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    How to dress your homes like a fashion statement

    Life

    August 23, 2025

    This season, your home deserves the same editorial eye as your wardrobe. Just as fashion’s most coveted labels—think Ralph Lauren’s bold textures, Loewe’s sculptural edge, and Brunello Cucinelli’s quiet luxury—embrace vibrancy and texture, your interiors should follow suit.
    Summer calls for a fearless refresh, trading last year’s muted palettes for daring pops of color, artisanal craftsmanship, and pieces that command attention.
    Imagine a living room draped in La Double J’s exuberant prints, a dining table set with Ginori 1735’s hand-painted botanicals, or a bookshelf accented by Baccarat’s crystal brilliance.
    These aren’t just décor choices; they’re style declarations. Like a perfectly tailored blazer or a statement bag, the right home accent can redefine a space with effortless sophistication. From Dantaangoi’s handcrafted candles to Loewe’s tactile leather objects, each piece in this edit has been chosen for its ability to transform the everyday into something extraordinary.

    Monochrome minimalism had its moment—now, it’s time for interiors to embrace the same fearless energy as a runway look. The 22 pieces in this edit prove that luxury isn’t just about price tags; it’s about personality, craftsmanship, and the unexpected. A Brunello Cucinelli throw in earthy linen brings quiet refinement, while La Double J’s clashing patterns inject pure joy. Baccarat’s crystal vases catch the light like jewelry, and Ginori 1735’s tableware turns meals into curated experiences.
    These aren’t mere accessories for your home; they’re conversation starters, mood-setters, and testaments to a life well-lived. Just as fashion thrives on contrast—soft against structured, vintage against modern—your space should balance timeless elegance with playful rebellion. So this season, don’t just redecorate. Reimagine. Let your walls, shelves, and tables reflect the same confidence as your closet. After all, if summer is the season of self-expression, your home deserves a front-row seat.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Supplied More

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    9 fabulous things to do this weekend

    Life

    August 22, 2025

    As August edges forward, the city begins to stir again. With summer escapes winding down and the rhythm of work life resuming, weekends take on a new kind of momentum.
    Whether you’re seeking a relaxing reset or a refined way to transition back into the buzz, Dubai’s scene is ready, with elevated menus, chic escapes, and curated experiences that match the mood. We have the perfect line-up in this edition of the Emirates Woman’s weekend guide for 22-24 August.
    Book a Michelin star Onam Sadhya

     For the very first time, Jamavar Dubai marks Onam with a one-of-a-kind culinary tribute, presenting Leelamma’s Onam Sadhya. This multi-course feast is a celebration of Kerala’s harvest season, inspired by the heritage of the Nair family. Reimagined through a regal banana leaf-style presentation, each dish pays homage to Kerala’s culinary identity and the legacy of their beloved matriarch, Leelamma.When & Where: From 26 August to 5 September for lunch and dinner at Jamavar, The Address Residences, Downtown Dubai. Book this weekend to secure your table.
    Experience a relaxing breath work session under the moonlight

     A brand-new, relaxing sea-floating breathwork experience is now in Dubai. The weekly event sees a group float off the coast of Palm Jumeirah under the moonlight while guided through breathwork rituals. Sessions begin with a somatic activation on the sand before you’re guided onto a velvet-topped lilo to float on the Arabian Gulf with noise-cancelling headphones.When & Where: Sunday evenings. Meet at MGallery The Retreat Palm Dubai. Participation costs Dhs350 per person.
    Visit the Acqua di Parma pop-up café

     The Italian lifestyle brand teams up with Bloomingdale’s for its very first pop-up café experience in the Middle East. Expect a vibrant space designed by Dorothee Meilichzon, a vintage gelato cart, and a menu of Italian coffee classics and mocktails like the Capri Spritz. It’s a stylish escape from the city heat.When & Where: Now open at Caffetino on the first floor of Bloomingdale’s, Dubai Mall.
    Honour Emirati Women’s Day at Guerlain Spa

    In honour of Emirati Women’s Day, Guerlain Spa at One&Only The Palm unveils the “Path to Calm”, a three-hour sanctuary. The ritual includes the Dubai Harmony Treatment with Ice Bubbles and the Aura Nobile Face Treatment, harnessing the power of the rare Gold Nobile orchid. The experience concludes with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Lounge.When & Where: Available until 30 September 2025 at Guerlain Spa, One&Only The Palm. Priced at AED 1,985 per person.
    Dubai’s coolest new restaurants worth booking this weekend

    Get a taste of Japan at Ongaku

     Tucked away within CLAP Dubai, Ongaku offers a one-of-a-kind escape inspired by the electric nightlife of Tokyo. You could visit there over the weekend to soak in the atmosphere or op for their weekly ladies’ night. The night, named Tokyo Room, recreates the mystery of Tokyo nights through Japanese-inspired decor and vibrant beats. The package includes three signature dishes and free-flowing beverages for three hours.When & Where: Every Thursday from 8pm at Ongaku, CLAP Dubai, DIFC. The ladies’ package is AED 240.
    Order in from an Emirati-owned restaurant

    Celebrate Emirati Women’s Day by supporting incredible homegrown concepts led by inspiring Emirati women. Order from iconic brands like SALT founded by Amal Al Marri and Deem Albassam, the innovative coffee of Masraana by Tasnim AlGergawi, the creative cuisine of Fifth Flavour Founded by sisters Aisha and Noor Alabbasi, or favourites like Home Bakery and Cocoville.When & Where: Order via Deliveroo any day this weekend to celebrate.
    Unwind with a rainforest & tea experience

    Banyan Tree Dubai invites guests to celebrate strength and grace with a serene experience. The offering combines the signature 60-minute Rainforest Experience at their spa with a refined Japanese-inspired Afternoon Tea at Tocha, creating an intimate setting to pause and connect.When & Where: From 23rd to 31st August at Banyan Tree Dubai. Priced at AED 450 per person for groups of up to six.
    Indulge in a Spa & Dining Escape in Ras Al Khaimah

     The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach marks Emirati Women’s Day with a luxurious spa and dining experience. Guests can enjoy a 60-minute Emirati massage with a complimentary 30-minute express facial. To complete the experience, Shore House is offering a bespoke afternoon tea for two.When & Where: From 24 August to 6 September at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. The spa offer is AED 540 per person.
    Enjoy a Themed Afternoon Tea at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk

     Step into a world of timeless grace at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. Gather with women who inspire you over Dubai’s award-winning afternoon tea, Le Goûter Vault, served in an iconic pink vault at Bijou Patisserie. For a sky-high experience, opt for the version served at Club Millésime on the 51st floor.When & Where: Daily from 2pm to 6pm at Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. Prices start from AED 195 per person.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dianashex More

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    Dubai’s coolest new restaurants worth booking this weekend

    Life

    August 21, 2025

    New restaurants appear in Dubai on an almost weekly basis, making it a challenge to stay current with the city’s dynamic culinary landscape. This year has welcomed acclaimed international imports and exciting homegrown concepts alike. We have explored the latest openings to curate a list of the most compelling new venues worth discovering this very weekend.
    DIME

    With DIME, the focus is laser-sharp, offering just two burgers prepared and plated to absolute perfection. Every element, from the buns to the pickles and signature sauce, is made in-house after months of testing. The concise menu is rounded out with crispy nuggets, waffle fries, pies, and classic milkshakes. The vibe is effortlessly retro, featuring polished metal, warm wood, and booth seating lit by custom fixtures, creating a timeless diner aesthetic dedicated to burger excellence.
    Kumo

    In a converted villa on Al Wasl Road, Kumo offers refined Japanese cuisine from the team behind Independent. The name means “cloud,” and the space feels like a sophisticated, minimal Japanese residence filled with natural light. The villa is divided between a dedicated matcha bar, an open sushi counter, and a serene dining room. The modern menu balances tradition with contemporary approaches, featuring standout yellowtail tiradito, wagyu tataki, and exceptional A5 wagyu nigiri. It represents a successful evolution into elevated casual dining.
    Forma

    At the doorstep of Jumeirah’s public library, Forma brings together handcrafted pizzas and specialty coffee. The space is inspired by its bookish neighbour, with artsy decor and thoughtfully placed books creating an intellectual yet approachable atmosphere. The concise menu impresses with both classic and inventive combinations. The Six Cheeses pizza showcases technical excellence, while the meatless Miso Corn option, with its complex textures and flavours, is surprisingly memorable and deeply satisfying.
    Mayg

     In Dubai Design District, Mayg elegantly bridges Japanese precision with French technique under executive chef Aadel Ouaoua. The philosophy of “simplicity and complexity” translates to restrained flavours met with intricate execution on every plate. Cloud-like chandeliers and copper accents define the elegant interior, which includes a private dining room. The menu features buttery escargot, flavour-layered burgers, and perfect pasta, though the rich mi cuit dessert alone warrants a return visit. Sustainability is key, with local sourcing prioritized alongside exceptional Japanese imports.Address: Building 11, Dubai Design District
    Gusto

     On the ground floor of Burj Daman Tower in DIFC, Gusto unfolds like a perfect day in Milan. The intimate, 42-seat space transitions from a morning café to an elegant evening restaurant with marble tables and art-lined walls. Founder Carlo Tinelli distilled his favourite Milanese details into this polished concept. The restrained menu focuses on Italian basics done exceptionally well, from creamy burrata to a blistered margherita pizza. The standout tagliolini al tartufo is luxuriously creamy with a lingering truffle finish, embodying the restaurant’s refined yet warm hospitality.Address: Burj Daman Building, Al Mustaqbal St 16, DIFC
    Ostura

    Ostura is a modern Middle Eastern restaurant inspired by the enchanting tales of One Thousand and One Nights. The venue masterfully combines refined regional cuisine with contemporary design and live entertainment for a truly immersive experience. Warm lighting and opulent details set the stage, while a narrative of a hidden genie adds a theatrical element to the evening. The menu spans from traditional mezze to wood-fired mains and desserts, all balancing authenticity with elevated technique. Stay after dinner for Oriental house music that continues into the night.
    Elaia

     On the fourth floor of Pier 7, Elaia brings a confident Mediterranean ease to Dubai Marina. Named after the Greek word for olive, the restaurant draws inspiration from shared tables and lingering meals. The intimate space, washed in soft blues with potted olive trees, offers wraparound views of the marina. The sharing-style menu spans from crisp baby calamari to Oscietra caviar and lobster. Standouts include the seabass carpaccio and the rich, comforting paccheri elaia pasta, with thoughtful options for gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diners.Address: Pier 7, Dubai Marina
    Mirabelle

     Mirabelle is an unapologetic celebration of hardcore French cuisine, plated with a contemporary touch at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Chef Sacha Enjalbert’s devotion to tradition is clear in dishes like garlicky Burgundy snails and homemade foie gras. The modern setting shimmers in oyster and gold, with a multi-tiered terrace offering stunning Burj Al Arab views. Mains are deeply committed, from a pink veal chop with morel sauce to Dover sole meunière. While plant-based options are limited, the exceptional sides and fatal, deeply French desserts more than compensate.Address: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Jumeirah Road, Umm Suqeim 3
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: @_inna_morata_ More

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    New UAE public holidays law: Your guide to smarter planning for the long weekends in 2025

    Life

    August 20, 2025

    A significant shift in how we plan our calendars has arrived. At the start of this year, the UAE’s new public holiday legislation – Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024 – came into effect, introducing key rules that every resident needs to understand to maximise their time off.
    The new law empowers the government to strategically move holidays, paving the way for more extended breaks and smarter long-weekend planning. Here’s what you need to know.
    Are UAE Public Holidays Transferable?
    The new law brings clarity and flexibility. Crucially, with the exception of the Eid holidays, the UAE Cabinet now holds the authority to transfer any public holiday to the beginning or end of the week to create a longer continuous break.
    However, there’s a key stipulation: a public holiday cannot be transferred if it already coincides with another holiday or falls on a weekend. This strategic approach is designed to minimise mid-week days off and consolidate time off for a better work-life balance.
    A prime example is the upcoming UAE National Day. Falling on a Tuesday and Wednesday this year, the Cabinet could potentially issue a resolution to move the holiday to the preceding Monday (December 1st), creating a spectacular five-day break from Friday, November 28th to Wednesday, December 3rd. Official confirmation, however, will come closer to the date.
    UAE Public Holidays 2025: How to plan your long weekends and extended breaks?

    The long weekends still to come in 2025
    With the first half of the year behind us, UAE residents have two more public holidays to look forward to, both offering strong potential for extended time off.
    Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH)Predicted Date: Friday, September 5, 2025What to expect: This holiday is currently predicted to fall directly on a Friday. If confirmed, this would automatically grant residents a three-day weekend (Friday to Sunday). As it’s not an Eid holiday, the date is subject to official moon sighting confirmation.
    UAE National DayConfirmed Dates: Tuesday, December 2 & Wednesday, December 3, 2025What to expect: This mid-week break is the one to watch. Under the new law, the government could choose to move these days off to the preceding Monday (Dec 1st) to create a five-day long weekend. Alternatively, it will remain a two-day break splitting the workweek. The decision will be announced officially later in the year.
    Armed with this knowledge, residents can now look ahead with optimism, ready to leverage the new law’s flexibility for a well-deserved break. Keep your calendars open and watch for official announcements.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest More

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    Exactly How To Do Supplement Stacking, From A Pharmacist

    Quick: count the number of supplements you take a day. There’s the omegas for brain boosting, the nootropics in your coffee, maybe a sleep supplement or magnesium, too. But now, tailoring your supps for max impact, also known as supplement stacking, is gaining traction. When done right, supplement stacking can bridge nutrient gaps, enhance results from training or diet changes and support health through life’s hormonal shifts – without falling into the trap of expensive but ineffective over-supplementation. WH spoke to the experts about how to do supplement stacking for women without overdoing things. 

    Meet the expert: Nicolene Schoeman is a clinical pharmacist and fitness enthusiast. Sikhosande Kula is a Responsible Pharmacist at AKOS BIO.

    What Is Supplement Stacking? 

    In a nutshell, it’s the art of combining vitamins, minerals and performance boosters in a deliberate, goal-driven way. Supplement stacking has been used among women increasingly to optimise energy, hormones, recovery, or overall well-being. “Modern lifestyles, soil nutrient depletion and certain health conditions mean many people fall short of their nutritional needs,” explains Sikhosande Kula, a Responsible Pharmacist at AKOS BIO.

    But while the idea of creating a “custom formula” can sound amazing (or too good to be true?!), the smartest stacks aren’t just a grab-bag of trending capsules. They’re built on an understanding of your body’s needs, your lifestyle, and the science behind each ingredient. “Supplements should complement, not replace, a nutrient-rich diet,” Kula maintains.

    Benefits of stacking 

    “I can see why supplement stacking is gaining popularity,” says  Nicolene Schoeman, a clinical pharmacist. “When done thoughtfully, it can make sense. Some nutrients work beautifully together in what we call nutrient synergy – where the combined effect is greater than what either nutrient could achieve on its own. It’s a bit like pairing the right training program with the right nutrition plan – the results can be amplified.” It’s something chemists see all the time, Schoeman explains. For example, adding a pinch of black pepper to your Golden Milk with turmeric helps the absorption of those antioxidants. Also, pairing iron with vitamin C will help improve the absorption. 

    The benefits of supplement stacking for women don’t end there: many can target multiple aspects of health at once, says Kula. For example, combining magnesium and B vitamins for energy and nervous system support, she adds.

    READ MORE: 15 Things Your Period Could Be Telling You About Your Health

    How To Build A Supplement Stack 

    Supplement stacking as a woman could yield results, with people using it for weight loss, enhanced performance, hormonal balance and more. According to experts, here’s how to build one for yourself. 

    1. Set a goal 

    Be as specific as possible. If your goal is to “get healthier”, quantify that. Do you want to score a new PB? Reduce inflammation in your back? Support focus during work? Balance hormones? From there, your needs will fall into four core categories: performance, prevention, recovery, or symptom support. Stacks should differ depending on which.

    2. Get the basics right 

    Every supplement is going to sound fancy, and the allure of health elixirs are hard to resist. “The supplement industry is massive (worth over $480 billion globally in 2024!),” explains Schoeman, “and it thrives on convincing us we need more than we actually do.” Schoeman narrows down her needs by asking what is genuinely missing from the diet. And then, she asks how she can improve meals, hydration, rest and training first – and adds supplements after. 

    3. Find the gaps 

    Once you’re sure you’re getting eight to 10 a night, five a day and an hour of movement, try precision-targeting the gaps in your nutrition. Blood tests can find deficiencies like vitamin D, B12, iron and more. Use a symptom tracker to make sense of things like frequent fatigue, poor concentration and brittle nails. These are sometimes linked to specific nutrient needs. And, consider your lifestyle. Vegans absolutely need vitamin B12 and omega-3; office workers should be getting extra vitamin D to make up for the lack of sunlight. 

    4. Choose evidence-based supps

    Choose supplements with strong human clinical evidence (check Examine.com, Cochrane Reviews, PubMed). If you find a study done only in rodents or only has anecdotal evidence, avoid or approach with caution. And remember, says Schoeman: “supplements aren’t regulated as tightly as medicines. ‘Proprietary blends’ might sound fancy, but they often don’t disclose exact amounts of each ingredient, making it harder to know what you’re truly taking.” In this case, do some extra research. 

    5. Measure the dosage 

    Many supplements come in blended powders, so you can cut down on buying a ton of stuff. While this is great, it could lead to over-supplementation. Check the dosages of your stack to make sure you’re not overdoing things. 

    READ MORE: Your Cardio Age Could Predict How Long You’ll Live – Here’s How To Measure It

    Pitfalls Of Supp Stacking 

    “Always check for safety, side effects and interactions with any medications you take,” warns Schoeman. “Even something ‘natural’ can cause harm, and at the very least, an unnecessary supplement can be a waste of money.” There are other possible negatives, too: 

    Taking more than the safe daily dose of certain vitamins or minerals

    Overlapping ingredients (for example, Vitamin D showing up in multiple products without you realising)

    Interactions with prescription medication

    Spending a lot of money on combinations that may not be effective for you personally

    Is Supplement Stacking For You? 

    In short, it could be. In either case, it’s smart to optimise any supplements you’re already taking. “Supplement stacking can be a smart, targeted approach if it’s based on your actual needs (and ideally, blood work or professional guidance),” says Schoeman. “But without a clear reason, it’s a bit like throwing ingredients into a smoothie hoping it will taste amazing – sometimes it works, sometimes it’s just an expensive experiment.”

    READ MORE: 13 Next-Gen Biohacks Every Wellness Girl Should Know More

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    8 of Dubai’s most serene summer night swim spots

    Life

    August 20, 2025

    Ideal for cooling off after work or starting your weekend, night swims offer spectacular skyline and sea views, cool waters, and the laid-back glamour that defines the emirate’s warmer months.
    Without limiting outdoor pools to winter, Dubai is always a step ahead when it comes to enjoying outdoor activities such as a night swim even during summer.
    Overall, night swims have emerged as the city’s chicest way to cool down from the week, offering a blend of serene ambience, skyline views, and elevated leisure. Whether it’s a twilight dip at AURA Skypool with panoramic vistas of the Palm, a curated evening affair at La Cantine Beach, or the understated luxury of Drift’s moonlit lounging, these after-dark escapes redefine summer in the city.
    Curated with softly lit pools, curated soundtracks, and menus designed for poolside indulgence, night swims are no longer just a reprieve from the heat, they’re the new social hour for those who prefer their summer soirées served with a side of starlight.
    So if you’re deciding where to go and what to wear, see our full Emirates Woman guide to keep you occupied during summer.
    SĀN

    Nestled along the scenic Palm West Beach, SĀN Beach invited guests to experience the allure of moonlight waters and starry skies with late-night swims. Guests can bask under the stars and experience the vibrant pool bar until 9PM. Post swim, visitors can savour a delectable dinner at the restaurant to further elevate their evening. It starts at 6pm, with access priced at Dhs300, making it full redeemable for ladies and half for gents.
    For more information visit sanbeachdubai.com
    Maison De La Plage

    Maison de la Plage is turning up the heat and cooling things down with the launch of its Night Swims experience. As the sun sets over West Palm Beach, the venue transforms into a tranquil twilight escape, inviting guests to dine, unwind, and enjoy a moonlit swim. With the beach closed for summer, all sunbeds are relocated poolside, where the water is cooled to offer the perfect evening dip. Running daily from 7PM to 11PM, the experience blends laid-back luxury with the charm of coastal nights. Guests on sunbeds can enjoy the Beach Lounge menu, while those at dining tables will indulge in the à la carte offering. Rates start at Dhs250 on weekdays (Dhs100 redeemable) and Dhs350 on weekends (Dhs200 redeemable), making this the ultimate summer sundown ritual.
    For more information visit maisondelaplage.com
    One & Only Royal Mirage

    As the sun dips below the horizon, Al Janoub Pool at The Palace shimmers to life, setting the stage for Moonlight Swim—a sultry, starlit escape held every Friday and Saturday from 7PM to 11PM at One&Only Royal Mirage. This adults-only affair transforms the infinity pool into a twilight sanctuary, where summer beats echo through the night and the views stretch endlessly across Dubai Harbour Marina and Palm Island Bay. Guests can sip handcrafted cocktails in plush private cabanas, float under a canopy of stars, or sink into loungers surrounded by lush gardens and curated soundscapes. With its dreamy setting and effortless elegance, Moonlight Swim offers a chic new way to soak in summer, where the vibe is cool, the water warm, and the night full of possibility. The minimum spend is Dhs250 for poolside access and Dhs500 for private cabanas.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    La Cantine Beach – Delano

    As golden hour fades into an indigo glow, La Cantine Beach unveiled its Après-Soleil Night Swim, an elevated twilight ritual. Running every Thursday to Saturday from 7PM onwards, this moonlit dip comes with sunbeds for Dhs249 and lounges Dhs299, both fully redeemable against a curated night swim menu. A bottle of chilled grape is also offered at a special price of Dhs400 for those looking to toast the evening in style. With ambient lighting, panoramic views of Ain Dubai, and chic summer bites by the shore, it’s your new after-dark escape—where the city’s heat gives way to something far cooler.
    For more information visit lacantinebeach.ae

    Nobu by the Beach

    With its laid-back and natural surroundings, delicious bites, this is a weekend experience that you would want to gatekeep. Taking place at Atlantis The Royal every Friday and Saturday from 8 pm onwards and priced at 150dhs per person, you can look forward to having a relaxing dip in the beautifully lit lagoon pool. Then, retreat to the poolside tables to indulge in a delightful Nobu-style, bite-sized culinary delights as you marvel at Atlantis The Royal’s striking views and the stunning Skyblaze Fountain view. Poolside menu highlights include black cod on a bed of lettuce, crispy shiitake salad with goma truffle dressing, wagyu beef sliders, as well as refreshing signature concoctions combining traditional Japanese and Peruvian ingredients.
    For reservations, visit nobubythebeach.com or call +971 4 426 1600
    Playa Pacha

    Sun’s out? The fun’s just getting started. Dive into Nightswim at Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE — a wild, Ibiza-inspired moonlit pool party where Balearic beats, curated cocktails, and Dubai’s after-dark energy collide. Held every weekend from 7 PM onwards, this unapologetically bold experience transforms the pool into a vibrant playground with live DJs, signature drinks, immersive visuals on Dubai’s largest anamorphic screen, and unbeatable views of Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. With entry fully redeemable at Dhs 200 for ladies and Dhs 300 for gents), plus VIP areas and private cabanas available on request, Nightswim is your cue to slip into something bold and come play — because when the sun goes down, Playa Pacha turns up.
    For more information visit luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com

    Here’s your styling guide for the perfect night swim:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    10 Scarily Common Diabetes Myths That Can Put Your Health At Risk

    Fact: diabetes is the number one cause of death among South African women, according to Statistics South Africa’s latest data. The only thing overshadowing it is Covid-19, which only reflects the year in which the stat was captured – 2021. Diabetes is now responsible for more deaths in S.A. than heart disease, cancer and HIV. “We’re facing a public health crisis,” says Ingrid Singels, Marketing Manager for Pharma Dynamics’ Scientific Division. “Worldwide, diabetes affects men and women equally, but in South Africa, we see significantly more women living with diabetes than men, and they also face more severe complications. Yet, diabetes remains underdiagnosed and undertreated.” One factor contributing to the epidemic is diabetes myths, which evidence shows are especially prevalent among women, and these myths can delay diagnosis, hinder treatment, and worsen outcomes. 

    Added to that, women have a unique (read: more complicated) manifestation of diabetes when compared to men. According to a large literature review in 2019 in BMC Medicine, women with diabetes experience a 13% greater risk of death from all causes, 30% greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease, and 58% greater risk of death from coronary heart disease, compared to men with diabetes. Here, we’re discussing 11 of the biggest diabetes myths with evidence. 

    Myth 1 – Eating Too Much Sugar Causes Diabetes

    Eating too much sugar does not cause diabetes, but an unhealthy lifestyle and poor nutrition may. It’s a combination of genetics and other unknown factors that trigger the onset of Type 1 diabetes, and Type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors. The truth is that a diet high in kilojoules can cause you to become overweight, increasing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

    Myth 2 – Diabetics Can’t Eat Any Sugar Or Sugary Foods

    Having diabetes doesn’t mean that you have to have a sugar-free diet. In the past, diabetics have been advised to avoid sugar as much as possible, but research shows that sugars from fruit, vegetables and dairy products are an acceptable part of a healthy diet. Diabetics should be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods, including some with sugar. In fact, up to 10% of total daily energy requirements may consist of sugars like table sugar and sugar-sweetened products, without having a negative effect on blood sugar levels.

    READ MORE: 6 Tips That Will Help You Spot Fake Health Info

    Myth 3 – People With Diabetes Should Avoid Certain Fruits

    The belief that diabetics should avoid certain fruits, like grapes and bananas, is a common misconception. You can still achieve good blood sugar control while incorporating these fruits into a balanced diet because they have a similar sugar content per portion to other fruits. Grapes and bananas are both healthy food choices for people with diabetes as they are high in fibre, low in fat and packed with vitamins and minerals. Plus, strong studies show that a higher intake of whole fruits (blueberries, grapes, apples) is linked with a lower type 2 diabetes risk, while fruit juice is linked with higher risk. 

    Myth 4 – Diabetics Should Eat Special Diabetic Food

    Many diabetics believe that foods labelled as ‘suitable for diabetics’ are beneficial or even essential for good health, when in fact many of these products can be high in saturated fat and calories and may still raise blood sugar levels. According to Cindy Chin, company dietician and nutrition manager at Woolworths, the key to nutrition for diabetics is to include a wide variety of foods and focus on portion size and balanced meals.

    READ MORE: Postpartum Depression: Why Do So Many Women Suffer in Silence?

    Myth 5  – Gestational Diabetes (GDM) Is Temporary, So It’s No Big Deal

    This condition develops due to hormonal changes during pregnancy that create insulin resistance, not because of dietary choices. Gestational diabetes affects 3-20% of pregnant women, depending on risk factors, and while being overweight increases risk, women of all body sizes can develop the condition. The misconception that eating habits cause gestational diabetes leads to unnecessary guilt and shame among pregnant women. Having said that, GDM raises a woman’s later risk of type 2 diabetes by around eight to 10 times and increases future cardiovascular risk. Ongoing screening and prevention matter for years after pregnancy. 

    Myth 6  – Diabetes Among Women Is The Same As With Men

    Compared with men, women with diabetes face a higher relative risk of fatal coronary heart disease and a greater risk of heart failure when coronary disease is present. Some scary stats: 

    Recent data show that women with type 2 diabetes have a 27% higher stroke risk and 19% higher vascular dementia risk than men

    Women are less likely to reach improved blood sugar levels and receive less intensive care compared to men

    And, women’s hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in how diabetes affects our bodies. Early menopause (before age 40) significantly increases type 2 diabetes risk compared to menopause after age 50. Cyclical hormonal changes also make diabetes control more difficult in pre-menopausal women. Knowing this, it’s important for women to take care of their health. 

    Myth 7 – Cinnamon (Or A ‘Natural’ Supplement) Can Replace Diabetes Meds

    Short answer: it’s not a medication substitute. Explanation: studies suggest cinnamon may reduce fasting glucose or lipids, but it’s no replacement for medication. 

    Myth 8 – Only Obese People Get Diabetes

    Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by promoting insulin resistance. And while obesity plays a big role in increasing your risk for type 2 diabetes, it’s not the full picture. Having a so-called “normal” weight doesn’t exclude visceral fat (the “bad” kind around your organs), or low muscle mass, both of which can contribute to type 2 diabetes. 

    READ MORE: Your Cardio Age Could Predict How Long You’ll Live – Here’s How To Measure It

    Myth 9 – Insulin Is Addictive, So You Should Avoid It 

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    Experience art of summer dining at KIRA with its Japanese-Mediterranean mastery

    Life

    August 18, 2025

    This summer, KIRA invites discerning guests to unwind in one of Dubai’s most elegant culinary retreats. Situated within the exclusive Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, this sophisticated haven is the ideal setting for leisurely lunches, where exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a tranquil ambiance converge to create moments worth savoring.

    KIRA’s lunch experience is a masterclass in refined flavors and artistry. The menu opens with an array of exquisite small plates—think crispy Aubergine Dengaku glazed with tahina miso or Escargots delicately infused with Japanese Herbes de Provence. The Raw Bar dazzles with selections like Tuna Tartare & Caviar on a crisp potato base and Hamachi Carpaccio kissed with lemon thyme ponzu. For those seeking indulgence, handcrafted sushi and maki—such as Chutoro Nigiri Aburi with soy caramel glaze or Lobster Maki crowned with smoked mayonnaise and caviar—deliver pure sophistication.

    The main courses showcase KIRA’s mastery over fire and flavor, with highlights like the Woodfire Roasted Lobster in Peri Peri Beurre Blanc and the signature Wagyu Tomahawk. Mediterranean comfort is reimagined through a Japanese lens in dishes like Chilean Seabass Risotto and Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, each bite a testament to culinary finesse.

    As dusk settles, the energy shifts seamlessly to KIRA’s bar—a space designed for spontaneity and effortless elegance. No reservation is needed here, just walk in and enjoy sweeping views, expertly crafted cocktails, and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The newly introduced Bar Bites menu is a celebration of bold, shareable flavors: Truffle Wagyu Gyoza in truffle ponzu, Rock Shrimp Tempura with spicy mayonnaise, and Spicy Tuna with jalapeño and yuzu tobiko. Lighter options like Mediterranean Pickles in yuzu olive oil provide contrast, while lavish offerings such as the Caviar Platter and A5 Wagyu Kushiyaki Skewers elevate the experience.

    Whether it’s a long, lingering lunch, an early evening cocktail, or an impromptu gathering, KIRA is the summer destination where every moment feels curated and unhurried.
    Located in the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, KIRA blends Mediterranean warmth with Japanese precision, offering an immersive dining experience. Designed by Verhaal Studios, the space transitions from a striking dining room to a dynamic bar and lounge, culminating in a breathtaking terrace with views of the Burj Al Arab.
    For more information, visit kira-restaurant.com or follow @kiradubai on Instagram.
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    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Supplied More