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    COVID-19 in the UAE: Masks are no longer mandatory

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    If we cast our minds back to March 2020, the world was grinding to a halt as an official pandemic was declared by the World Health Organisation following the outbreak of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.
    Stay-at-home guidelines were implemented for countries around the world, flights were grounded and everyday life as we knew it came to a standstill.
    From the get-go, the UAE was proactive in its approach to combatting the virus, implementing health and safety guidelines, social distancing measures and a mask mandate which came into effect on March 26, 2022, and has been strictly monitored since then.
    Now, two and a half years later, it’s been announced by UAE officials, masks will no longer be mandatory to wear in almost all instances.

    #NCEMA: During our media briefing today, we announce the loosening of COVID-19-related restrictions nationwide, as well as the updates to all sectors, which will be in force from 28th September, 2022. #TogetherWeRecover pic.twitter.com/GoUCp0uih4
    — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) September 26, 2022

    It was announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) on Monday night during a briefing that from September 28, 2022, wearing face masks would now be optional in most open and closed facilities and spaces across the UAE, as well as in Dubai private schools, early childhood centres, universities and training institutes. Masks, however, do remain mandatory inside medical facilities, mosques and on public transportation.
    In addition, masks are no longer mandatory on flights, but airlines have the power to mandate them if deemed a necessity.
    Furthermore, the isolation time period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 has been reduced to five days and the green pass on the Al Hosn app has been extended from 14 days to 30 days.
    And while we’re finally seeing almost all restrictions ease, it was noted by the NCEMA that “despite the current stable situation, the pandemic is still ongoing, and the next phase will require community responsibility”.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Can’t Negotiate To Save Your Life? This Expert’s Tips Will Help

    As a child, I was always quite persuasive. I could charm almost any adult into giving me an ice cream cone or letting me stay at the park for another five minutes. I seemed to have no problem asking for what I wanted, offering something in exchange (usually the promise of good behavior), and getting the goods. Life was good. I felt like I had some kind of superpower, and I loved it. 
    You’d think this skill would have naturally followed me into adulthood, where I became a ruthless lawyer, negotiating anything and everything with ease and confidence. Well, unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. I never made it to law school. (Marketing was more my style!) And I definitely wouldn’t consider myself to be a killer negotiator today. One day at work, I was struggling to articulate why I thought I’d be great for a new project. Then, I had a realization: The idea of negotiating anything made my stomach drop—whether negotiating my starting salary at a new job or the restaurant I wanted to go to with girlfriends. What happened to all of my youthful confidence?
    I decided I wanted to get my mojo back and learn how I could get better at the art of persuasion. So, I reached out to Fotini Iconomopoulos, a negotiation expert who has worked with everyone from top-level executives to new graduates. I learned her best negotiation tips, why so many women avoid negotiating, and how we can all become better at it.

    Practice your skills in low-risk situations
    To start off, Iconomopoulos emphasized that while most people think of negotiation in asking for a raise at work or a lower price on a car, it can extend to almost anything. She explained, “You could be negotiating with your partner about where to take your next vacation or who will empty the dishwasher. You could be negotiating for space on public transportation or with a peer about workloads. You negotiate everywhere all the time!”
    This is especially true when it comes to people who interact with children. (Aha! Suddenly my childhood experiences all make sense.) “Anyone who spends time around kids knows the power of negotiating. You navigate situations with them the same way you would navigate any discussion. You go in with an attitude of curiosity and listening while setting expectations for what you need to work together,” Iconomopoulos said. In this case, trying to get a toddler to eat broccoli is not that different from trying to get a colleague to pull his weight at work. Since we’re engaging in these micro-negotiations all the time, we can practice honing our skills in low-stake situations. Therefore, we’re more prepared—and less intimidated—by the bigger things.

    Be strategic
    As much as we wish it weren’t true, negotiations can quickly go off the rails. When I asked Iconomopoulos what could appear in a negotiation, she highlighted that unfortunately, gender bias is sometimes still present. “Women may be perceived as greedy or aggressive when it’s unwarranted,” she said. But don’t fret—it’s not all doom and gloom! There are things you can do to combat this. It all comes down to preparation.
    Approach the conversation in an assertive yet productive way. “This doesn’t mean suppressing emotions or holding back from negotiating, but using productive language and asking pointed questions,” Iconomopoulos said. She explained how asking open-ended questions and giving room for pause after speaking are parts of a master negotiator toolkit. “It also means finding allies wherever possible to help remove obstacles,” she elaborated. Add this to the growing list of reasons why you need a sponsor in your corner. Fostering connections at work is always a good idea. But it is especially key when preparing for things like raises, promotions, and responsibility changes.

    Do your homework
    While negotiating isn’t always about money, it’s usually the first thing that comes to mind. I’ve had some great negotiations where I went in prepared and got a sizable bump in pay—yay! I’ve also had some not-so-great negotiations where I couldn’t think properly and fumbled over my words. (AKA, I felt the opposite of confidence.)
    Fotini Iconomopoulos reinforced that preparation is truly the key to success here. “Knowledge is power, so know what the market is paying, what similar companies are paying, how you compare to other candidates, and so on,” she said. When it comes to presenting a number, Iconomopoulos advocates for shooting for the (research-backed) moon. “Be aspirational in your ask. It’s easy to back off of your opening offer, but it’s harder to go back and increase the ask later if you end up regretting the original number you gave.” Take this as the encouragement you need to add on that extra 10%. You deserve it! 
    Then, there’s the age-old question: Should you anchor the negotiation with your desired salary or let a recruiter or HR set the pace? Iconomopoulos recommends taking the reins. “If you’ve done your homework, don’t be afraid to anchor your expectations first. Most people worry about putting their offer on the table first, but there are advantages that you don’t want to miss,” she said. Those advantages include coming across as knowledgeable and confident. Of course, you’re also setting yourself up for a result you’ll be happy with.
    In terms of how to make your ask, Iconomopoulos shared her go-to language with clients: “Based on [insert reasons why you know you would be valuable to the team] and what similar experience is paid in the market, I would expect [insert the desired salary] compensation for this role.” Then, pause to see what their response is. Try not to fill the silence by offering conditions or justifications for your ask. (That comes later if it’s needed!) I know this is the scary part. But if you’ve done your homework, you’re already in the best possible spot for success!

    Source: Color Joy Stock

    Know how to handle bumps along the way
    Once you get some negotiating experience under your belt, it’ll start becoming more natural. Then, you’ll be able to tell when things are going your way. But in the meantime, it can help to know some common concerns. The fear of damaging relationships is a common concern that Iconomopoulos mentioned. Coming across as demanding or greedy when you’re trying to project confidence is also one of the most common worries.
    “But the truth is, you can conduct negotiations with diplomacy and tact and maintain, if not strengthen, relationships,” Iconomopoulos said. Respecting yourself enough to even have the conversation encourages other people to take you seriously. This is especially true when you come to the table with well-prepared arguments. (If you present yourself well in a negotiation situation, imagine what you can do when presenting to a potential client or investor!)
    But what about when you do your homework, practice your pitch, and wear your best power outfit, only to end up getting the dreaded “it’s just not in the cards right now” response? “Sometimes, despite our best efforts, rejection happens,” shared Iconomopoulos. “It may bruise your ego for a while, but when handled with tact and with a backup plan in place, it’s not so terrible.” Your backup plan can include asking for non-salary perks like more time off or increased working-from-home benefits. It could also include a follow-up conversation in a few months to ask again. Or, perhaps, you ask for a title or responsibility change.
    Ultimately, Iconomopoulos reassured me that the rejection “can actually bring self-confidence from asserting oneself and can help to gain the respect of others,” which doesn’t sound too bad at the end of the day. As someone who has experienced rejection during a salary negotiation before, trust me when I say that what doesn’t kill you makes you—and your future negotiations—stronger. (But some ice cream and retail therapy can help ease the immediate wound.)

    Remember: It all comes down to confidence
    You can have all the research, know the comparables, and have a spreadsheet a mile long with your recent accomplishments. Yet, there’s one thing that people are often missing when they enter a negotiation. “Your mindset has to be in the right place,” shared Iconomopoulos. “You can psych yourself up, or you can psych yourself out.” Now’s the time to blast some Lizzo, wear your favorite heels, and tell yourself that you deserve this. Then, believe it!
    Iconomopoulos advises her clients to ask themselves two questions before they go into the conversation: “If I don’t stand up for myself and go after this, who else will?” and “Don’t I deserve what I’m going after?” These questions are powerful reminders that nobody will advocate for you if you don’t advocate for yourself. You need to believe you are deserving of more money, time off, or the vacation destination of your dreams before you can convince someone else of it.
    Iconomopoulos’s final piece of advice is to channel that nervous energy into enthusiasm. “Instead of telling yourself that you’re nervous, turn that nervous energy into a more productive energy by telling yourself that you’re excited to finally get what you want. Your brain will thank you for it… and so will your bank account!”

    Want a Raise? Here’s Exactly How To Ask Your Boss More

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    Need a Boost in Your Wellness Routine? Try These 5 Things a Naturopath Expert Does Every Day

    Recently, I found myself in a wellness funk. I hadn’t exercised in a while, and most of my meals were DoorDash deliveries. After weeks of sitting on the couch and eating cheese-covered carbohydrates, I was ready for a wellness reboot. So, I reached out to Bianca Melas, a certified BHSc Naturopath, and Pilates instructor, to learn her top tips for staying healthy. Read on to discover Bianca Melas’s non-negotiables to help her look and feel her best every day. 

    Meet the expert
    Biana Melas
    Certified Clinical Naturopath
    Bianca is an accredited Pilates instructor for Alo Moves and certified Clinical Naturopath. She works to empower her clients with the knowledge that movement can serve as medicine and heal the body in unimaginable ways.

    1. Meditate
    Raise your hand if you’ve ever snapped at your partner after a long day or become flustered by a stressful situation at work. While we’d all love to play it cool and roll with the punches, that’s hard to do without a regular mindfulness practice. Melas is a big fan of getting her zen on: “Meditation allows me to still my mind and become grounded, so I’m less reactive and more responsive to those around me.” Neuroscience backs this daily ritual. A 2016 study found that 20 minutes of meditation can reduce your brain’s reactivity, helping you respond calmly to negative emotions. 

    2. Stay hydrated
    We all know that drinking enough water is essential for physical well-being. However, many of us still rely on caffeine to get through the day, only sipping on water occasionally. Make hydration a priority and take a page from Melas’s book. “I start each morning with lemon water and then continue to consume 2-3 liters of water throughout the day to maintain hydration. This is key for digestion, glowing skin, and energy,” explains Melas. If you’re like me and struggle to drink enough water, our wellness editor, Josie Santi, recommends a motivational 64oz water bottle. Since this bottle is larger than others, you won’t need to refill it throughout the day. This removes an added barrier between you and hydration. 

    3. Have a supplement routine
    Even the healthiest eaters struggle to get all the nutrients they need from food alone. That’s where supplements come in handy. Multivitamins, probiotics, and CBD all have the ability to upgrade your wellness routine from good to great. But you have to take them regularly if you want to experience their benefits. That’s why Melas preaches the importance of consistency: “Consistency is always key. Maintaining a healthy diet and taking supplements daily helps me meet my nutritional needs and achieve my health goals.”

    4. Change your workout expectations
    When most people think about exercise, they assume they need to slog through a grueling hour-long workout for their activity to “count.” This unrealistic expectation makes it less likely that you’ll work out on days when you’re busy or simply aren’t feeling it. Instead of forcing herself to hit the gym, Melas adapts her workouts to fit her life so that she can move every day. “No matter how long I have, I move every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. It doesn’t need to be crazy or intense—just walking in the sunshine with my puppy is enough some days,” she said.

    5. Incorporate small actions of self-love
    In an age where social media glorifies unrealistic beauty standards, most of us deal with low self-esteem or dissatisfaction with our bodies. In fact, some research shows that women who interact with social media posts report lower self-confidence afterward. While you might not always like how you look, cultivating a self-love practice can help combat low self-esteem. Melas recommended finding little moments throughout your day to give back to yourself. These small actions of self-love will look different for everyone, but if you need a few ideas, Melas’s favorite self-love activities include dry brushing, spending time in nature, and reading a good book.

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    Queen Rania’s touching message to her daughters to mark their birthdays

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    30 mins ago

    Her Majesty Queen Rania of Jordan has shared a touching message to her daughters in celebration of their birthdays.
    Princess Salma celebrates her birthday today, September 26, turning 22 years old, and Princess Iman marks her birthday tomorrow, turning 26.
    To mark her lookalike daughters’ birthdays, Queen Rania shared a new photo on Instagram of the three of them alongside a heartfelt note.
    “Our friendship gets stronger as you both get older,” she said. “Couldn’t have asked for better besties. Happy birthday Iman and Salma.”

    The family trio are seen outdoors together wearing casual clothes with both princesses looking the spitting image of their mother.
    It’s been a period full of celebration for the Jordanian royal family as of late having celebrated Queen Rania’s birthday at the end of August. Prior to that, the family announced the joyous news of not one, but two royal engagements.
    Back in July, Princess Iman, the eldest daughter of King Abdullah II and Queen Rania, announced her engagement to New York-based financier Jameel Alexander Thermiotis.
    Six weeks later,  Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan announced his engagement to Rajwa Al Saif of Saudi Arabia.
    While no confirmed dates have been revealed as to when Princess Iman and Crown Prince Hussein will wed their respective partners, the weddings are expected to take place next year.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    In pics: A luxurious new Grecian-inspired beach club opens its doors in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 hour ago

    Now that the cooler weather is well and truly on its way, all of us in the UAE can finally get excited about the beach season.
    Enter Kyma. Just in time for the cooler temperatures arriving, the luxurious new Grecian-inspired beach club has opened its doors on Dubai’s Palm West Beach.
    The new concept by Rikas Hospitality Group – which is known for some of the most renowned concepts in the emirate including La Cantine du Faubourg, Ninive, Mimi Kakushi, Twiggy and more – and The St. Regis Dubai is set to be the go-to place for winter.
    Taking inspiration from the shores of the Mediterranean, the sophisticated beach club entices guests to escape from the ordinary with a breath of fresh air.
    Earthy tones complete the colour palette of the venue which features an infinity pool, private cabanas, luxe sun loungers, as well as a chic restaurant complete with a high-end curated menu by Gilles Bosquet, the corporate chef at Rikas Hospitality Group.
    The menu’s hero dishes include a plethora of much-loved Greek staples including taramosalata, tyrokafteri and truffled seabream to cheese saganaki, feta loukoums, moussaka and biftekia.
    Take a peek inside Dubai’s newest hotspot below.

    Kyma, Palm West Beach, pool open daily 10am to 8pm, restaurant 12pm to 2am. +971 46 665 999, [email protected], kymabeach.ae.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Will there be a long weekend in the UAE next week?

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    39 mins ago

    If you’re looking to plan a small getaway, there might be a long weekend to look forward to next week.
    Another public holiday will be marked in the UAE next weekend for the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday which will fall on 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal.
    In the Gregorian calendar, this is predicted to be on Friday, October 7, 2022, or Saturday, October 8, 2022. So, if the public holiday falls on a Friday, UAE citizens and residents will enjoy a three-day weekend. However, we need to await confirmation from authorities on when the public holiday will officially fall.

    #UAE announces holidays for public, private sector for 2021-2022.#UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/vq7Aoy2RGQ
    — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) December 19, 2020

    While the long weekend next weekend is still yet to be confirmed, citizens and residents across the UAE will enjoy a four-day weekend to mark Commemoration Day and National Day at the beginning of December.
    UAE Commemoration and National Day
    The next long weekend is will take place for the country’s Commemoration Day and National Day on December 1 and 2. It will fall on a Thursday and Friday this year, with the official days off for these dates being Thursday, December 1 until Sunday, December 4, 2022.
    As always, the final and official dates and public holiday eligibility for public sector employees and private sector employees are determined by UAE authorities.
    For more information visit u.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Instagram @mindz.eye More

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    30 Sheikh Hamdan-approved restaurants in Dubai you need to try

    When it comes to knowing the best restaurants to dine at in Dubai, the emirate’s Crown Prince always knows best.
    From sophisticated alfresco havens to all the authentic food choices, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is regularly seen dining out at some of the best F&B concepts Dubai has to offer.
    No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best. From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.
    If you’re in need of some inspo on where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
    L’Amo Bistro del Mare

    Sheikh Hamdan made a visit to L’Amo Bistro del Mare in May 2022, an Italian restaurant that opened its doors at Dubai Harbour this year. The waterfront restaurant welcomed His Highness for lunch on Saturday. The Dubai Crown Prince also posed for a photo with Chef Lorenzo Buccarini, Carlo Tinelli, General Manager of the restaurant and Piero Giglio, MD & Partner of MINE Lifestyle Managing. This upscale seafood restaurant is a partnership between Sunset Hospitality Group and Mine and Yours Group, making this yet another notable addition to the Dubai dining scene. From signature dishes such as red and violet prawns, delicate sea urchins, Margherita Pinsa and Italian oysters and scallops, the restaurant is sure to transport visitors to the rustic streets of Italy with every serving of each dish. With freshly caught seafood, the flavours are enhanced to capture the essence of the Mediterranean sea.Situated in the heart of the city at the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, L’Amo Bistro Del Mare is open daily from 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to midnight.
    Alaya

    Spotted at Chef Izu’s latest venue, Alaya in DIFC this month, Sheikh Hamdan gave the restaurant his royal seal of approval.Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man’s former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Inspired by their travels, each dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients. After only opening last month, the restaurant has gained quite a bit of traction as the duo has brought a new concept to DIFC. By taking each visitor on a culinary journey, the warm inviting space, ensures guests feel at home from the moment they enter.
    La Maison Ani

    On one of his most recent foodie outings, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to a brand new concept by Chef Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin. Fazza stopped by La Maison Ani at the end of May 2022 just weeks after it officially opened.  The restaurant’s team described it as an “honour” to welcome the Crown Prince, sharing a photo from his visit. “It was a complete honour and privilege to host The Crown Prince @faz3 at La Maison Ani by Chef Izu,” they said. “The first of many visits we hope.”
    SUSHISAMBA

    This restaurant is already a household name in London and Las Vegas. Having arrived in Dubai late last year, SUSHISAMBA has already made its mark on the emirate. So much so, Sheikh Hamdan thought it fit to host one of his most famous friends at the restaurant on his recent visit to Dubai. The emirate’s Crown Prince was seen visiting the hotspot with famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. In late January, the pair enjoyed lunch together with some of their entourage. We’re definitely adding this new hotspot to our list of must-trys.
    11 Woodfire

    For one of the first outings in 2022, Sheikh Hamdan visited this new concept – the brainchild of chef Akmal Anuar and Ahmass Fakahany, CEO and Founder of Atelier House Hospitality – which opened later last year. Located in a villa on Jumeirah Beach Road, 11 Woodfire opened in November 2021. Sharing the news of the Crown Prince’s visit to 11 Woodfire with a photograph, the restaurant said it was an “honour” to host him.
    Urla

    This picturesque new restaurant brings a piece of Aegean paradise to the heart of Dubai. Situated at the Address Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan was spotted there in January 2022. This outdoor venue perfectly captures views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountains which were captured in Sheikh Hamdan’s story. From fresh seafood to a plethora of must-try dishes, these delectable mezes are sure to be savoured with your loved ones as Dubai’s Crown prince did.
    Gohan

    Gohan, the new Japanese speakeasy by the team at La Cantine du Faubourg is one of the latest hotspots to visit. The space is quite intimate being able to seat no more than 30 diners at a time and Fazza gave his stamp of approval in late 2021. While the restaurant may have been a well-kept secret previously, now that Fazza has paid a visit the word about Gohan is well and truly out.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    The Arts Club

    This sophisticated private members-only club is situated in the heart of DIFC. Having welcomed Sheikh Hamdan last year, this ultra-luxe venue was honoured to have him and even posted a picture on their feed. The Crown Prince enjoyed a hearty meal at Rōhen.
    For more information visit theartsclub.ae.
    Mimi Kakushi

    Known for their cosy interiors and ultra-luxe décor, this restaurant is a must-visit with all the Japanese classics under one roof. On the UAE’s 50th National Day, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit and was so impressed by hospitality and service as he celebrated the country’s birthday.
    For more information visit mimikakushi.ae
    Roka

    Sheikh Hamdan’s a fan, and so are we. This contemporary Japanese restaurant opened back in 2020 and Sheikh Hamdan was one of the first to visit post-lockdown. Known for its contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine and sushi, this restaurant has become a firm favourite on the Dubai dining scene.
    Twiggy by La Cantine

    The Crown Prince of Dubai stopped by this incredible venue late last year and no doubt enjoyed the impeccable views that Twiggy has to offer. At the time, Sheikh Hamdan shared a series of images on his Instagram story of some of the exquisite cuisine he was enjoying. Twiggy by La Cantine opened at the beginning of 2021 and it’s safe to say it has been the go-to hotspot for Mediterranean dining in Dubai.
    Ammos

    Bringing the charm of Greek cuisine to Dubai, this restaurant provides an unforgettable experience with authentic Mediterranean hospitality offering culinary textures and aromas to your plate. Located in Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR, Fazza has previously been spotted dining there.
    Sal at the Burj Al Arab

    In mid-December 2020, the Crown Prince of Dubai was pictured at Sal at the Burj Al Arab. This restaurant opened its doors back in September 2020 and has been a popular destination for restaurant-goers ever since. It offers guests endless ocean views with seamless service and a sophisticated menu. Described as “barefoot luxury meets Southern European culinary excellence”, the restaurant also comes fully equipped with a 100-metre infinity pool to relax at after a delightful meal.
    Caviar Kaspia

    Fresh from the hustle and bustle of Paris, Caviar Kaspia opened its first venue outside the French capital in Dubai late last year. One of the first people to visit was the Crown Prince of Dubai. A photo of Fazza’s visit was posted to the restaurant’s Instagram page, where His Highness was seen posing with a Matryoshka Doll, which is a signature to the restaurant and is known to hold caviar.
    The MAINE Land Brasserie

    Sheikh Hamdan and his entourage visited this luxe steakhouse located in the ME by Melia Hotel in Business Bay at the beginning of 2021. It’s the third restaurant in Dubai by restauranteur Joey Ghazal and has become a firm favourite on the Dubai dining scene.
    Avli by Tashas

    Having opened just over three years ago in January 2019, Sheikh Hamdan is a frequent visitor to Avli by tashas in DIFC. The restaurant captures the essence of Greek cuisine combined with a chic and sophisticated space reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
    Gaia

    Loved by Sheikh Hamdan, Gaia is the brainchild of Chef Izu. The restaurant encompasses the Greek Goddess of Earth, the mother of the sun, the mountains and the sea and is the inspiration for each exquisite Mediterranean dish. In January 2019, the Crown Prince of Dubai and his father, the Ruler of Dubai, were spotted dining at the Grecian-inspired restaurant. But even before that, Sheikh Hamdan gave Gaia his seal of approval back just five days after it opened in October 2018. After his visit, Chef Izu posted a cheeky picture with the Dubai royal, as he sported a wide grin.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
    Il Borro

    This high-class Tuscan Bistro welcomed the Crown Prince of Dubai along with his team, with authentic cuisine and dishes that are made with ingredients that are freshly imported for a bespoke Italian experience. In 2021, it was one of the first outings Sheikh Hamdan made following the announcement he has become a father to twins, Rashid and Sheikha.
    Carine

    While continuing to extend his support to several homegrown restaurants in the UAE, Sheikh Hamdan has been a long-time fan of Chef Izu, the brainchild behind two notable restaurants in the UAE. Seen posing in this snap with Chef Izu, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to Carine, located in Emirates Golf Club. At the time of his visit, the Dubai-based restauranteur said, “Always an honour and great pleasure to have HH Sheikh Hamdan with us at Carine.”
    For more information visit dubaigolf.com
    L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

    Adding another high-end eatery to his list of restaurants with his stamp of approval is L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. His Highness paid a visit to the eatery to the authentic French restaurant in June 2021, with a photo being shared by the DIFC-based restaurant on their official Instagram page. This establishment is famed for its celebrity clientele alongside its Michelin star cuisine which offers guests dishes including a crispy poached egg with caviar, truffle pizza and Dover sole à la plancha, all prepared in front of the guests.
    Gudee Pizza Café

    Known for their Afghani specialities, this eatery pushes beyond the borders of authentic cuisine in the heart of Dubai, with some of the most creative pizza combinations offered under one roof in the highly comforting atmosphere with a modern interpretation of the aforementioned cuisine with innovative desserts. Located at Gate Avenue mall level in DIFC, the Crown Prince’s uncle, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, also known as Uncle Saeed on Instagram, is a regular at Gudees.
    BB Social Dining

    The homegrown concept serving Eastern cuisine has a compact space offering various cuisine options. Located in Gate village 8 DIFC, the atmosphere is both sophisticated and elegant.
    Alici

    After having spotted Sheikh Hamdan at this stunning seafood restaurant, he posed for a picture with the head of operations and also seemed to enjoy the restaurant’s freshly baked bread with one of the lighthouse salads on his visit.
    Somewhere

    This Mediterranean-inspired travel-themed café is extremely Instagrammable and is known for its topographic design. Located in Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue extension, the theme of the restaurant has certainly caught everyone’s attention.
    She Burger

    Are there any burger fans here? Then you would be happy to know that Fazza is a fan of this edgy urban burger chain. Open in Dar Wasl Mall, the burger place caters to chicken and beef lovers alike, and if you are vegetarian, then you should try She Burger’s ‘Krazy Kale’ or ‘Avo Salad’ salads.
    Taverna

    Located in the popular tourist spot of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the Crown Prince of Dubai has previously made a visit to this quaint Greek restaurant. Taverna is located on the waterfront of Souk Madinat Jumeirah and embodies the true rustic charm of Greece with exposed wood, white walls and neutral tones used throughout the venue.
    Nammos

    A Mykonos favourite, Nammos Dubai offers incredible views of the Arabian Seam, as well as incredible cuisine.  the iconic Dubai Skyline – if you’re looking for a fun afternoon, this is the location. Sheikh Hamdan made a visit at this delicious eatery back in December 2019.
    Masti

    This popular spot first opened back in 2018 and one of the first to visit was Sheikh Hamdan. Located in the secluded area of La Mer, the Masti menu offers a reinterpretation of Indian cuisine, designed to share.
    CZN Burak

    This Turkish-Middle Eastern restaurant is the first Dubai-based establishment for Chef CZN Burak, who is hugely popular on social media with over 17 million followers and already has three popular restaurants in his home country of Turkey. In late 2020, he decided to crack the Dubai F&B space and within the first month of opening welcomed Sheikh Hamdan to his Downtown Dubai venue.
    Opso

    This uber-chic Mediterranean and Greek experience is inspired by modern and contemporary testes in a lively atmosphere. By bringing warm Emirati hospitality in a luxurious setting, the restaurant is definitely a hit amongst all its visitors. Fazza visited the restaurant in June 2019 and the team shared an image with the caption: “We are always blessed and honored to have HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum dine with us.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Knowing This Fact About Your Body Could Be the Secret to Peak Health

    Have you ever wondered why your friend can eat dairy without any side effects while you suffer from bloating? How can one person swear by the keto diet while someone else sees no difference? According to Boston Medical Center, an estimated 45 million Americans will try a diet plan each year. Maybe you’re among the millions who have dabbled with keto, vegan, Atkins, Mediterranean, or one of the many other diets out there. You’ve spent time trying different food combinations or rearranging your eating schedule. You’ve told yourself it would all be worth it because this diet will be the one that works. Yet, now you’re six months down the road and don’t see the results you had hoped for.
    There’s a reason diet culture is overwhelming and disappointing. The truth is, our bodies are all different. While one diet may make your friend, sister, or coworker feel amazing, it might not be the right fit for you. We’re all about ditching diets and eating whatever makes your body feel good, but there may be an explanation for why different ways of eating work for different bodies.
    Enter: the Blood Type Diet. Founded by Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo, the Blood Type Diet provides individualized solutions for each person’s blood type. Instead of looking at one diet as a solution for everyone, the Blood Type Diet breaks down each person’s blood type and uses that information as the basis for nutrition. I’m usually turned off by anything with “diet” in the title, but this one seems different. It proves that diets are not a one-size-fits-all method. Read on for my deep dive into what the Blood Type Diet really is and whether or not it’s worth trying out.

    What is the Blood Type Diet?
    As Dr. D’Adamo explains in his book Eat Right For Your Type, there are four universal blood types: Type O, Type A, Type B, and Type AB. Each type possesses a different antigen with its own chemical structure. Your blood type plays a huge role in how you absorb nutrients. This means that your blood not only affects how you respond to infections, stress, and bacteria, but it also affects the body’s response whether you eat a croissant or eggs for breakfast.
    In his research, Dr. D’Adamo found that different foods have different lectins, and those lectins produce a chemical reaction between blood and the food you eat. Sometimes the reaction leaves us feeling satisfied and energized, while other times, the reaction causes us to feel symptoms like indigestion, bloating, or fatigue. The Blood Type Diet looks at how different lectins in foods are absorbed by different blood types. Eating based on your blood type can increase nutrient intake, improve gut health and digestion, and support overall immune function, according to Dr. D’Adamo.
    Of course, nutrition is only one piece of the puzzle. Any wellness method is incomplete without factoring in the role of stress and exercise. (We can eat all the healthy food we want, but unless we also factor in high-stress levels and a sedentary lifestyle, we won’t feel our very best.) Dr. D’Adamo agrees. So, he’s included research on how different blood types need different forms of exercise to cope with stress, as well as a stress and exercise plan for each blood type.

    Recommendations for each blood type
    If you’re Type O
    Dr. D’Adamo found that people with Type O blood respond best to a diet based on animal proteins while avoiding dairy and grain products. “Type O’s can efficiently digest and metabolize meats and seafood because they tend to have high stomach-acid content,” he explained. But it’s important to balance meat products with vegetables and fruit to avoid over-acidification. When it comes to exercise, he recommended intense physical exercise like HIIT or weight training because it “makes the muscle tissue more acidic and produces a higher rate of fat-burning activity.”

    If you’re Type A
    For Type A’s, Dr. D’Adamo recommends limiting meat and dairy products, as they are poorly digested, but moderate quantities of seafood (3-4 times a week) can have beneficial effects. Focus more on plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, etc. Type A’s can tolerate wheat products and gluten more than other blood types. But they shouldn’t eat in excess, or else their muscle tissue will become overly acidic. For exercise, Type A’s thrive by engaging in gentle and meditative movements to help manage stress, such as yoga, Tai Chi, stretching, walking, or Pilates. 

    If you’re Type B
    Type B’s can benefit from a balanced diet of all types of foods, including meat, dairy, seafood, and grains. However, Dr. D’Adamo suggests limiting corn, buckwheat, lentils, peanuts, and sesame seeds, as they contain a certain lectin that affects the efficiency of your metabolic process. This results in fatigue, fluid retention, and hypoglycemia. As for exercise and stress, Type B’s are able to manage stress well. They do best with moderate activities such as tennis, hiking, cycling, walking, yoga, jogging, or light weight training. 

    If you’re Type AB
    For those with the rarest of all blood types, Type ABs, their plan requires a combination of the Type A and Type B plans. Unlike Type A’s, meat in small portions can be beneficial. A balanced diet of all foods works for your system—including dairy, grain products, fruits, and vegetables. The key with Type AB is portion size and frequency, so eat smaller meals more frequently. When it comes to exercise, Type ABs have inherited a Type A stress pattern. So, Dr. D’Adamo recommends following the Type A exercise plan of gentle movement to help decrease stress. 

    The verdict
    We like that the Blood Type Diet is a personalized wellness plan that looks at a person’s genetics and bio-individuality. However, use it as a starting point or a way to experiment when finding what works best for your body. Don’t follow the plan to a T. As with every diet, some experts swear by it while others disagree. For example, Dr. Josh Axe, DNM, CNS, DC—a leading doctor and founder of Ancient Nutrition—believes that the Blood Type Diet may help some people, but it’s not necessarily the best for everyone. There are other factors that determine how we digest nutrients than just blood type, like hormones.
    Bottom line: The best way to determine what foods to eat and what exercise to do is to listen to your body. Period. Looking to your blood type for insight on nutrition and movement might make you feel amazing, but the same effects can be achieved in other ways too. The Blood Type Diet isn’t necessarily for everyone, but it shows that diets need to be more personalized and cater to an individual’s body type, food preferences, and biological history. Our bodies are all different, and how we eat should cater to that uniqueness. If you’re thinking of experimenting with the Blood Type Diet, talk to your doctor and know that your body is always the #1 expert about which foods and exercise are best for you.

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