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    in lifestyle and culture

    UAE National Day: Three-Day weekend for public sector employees confirmed

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    The UAE is granting a generous three-day weekend to federal government employees in celebration of UAE National Day.
    From Saturday, December 2, to Monday, December 4, employees will enjoy a well-deserved break, with Friday, December 1 designated as a remote-working day.
    Simultaneously, the private sector will observe a two-day public holiday, with paid leave on Saturday, December 2, and Sunday, December 3. However, for those accustomed to a traditional Saturday-Sunday weekend, the extended break may not materialize.

    We announce that 2nd & 3rd December 2023 will be a paid public holiday for private sector workers in the UAE on the occasion of the 52nd UAE National Day.
    We extend our sincere congratulations to our wise leadership, citizens and residents of the UAE on this occasion.#MoHRE… pic.twitter.com/rjpBFvZ6Rl
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) November 22, 2023

    While the UAE National Day holiday has been confirmed, details regarding whether Commemoration Day will be a paid public holiday this year are still pending.
    As the nation gears up for this extended break, citizens and residents alike eagerly anticipate the opportunity to partake in various National Day festivities and reflect on the significance of Commemoration Day.
    The festive spirit is set to sweep across the UAE, marking this period as a time of celebration and remembrance for all.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: @visitabudhabi More

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    Eco-luxury drives the future: Blacklane ME’s bold move ahead of COP28

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    In an ambitious stride towards sustainable luxury travel, Blacklane Middle East has announced a tenfold expansion of its all-electric fleet.
    The providers of premium global chauffeur services have unveiled first-class Mercedes EQS-SUVs in response to the region’s burgeoning demand for eco-friendly transportation.
    The move, strategically timed ahead of COP28, solidifies Blacklane ME’s commitment to green initiatives in the UAE.

    The regional expansion doesn’t stop at vehicles; it extends to the workforce with a noteworthy surge in female chauffeurs. Over 50% of the 120 chauffeurs completing the rigorous training at Blacklane’s Chauffeur Training Academy are women, a move that underscores the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

    Dubai residents can now effortlessly book the new Mercedes-Benz EQS-SUVs through the app, offering both on-demand and scheduled rides.
    Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager of Blacklane ME, emphasized the company’s dedication to impeccable service standards, reflecting the high calibre of their offerings. “We are witnessing an exhilarating phase of expansion in our business with remarkable tenfold growth of our dedicated all-electric fleet since March 2023. The introduction of our newest fleet member, the Mercedes EQS-SUVs, directly reflects the high calibre of services that Blacklane ME is committed to delivering,” said Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager of Blacklane ME. “Our focus on maintaining the highest standards for our chauffeurs has been exceptionally well-received by the local residents, driving unprecedented progress in a market that values sustainability as much as we do,” Nicholas expressed.

    The UAE expansion, covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah, caters to both B2B and B2C customers, ensuring reliable and convenient transportation options. Notably, all Blacklane rides globally are now 100% carbon neutral, a pioneering move in the industry to offset emissions from every journey.
    Internationally, Blacklane operates in over 50 countries and recently expanded its City-to-City service to nearly 200 routes, with the Dubai – Abu Dhabi route becoming a local favorite. The company’s global revenues soared to a record €200 million in 2022, marking a year of strategic advancements.
    As Blacklane paves the way for the future of premium chauffeur services, its commitment to inspiring a better future and setting industry standards for climate protection stands as a testament to its mission and vision for discerning travelers worldwide.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Blacklane  More

  • 188 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    How To Reflect On The Year You’ve Had – And Prepare For The Year Ahead

    The end of the year brings a time to press pause and look back on your time in the sun. But learning to reflect on the year you’ve had takes a bit more skill than just writing down a few thoughts. We’ve spoken to Hilary Davies, Social Psychologist and Development Coach,  about how to structure your reflections in a productive way that brings about actionable results. “It is important to spend time thinking about the future to be clear about what we want to do and how we want to be. As we strategise for the future, we create an outline of what we are working towards, be it in our personal or professional lives,” says Davies. 

    Why you should reflect on the year 

    It’s a time to learn 

    “Firstly, reflection is a key component of adult learning, giving us the time to explore our lived experiences and understand them in retrospect rather than in the moment,” says Davies. “This often means we have more information and fewer emotions that may be influencing our responses.”

    It boosts self-awareness 

    “Reflection can also teach us about ourselves and increase our self-awareness, especially linked to emotional and subconscious influences. Reflecting on how we felt in the moment, what was driving that emotion or behaviour, and understanding our triggers gives us a greater ability to manage how we respond in future,” says Davies. 

    You’ll fine-tune a new mindset

    “Reflection on positive situations can create sensations of gratitude and well-being, which in turn have a positive impact on how we show up in the present,” says Davies. “Similarly, reflection on negative situations can help motivate us to create change in our lives. We often get stuck in repetitive cycles of behaviour and thought patterns that become automatic. Reflection can help us to take a step back from the “as is” and explore how we can be more intentional about what we do.”

    READ MORE: 11 Ways To Get More Energy When You’re Feeling Tired

    Reflecting 101: Your Guide 

    “The overall process for reflection and strategizing can be compared to planning a road trip,” says Davies. In this way, ask yourself probing questions that frame the year and you can start working forward from there. 

    Ask yourself questions 

    What did you enjoy? Was there anything you did not enjoy? What could you have done differently? Per a Harvard Business School study, three themes that shape what executives in business reflect on are failure, success and frustration. Tap into these themes in your reflections to uncover some truths that could help you shape your future. 

    Decide your new direction  

    If you compare a year’s reflection like you would a trip, you can strategise your moves, says Davies. For example, ask yourself where you want to go and what you’d like to do. Is it something new? What kind of information do you need to get to this new destination? How long do you plan on being there? Do you need a budget of sorts? 

    READ MORE: How To Really Harness Self-Care

    Plan your next steps 

    Now, you can break down your goals into bite-sized steps that will help direct your path. What would you need before embarking on this trip? 

    Change gears if you need to 

    “The most important part to remember is that once you are driving, you can decide to change your destination or the route to get there. In the same way, in real life you can continue the process of reflection and adjusting the strategy,” says Davies. “Reflection is a continuous process that helps us to optimise our decisions and behaviours in the moment so that you can get the most from whatever you’re doing.”

    Don’t hold yourself back 

    When you reflect on the year, be careful not to criticise yourself too much, cautions Davies. “We should not be overly self-critical – reflection is a learning opportunity, not a chance to beat yourself up. To do this, it is important to adopt a growth mindset,” says Davies. “If you find yourself being overly self-critical during reflection, think about what you would say to a friend in the same situation as you. Remember – we all do the best we can with what we have at the moment.”

    Look at things holistically 

    Whatever happened in the year, remember that things don’t work in isolation. Various factors influence the happenings in our lives and we only have a finite amount of resources. “If you feel like you didn’t achieve what you wanted to in one area, look at the big picture. Did you overachieve in another?” asks Davies. “The key is to remember to find balance. If your reflective strategy focuses entirely on work, be aware of how this may impact your relationships with friends and family.

    READ MORE: Enjoy Your Downtime (Without Feeling Guilty) In 3 Easy Steps

    Get realistic 

    When planning ahead and reflecting, it’s important to stay grounded and realistic. You want to strive towards things that you can achieve so that you don’t get burned out, says Davies. “Health and wellbeing, both mental and physical, are two of the most important life areas that often get overlooked as we focus our attention on other areas where we are seeking achievement or success.” Be mindful of how much time and energy you have.  Is it realistic to achieve everything in all aspects of your life?”

    Prepare for change

    Change is most successful if we’ve taken the time to prepare properly for it. If, say, your new goal is to ace a 10K run, prepare to make changes to your lifestyle to incorporate the training. “To train for the 10km run,  you may need to start getting up an hour earlier.  You may have to change our diet as we need more fuel,” explains Davies. “Understanding the future situation helps us prepare for the change we are about to make, both practically and mentally. Physical preparation helps us remove friction from the change – we know we need to get up earlier so we start going to be earlier, or we put the running clothes out the night before. Mental preparation is important so that we can manage any negative thoughts that create resistance to change. This is where mindset, agility and resilience are key in achieving our desired future.”

    Hilary Davies is a Social Psychologist and Development Coach, supporting people in their personal and professional development to adopt change, find purpose and fulfil their potential. She also specialises in Gender Transformation consultancy, addressing social barriers in organisations that limit women’s growth. You can find her at www.hedcoaching.com or on LinkedIn.  More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    UAE National Day holiday update: Will there be a three-day weekend?

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    The UAE is gearing up for a festive season, with official announcements regarding the holidays for UAE National Day.
    Private sector employees are in for a treat as Saturday, December 2, and Sunday, December 3, have been declared paid holidays. However, for those accustomed to a traditional Saturday-Sunday weekend, the excitement might be tempered by the lack of an extended break.
    There’s still hope for a prolonged weekend, though. Alongside UAE National Day, the country observes Commemoration Day (formerly known as Martyrs’ Day) at the end of November.

    We announce that 2nd & 3rd December 2023 will be a paid public holiday for private sector workers in the UAE on the occasion of the 52nd UAE National Day.
    We extend our sincere congratulations to our wise leadership, citizens and residents of the UAE on this occasion.#MoHRE… pic.twitter.com/rjpBFvZ6Rl
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) November 22, 2023

    Officially on November 30, the commemoration is often observed on December 1. This year, falling on a Friday, there’s anticipation that it might turn into a three-day weekend. Await updates from the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation to confirm if Commemoration Day will also be a paid public holiday.
    Commemoration Day, instituted in 2015 by HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, serves as a poignant day to honor those who sacrificed their lives in military and humanitarian endeavors, both at home and abroad.
    As the UAE marks its 52nd year since formation in 1971, the entire nation will be adorned in the vibrant colors of the UAE flag – red, green, white, and black. While specific plans for the UAE National Day celebrations are yet to be disclosed, citizens and residents can anticipate a myriad of activities. Stay tuned for staycation deals, enticing dining offers, discounts on family-friendly attractions, and more.
    The country is poised to come alive with a patriotic spirit, showcasing the unity and pride of the diverse community that calls the UAE home.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: @visitdubai More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Top 10 Thanksgiving TV episodes: A feast of laughter from Friends to Brooklyn Nine-Nine

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a hearty serving of Thanksgiving-themed TV episodes?

    From classic sitcoms to modern favorites, we’ve compiled a list of must-watch episodes that will leave you feeling thankful for laughter and good times.
    Grab your popcorn, gather the family (or your friends), and let the Thanksgiving marathon begin. These TV episodes are sure to add a dash of humor and warmth to your holiday celebration!

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

  • 150 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Boost your productivity: 8 objects that are essential for your work desk

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    For those working 9-to-5, sitting at the same spot for 8 hours a day and 5 days a week can get pretty mundane. Especially, if your desk is identical to the 30 next to you.
    Remember when most people worked from home during the pandemic and did up their corners to motivate themselves to work? Apply similar energy to your work desk. Clutter and lack of organisation can hamper your productivity.
    Your chaos may be calculated, but it doesn’t help with the constant anxiety of finding everything under a pile of mess (especially when you’re working on a deadline).
    Everyone has that family photo frame or a travel memento from their trip to Europe ages ago, but none of these personalised items helps you regulate your day or make you feel better during the long hours.

    via GIPHY

    Be mindful of your setup – keep it minimal but personalised. Think scented candles, diffusers, fresh flowers, magazines or even productivity journals.
    The concept of keeping an emotional support water bottle may seem bizarre to many — but, if it’s hydrating you while being your arm candy everywhere, what’s the problem again?
    Working long hours doing high-intensity jobs without slowing down and making the process easier for yourself can cause burnout. Of course, this isn’t a replacement for human connections or actual time out, but making a place your own with things that bring you joy will ultimately make you more pleasant during the day.
    If you’re looking for inspiration to do up your desk and add needful products, look no further.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Images: Pinterest (Movie: The Intern) More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    A festive countdown: 25 all-time classic Christmas movies to watch before Christmas 2023

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Get ready to deck the halls and cozy up by the fireplace, as we embark on a cinematic journey through 35 timeless Christmas movies that are sure to fill your heart with holiday cheer.
    These classics not only capture the essence of the season but also showcase the various activities that make Christmas truly magical.
    As you indulge in these 35 all-time classic Christmas movies, let the magic of cinema transport you to a world of holiday joy, love, and festivities. Whether you’re cuddled up with loved ones, sipping hot cocoa, or decorating the tree, these films are bound to enhance your Christmas experience and create lasting memories for years to come.

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

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    in lifestyle and culture

    11 best turkey takeaways to purchase in Dubai for the upcoming festivities

    If you’re looking to plan an intimate Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner at home, the holiday bird might just be the perfect open to make it a special one this year.
    This centerpiece main dish will ensure you skip the grocery line and opt for a gourmet option for all your guests as it comes accompanied with all the stuffing and trimmings to celebrate with your loved ones.
    Tailored to every appetite, Emirates Woman has curated a ready-to-eat guide of Turkey offerings to delight in this season in Dubai for a cosy evening in.
    Jones The Grocer

    The classic roast turkey is priced at Dhs795, the roast turkey with sides is priced at Dhs1,049, the Silver package including roast turkey with premium sides and apple cinnamon pie or a pumpkin pie is priced at Dhs1,189, the Gold package including roast turkey with premium sides and the artisan cheese board or artisan charcuterie board is priced at Dhs1,449 and the Diamond Package with premium sides, a choice of artisan cheese board or charcuterie board and a choice of apple cinnamon pie or pumpkin pie is Dhs1,559. Guests are encouraged to pre-order online or at their nearest Jones the Grocer outlet – whether it be for Thanksgiving or Christmas, or just a jolly festive feast, Jones the Grocer is the ultimate choice for your festive needs and each package serves 8 to 10 people with a a sage and apricot stuffed roast turkey with cranberry sauce and juniper-infused gravy. The turkey takeaway option is available across all stores in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
    For more information visit jonesthegrocer.com
    Reform Social & Grill

    A classic British whole roasted turkey takeaway with all the trimmings including roast vegetables, brussels sprouts, cabbage, stuffing, gravy & cranberry sauce. Available from November 16 to December 25, 2023, the offering for four people is for Dhs440 and for 8 people is for Dhs680. Located at The Lakes, it’s open from12pm until 11pm.
    For more information visit reformsocialgrill.ae
    Couqley

    Available for dine-in or takeaway with a 72-hour notice, customers can now order Couqley’s full turkey feast that serves groups of 8 to 10 people. The loved French restaurant’s traditional turkey is served with a selection of sides including aromatic mushroom stuffing, roasted brussels sprouts, potato gratin, truffle mac & cheese and roasted vegetables, as well as their signature cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy. The whole turkey is priced at Dhs799, the whole turkey with sides including all sides plus Gravy and Cranberry is Dhs1,199 for 800grams each side. Additional sides can be added starting for Dhs49.
    For more information visit couqley.ae
    Bull & Bear

    One of the city’s most exquisite restaurant’s located at Waldorf Astoria DIFC has a Turkey takeaway option from November 15 until December 23, where guests can choose between a Whole Turkey with all the trimmings included beetroot cured salmon, valhrona bruche noel and a festive pudding for Dhs1,245. The turkey takeaway options serve between 6 to 8 people, and must be pre-ordered at least 48 hours in advance allowing guests to spend more time with loved ones. Orders can be placed via WhatsApp 058 600 6776 between 9am to 6pm.
    For more information visit newsroom.hilton.com
    Raffles The Palm

    For families looking for a regal festive feast to enjoy in the comfort of their home, Raffles The Palm’s Turkey to Go offers a convenient option for a mouth-watering turkey roast, with no hassle. Guests can order the roasted turkey 48 hours in advance and collect it from the hotel’s grand Patisserie, next to Blüthner Hall. The roasted turkey can be accompanied by a choice of traditional trimmings, such as stuffing and cranberry sauce, along with indulgent desserts, including classic Christmas pudding. The takeaway festive option is priced from Dhs550 and is available from November 23 until January 2, 2024
    For more information visit rafflesthepalm.com
    The Duck Hook

    Enjoy a relaxing holiday with the perfect roast Turkey delivered right to your door, just in time to impress your guests. Packages include chilled par-cooked boneless turkey breast, served with all the signature trimmings, desserts, mince pies and crackers. Vegan and Gluten-Free alternatives are also available. The Delivery dates are from December 8 to 10, 15 to 17, 22 to 25, 29 to 30 and pick up is available from Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 22nd to 25, and 31 December. It’s priced at Dhs495 for two people, Dhs825 for four people, Dhs1,540 for eight people and Dhs2,365 for twelve. Guests can avail the 20 percent discount all packages, when ordered are pre-booked before November 15, 2023.
    For more information visit here.
    Lobby Lounge at Address Boulevard

    Those looking to have an extra delicious holiday season at home can enjoy the Festive takeaways including sweet and savoury treats that will enhance the celebrations. Whether it’s a scrumptious Turkey or festive desserts, the selection from the Festive Desk will allow guests to be wowed from the comfort of their own home with grab & go goodies from the Lobby Lounge. It’s priced at Dhs599 per turkey for 6 to 8 people and Dhs290 per kg of Panettone and is available from December 15 to 31, 2023, from 10am to 4pm.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Sheraton at Mall of the Emirates

    Jazz up the celebrations this festive season with a special turkey takeaway from Sheraton Mall of the Emirates. Allow the hotel’s talented culinary team to craft the perfect home-style feast for you. Whether it’s a family gathering or an office Christmas party, you can pre-order a juicy and tender traditional oven-roasted, stuffed turkey or leg of lamb served with classic condiments, including brussels sprouts with turkey bacon, mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, glazed carrots with chestnuts, gravy and cranberry sauce. Celebrate hassle-free and let Sheraton MOE do all the preparations while delivering the turkey straight to your doorstep or making it ready for pickup. Orders must be made 48 hours in advance and is available from 5 to 31 December for Dhs549 for a 6 to 7kg Turkey with 1kg condiments and pick up from the hotel, otherwise a Dhs100 delivery charge will apply.
    For more information visit mariott.com 
    Ladurée

    Elevate your celebrations at home easier and indulge inexquisite flavours with the delicious 8kg roasted Turkey, expertly prepared and generously filled with traditional French stuffing, a savoury blend of Cepesmushrooms and breadcrumbs. Drizzle the rich and decadent Chicken jus over the turkey for a burst of flavours that’ll have your taste buds dancing.Start you feast with five different side dishes including mouthwatering stuffed mushrooms, followed by a creamy and cheesy baked spinach gratin with Mournay sauce. The Pomme Anna a la française, a classic French potato dish, will leave you craving for seconds,while sautéed baby vegetables featuring heirloom carrots, asparagus, and pearl onions add a touch of elegance starting at Dhs950. All takeaway orders must be made 48 hours in advance from November 21 to December 31, 2023 onwards and is available across all outlets in Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills and more.
    For more information visit laduree.ae
    Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

    Unwind this season and let Marriott Resort’s culinary artisans craft an authentic festive feast with all the trimmings. Every detail, thoughtfully attended to, is the perfect centrepiece for the festive gathering. Guests can order and collect their roasted turkey cooked to perfection, alongside traditional accompaniments including brussel sprouts with chestnuts, roasted potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, stuffing, sauces and more. This festive spread is completed with a complimentary box of petit fours. Prior booking required 24 hours in advance. Orders can be placed daily from December 5, 2023 until January 7, 2024 and the whole Turkey for 7kg up to ten guests is priced at Dhs750, for 5kg up to six guests is Dhs550.
    For more information visit marriot.com
    Atlantis The Palm

    Secure your festive feast with Atlantis The Palm’s exclusive turkey offerings, available in two sizes: Medium (serving 6 to 8) for Dhs895 and Large (serving 10 to 12) for Dhs1,195. Elevate your celebration by placing your order 48 hours in advance to enjoy a freshly roasted turkey with an array of delectable accompaniments. This culinary delight includes cranberry sauce, giblet gravy, bread sauce, chipolata sausage, turkey & sage stuffing, roasted potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, roasted parsnips and swede, Brussels sprouts, and green beans. For an indulgent upgrade of Dhs450, savor the exquisite black truffle stuffed turkey, complemented by truffle potato gratin, caramelized shallots, and a goat cheese tatin. Home delivery services will be available from December 24 to 26 for a hassle-free holiday experience.
    For more information visit  atlantis.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash  More