Raphael Stevens

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    in lifestyle and culture

    9 of Dubai’s best library cafés to visit

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    24 mins ago

    It’s time to see some cafés that promote the reading culture in Dubai. It aims to promote literacy and encourage people of all ages to discover the magic of books.
    The burgeoning library cafés culture in Dubai has allowed multiple book lovers to engross themselves in hours of solitude.
    Whether you’re looking to catch up on some reading or simply get some inspiration in a new setting, Dubai offers a myraid of cafés to visit.
    What to expect in a library cafe
    Ambiance
    Quiet, cozy, and conducive to reading or working. The decor often includes bookshelves, comfortable seating, and good lighting.
    Menu
    Typically includes coffee, tea, and other beverages, along with a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. Some library cafes might offer more extensive menus with salads, soups, and other simple meals.
    Wi-Fi
    Most library cafes provide free Wi-Fi, making them ideal for students, freelancers, or anyone needing internet access.
    Books and resources
    Some of the spaces are attached to public libraries or bookstores, giving you easy access to books, magazines, and other reading materials.
    Group activities
    Many library cafes host events such as book readings, author signings, poetry nights, or even workshops and classes.
    Overall, they are a great concept, blending the quiet and studious environment of a library with the casual, relaxed atmosphere of a cafe. They offer a space where you can read, study, or work while enjoying a cup of coffee or a snack.
    With the ultimate blend of matcha, books and delectable food, these cafés are a great addition to unwind at for hours.

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

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    in lifestyle and culture

    How I got my job as… CEO of a leading automotive company

    Emirates Man

    by Camille Macawili
    30 seconds ago

    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Dr. Hamid Haqparwar, CEO of AGMC (Arabian Gulf Mechanical Centre) – a leading the automotive company serving as the exclusive importer for BMW Group brands including BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce in Dubai, Sharjah, and Northern Emirates.
    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to incredible entrepreneurs, and businessmen 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.
    With decades of experience with BMW, Here, Dr. Haqparwar shares with Emirates Man his early journey in the field and shares an insight of his work mindset that reinforces the brand’s position as a premiere automotive retailer in the region.

    What was your favourite subject at school?
    My favourite subjects in school were math and geography.
    What was your first job?
    My first job was BMW of course. I was responsible for establishing new markets for the BMW Group
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    Like many people, it was for my work. I was relocated here from Germany, almost 18 years ago for BMW Group.
    What inspired you to enter the automobile space?
    My father. He worked in the automotive field as a used car trader. It was from him that I developed the passion for the automotive space, and I learned the tricks of the trade from him.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    The main element in my role is leading a great team that have a shared drive for success. I always do my best to inspire them to be their best, not only as part of the team at AGMC, but in their personal lives as well. As a CEO, I can’t do everything and be everywhere, so it’s crucial that I can rely on my team.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I wake up early and start my day in the gym, either by running or doing weights. From there, I head to the office where I start off with emails and then go from meeting to meeting.
    I have an open-door policy. Hence, anyone can come in and discuss any topics or issues they might be facing, so I never know how my day will evolve. If I don’t have any evening work responsibilities like events of launches, I get home around 7pm and am exhausted!
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    Always stay calm. There is always a solution to any problem in the business, and its much easier to think in a state of calm. Sooner or later, you will find it.
    And what is the worst?
    Great question. Nobody has ever asked me this. I would say that to be perfect in what you do. No one and nothing can be perfect in life. There are always risks to be taken, and some have good outcomes and some bad – but there’s always a learning.
    Tell us more about the key highlights for AGMC in Dubai and the Northern Emirates for 2025.
    So far everything is running smoothly and we recently launched a new showroom in Sharjah to better serve our customers in the Northern Emirates. We are growing our business and Dubai has been very supportive in fueling our ambitions.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    I think the COVID period was the biggest challenge and I guess this was for everyone.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Take risks. Go where no one else is thinking of going. Take on the projects that are difficult. Only by doing this, will you develop yourself and grow.
    What are your goals for the future?
    Personally, to have a relaxed life.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    8 innovative world records that Dubai has broken

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 seconds ago

    Regarded as a city of superlatives, Dubai is always ahead of the game when it comes to holding world records.
    From the deepest pool to the tallest building, this city has undeniably reached incredible heights, making it a popular destination for tourists to visit and residents to always experience something new.
    In fact, Dubai holds over 425 Guinness World Records, more than any other country in the Middle East, from the world’s largest airport terminal to the greatest number of diamonds on a perfume bottle and more in between.
    As there’s more than enough to keep up with, Emirates Woman has created an exclusive list of all the interesting world records that Dubai has achieved so far.
    The tallest building in the world

    Back in 2011, Dubai broke the world record for the world’s tallest building. The Burj Khalifa is an iconic skyscraper that resides in the heart of Dubai with an astounding height of 828 metres. Known for its breathtaking construction and modern design, it gives the UAE a neo-futurist style to set it apart. With 26,000 hand-cut glass panels, it’s twice the height of the Empire State Building.
    The deepest pool in the world

    Having opened its doors in 2021, this gorgeous marvel has become a huge hit. Deep Dive Dubai is a one-of-a-kind record-breaking attraction, with categories for all levels of divers. With an incredible 14 million litres of water and a depth of 60 metres, this adrenaline-fuelled facility gained popular worldwide traction within a span of a few months. Referred to as a ‘sunken city’, this quirky streetscape ranges from remarkable facilities from snooker to foosball. As an ode to the UAE’s pearl diving heritage, the world’s deepest swimming for diving making it equivalent to six Olympic-sized swimming pools.
    For more information visit deepdivedubai.com
    The world’s biggest observation wheel

    Located on Bluewaters Island, Ain Dubai opened its doors back in October 2021. This giant observation wheel includes 48 passenger cabins and offers 360-degree views of the Dubai skyline making it a social experience for all those who visit. With a staggering height of 250m, this famous landmark showcases a fascinating side of Dubai.
    For more information visit aindubai.com
    The largest flower arrangement

    When it comes to sophisticated floral arrangements, Dubai surely knows how to stay on top of their game. The Emirates A380 structure blossoms at Dubai Miracle Garden is a site certainly to be seen, making it the world’s largest floral installation. This immaculately designed aircraft structure includes moving engine fans and other key design features that make it a beautifully crafted life-size installation. Featuring over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants, this structure is built from recycled materials, it’s a structure that’s talked about the globe over.
    Largest tin of caviar

    Image: Courtesy of the World Record Academy 
    New Year’s Eve celebrations are always carried out on a large scale.  But ringing in the new year five years ago, in 2017, Dubai presented a massive tin of caviar that weighed around 50.08 kgs setting a world record for the largest tin of caviar. While others carefully indulge in a small amount, Dubai surely knows how to play it large.
    The largest water fountain

    Located on Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Fountain measures a whopping 7,327 metres squared. The impressive structure opened back in October 2020, taking the world record title from neighbouring fountains at the Dubai Mall, which previously held the accolade.
    World’s first and highest 360-degree infinity pool

    Known as Aura Skypool, this elegant oasis is perched on the 50th floor of the popular The Palm Tower allowing guests to witness panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline including popular destinations such as the Burj Khalifa, Ain Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and much more. Designed with custom-made sunbeds and lounges, guests can enjoy this venue for a lazy day by the pool or even host any private celebrations or corporate gatherings. Suspended 200 metres in air, this one-of-a-kind experience, truly captures the essence of Dubai.
    Sheikh Hamdan also took the famous football player, Christiano Ronaldo for a visit to show him what this record-breaking venue has to offer. Sharing a video of the pair looking at the sweeping views of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan welcomed Ronaldo “home”.
    Tallest hotel in the world

    Per CNN, Gevora Hotel receive a Guinness World Record in 2018 for being the tallest hotel in the world. This 75-story hotel has a host of dining, recreational and sophisticated facilities onboard, making it the ideal option for the modern business traveller. Situated in the heart of Dubai with its magnificent golden façade, this luxurious icon boasts awe-inspiring views of the city’s skyline. By taking four-star hospitality to new heights, this luxe property is certainly one to visit.
    For more information visit gevorahotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @the_essentialist_ More

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    in health and weelbeing

    5 Ways To Get Rid Of ‘Cortisol Belly’ – And A Hormone Expert Reveals How To Tell If You Really Have It

    It’s official: ‘cortisol belly’ is the new ‘cortisol face’. The phrase – used to describe water and fat that accumulates around the mid-section from stress – has gone viral on TikTok, but experts warn that, like its trending counterpart, there’s much more to it than is shared online.Scroll the app and you’ll find hundreds of thousands of videos of the topic, including people sharing ‘before and after’ style videos of their journey from bloated to flat stomach and ‘experts’ offering solutions to rid your cortisol belly for good.While we know that stress is bad for our health, we have questions about the cortisol belly trend. Namely, is cortisol belly real, or is it just weight loss-pushing and insecurity-driving in disguise? And how do you tell cortisol belly apart from other types of bloating?To dig into what you need to know about the trend, we turned to Dr Gaurav Agarwal, a GP at the Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital and Hannah Alderson, nutritionist and hormone expert. Surprisingly, they say this is a trend with some truth behind it.READ MORE: 4 Expert-Backed Tips For Stress Relief, Energy And BalanceWhy Does Cortisol Belly Happen?“Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It is essential in helping our body respond to stress (physical, mental, social, or emotional), deal with perceived threats (the fight-or-flight response), maintain our sleep-wake cycle, strengthen memory, and maintain muscle tone,” explains Dr Agarwal.Alderson says cortisol is best thought of as ‘the fog horn hormone’: it will shout loudly and expose problems. “Chronic longer-term elevations of cortisol can drive disease, endocrine disorders, obesity and the notorious belly fat. Your body is hardwired to survive, and as a protective mechanism, it will store fat if it feels under threat,” she explains. “Cortisol and high stress also increases insulin resistance, which will often present itself with fat storage around the midsection.”This isn’t just an aesthetic issue. Excess fat storage around the midsection is linked to a higher risk of serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers, regardless of weight. However, that’s true of visceral fat – the type that is found deep in the body, around your organs – more than subcutaneous fat, which is under the skin. You can have health issues with or without cortisol belly.How Do I know If I Have Cortisol Belly?Most daily stress won’t result in extremely high cortisol that stores around your midsection. Instead, “recent studies have shown an association between uncontrollable stress and abdominal fat distribution,” notes Alderson.“More research is needed to explore this connection, but where there is more stress, there can be more abdominal fat, and where there is more abdominal fat, you may produce more cortisol.” In short: it’s a two-way street.Dr Agarwal adds: “Each of our bodies responds differently to hormone levels and their fluctuations; a small rise in cortisol can manifest significantly in some, while a large rise may hardly be noticeable in others.”“More important than the absolute hormone level is how long it stays elevated. An extremely high (medically elevated) level will cause similar but more pronounced changes and may be due to medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, where an adrenal or pituitary gland lesion could be the cause.”Be cautious not to label your stomach fat as ‘wrong’. Remember, women in particular need to and naturally do store more fat around your midsection to protect our reproductive organs. The ‘pouch’ many have at the bottom of their stomachs is there to support your womb and ovaries and is required by the body.READ MORE: Painful Periods? PCOS? Meet The Hormone-Balancing SuppsHow To Get Rid Of Cortisol Belly1. Go slowIf you are experiencing excess stress and seeing that come into play around your belly, don’t dive into a diet. “Restricting food and over-exercising to counteract this can backfire, raising cortisol levels further,” says Alderson.2. Focus on calming activitiesInstead of focusing on the belly, focus on the stress. “The best place to start is to remind the body that it is safe. Box breathing is great and simple, and you can do it anywhere. A 20-minute walk outside after eating will not only support blood glucose regulation after your meal, but the calming effect of nature and the exposure of the full spectrum of light can be wonderful at reminding the body how to function optimally and relax.”READ MORE: The Proven Health Benefits Of Getting Outdoors3. Connect“Increasing human connection, being kind and hanging out with the people you love can harness the positive power of your love and bonding hormone oxytocin. Think of this dynamite of a hormone like cortisol’s kryptonite,” says Alderson.4. Gentle movementSlow and steady movement is the best place to start when it comes to cortisol management. If you currently do a lot of high-intensity work (which, yes, is a stress on the body), pull back and opt for walking, yoga and Pilates. These are also great places for beginners to start.5. Eat and drink well“Excessive alcohol consumption can play a role in cortisol belly,” notes Dr Agarwal. Try to limit drinking and opt for whole foods while managing your health and stress.This article by Chloe Gray was originally published on Women’s Health UK. More

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    Chef Björn Frantzén on redefining fine-dining in Dubai

    Life

    by Joelle Albeaino
    25 mins ago

    Chef Björn Frantzén brings a new era of fine-dining to life through bold flavours, global inspiration, and culinary mastery.
    What inspired you to become a chef, and how did your journey lead you to where you are today?
    After playing football professionally in my early adult years, I was forced to pivot my career following an injury at 19. As a child, I was a fussy eater – but one perfectly grilled steak frites sparked a lightbulb moment. Determined to learn how to cook it myself, that became my introduction to the kitchen.
    From professional football to Michelin-starred kitchens – how did your background in sports influence your work ethic in the culinary world?
    There are many parallels between playing football and cooking with a team. It’s all about group dynamics, teamwork, and performing together under high expectations. Just like in a sports team, it’s essential to find the right balance to get the best out of everyone. With so many moving parts, teamwork in the kitchen is crucial- particularly when opening a restaurant in a new location, such as FZN and Studio Frantzén, my latest ventures at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
    Your dishes often combine Nordic precision with Asian influences. What draws you to this fusion of flavours?
    While the foundation of my cuisine is rooted in modern European cooking, I am always deeply inspired by the unique flavours of the destinations where my restaurants are located. For example, at Zén in Singapore, the menu reflects vibrant local flavours and ingredients, blending them seamlessly with my signature dishes. These adaptations not only honour the location’s culinary heritage but also allow guests to experience a fusion of tradition and innovation. Similarly, at FZN in Dubai at Atlantis, The Palm – a 27-seater fine dining experience – the menu features dishes thoughtfully crafted to highlight the region’s distinctive tastes, while maintaining my signature offerings that remain consistent across all of my global locations.

    You’ve successfully expanded your brand from Stockholm to Singapore, Dubai, and beyond. What’s the biggest challenge in maintaining consistency across locations?
    When you expand a concept globally, you inevitably face many challenges. To ensure consistency across our concepts, we bring in team members – many of whom have been with us for over eight years – to carry our ethos and legacy forward. What’s incredibly important, and something we pay close attention to, is maintaining the right balance between brand identity and local adaptation.
    Why did you choose Dubai for one of your restaurant openings?
    As one of the world’s most popular international destinations and multicultural cities, Dubai has become a thriving culinary hub unlike any other. Home to over 200 nationalities, the city brings together both renowned and up-and-coming talent, creating one of the most diverse gastronomic scenes in the world. Luxury dining in Dubai goes far beyond the food on your plate – it’s about the spectacle and the unique experiences that accompany it. Globally, Dubai has become synonymous with luxury, and its dining scene is no exception. Especially following the city’s reopening after the pandemic, the F&B industry has witnessed a remarkable boom, with a surge of new players entering the market. Visitors come to Dubai to discover everything from innovative home-grown concepts to world-renowned celebrity chef restaurants – experiences that Atlantis Dubai has mastered.
    What is the hero dish on the menu, and what makes it special?
    It’s hard to choose just one hero dish, as our menu features French-inspired cuisine infused with Asian flavours. Some hero dishes include Côte de Boeuf with smoked bone marrow and pine, rock lobster with coriander, curry, and brown-butter hollandaise, as well as the chef’s signature turbot with butter sauce, anchovy, caviar, and dill. A true hero moment at Studio Frantzén is the visit to the candy room.

    The sweet room has become an iconic post-dinner moment for guests. What inspired you to create it?
    Our dining ethos at Studio Frantzén is relaxed, unpretentious, and encourages a social dining environment. With that comes a playful element, which is why we created the Candy Room – our own little chocolate factory and a fun, interactive part of the Studio Frantzén experience. Candy is also incredibly popular in Sweden, and this is a light-hearted way for us to showcase that part of our culture.
    You’ve been awarded three Michelin stars and are consistently ranked among the world’s best. Do you feel pressure to keep innovating?
    I’ve always believed in making fine dining more approachable by blending sophisticated culinary artistry with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. I wanted to break away from the traditional formality that often makes fine dining feel intimidating, creating a space where guests can truly feel at ease. For me, it’s about fostering a personal connection with my guests, engaging with them directly, and ensuring the experience feels intimate and warm. By embracing a more flexible approach to service and offering dishes that balance uniqueness with familiarity, I’ve aimed to open the door to fine dining for everyone – making it something not just enjoyable and memorable, but also free of pretension. FZN is the sibling to my three-Michelin-star restaurants, Frantzén in Stockholm and Zén in Singapore. The idea behind FZN is to create the feeling of stepping into my home. Upon arrival, guests enter a stylish living room for a selection of canapés, followed by a guided house tour and dinner in the dining room, concluding with drinks and petit fours. For those looking to extend the experience, the 18-seat terrace offers views of the Dubai skyline.

    What advice would you give to aspiring chefs who dream of earning Michelin Stars?
    Like most journeys in life, there are no shortcuts – only one way forward. My advice to aspiring chefs is to avoid looking for the easy route. Instead, keep your head down, stay ambitious, and always work hard.
    If you had to eat one dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    It has to be the perfectly grilled steak frites – not only was it the spark that inspired me to become a chef, but it also left a lasting impression. I wanted to learn how to make it myself, just so I could enjoy it every single day.
    What’s next for Björn Frantzén?
    Opening FZN and Studio Frantzén in Dubai late last year was a remarkable milestone, and my team and I are truly excited for what’s yet to come. We’re looking forward to exploring new locations around the world and bringing a taste of Frantzén to each one. Next up is Brasserie Astoria, opening in Marbella, Spain, this May.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    30 summer-inspired décor pieces to revamp your home

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    41 seconds ago

    Summer has finally arrived and with that comes the warmth of hosting gatherings at home rather than being outdoors. With a few décor pieces to add, transforming your abode has never been easier.
    By infusing the calming elements of summer, anyone can add a few décor pieces to completely revamp their space.
    So, as temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the season’s ecelectic energy and infuse your living spaces with a breath of fresh air. Embracing what suits your home the best can be a hassle – from figuring out what colour suits your rooms the best to what furniture looks best in your living space, the options are seemingly endless.
    Sometimes, it can be as simple as adding a cute seashell-shaped throw pillow or switching out your plates for ones with a colorful pattern to transform your home into the summer oasis of your dreams.

    Each of these pieces, can make a splash throughout the joy-filled month, trust us when we say there are plenty of choices that are *add-to-cart worthy*.
    For the host or the bachelor, try a fresh color scheme or incorporate new materials as the season changes. Start small and focus on one area of a room, or if you’re feeling bold, transform the whole room into a summery haven. This extra special and extra hot time of year is also the perfect time to embrace decor inspired by coastal design, like beachy color palettes and nautical nods, and tropical motifs, like summer fruit and palm leaves galore. Hence, Spruce up your dining area with our best summer decór ideas—from table setting and furnishing inspiration to mesmerising lighting touches for an escape without taking a long-haul flight. Without spending too much, it’s always easy to add a few touches to make your home a relaxing haven.
    If you’re looking to revamp your space, you’re in the right place as we can allow you to elevate your home’s style and create a refreshing retreat for yourself.

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

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    Ambika Hinduja Macker on curating a multi-sensory odyssey in Dubai

    Talk us through your background.
    For as long as I can remember, my imagination has shaped and guided me through life. As a child, I would lose myself in intricate daydreams, weaving together stories, colours, and emotions into entire worlds within my mind. At the start of my professional career, this creative instinct led me to filmmaking, where I learnt how to translate these visions into visual narratives. Over time, my artistic journey evolved beyond cinematic storytelling into the realm of art and design, where I found more tangible means to imbue the world with wonder through the transformation of space itself. Across these mediums, my work is united by my belief in inventive and uplifting self-expression to enrich the world around us. It’s why I named my firm Impeccable Imagination, grounding my work at the transformative intersection of human experience and the natural world.
    How did the idea for “The Sublime Nature of Being” come about?
    “The Sublime Nature of Being” stems from my fascination with the Sublime, that overwhelming sense of wonder that transcends words and logic, pulling us into a moment of pure awe and connection. The immersive art experience is my attempt to offer a tangible glimpse of this intangible feeling. Through carefully curated elements – art, sound, scent, and science – I’ve sought to create an environment where audiences can experience the majesty and harmony of nature. It’s a sanctuary designed to elevate the senses and spark an emotional resonance that lingers long after the moment has passed.

    How does the show explore the theme of transcendence beyond the material realm?
    By its very nature, the Sublime is an indescribable experience. Yet, it is this eternally elusive quality that makes the pursuit of sharing it so meaningful. Each featured artist has glimpsed the Sublime and is compelled to reveal what they can of their personal experience through their unique artistry. In their endeavours, we feel their spirit and the humbling purity of the cosmos. In this way, “The Sublime Nature of Being” captures the deeply personal yet universal longing for transcendent connection.

    “The core of my design philosophy is: Discovering beauty in simplicity”

    Talk us through the process of curating an immersive, multi-sensory experience.
    My curatorial process is deeply woven into the fabric of my life. It’s become an innate part of how I engage with the world, always seeking out works that captivate the senses, evoke wonder, and resonate with the fluid, ethereal beauty of nature. The artists featured in “The Sublime Nature of Being” were chosen from the ever-growing portfolio I’ve built through years of exploration. Their works are windows into their souls, reflecting our shared passion for the pursuit of peace and harmony only found in the natural world. Through careful curation, each artwork then synthesises into a dynamic conversation. Amidst the sculptures, installations, and other works of art, a multi-sensory dance of sound and scent gently guides audiences closer to the heart of nature’s healing powers. The space itself hums, inviting them to feel rather than simply observe “The Sublime Nature of Being.”
    Can you share some standout pieces and the inspiration behind them?
    And what emotions or responses did visitors take away from this experience? The natural world thrives on interconnectedness, an intricate web of profound and imperceptibly woven layers that continue to confound and inspire all who behold them. “The Sublime Nature of Being” was curated with this principle at its heart, ensuring that every featured element, whether an individual artwork, installation, or sensory component, retained its distinct identity while contributing to the grander, holistic journey of the immersive art experience. Conceptually, it is an organic symphony, shaped by the convergence of diverse materials, mediums, and artistic visions, as well as the unique perspective of each viewer. Audiences were encouraged to attune to their internal compass as they explored our sublime grounds, guiding themselves on an intuitive journey where the theme of elemental interdependence emerged naturally through the harmony of the exhibition as a living, breathing whole. I was so gratified to hear them share how moved they felt by the whole experience. They were humbled, uplifted, and inspired.
    How do you see this exhibition evolving or influencing future immersive art experiences?
    Since its first iteration in 2022, “The Sublime Nature of Being” has strived to create experiences where art, nature, and human perception converge in a way that transcends the chaos of daily existence. Communing with the Sublime requires slowing down, listening deeply, and allowing yourself the space to exhale. In that spirit, the next evolution of this immersive experience will reveal itself in time; however, I can say that its ultimate trajectory is indelibly linked to my personal, evolving journey. This latest version of “The Sublime Nature of Being” introduced elements of technology and wellness, as I am increasingly invested in exploring the intersection of innovation and well-being in my own life. As time marches on, I strive to remain open to the unexpected, buoyed by the belief that with pure intention, each step forward will lead to fresh insights from the cosmos.
    Can you talk about the significance of hosting this exhibition at ICD Brookfield Place?
    ICD Brookfield Place is an extraordinary venue, in sync with the vision of “The Sublime Nature of Being.” It’s a hubof innovation within the DIFC, a gathering place for change-makers within a building that is open to everyone. The indoor Summer Garden, where audiences assembled for our immersive experience, offered an incredible canvas for cultivating an indoor sanctuary of the natural world. I deeply appreciate ICD Brookfield Place’s ongoing support for innovative arts, culture, and sustainability. “The Sublime Nature of Being” feels at home here.

    How has the UAE played a pivotal role in championing you as an artist?
    I am grateful and honoured to have had H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of DubaiCulture and Arts Authority, and H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Tolerance and Co-existence, believe in my work and inaugurate “The Sublime Nature of Being” 2025 and 2022, respectively. The UAE has cultivated an environment where innovation thrives, encouraging creative visionaries to push boundaries by offering platforms for unique, ambitious artistic expression. As a proud resident of Dubai, I believe this country is truly defined by its dynamic energy, where bold concepts are welcomed and celebrated. It is a privilege to be part of this thriving creative ecosystem.
    This is The Design Issue – tell us more about your core design principles.
    The core of my design philosophy is: Discovering beauty in simplicity. Through Impeccable Imagination, my boutique art and design firm based in Dubai and Mumbai, I strive to create multi-sensory experiences, immersive spaces, and ethereal sculptures that seamlessly integrate nature, art, design, and now science while exuding a sense of serenity, balance, wellness, and timeless elegance. My work is deeply inspired by the rhythms, elements, and healing power of the natural world, which I translate into harmonious, contemporary creations. Sustainability is a key pillar, ensuring that the work contributes meaningfully to the world around us.

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

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    Earth Day: 10 eco-friendly luxury staycations to book in the UAE

    With more awareness surrounding being sustainable, various properties in Dubai have adapted an eco-friendly system for the conscious guest.
    Today, April 22, 2025, the world celebrates Earth Day. To mark this occasion we look at the most sustainable resorts that cater to the eco-conscious traveller.
    As the UAE continues to be a growing hub of biodegradable initiatives and climate change, especially after COP28, why not contribute accordingly and make your next staycation a sustainable one.
    Overall, the UAE offers several sustainable staycation options for those looking to minimize their environmental impact while enjoying a luxurious and eco-friendly getaway.  Each of these staycations are a mix of luxury and eco-friendly practices, allowing you to enjoy nature and culture while reducing your environmental impact.
    So what are the main elements that make these resorts stand-out?
    Eco-Friendly Design
    The resort is built using locally sourced, natural, or recycled materials to reduce the environmental impact of construction.
    Energy Efficiency
    The use of solar, wind, or geothermal energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Many eco-friendly  resorts install solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy sources.
    Locally Sourced Food
    With the Farm-to-table dining, many sustainable resorts emphasize serving food that is locally grown and organic. It’s sustainably sourced, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transport.
    From plastic-free bottles to eco-conscious packaging of amenities, these hotels, glamping spots and resorts have carefully thought about each element that contributes to being environmentally friendly.
    So, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of properties that are sure to promise a memorable stay with minimum wastage.
    The Chedi Al Bait

    To embark on a traditional Emirati cultural journey, guests can book a getaway at this ultimate summer retreat. In the midst of the cultural renaissance in the emirate, this luxurious property offers an inspiring contemporary scene where Islamic heritage with modern features provides an escape bringing the best of old comforts to a new age world. The hotel is nestled within the fulcrum of the UAE’s vibrant landscape starting at Dhs900 for one night subject to availability.
    For more information visit ghmhotels.com
    Moon Retreat

    Discover a stay under serene skies and stunning surroundings with a dome or tent of choice. Developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the eco-friendly destination will be the ideal place for a unique overnight stay. This experience comes fully equipped with private pools and a majority of lodgings to choose from. As for activities, guests can enjoy stargazing at night and during the day hikes through the incredible landscapes of Mleiha or visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Prices start at Dhs1,350 inclusive of breakfast with pristine mountain views.
    For more information visit sharjahcollection.ae
    Mysk Al Faya Retreat

    Explore the true beauty of the Mleiha region at this sophisticated gem. Experience Middle Eastern luxury with amenities such as the herbal room, the salt pool, the tropical shower walk and the hands-free spa that makes the desert camping experience in the UAE unique. Away from the city, this desert retreat is the place to be.
    For more information visit sharjahcollection.ae
    Jebel Hafit Desert Park

    For a complete wellness experience, this bespoke retreat lies in Jebel Hafit with a multitude of outdoor activities surrounding nature. There are also several options for your camping experience, such as individual camping, serviced camping, and luxury camping. With minimalist chic domes with neutral hues and a hands-on active camping experience in the tents, guests can wander amid nature in utmost tranquility. The domes with breakfast start at Dhs1,750 for the packages and are not to be missed out on.
    For more information visit: Instagram @jebelhafitdesertpark
    Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort

    You can lose yourself to nature’s beauty as you embark on this wonderful journey in a wildlife sanctuary as you explore this distinct escape from the world inspired by the sights of Africa. Seclude yourself in the utmost privacy in the resort with one-of-a-kind facilities and you also dine in a secluded villa beneath the stars on your terrace.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    Anantara The Palm

    Escape to Thailand without having to venture too far from your UAE home at this Dubai resort. Thai-inspired beach haven Anantara The Palm Dubai offers a luxurious getaway for the whole family to soak up the sun and sea breeze away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With 400 metres of pristine private beach and three pools across its resort located on Palm Jumeriah, guests can relax and soak up the sun in pure peace. With recycling, waste reduction, responsible leisure at the property, the resort has carefully amended various aspects including single-use plastic, sustainable soap bars and even a food digester machine to process food waste.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    Bedouin Oasis, RAK

    You can live like a bedouin for a day with luxury in the middle of nowhere with thrilling desert experiences, traditional hospitality at its best all set in the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah with a traditional style setting offering a host of exciting activities as you witness a touch of the Arabian culture with beautiful landscapes on the trip starting at Dhs750 for three adults.
    For more information visit bedouinoasis.org
    Hatta Sedr Trailers

    While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided. You’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information visit visithatta.com
    Longbeach Campground, RAK

    This is the perfect getaway to get close to nature. With various recreational facilities such as beach yoga, sea view aerobics, kite flying and exhilarating water sports. If you’re looking for a fun-filled camp, kids will be far from bored with all the host of onboard activities for them to try out during the stay. There’s also a pleasant site of farm animals for kids to interact with at the petting zoo. Starting at Dhs249 for the authentic deluxe tent with a comfortable setting, this will make the perfect home for your next camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah.
    For more information visit bmhotelresorts.com
    Sonara Camp

    For a more luxe experience, book a glamping at Sonara’s Desert Nesting. Nesting offers a peaceful and innovative sleeping concept designed by award-winning Architect Gianni Ranaulo, for an unforgettable stay. The 14 nests are designed for utmost comfort. With an ensuite bathroom and private terrace equipped with one double bed and an extra bed for a total of two adults and two children to stay in. Guests can also embark on a culinary journey with a specially curated menu and an evening filled with entertainment.
    For more information visit nara.ae
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