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    6 inspiring Saudi princesses paving the way for future generations

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    30 mins ago

    Whether establishing NGOs or pursuing charity work, Saudi royals have played a huge role in empowering women.
    Be it in the world of sports or curbing a social stigma against women in authority, no task is a difficult feat for them.
    As they continue to pave the way for many, Emirates Woman takes a look at some of their achievements over time.
    Her Royal Highness Princess Haifa Al-Faisal Al Saud

    As the assistant minister for Tourism at the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, she plays a key role in establishing effective regulations and policies in the local industry. With an outspoken attitude and mission to raise awareness on issues relating to women’s health, she ensures that such a crucial cause is given significant importance. Princess Haifa founded the Zahra Breast Cancer Association for early detection, prevention and treatment.
    Additionally, she sits on the board of directors at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Qiddiya, the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) and the Tourism Development Council (TDC), balancing multiple roles in her career.
    Her Royal Highness Princess Adela bint Abdullah Al Saud

    By redefining the boundaries of a Saudi woman, her reputable role has taken a vocal stance for women’s empowerment on a series of occasions. By speaking out on issues such as ending domestic violence and introducing sports for girls in schools, she has had an effective role in reshaping society for women in the country.
    She’s the founding member and chairman of Sanad Charitable Society to Support Children with Cancer and president of the National Charitable Foundation for Home Health Care in Jeddah to curb any health care issue. For her contribution to society, she also received an accolade for being the first Arab lady in supporting women’s issues and humanitarian action.
    Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia bint Majid Al Saud

    With her life’s mission to help others, Princess Lamia has been a strong advocate for women in all spheres. Through Alwaleed Philanthropies, she has been able to host impactful projects that help women achieve their goals while supporting local artisans and talent. In an interview with Emirates Woman she said, “If you are fortunate enough to have access to resources or a raised platform, it is your responsibility to support and empower those who are not as fortunate. ”
    Her Royal Highness Princess Moudi bint Khalid Al Saud
    With over 30 years of active charitable contributions to the community, Princess Moudi has spearheaded several noteworthy initiatives such as her role as the secretary-general of the Down Syndrome Guardian Association, the secretary-general of the King Khaled Charitable Foundation and the Al-Nadha Women’s Charitable Society. Her key aim is to empower women and give them a platform to voice their opinions.
    Her Royal Highness Princess Adwa bint Fahad Al Saud
    As an ambassador of Global Peace and Goodwill, Princess Adwa is an active pioneer of community work in the Arab world. By being a cultural trailblazer and humanitarian, she’s considered the ‘Princess of Humanity’ for her efforts in executing the rights of the disabled, orphans and elderly.
    During her career, Her Royal Highness has received multiple accolades including a lifetime membership by The Federal Organization of Friends of the United Nations and an honorary doctorate from the College of British Studies.
    Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud

    When it comes to raising breast cancer awareness in the Kingdom, this princess has played a pivotal role. By keeping in line with Saudi’s 2030 vision, she tirelessly continues to expand work opportunities for women in the region. In 2020, she gained the title to become the first female to be Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States. As an active part of the sports community, she has been a member of the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee since 2017 and International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 2018.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    JLO in Dubai: See which hotspots the megastar has been spotted at

    Life

    by Alice Holtham-Pargin
    1 min ago

    These hotels and restaurants come icon-approved… 
    Jennifer Lopez has landed in the UAE ahead of her Saadiyat Nights performance in Abu Dhabi. One of the world’s biggest pop icons on the planet, JLO is set to perform at the open-air venue in the UAE capital on Thursday, February 20. But ahead of her gig, JLO has touched down in Dubai – and she’s already making the most of the city.
    Where is she staying, we hear you wonder? It’s likely that JLO has checked-in to one of Dubai’s most luxurious beach resorts, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. From an Instagram post she shared with her 250 million followers, we recognise the dazzling ‘canopy of light’ installation in the lobby providing a stunning backdrop.

    Wearing a stunning tailored YSL two-piece in the hue of the year, mocha mousse, JLO tagged her glam squad in the post, and suitably captioned it, ‘Business Trip.’
    But that’s not the only place we’ve seen JLO in Dubai this week. In a snap shared with team Emirates Woman, Jennifer Lopez was pictured at one of the hottest new spots in the city, J1 Beach. Of the dozen new restaurants there, she chose to dine at new opening Sirene Beach by GAIA, soaking up the stunning setting and dining on chef Izu Ani’s lauded Greek-Mediterranean cuisine. Dressed in another show-stopping outfit, this time JLO wore a feminine Zimmerman dress for her leisurely lunch by the sea, happily posing for a photograph with the Sirene team. 
    This weekend as Saadiyat Nights draws to a close, music fans can look forward to some huge stars perform. After JLO on Thursday February 20, Gwen Stefani will headline on Friday February 21, and on Saturday February 22, Lionel Richie will say Hello as we say goodbye to Saadiyat Nights for another season. More

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    The One Thing You Should Negotiate With Every Single Job Offer

    With almost a decade of professional experience, I’ve been through it all. I’ve quit, been furloughed, freelanced, and found my way back to full-time work. My friends and colleagues have been through similar journeys, too: One has been laid off every single year for four years straight. Another is building her own freelance business, and another is embracing a period of “funemployment.” With an uncertain job market and the economy on the brink, my friends and I are getting nervous about our financial futures—and we’re not alone.

    Money makes the world go ‘round, which is a scary thought when you’re unexpectedly on the job hunt. Unemployment only goes so far (if you qualify for it), and savings can help in emergencies, but nearly 60% of Millennials live paycheck to paycheck. Severance packages, if you get one, are one of the few things that can help make unemployed seasons bearable.

    I admittedly didn’t know much about what or how to negotiate for my first job out of college—I certainly never considered discussing severance. Talking about what happens when you leave the company can feel like discussing divorce before you’re married. But I know now that severance discussions can act as a prenup, outlining fair details if anything goes in a different direction.

    Based on our experiences between roles, bracing for layoffs, and worrying about the state of pretty much everything, my friends and I have learned that being prepared is more important than ever before. Severance is something we will never leave on the table, and you shouldn’t either. Ahead, I’m sharing everything you should know about severance, and how to negotiate it before you ever need it.

    In this article

    What is severance?

    Severance is compensation that an employer pays to an employee when their employment ends. Contrary to popular belief, this doesn’t just apply to layoffs (more on that below). Severance can include a monetary component like a certain percentage of your salary or what you’re due for unused paid time off, but it might also include things like continued healthcare coverage, stock options, outplacement assistance, skill training, or additional professional services to help you find your next role.

    How do I know if I’m eligible for severance?

    There are, unfortunately, no federal or state laws in the United States mandating severance payments. Crazy, I know. (Other countries, especially in Europe, are another story.) That said, most organizations make it their policy to offer some form of severance to stay competitive, and there are several situations when severance might come into play. For example, if you’ve been laid off or dismissed or have resigned, you might be eligible for severance depending on your company policy.

    Before accepting any new role, check your contract for your company’s specific severance details. If you’re currently employed, you can likely find this info in your employee handbook, too. If you can’t find any details, don’t assume it doesn’t exist for you, but do ask your HR representative about it so you’re informed!

    When can I negotiate severance?

    Depending on your industry, role, and level of experience, you might be able to negotiate severance before you even begin a new position. In fact, you can (and should!) bring it up during the interview phase as part of regular negotiation discussions, alongside things like salary and PTO time. Even if you aren’t able to customize the details, knowing more about the company’s severance policy can give you an idea of what a future package might include, like how long, if at all, you’ll have healthcare benefits.

    “Severance discussions can act as a prenup, outlining fair details if anything goes in a different direction.”

    If you can’t negotiate severance at the start of a position (or you never did), it is potentially negotiable when you part ways with an organization. When a severance package is initially shared, consider any additional requests you’d like to make or discussions to have before signing any documents. Is there an opportunity to transfer to another department? Can you swing an extra month of 401k contributions? What about a continued visa sponsorship? These are all more-than-reasonable asks!

    What can I negotiate when it comes to severance?

    Financial compensation

    The largest piece of a severance package often boils down to money. The dollar amount of a severance offer is often based on time with the company and usually includes payout for unused time off, stock value, and unpaid bonuses, commisions, or reimbursements too. Depending on industry, recent performance, tenure, company policy, and reason for departure, you might be able to negotiate other things like a larger payout or different stock options to cover expenses while searching for your next role.

    Length and timing of payment

    The length and timing of a severance period is just as important as the actual benefits you’re set to receive. Some organizations opt to pay severance on a monthly basis for a predetermined period of time—depending on your package, this could mean a very small amount each pay period instead of one lump sum. Severance packages might offer continued insurance coverage for a set period of time as well. Consider asking to adjust the severance schedule based on what works best for your needs.

    Benefits and other perks

    When money is on the mind, it can be easy to forget about what else you might be losing, like your benefits. A common issue that people run into is losing healthcare—which can be extremely costly out of pocket. In your negotiation, ask for extended health coverage, or ask for a stipend to cover out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Before this, do some research to understand just how much it will cost you so that you know how much you’ll need. For example, will new health coverage cost you triple what you pay now? Will your prescription costs double?

    In addition to this, you can negotiate continued contributions to your 401(k), especially if you’re receiving severance pay over time. Finally, if you have stock options, you can ask for accelerated vesting. If neither are possible, a cash payout is always worth asking for.

    Career support

    Now that you’re headed on the job hunt, you’ll want all the support you can get, and yes, you can negotiate that too! For example, some employers offer outplacement services, like career coaching, resume writing assistance, or job placement services. Don’t forget to ask for a positive reference letter while you’re at it too.

    What should I do if I don’t get severance?

    As with all negotiation, the worst answer you can get is no, and unfortunately, that is the case for some people. I’ve been there, and so have many of my friends. When this is the case, it may seem like you have to go straight to the job boards and unemployment office. Of course, you’ll want to do those things, but don’t be so quick to panic—there are more ways you can put yourself in a positive position. For example, ask to stay top of mind for any new roles that might come up within the company, and in the meantime, connect with with your manager and colleagues on LinkedIn. While you’re at it, ask around to see if anyone has any industry connections or job leads that could be helpful for you.

    While you search for a new role, use your extra time to upskill or take on freelance work if possible. This can help you earn more money in the future or make some in the meantime too. With all of this being said, keep your head up and look at this as an oppurtunity to advance your career long-term. You never know what door will open up for you next.

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Jessica Ivetich, Contributing Writer
    Jessica is a freelance writer and digital marketer with nearly a decade of brand and agency experience. Contributing to The Everygirl since 2022, she is also a proud Midwesterner, Formula 1 fan, and book lover who’s always looking to learn something new. More

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    Experience a delectable new menu at The Guild in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 seconds ago

    With a myriad of fine-dining spots around the UAE. There’s a few that are set apart from the rest. The Guild isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a completely new world of its own.
    Situated within the sleek confines of ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, this bold concept is a love letter to the bustling brasseries of Europe and New York. A place where artistry meets culinary excellence, where every dish and detail tell a story.
    As the brainchild of Melbourne born Dubai trailblazer Tom Arnel, the venture unfolds under the masterful design of London-based architect David Archer, celebrated for iconic creations such as the timeless celebrity haunt Chiltern Firehouse and The Standard Hotel.
    For all the food aficianado’s, the menu has a vast array of dishes catering to everyone’s needs. Some of the key dishes to try at The Guild Wagyu Burger, Poached King Crab, Wood-fired Lamb Chops and the Crêpe Brûlée. For those looking to take it up a notch, dishes from the new menu include Australian Wagyu Striploin Ribeye, Chilean Seabass En Papillote, Italian Burrata, Canadian Lobster and Braised Veal Pappardelle, all headed by Chef Burak Pazarioglu.

    Known for its expansive space, guests can step into The Nurseries, a lush, plant-filled oasis inspired by New York’s bohemian Tribeca, perfect for long, leisurely lunches. Tucked away nearby is The Potting Shed, an intimate escape ideal for an aperitivo—or your next ultra-exclusive gathering, with space for up to 30 guests. But the real showstopper? The Salon. This grand dining room is where the magic happens, with fire and coals setting the stage in an open kitchen, while The Rockpool—teeming with live crustaceans—keeps seafood lovers coming back for more.
    Regarded as the ultimate late-night spot, The Aviary is night-time hideaway where cocktails flow with timeless design and an unforgettable experience. This night-time hideaway haven is every Wednesday to Saturday from 7 PM till late, the intimate and cosy space features the expertise of the renowned bar team, who bring their exceptional drink service and knowledge to the dynamic setting.
    So, if you’re looking for a place to dine for a romantic date or simply celebrate a special occasion with friends. For more information visit
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    10 calming scented sticks crafted to perfection for any space

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    33 seconds ago

    For those looking to turn their living room, bedroom or even office a relaxing into an inviting retreat, without having to keen an eye on a naked flame, scented sticks are the perfect option.
    As a great alternative to candles, reeds and incense sticks are the perfect addition to any home adding to everyone’s mood boosting rituals.
    By becoming the current way to scent a room, these high-quality aromatic wonders creating a sense of calm in any space. Whether you’re reading a book or simply catching up on a few emails, they’re the best way to infuse natural fragrances into your environment.
    Overall,  reed sticks, typically crafted from natural materials like rattan and bamboo, sit in a bottle of fragrant oil, soaking it all up and diffuse the scent around the room. The more reeds, the more powerful the aroma.
    If you’re deciding on what to add to your home, diffusers tend to have more longevity than candles — some of the larger options can last up to 10 months. They’re  they’re typically a safer option as they pose no fire risk.
    After spending countless hours, searching for the right sticks, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the tried-and-tested products that both look great and add to the ambience with a simple light up.
    Aēsop

    Sarashina Aromatique Incense 33 Sticks Dhs165. Shop from aesop.ae
    MONTROI

    A Darjeeling Journey Incense Sticks Dhs180 . Shop from Ounass
    Wallance and Company

    Amber Wood Luxury Incense Sticks Dhs265. Shop from Wallance and Company
    Appellation

    Hikari Sandalwood, Cinnamon & Honey Japanese Incense Dhs205  Shop from Ounass.ae
    Gentle Habits

    This Is Incense – Grounded Dhs145 Gentle Habits at DesignItch
    L’Objet

    Mojave Palm Incense Dhs284. Shop at Farfetch  Farfetch
    Loewe

    Tomato Leaves Incense (25 sticks) Dhs200 at Harrods
    GINORI 1735

    La Compagnia Di Caterina Orange Renaissance Refill (80 sticks) Dhs450.  Shop from THAT
    Diptyque

    34 Boulevard Saint Germain Diffuser, 200ml. Dhs915  at Ounass
    Trudon

    Reggio Diffuser Dhs920 Trudon. Shop at Farfetch
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    February’s – The Tranquility Issue – Download Now 
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @gentlehabits More

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    Creatine Could Boost Your Brain After A Bad Night’s Sleep, Research Finds

    It can be hard to think clearly after a bad night’s sleep. And, although nothing will replace a high-quality snooze, new research suggests taking a particular supplement may help you release some of that mental fog. We’re talking about creatine and sleep, and how it might be a secret weapon. Creatine is usually used to boost muscle performance, but now it’s being linked with being able to think clearly after a poor night of rest. Here’s what the study found, plus what a neurologist wants you to know.Meet the experts: Dr Vernon Williams, neurologist and founding director of the Centre for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics in Los Angeles. Dr W. Christopher Winter, a neurologist and sleep medicine physician with Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine and host of the Sleep Unplugged podcast.What is creatine?Creatine is a compound that’s usually found in your muscles and brain, per the Mayo Clinic. Your body’s liver, pancreas and kidneys make about a gram of creatine a day, but you can also get creatine from eating seafood and meat.You can also take creatine in supplement form. People tend to do this to help them build muscle and lower the risk of injury, according to the Mayo Clinic. READ MORE: We Tried Morphée, A Screen-Free Sleep Device To Help You Actually Doze OffWhat did the study find about creatine and sleep?The study, which was published in the journal Scientific Reports in February 2024, had 15 healthy people in their 20s stay in a lab overnight for two nights, separated by at least five days. During those stays, they were kept awake all night. During one night, participants were given 0.35 grams of creatine per kilogram of body weight; on another night, they were given a placebo. The participants were also asked to do cognitive tasks before they took the creatine or placebo and at three other points during the night.The researchers discovered that three hours after taking creatine, the participants had positive changes in their brain metabolism and cognitive performance on tests. (They especially did well with processing capacity and short-term memory.) This impact peaked four hours after they took the supplement, but lasted over nine hours. The researchers concluded that taking a single, high dose of creatine can “partially reverse” some impacts of sleep deprivation. READ MORE: Creatine Guide: What It Is, How It Works, Proven Benefits And The Truth On Side EffectsHow could creatine boost cognitive performance?The study didn’t look at why this happens – it simply found a link. However, there are some theories. “The brain is a massive consumer of oxygen and energy, and creatine seems to help with the process of energy and nutrient utilisation,” explains Dr W. Christopher Winter, a neurologist and sleep medicine physician with Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine and host of the Sleep Unplugged podcast. “This can help reduce the negative effects that sleep deprivation has on cognitive processing speeds.”Creatine appears to “mitigate cognitive decline related to fatigue by supporting the brain’s energy metabolism,” explains Dr Vernon Williams, a neurologist and founding director of the Centre for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics in Los Angeles. To put it into layman’s terms, creatine may help the brain get key nutrients faster.This is a shift from typical creatine usage, though, notes Winter. “Many people have thought about creatine supplementation as a relatively ‘long term’ effect – like building muscle,” he says. “This study suggests that the effects of creatine could be much faster than originally thought.”What are the other benefits of creatine?A range of research has found that creatine may have several potential benefits for your health. Those include:Increasing lean body mass

    Boosting energy levels

    Enhancing muscle recovery

    Improving cognitive function

    Curbing the effects of short-term sleep deprivation

    Keeping your hormone levels consistentA January study even found that creatine might be a good additional treatment for depression, on top of talk therapy and any other treatments that your mental healthcare provider suggests. READ MORE: What Is Sceletium And What Does It Do?Should women take creatine?It’s crucial to talk to a medical provider before adding any supplement to your routine to make sure it’s right for your needs. However, research suggests that creatine may benefit women, so it’s definitely worth considering. Check out Women’s Health‘s favorite creatine powders below:Creatine Supplements To BuyNOW Sports Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    Now’s creatine powder is free of artificial colours and flavours and uses nano-particle nutrients to help fuel your day. It’s also unflavoured, so you can blend it into just about anything. Now is third-party tested to make sure no harmful ingredients end up in your creatine powder.

    USN Pure Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    This unflavoured creatine is is a micronised form of creatine, enhancing the absorption and bioavailability. USN employs extensive third party testing to ensure the quality and quantity of what’s one the label is always delivered. Plus, it is also Halal certified.

    Biogen Pure Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    According to Biogen, this is one of the most popular sports nutrition supplements in the world. And the compact 100g size makes it easy to keep in your bag so you can take some whether you’re going to gym or travelling. Just mix it with water, pre-workout or your go-to smoothie and enjoy.

    This article by Korin Miller was originally published on Women’s Health US.Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    10 private dining rooms in Dubai to book for a special occasion

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver. However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?
    With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.
    From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.
    Studio Frantzén

    Marking Björn Frantzén’s debut in the Middle East, Studio Frantzén offers the Swedish chef’s critically acclaimed French-Asian gastronomy with Nordic influences, all set within a modern Scandinavian environment of effortless luxury. Echoing the aesthetic of FZN by Björn Frantzén, every detail has been meticulously curated – from bespoke tableware to hand-painted murals, complemented by an eclectic music mix that creates the perfect upbeat energy. While the restaurant embraces a relaxed à la carte menu, it is characterised by distinctive flavours and preparations, highlighting the refined cooking techniques that Björn is celebrated for. The restaurant boasts an atrium adorned with chandeliers and a dining room featuring cozy booths, as well as a private dining room that accommodates up to 14 guests.
    Amazonico

    This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.
    Shanghai Me

    Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.
    For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. 
    Le Guépard

    Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.
    For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.
    Cé La Vi

    With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.
    For more information visit celavi.com.
    ROKA

    If there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. 
    GAIA

    This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.
    At.mosphere

    In the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.
    For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. 
    Zuma

    By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb More

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    The best iftars in Abu Dhabi for Ramadan 2025

    From twinkling Ramadan tents under the stars to lavish spreads amongst the golden dunes…
    During Ramadan in Abu Dhabi, iftar is a lovely opportunity to get together with family and friends over a decadent spread. From large-scale buffets in beautiful Ramadan tents to set menus with Middle Eastern flavour, there’s iftars to suit all tastes.
    Here are 10 fabulous iftars in Abu Dhabi for Ramadan 2025. 
    Al Wathba, Desert Resort & Spa Abu Dhabi
    Explore a diverse range of local and global culinary delights as you bask in the serene atmosphere of a qanoon performance and a warm bonfire under the dazzling night sky at the Al Mabeet Desert Camp, taking inspiration from Bedouin heritage.
    Al Wathba, Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 11pm, Dhs250. Tel: (0)2 204 4444. @alwathbahotel
    The Abu Dhabi EDITION

    Enjoy a sunset spread on the serene Alba Terrace daily during Ramadan. Overlooking Al Bateen Marina, enjoy a buffet of Ramadan favours to start, a choice of main course, and an array of wood-fired specialities.
    The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen, sunset to 9pm, Dhs245. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @abudhabiedition
    Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
    Layali Al Baraka adopts an Arabian Nights theme for a daily iftar this Ramadan, an opulent and elegant setting for gatherings with friends, family or colleagues. Enjoy an extensive selection of Arabic delicacies featuring live cooking stations manned by the expert culinary team, as well as some international dishes that cater to all tastes.
    Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, daily from sunset, Dhs295. Tel: (0)2 811 5666. hilton.com
    COYA

    Do iftar a little differently with a four-course menu of Latin flavours at COYA. This upscale restaurant in The Galleria will start things off with dates, homemade soup and bread with hummus, followed by a selection of Peruvian appetisers like salmon maki chicken tacos and an array of anticuchos. Select a main from options like Salmon a la brasa or the signature pollo a la parilla, then end with a decadent sharing serving of COYA’s bespoke Torre de Pistachio Ramadan dessert.
    COYA Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah, sunset to 7.30pm, D249. Tel: (0)2 306 7000. @coyaabudhabi
    Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

    This palatial address on the edge of the Corniche always puts on a spectacular iftar spread, and 2025 is no different. They’re bringing back the beautiful Majlis by the Sea, which will take place at a new location within the resort. But as well as all of the usual gourmet live stations and expansive seating areas, this year diners can look forward to pop-ups from the hotel’s acclaimed eateries including Michelin-starred Talea, Hakkasan, and newly opened Strawfire.
    Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs355. Tel: (0)2 690 9000. @mo_emiratespalace
    Hakkasan Abu Dhabi

    Putting an elevated Cantonese twist on the iftar meal is Hakkasan. Enjoy a three-course set menu of Michelin-starred cuisine, with the option to pair it with an exclusive lychee and hibiscus flavoured kombucha for Dhs42 from Yalla Kombucha.
    Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, sunset to 8pm, Dhs358. Tel: (0)2 690 7739. taogroup.com
    Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

    In the beautifully landscaped gardens of this luxe Saadyiat Island resort, iftar takes place under the twinkling lights of The Oasis Tent. Enjoy a memorable evening as you dine at an opulent buffet to the soft melodies of the oud and qanun. Foodie highlights include Moroccan tagine, Emirati machboos, and Jordanian mansaf, across an array of live cooking stations and decadent displays of salads, mezze and dessert.
    Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, sunset to 9pm, Dhs375, Dhs187.50 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 407 1127. parkhyattabudhabi.com
    Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

    Inspired by traditional Emirati heritage, enjoy a Bedouin-inspired iftar with a luxury Anantara touch at Al Falaj’s open-air iftar. Set in the grand golden dunes, enjoy a sharing-style menu that celebrates the rich flavours of the Levant. For iftar in a stunning setting, few compare.
    Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Liwa Desert, sunset onwards, Dhs450. Tel: (0)2 886 2088. anantara.com
    Rosewood Abu Dhabi
    Live culinary stations offer traditional dishes and refreshing drinks alongside a live oud player at Aqua restaurant. Alfresco seating and shisha are both available.
    Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, sunset to 9pm, Dhs275, Dhs150 for shisha. Tel: (0)2 813 5550. @rosewoodabudhabi
    Taparelle
    Enjoy an iftar set menu of French and Italian dishes at newly opened Taparelle. This Saadiyat Island gem will serve sharing plates of crispy calamari and croquettes, followed by a choice of pizza or pasta, then a dessert of crème Catalan or almond citrus cake.
    Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, from sunset, Dhs195. Tel: (0)2 657 5832. @taparellerestaurant
    Tean
    This Ramadan, embrace the spirit of togetherness with an unforgettable iftar experience by the sea at Tean, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort. Set against the serene backdrop of Saadiyat’s pristine shores, indulge in a carefully curated iftar buffet featuring a selection of international flavours and cherished Arabic favourites. Highlights include live Turkish ice cream and knafeh stations, alongside a refreshing selection of Ramadan-inspired juices.
    Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, sunset to 8pm, Dhs280. Tel: (0)2 811 4342. jumeirah.com More