January 16, 2024, was undoubtedly Princess Anisha’s wedding reception attire. She chose a stunning gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad, featuring long sleeves, embroidered floral motifs, crystal detailing, and a cascading veil. The ivory dress, paired with a tiara and matching clutch, exuded sophistication.In terms of accessories, the Royal Princess of Brunei was drenched in diamonds.  From an exquisite necklace and multiple rings to a show-stopping tiara which was the pièce de résistance of the whole look.For the wedding ceremony, Princess Anisha for Dior – a royal favorite. The choice of Dior, synonymous with regal weddings, underlined the princess’s impeccable taste in fashion.Born in 1994 and the granddaughter of Pehin Dato Isa, special advisor to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Princess Anisha’s journey into royalty began with her engagement to Brunei’s most eligible bachelor, Prince Mateen.Anisha, a graduate of the University of Bath, delved into entrepreneurship, establishing her fashion brand, Silk Collective, specializing in silk garments – a material intricately woven into Bruneian traditional wear. Her entrepreneurial spirit also extended to co-founding Authentirary, an experiential tourism company.As she assumes her role as a royal, we eagerly anticipate witnessing more of her fashion choices at future royal events and engagements, adding a new chapter to Brunei’s rich tapestry of regal splendor.All the stunning images from Prince Abdul Mateen and Princess Anisha Roshnah’s wedding festivities:– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram @zuhairmuradofficial and @germanlarkin  More

One of the most important career lessons we can learn is that work is not synonymous with email. Treating email like the tool that it is rather than making it the end-all, be-all is essential to bring some sanity to our days. For many of us now living in this always-on virtual work world, our inboxes can feel like they run our lives. If you’re making these email mistakes, now is a good time to reset.
1. The “reply-all” catastrophe
There is no horror like the horror of a reply-all fail. Whether it was your error or you are bearing witness to someone’s quick trigger finger failure, it’s painful. If at all possible, train yourself out of any reply-all habit. Make a single reply your general default, and anytime you are inclined to reply to a group, ask yourself, “Does everyone on this note really need to take action or be immediately informed of this development?” The answer is almost always no.

2. Unclear takeaways
Email is an enabler, not a task unto itself. With that in mind, try to stay disciplined and not fire off emails without a clear call to action. Do recipients need to schedule a meeting? Make a decision? Act on a client need? As you would any other compelling communication, close your email with the exact action item you need from someone, using their name, what you’re expecting, and by when. “Amy, Could you be sure to call the client with this update before 5pm tomorrow and let me know their response?”

3. Super long emails
In the same way that many meetings “could have been an email,” sometimes we find ourselves in an email chain that a quick call or huddle could fix. If you find yourself three or four replies into a group conversation, suggest cutting the thread short and putting everyone on the phone for a “huddle.” Use the time to drive toward decisions or clarity, and keep it 15 minutes tops.

4. Getting the tone wrong
Being too formal or too casual can blow up an email. As a rule of thumb, the less you’ve worked directly with a person, the more you should have a formal and professional email approach. Seniority also still matters here. Your manager’s boss, or others up in the organization should get your best foot forward on an email, even if it is a quick ask. It’s also important to bring a little humanity to your emails as your relationship with people grows over time. “Hope you had a good weekend!” can go far with a closer colleague when you’re firing off a note over an early Monday morning need.

5. Not sleeping on it
If there’s a shred of controversy in your note and you don’t need to send it immediately, sleep on it. I have yet to meet an email that I haven’t made better by giving it another 18 hours to think through. Even if you’re not actively crafting a new note, you’ve stepped away from a possibly heated response or complicated question, and your subconscious will come back to it with a better version.

6. Misusing BCC
BCC is a tricky beast. There’s definitely a shred of embarrassment when a recipient realizes they weren’t in actual copy, but responds to a larger note. Be really thoughtful about your motivations for using it. If you’re trying to keep a message private, a forward with a caveated note may be better. Another smart way to use BCC is to call attention to moving people into the BCC line and announce the gesture. “While we go back and forth on meeting details, dropping Sarah and John to BCC to spare their inboxes! We’ll come back with a final plan.”

7. Leaving the subject line static
Especially after vacation, piles of responses tied to the same subject line is dreadful. (The cleanup feature in Microsoft can help.) However, it’s always such a joy when you’ve found a note where someone has gone to the trouble of amending the subject. Did you add an attachment? “With Meeting Notes” gets added to the subject line. Is someone giving a new perspective? “Including Audit Team for Comment.” These little nuggets are also my own useful trail for finding where ideas diverge in a mountain of sent emails.

8. Being unaware of time zones and holidays
One of the most thoughtful signature blocks I’ve ever seen included the line “I’m sending this email because it suits me and my time zone. I do not expect responses outside of your normal working hours unless expressly indicated.” In our especially global world, it can be hard to stay on top of people’s respective time zones, relocations, and personal holidays. Adding an indication that you know they may be otherwise occupied and clearly stating your timelines is both professional and courteous.

9. Being the first one to reply
There are definitely moments where you’re the best one to jump in with an addition or reply. However, most of the time, sparing yourself as the first response pays dividends. First, if we truly run our workday like email is not our job, you shouldn’t be in your email all day. That means that realistically, hours could go by before you get to an email. Try testing the waters in a small way here if holding off on responses feels uncomfortable. Start with notes where you’re in a group of respondents. You may find it surprising to see how self-sufficient people are, or how effectively a conversation advances without you needing to jump in.

10. Rushing the send
“Rushing the send” is the sister of being the first to reply. Slow. Down. All of us are going a million miles an hour these days, but taking that extra few minutes to edit something is hugely beneficial. Are all the right people on this email? Does it have a clear, actionable purpose? Is it as long as it needs to be, but as short as it can be? Giving yourself a little personalized email checklist before you hit send can sharpen your communication skills and your professional profile. More

Fancy a night at the movies? After weeks of temporary closure, Cinema Akil has reopened it’s doors. Your go-to for arthouse films, insightful documentaries and events is back in business, coinciding with the UAE’s gradual easing of restrictions put in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19.  In aim to reduce any risk of contracting coronavirus, […] More

Lifestyle

by Team Emirates Woman
2 hours ago

Words by Sarah Joseph & Camille Macawaili 
We ask some of the most incredible women we know, what small things elevate their own lives and how they uplift all the women they’re surrounded with.

Zoya SakrFounder of The Flower Society

What small things elevate your life?
Spending time with my family and friends elevates my life morally and emotionally, listening to my kids, advising them, discussing my worries, my plans, and things that give me drive in life and taking the opinions of my loved ones elevates me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
I love taking care of my family, making my mom happy means the world to me, we just came back from an escape in the Maldives for her 80th birthday, and spending full days with my family brings joy to everyone. Being there for family, colleagues and friends elevate their lives, time is the most precious thing you can offer them.
Amna Mohammad KarmostajiFashion designer & founder of Elna Line

What small things elevate your life?
Every morning, I make it a priority to start my day with a fresh and optimistic mindset. I believe in clearing my mind of negative thoughts and accepting what I cannot change and so my social circle consists of individuals who bring positivity, happiness, and joy into my life. I am a firm believer in setting personal and professional goals, and I find immense pleasure and satisfaction in achieving them. I am also a believer in constant growth and development, both mentally and physically, and I strive to learn new skills and acquire knowledge by surrounding myself with individuals who have similar aspirations and goals. Doing so motivates me and offers fresh perspectives and inspiration. It is a fantastic way to grow and share ideas with like-minded individuals. In my free time, I engage in activities that bring me pure joy, such as practicing yoga, going on beach trips, spending girls’ nights with my closest friends, and exploring new places.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
I always strive to maintain a positive outlook, as I believe that positivity is infectious. Leading by example is also a principle that I adhere to and make a point of keeping my promises and showing that I am committed through my actions. This builds a strong foundation of trust and loyalty, which is crucial when building and maintaining relationships. My loved ones know that they can always count on me, no matter how trivial their problems may seem as having a support system is essential. While it’s easy to celebrate success, true friends are the ones who stand by you during your lows and lift you up when you’re feeling- ing down. Small acts of kindness can go a long way, and I try to make it a habit to give compliments to my colleagues, peers, and friends as little reminders of their worth. As part of the Elnaline brand, we have always been involved in social causes to uplift and support women. I feel privileged to be in a position to positively impact the lives of those around me through small gestures. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s the little thoughtful things that people remember and appreciate the most.
Nayla Al KhajaFirst Female Film Writer, Director and Producer in the UAE

What small things elevate your life?
Welcoming my children with open arms every day after school invigorates my life with joy and purpose. Strolling through our lovely neighbourhood in the morning while chatting with my dear brother uplifts my spirits and sets a positive tone for the day. Receiving an unexpected “I love you” message from my beloved husband fills my soul with an elevated sense of love and contentment.
How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
My mission is to uplift and inspire those in my circle by sparking innovative ideas and collaborating to bring them to fruition. Sharing delicious meals and performing small acts of kindness are just a few of the ways I seek to elevate those around me. However, I believe that the most powerful tool for elevating the human spirit is laughter, which has the ability to heal, connect, and transform lives.
Nadine KansoFounder of Jewellery Brand Bil Arabi

What small things elevate your life?
I think what elevates my life is my need for human interaction. I love to socialise, meeting new people and learning about new things truly inspires me and allows me to foster my personal growth and development. I love to be surrounded by positive and loving energy. That, I believe really elevates life! Having a support system builds resilience. When we choose to surround ourselves with positive and loving people, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and potential. It all starts with the energy that we choose to bring into our lives. I thrive on what adds value to me and allows me to grow.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
In return, I elevate the lives of those around me by making sure to be there for them when they need me, always trying to offer all the love and support I have. Giving love and support to those around us is one of the most powerful ways to make a positive impact. When we take the time to show kindness and compassion to others, we not only elevate their lives but also enrich our own.
Honayda SeradiFashion Designer

What small things elevate your life?
Any positive gesture elevates my life. And it is indeed the smallest things that elevate it. Like waking up to a shining sunrise, listening to music, dancing, seeing people happy, doing sports, and accepting life as it is! But also whatever nourishes my soul. I long for adventures, discovering new cultures and visiting heritage sites. Every trip brings inspiration and elevates my mind.
How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
From a philanthropist perspective, I thrive to always make an actual positive change in the lives of those in need. Whether through my activities with the children of AlOula NPO, or the craftswomen of Alwaleed Philanthropies. I believe myself to be lucky, to be able to impact other people’s lives positively through my brand, specifically women, as well as the young talents of the Kingdom who I accompany as a mentor through my role with the Saudi 100 brands programme and King Abdul Aziz University.
Arwa AlKadiFashion Designer
What small things elevate your life?
A good cup of coffee in the morning, writing three things I’m grateful for everyday, exercising, focusing on my spirituality and spending quality time with family and friends. Working in a creative industry with like-minded people also really inspires me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
My relationships are important to me, whether that’s family, friends or colleagues. I try to be there for the people around me, support them in what they need and lift them up.
Sophie Bille BraheJewellery Designer

What small things elevate your life?
The colour of the sky, a walk with my dog, a drawing from my daughter. I try to remain sensitive to all the beautiful things surrounding me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
Taking care of the people around me is the most important thing I can do. I want to be as present as I can for them. I try to see people where they are and meet them at that exact moment. It can be difficult, but it is so important. Time is so scarce, so giving your time to others is the best gift you can give. I try my best to be there for the ones I love, to gather them around the table to share as much as can be.

April’s – The Elevate Issue – Download Now 
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied More

Life

by Sarah Joseph
2 hours ago

Gourmet gifts for a win this season.
For the the ultimate stocking filler with fresh baked goodness and sweet treats, you’re in the right place.
Be it exquisite chocolate covered strawberries or the traditional mince pies, there’s an unending selection of tasty delights to cater to your friend’s festive cravings, making it the perfect gift to bring in the season.
The best part is – you’ll find plenty of sweet and savoury treats tucked away in this hamper, making it one of the best delectable delights of the season.

– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @nataliya-melnychuk More