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    How I got my job as… a UAE-based Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    This week, Emirates Woman spoke to Myrna Ayad, Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor based in the UAE.
    Welcome to the Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and business women both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    Based in Dubai, Ayad established her namesake consultancy in 2018, focusing on art advisory, cultural strategy and publishing. Overall, she develops cultural strategies and support brands and organisations to embrace art and culture within their frameworks. This way, brands stand out.
    Her expertise sees the many intersections between the worlds of art and luxury. Both forms of creation influence one another and present enduring experiences.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    English, Psychology and History.
    What was your first job?
    At a now-defunct publishing house. I started off editing one weekly student paper, Campus Journal and then launched Campus Journal in Kuwait and then came The Buzz, a Village Voice-type weekly.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    The invasion of Lebanon in 1982. My maternal grandfather owned some of the UAE’s first hotels, so we came here ‘temporarily’ and here we are, at home.
    What inspired you to enter the industry?
    Stories. Art and people tell stories.
    Talk us through the concept?
    I work independently as a cultural strategist and editor with a focus on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    Telling stories essentially. I advise organisations on what they should do within the cultural sector, and I produce books. That means I develop the concept, conceive an editorial outline, manage everything from imagery and design, to copyediting and contributing writers, and write! My favourite bit is the writing of course.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I have a wonderful office at home where I clock in and out of daily – weekends included. I’m a working mother so my day is punctuated by pick-ups, drop-offs, cooking and running errands. If I’m not seeing friends in the evening, I’ll be watching something riveting on TV with my husband.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Read. Ask. Listen. Attend exhibitions. Watch films. Listen to your heart and wonder. Make sure you document everything. Absolutely everything.
    Tell us more about the work done previously?
    Today, my clients include PepsiCo, the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth, the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, Bulgari, and Pink Tank. I also act as an external advisor to Bain, Pelham Communications, Edelman as well as Riyadh’s Misk Art Institute. I am author of Assouline’s Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy (2021), a seminal book on the late ruler of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; as well as Dubai Wonder (2021), part of the House’s iconic travel series. I am also author of The National’s monthly series, Remembering the Artist, an intimate portrayal of the lives of pioneering modernists from the region based on exclusive interviews with their relatives, friends or students. I am proud to say that I am recognised as one of the Arab world’s leading cultural commentators.
    From 2016–2018, I was Director of Art Dubai, the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and South Asia’s foremost international art fair. During my time there, the fair enjoyed its largest and most globally diverse editions to date and presented a robust non-profit programme. Preceding this, I wrote about art from the Arab world, Iran and Turkey for titles including The New York Times, CNN Online, The Art Newspaper, Artforum, Artsy, Artnet, Wallpaper* and The National, among others, as well as for artist monographs and exhibition catalogues. . Over the years, I have served as a panellist and moderator for entities such as Arab Luxury World (2019), Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (2018), Global Art Forum (2017), the Art Business Conference (2017), Alserkal Avenue (2015), 21,39 Jeddah Arts (2014) and Art Basel (2009) as well as several UAE art galleries.

    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    It will all be OK.
    And what is the worst?
    “Ignore it.”
    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    Age.
    What’s your future for the brand?
    A countless number of books on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran, and an illustrated children’s series, Noor’s Heroes, that will launch in September.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Having a sick day? Here’s 13 rom-com movies to watch

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    5 seconds ago

    With the unexpected heavy rainfall, our evening plans might have taken a turn, but with a plethora of rom-com movies available at the touch of a button, there’s always something to do.
    The issue isn’t that won’t find any good romantic movies on the streaming platforms—rather you might spend too much time sifting through the huge assortment of everything from romantic dramas to romantic comedies.
    To reduce your scrolling time, we’ve collated a list of all the rom-com movies from dramatic love stories to classic ones, the list is endless.
    It’s time to settle in with one of the films from our round-up of the best rom-coms out there. Prepare to laugh and cry in equal measure. By being cute, funny or a teensy bit cheesy, these rom-coms make us catch feelings in all the best ways. And oh, the endings! When many of us want to lose ourselves in romantic movies, we reach for some rom-com movies. They’re the perfect blend of funny and heartstring-tugging; perfect for soothing a broken heart after a breakup, reminding the long-coupled how much they love love or just for a relaxing, low-stress movie night.
    They’re so well-made that some even forget about being sick as it transcends you into a completely new world of rom-com movies, allowing you to switch off for a few hours or even run a marathon as all of them are so thoughtfully directed.
    So, if you plan on switching off with just your TV and remote, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of timeless romcoms to watch as you spend the evening at home.

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

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    19 luxe Saturday brunch spots in Dubai to try this year

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    56 mins ago

    As you unwind from a stressful week, each upscale brunch located around Dubai is sure to let you relax. While you get your money’s worth with a specially curated menu of cocktails and delicious food accompanied by splendid views of Dubai’s skyline.
    It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go.
    From Japanese to Italian, each restaurant offers a myriad of delectable dishes are all crafted to perfection with live music and an enchanting ambience to let guests begin their weekend in style.
    Also, if you’re on the lookout of what to wear. Comfort is key—so it’s best to rely on those easy breezy slip dresses and co-ords. To not make dressing up feel like a chore. Be it Massimo Dutti or Cos, these free-flowing midi dresses can be worn all year round. Overall, the simplest piece can really add depth to the laziest of outfits, and leave you feeling put together for what really matters: gossip shared over mimosas and your favourite playlist. We’ve also compiled the best high-street pieces we use as brunch fit inspiration all year.
    To help you whittle it down, Emirates Woman has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

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

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    20 luxe Saturday brunch spots in Dubai to try this year

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    July 25, 2024

    As you unwind from a stressful week, each upscale brunch located around Dubai is sure to let you relax. While you get your money’s worth with a specially curated menu of cocktails and delicious food accompanied by splendid views of Dubai’s skyline.
    It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go.
    From Japanese to Italian, each restaurant offers a myriad of delectable dishes are all crafted to perfection with live music and an enchanting ambience to let guests begin their weekend in style.
    Also, if you’re on the lookout of what to wear. Comfort is key—so it’s best to rely on those easy breezy slip dresses and co-ords. To not make dressing up feel like a chore. Be it Massimo Dutti or Cos, these free-flowing midi dresses can be worn all year round. Overall, the simplest piece can really add depth to the laziest of outfits, and leave you feeling put together for what really matters: gossip shared over mimosas and your favourite playlist. We’ve also compiled the best high-street pieces we use as brunch fit inspiration all year.
    To help you whittle it down, Emirates Woman has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

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

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    This new hotel epitomises Parisian chic at the French Capital

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    50 mins ago

    At the center of French Capital, a new hotel epitomizes Parisian chic.
    Ahh Paris – always a good idea isn’t it? It’s one of those cities where you find yourself returning to and not get tired of. This summer, the French Capital buzzes with sporting excitement as it gears up for Paris 2024 Olympics. With an uptick in travel and continuous influx of tourists for summer, enjoying the city’s culture, shopping, and food might pose as a big challenge.
    Luckily, Hotel Balzac just opened in June. This new Relais & Chateux five-star haven sits on the corners of Rue Balzac and Rue Lord Byron – a stone’s throw away from the legendary avenue Champs-Élysées, where you’ll feel the magnetic energy of Paris yet are able to retreat with ease.

    Like with any Relais & Chateux property, Hotel Balzac is full of charm and character, providing a unique sense of place. The Parisian epitome of quiet luxury, it offers all the modern comforts of a discerning traveller and a reliable hospitality service.
    Upon walking past its majestic door for check-in, you’ll feel the intimate and warm atmosphere of the lobby, thanks to the renowned Festen Architecture duo, Charlotte de Tonnac and Hugo Sauzay. The Festen duo have leaned heavily into the 1930s and 1940s for inspiration, revisited with creative modernity and minimalism deeply anchored in Balzac’s Parisian identity to create ultra-chic spaces within the hotel, which is eminently Instagrammable.

    A Chic Stay
    It features 58 rooms and spacious suites (some with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and sky-high rooftop terraces). The bathroom comes with a bathtub or shower (or both!) and is adorned with goregous wood panelling that contrasts with the mosaic marble as well as bath amenities from Diptyque, which is always a plus.

    Looking for something more exceptional? Located on the 6th and top floor, the Paris Sky Suite features a large living room that extends to a terrace overlooking Rue Lord Byron and the Champs-Elysées, facing the Eiffel Tower. On the other side of the long corridor, two peaceful bedrooms with their bathrooms overlook the courtyard and the rooftops of Paris.
    Sleek & Exceptional Dining
    Beyond the glass-roofed lounge, the Hotel Balzac bar is a sleek space for a break during a day of shopping, a lunch with girl friends, or a night cap, and serves bar-style bites including Petrossian caviar specialties or a lobster roll with Espelette pepper and ginger alongside delicious beverages crafted by Head Bartender Julien Quettier.

    Although the culinary offering is limited, there are plenty of options from the neighborhood and without going too far, there’s the exquisite Pierre Gagnaire restaurant, a 3-star Michelin restaurant which is situated… at Hotel Balzac.

    A Unique Wellness Space
    After a hectic day around Paris, the Ikoi Spa offers a unique escape with a holistic approach inspired by Japanese methods. It provides a range of treatments and massages on tables or tatami mats. The pool, sauna, and state-of-the-art fitness room complete the facilities of this unparalleled spa, which will officially open for guests in July 2024.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied / Matthieu Salvaing  More

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    6 of the best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    8 hours ago

    If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possibly the best option. We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
    National Ice Cream Day is celebrated annually in the United States on the third Sunday in July. This holiday was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, who also declared July as National Ice Cream Month. National Ice Cream Day is a time for ice cream lovers to indulge in their favorite frozen treats and for ice cream shops to offer special deals and promotions. Many people celebrate by enjoying various flavors of ice cream, trying new combinations, and even making their own ice cream at home.
    With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience, Dubai is home to a variety of exotic flavours to tantalize your tastebuds and make any meal even more exciting.
    So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
    Massimo’s Gelato

    This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet. They can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
    For more information visit
    Godiva

    For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate. To innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
    For more information visit Godiva.com
    Mirzam

    Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
    For more information visit mirzam.com
    Majama

    For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
    For more information visit eatmajama.com
    Mama Booza

    If you’re looking for a stylish sweet treat this summer, look no further than Mama Booza. Founded by entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast Tracy Harmoush and Wael Ariss, Mama Booza is an Arabic ice cream brand that offers an authentic taste of traditional flavours. Take your pick and indulge from a range of five flavours: ashta, dates, chocolate, knafeh, pistachio that come with toppings for an added touch of delight and nostalgia to your frozen treat. Available for home delivery only via Deliveroo, each delectable flavour is made with natural ingredients.
    Amorino

    World renowned Artisan Italian gelato brand, Amorino has opened doors in Dubai at Souk Madinat Jumeirah.  Famed for its signature rose shaped gelato cones adorned with handmade gelato-filled macarons, Amorino Dubai serves 22 delicious flavours of gelato and sorbet that come directly from Italy with no artificial colouring or flavouring and are made using carefully selected ingredients including organic eggs and farm fresh milk.  Founded in 2002 by two Italian childhood friends, Amorino’s first store was in the heart of Paris. Now with more than 255 shops worldwide across 18 countries.  On the menu, find wide-ranging gelato and sorbet flavours including stracciatella, pistachio, tiramisu, Madagascar vanilla bourbon, Alfonso mango, orange cinnamon, organic lemon, white chocolate blueberry, sorbet bio chocolate, hazelnut, coconut, and much more, in addition to limited edition seasonal flavours that will appear in-store for exclusive periods throughout the year. Served in various sizes in a cone or a cup. Amorino Dubai is now open and welcoming guests in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is available for delivery via Deliveroo.
    For more information visit www.amorino.com, 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @alexiiak More

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    7 of the best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possibly the best option. We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
    National Ice Cream Day is celebrated annually in the United States on the third Sunday in July. This holiday was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, who also declared July as National Ice Cream Month. National Ice Cream Day is a time for ice cream lovers to indulge in their favorite frozen treats and for ice cream shops to offer special deals and promotions. Many people celebrate by enjoying various flavors of ice cream, trying new combinations, and even making their own ice cream at home.
    With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience, Dubai is home to a variety of exotic flavours to tantalize your tastebuds and make any meal even more exciting.
    So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
    Massimo’s Gelato

    This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet. They can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
    For more information visit
    Godiva

    For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate. To innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
    For more information visit Godiva.com
    Mirzam

    Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
    For more information visit mirzam.com
    Majama

    For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
    For more information visit eatmajama.com
    Krema’s

    This newly launched venue has entered the ice cream space with its limited-edition bite-sized ice cream Melts to maximise the summer glory. The ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept,ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept, with a gorgeous venue at Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, where guests can enjoy incredibly delightful desserts. Orders can be placed via Chatfood, Talabat, and Deliveroo and the incredible ice cream flavours will be delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain and are priced at AED 59 per tub containing 18-20 pieces. Krema’s Melts are also available for pick-up at Two at symphony at Dubai Mall.
    Mama Booza

    If you’re looking for a stylish sweet treat this summer, look no further than Mama Booza. Founded by entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast Tracy Harmoush and Wael Ariss, Mama Booza is an Arabic ice cream brand that offers an authentic taste of traditional flavours. Take your pick and indulge from a range of five flavours: ashta, dates, chocolate, knafeh, pistachio that come with toppings for an added touch of delight and nostalgia to your frozen treat. Available for home delivery only via Deliveroo, each delectable flavour is made with natural ingredients.
    Amorino

    World renowned Artisan Italian gelato brand, Amorino has opened doors in Dubai at Souk Madinat Jumeirah.  Famed for its signature rose shaped gelato cones adorned with handmade gelato-filled macarons, Amorino Dubai serves 22 delicious flavours of gelato and sorbet that come directly from Italy with no artificial colouring or flavouring and are made using carefully selected ingredients including organic eggs and farm fresh milk.  Founded in 2002 by two Italian childhood friends, Amorino’s first store was in the heart of Paris. Now with more than 255 shops worldwide across 18 countries.  On the menu, find wide-ranging gelato and sorbet flavours including stracciatella, pistachio, tiramisu, Madagascar vanilla bourbon, Alfonso mango, orange cinnamon, organic lemon, white chocolate blueberry, sorbet bio chocolate, hazelnut, coconut, and much more, in addition to limited edition seasonal flavours that will appear in-store for exclusive periods throughout the year. Served in various sizes in a cone or a cup. Amorino Dubai is now open and welcoming guests in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is available for delivery via Deliveroo.
    For more information visit www.amorino.com, 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @alexiiak More

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    Want to savour a cup of tea at home? Buy these quali-tea products

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    Sometimes, taking a midday break as you WFH can help with concentrating. To add to your break, a perfectly brewed cup of tea can cater to your taste buds by giving you that caffeine kick.
    Tea is a popular beverage made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It comes in several varieties, each with unique flavors, characteristics, and health benefits.
    These expert-approved guide highlights various bags, cups, pots and matcha sets. Overall, it’s the ideal way to catch-up with loved ones, mark a special birthday, or just because – and they also make a delicious gift for the tea lover in your life.
    To get an insight, the various types are.
    Green
    Made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types. It has a high concentration of antioxidants and is believed to have numerous health benefits, such as improving brain function and aiding in fat loss.
    Black
    Fully oxidised, giving it a dark color and rich flavor. It generally has more caffeine than other types and is often enjoyed with milk and sugar.
    Oolong
    Partially oxidised, falling somewhere between green and black in terms of flavor and caffeine content. It is known for its smooth, rich taste.
    White
    Least processed and made from young leaves or buds. It has a delicate flavor and is high in antioxidants.
    Herbal
    Not made from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, it is made from a variety of herbs, spices, flowers, and fruits. Popular examples include chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos. For added therapeutic benefits, it can often provide the most effective relief for coughs.
    Pu-erh
    Fermented from China, known for its unique aging process, which can last for several years. It has a rich, earthy flavor and is believed to aid in digestion.
    Matcha
    Originating from Japan, it’s used in traditional ceremonies. It is made from finely ground, high-quality green leaves and is known for its vibrant green color and robust flavor.

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