Raphael Stevens

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    A wave of reforms lead to new heights for women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia

    In recent years, Saudi Arabia has taken major steps in the progress for women in the Kingdom.
    This was noted in the latest virtual annual meeting of the UN Women executive board.

    There have been massive reforms on empowering women’s role in society adding Saudi Arabi to of the list of 190 countries economics in the World Bank’s Women, Business and the Law 2020 report.
    Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had major effects globally, Saudi has continued to strive with excellence in order to empower women and move forward with its transformations.

    With legal rights issued to protect women in country, discrimination in the work sectors, accessing financial services and sacking of women during pregnancy and maternity leave have been overcome through the years.

    During the #Kingdom’s statement at the First Regular Session of the#UNWomen Executive Board, Mrs.Mona Alghamdi shared that the Kingdom historic reforms qualified it as the top reformer among 190 economics in the World Bank’s Women, Business and the Law 2020 report pic.twitter.com/mh2bwOODJ9
    — KSA Mission UN 🇸🇦🇺🇳 (@ksamissionun) February 17, 2021

    Mona Alghamdi
    Mona Alghamdi, a member of Saudi Arabia’s Permanent mission to the UN, discussed the progress Saudi Arabia has made saying, “The Kingdom has taken strict decisions towards criminalising sexual harassment at workplace in the public and private sectors.”
    “Equality in the retirement age is one of the most important reforms, which contributed to extending the period of their effective contribution to the advancement of the national economy,” she added.
    With a new era of legislative reforms towards the empowerment of Saudi Women in the region, women have been granted rights in the specific areas of entrepreneurship, workplace, pensions and mobility in the countries growing economy.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Twitter More

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    You can now travel through Dubai Airport without having to show your passport

    You no longer need a passport to travel through Dubai Airport… sort of.
    As the emirate continues to champion development in technology, a new smart travel system has launched.

    The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) announced the launch of a new system which uses face-track technology to identify travellers without the need to look at their passports.
    The new system is set to be a “fast-track passport control service that uses face and iris-recognition technologies enabling registered passengers to complete passport control procedures in around five seconds”.

    #الإمارات_تبتكر #UAE_Innovates pic.twitter.com/vOZCno0OKQ
    — Dubai Airports (@DubaiAirports) February 22, 2021

    This means your next airport experience could be completely contactless.
    Upon your arrival at the airport, when you’re issued with your boarding pass you’ll have “smart tunnel” printed on it, which gives you access to the smart tunnels around the airport.
    In order to be eligible for completely contactless travel in Dubai Airport, you’ll need to pre-register your passport and the use of contactless travel will be valid until your passport expires.
    As of now, 122 smart gates are now in use at arrival and departure terminals in Dubai airports.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The New FabFitFun Box is the #1 Way I’m Getting Ready for Spring

    Every time my friends come to my apartment, they leave with something. A sheet mask I’d like to share, a mascara I’ll never get to opening, a moisturizer made for their skin type—my personal closet has become a full-blown beauty closet that is filled to the brim with beauty products for testing and admiring. But since I don’t get to see my friends as often, they’re missing my weekly giveaways; and do you know what’s like a personal beauty closet at your door every season? My favorite beauty subscription box: FabFitFun. 

    FabFitFun is essentially a curated selection of beauty, fitness, lifestyle, decor, and more at your door four times a year, so you can test, rate, and rave about new products in the same manner as your favorite influencers and beauty editors. Let me do a quick breakdown of why I suggest FabFitFun to everyone I know: 
    #1. You can customize the products so you get what you really want. Instead of getting a box full of products you may or may not use, FabFitFun offers customization for most products in the box so you always get items you know you’ll actually use. But don’t worry: there are still a few surprises!
    #2. FabFitFun loves supporting women-owned brands and businesses, so every box is typically filled with products that support female entrepreneurs. 
    #3. Every time I get my box, it feels like I’m opening a gift! My birthday happens four extra times a year with FabFitFun because it’s filled with self-care products I can use alone or share with friends. It’s the perfect addition to any girls’ night in.
    #4. I’ve discovered so many products I now swear by and use every single day because they ended up in my FabFitFun box that I’d probably never try otherwise. 
    #5. FabFitFun is committed to sustainability, so every box is made with 100 percent recycled materials for the box and paper inside. The box is also always gorgeous, so I reuse mine as storage in my closet, making it an extra gift in itself! 

    Keep scrolling—or click here to order your box and wait for the surprise!

    GLOSS MODERNE
    Clean Luxury Hair Masque

    $55 retail value
    This hair mask contains shea butter to coat your locks in complete moisture. Plus, it smells so luxurious; like you’re at the spa!

    GROWN ALCHEMIST
    Body Cream in Mandarin & Rosemary Leaf

    $26 retail value
    Not only is this in the most gorgeous packaging I’ve ever seen on a lotion, but the springtime scent will make you excited for fresh flowers, patios, and a light breeze.

    PÜRTM COSMETICS
    Iconic Glow Illuminating Face & Body Dry Oil

    $28 retail value
    It’s almost the season of glowy everything, and this illuminator knows how to bring it. It’s lovely on the cheekbones, but I’m stoked to use it all over my shoulders and décolletage.

    Sun’s Out, Pouts Out Lip Mask

    $15 retail value
    Get your pout in kissing shape with these fun gold masks. I gave three to my friends so we could all try them together over a video call!

    Reusable Beauty Rounds (3 Pk)

    $16 retail value
    Kiss your makeup wipes goodbye and use these reusable makeup remover pads instead. Simply wet them with warm water, and they take off everything from foundation to waterproof mascara.

    EACH JEWELS
    Flower Hair Clip (2 Pk)

    $30 retail value
    Add this adorable accessory to your stash of “ways to make second-day hair look cute.”

    Ultimate Core Toning Kit

    $50 retail value
    Sick of the same-old workouts at home? These two will turn up your ab workouts a notch.

    ALICE + OLIVIA
    Daisy Print Duffel Bag

    $150 retail value
    This daisy print is the perfect pairing for all of your spring dresses—even if you’re just headed to the grocery store.

    JENNI KAYNE
    Water Hyacinth Tray with Cutout Handles

    $45 retail value
    After we’ve been home for what feels like ages, I’ll take anything to change up my space a bit. This tray will look gorgeous on a coffee table and is so practical too.

    Set of 3 Packing Cubes in Sorbet

    $40 retail value
    Regardless of how few travels you’re taking this year, these packing cubes come in handy for weekend trips, sleepovers with your best friends, and even closet storage (which is how I’m using them!).

    Lunchbox

    $35 retail value
    The makers of our favorite chic pan came out with this equally-beautiful lunch box that I can’t wait to try for meal prep.

    JOSIE MARAN
    100% Pure Argan Oil

    $39 retail value
    Argan oil has dozens of uses: skincare, haircare, cuticle care, and more; and Josie Maran knows her stuff.

    Faux Fur Slippers in Crystal Pink

    $48 retail value
    I’ll never say no to a new pair of slippers—truly, never. These are fuzzy, well-padded, and in a springy pink shade.

    MAC COSMETICS
    Powder Kiss Lipstick Duo

    $42 retail value
    MAC knows lipstick better than just about any brand, and this Powder Kiss formula is the ideal matte that won’t come off in your mask. Bright springtime lips ahead!

    VERSO SKINCARE
    Super Eye Serum

    $65 retail value
    I’ve seen this brand all over Instagram, and this eye serum is exactly what I need to look more awake and bright on video calls.

    Papaya Enzyme Peel

    $45 retail value
    Elemis is an incredible high-end skincare brand that I’ve grown to love after trying so many of their products from FabFitFun. This is a light, gentle peel that will reveal brighter, dewier skin after just a few uses.

    Tropical Trio

    $28 retail value
    Step up your oral hygiene game with these coconut flosses. Not only is the packaging cute and the flavors delicious, but these really pack a punch for keeping your teeth and gums clean.

    This post was in partnership with FabFitFun, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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    5 Things to Buy Before Spring Arrives

    Despite what the weather might imply if you take a peek out of just about any window in the continental United States right now, February is coming to a chilly close, which means one thing: spring is on the way.Yes, we’ll probably be shivering and wearing our snowboots through March, but the time to stock up on winter gear has finally passed, and it’s time to look forward to brighter, happier days—and get our closets stocked too. (I don’t know about you, but after this quarantined winter, I don’t know that I’ve ever looked forward to spring this much.)
    Ready to strip off your layers of wool and down coats to reveal something lighter and brighter? Here are five places to start:

    1. Wide-Leg Pants

    Millennials, don’t get your panties in a bunch just yet. (It’s worth noting that I, albeit a young one, am also a millennial, so there’s no reason to panic here). Your skinny jeans can stay at the top of your stack of jeans if that’s your cup of tea, but if you’re looking to try something fun and new, a pair of wide-leg jeans or trousers were made for you (it also doesn’t hurt that they’re basically one step up from sweats). Think: full lengths, high waists, and legs just a bit wider than your straight jeans.

     

    2. Minimalist Knitwear

    For the perfect transition from winter to spring wear, invest in the minimalist knitwear trend. Rather than the chunky, oversized sweaters and cardigans we’ve been bundled up in for six months, these are thinner, lighter, and tighter. Bonus points if you wear a matching knit bra-top layered underneath.

     

    3. Bridgerton-esque Prints

    Yes, I know, “florals for spring,” and what not, but really, what is spring without some floral wardrobe pieces? This spring’s are more in your face than years past, with dreamy floral prints that will take us back to our favorite Netflix binge.

     

    4. Eyelet Lace

    In a move that feels like the polar opposite of our loungewear, feminine, dreamy eyelet lace is making its way onto the spring scene. The detailed, larger cutouts make just about any piece they adorn look a little more interesting, and could be in the running for your first non-winter walk around the block.

     
    5. Something Pink

    After a long, dark winter, nothing sounds better than the bright, chilly colors that spring is offering us this year, and at the top of that list is bubblegum pink. If you’re still hanging onto your sweats, trade out a grey pair for one in the hue; or if you’re ready to wear real clothes again, opt for a top or dress that you’ll reach for all spring and summer long.

      More

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    This pristine and private luxury Maldives resort needs to be on your bucket list

    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    Made up of twin islands on the Dhaalu Atoll in the Maldives, Niyama Maldives is a unique luxury resort that feels as private as it does pristine.
    Privacy is the operative word here, whether you opt to spend time on the aptly named “Play” and “Chill” islands. On Play, you’ll find a host of activities including water sports as well as land-based. On Chill, it’s all about relaxation. Unwinding in the incredible spa should be a go-to during your stay complete with steam, sauna and a garden shower that feels back to nature in all the best ways.

    Happily, you’ll be able to traverse between the two islands whether you take a buggy or opt to ride barefoot on the bicycle that becomes your personal transport for the duration of your stay complete with a hand-carved nametag.
    The Highlight
    Dinner in the treetops at Nest is something not to be missed. The menu extends from the freshest sashimi to grilled lobster and an incredible Pad Thai you’ll be hard-pressed to believe hasn’t come straight from Bangkok.

    A snorkel with the turtles or scuba dive are both also something to tick off the bucket list. Here you’ll find unspoiled nature in all its glory.
    The Travel
    Niyama Private Islands Maldives sits an exhilarating 40-minute seaplane journey south of Malé.

    The Timing
    The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. If you’re looking for a Valentine’s Day getaway, February is ideal with the least amount of rainfall yearly. If it does rain, you’ll be well placed for a round of backgammon in your bathrobe.
    What to Pack

    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Travel update: Residents no longer need GDRFA approval to return to Dubai

    Since Dubai officially reopened its borders in July last year, residents of the emirate have been required to apply for approval to re-enter the country via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

    However, Emirates Airline has confirmed to its passengers this is no longer needed via a text message update. The Dubai-based airline also updated its guidelines for residents travelling to Dubai, removing the GDRFA requirement from its key information.
    Previously, passengers needed to fill out a form online on the GDRFA website where visa, passport and Emirates ID details needed to be provided. This is something that was implemented following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Current travel requirements for Dubai
    At the end of January, it was announced that all UAE citizens must do a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival in Dubai no matter which country they have travelled from.
    Meanwhile, all UAE residents, GCC citizens and visitors will now be required to undergo a pre-travel COVID-19 PCR test regardless of where they are travelling from and the validity time of tests is now 72 hours, reduced from 96 hours.
    It should be noted that a PCR test is required and you need to have a printed verification in English or Arabic – SMS or digital versions will not be accepted.
    For other requirements visit the Emirates website to stay up-to-date.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Away Luggage Instagram More

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    5 spa deals under Dhs500 in Dubai to take advantage of this month

    With such a fast-paced life, there’s rarely a moment for any me-time. As Dubai adapts to the new norm, it’s necessary for all of us to pamper ourselves from time to time for the ultimate refreshment this season.
    Emirates Woman has curated a list of relaxing spa deals to completely refresh you with pampering deals to completely indulge in.
    Sofitel Dubai The Palm

    With state-of-the-art interiors, the Spa at Sofitel highlights French-Polynesian traditions with highly trained therapists in a tranquil setting to ensure you have a therapeutic experience.
    For Dhs380 you can get a choice of two 30-minute treatments from options which are back, neck and shoulder massage, full body scrub, express facial and foot massage, or a choice of one 60-minute treatment from a full body scrub and body wrap, full body massage and a facial treatment.
    After the rejuvenating spa experience, guests will have complimentary access to all the indoor wellness facilities which include a sauna, steam room, the spa’s ice fountain and a soothing pool inside with refreshments to keep you relaxed throughout your spa journey.
    Heavenly Spa by Westin

    Experience a full body massage with this fresh shea butter packed with vitamin 3 jojoba and soybean oils that are sure to nourish your skin while keeping it hydrated. The melt avail spa package includes a 60-minute full-body Swedish massage, accompanied with pool and beach access for the day along with 25 per cent off food and beverages at the Horizon and pool sidebar, up until February 28, 2021 – all for Dhs290.
    For more information or to make a booking visit heavenlyspadubai.com
    Also read: We’ve found the most relaxing spa package for a steal at this luxe Dubai hotel
    The Spa at Palace Downtown

    With access to the monsoon showers, jacuzzis, steam rooms and relaxation lounge accompanied with a royal orange vitality scrub for 30 minutes. This antioxidant treatment is ideal for skin suffering from a loss of elasticity, by polishing the surface of your skin using highly effective botanical agents in an innovative manner to bring out that glow for Dhs355.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    B Attitude Spa at Grosvenor House

    Treat yourself to the ultimate aromatherapy experience for 60 minutes with a blend of luxurious oils to unwind as you empower your senses in this relaxing haven for Dhs449 available until the end of February. Combining oriental opulence with a plethora of signature treatments, this restful sanctuary is definitely one to visit.
    For more information visit battitudespa-dubai.com
    Tao Spa

    Built to provide an authentic spa experience, Tao Spa creates a fusion that ensures complete relaxation and rejuvenation. The Hilot massage is a full body massage from the Philippines promoting muscle relaxation through deep strokes including a specialized massage technique on the feet using a tool called dagdagay which is used to stimulate the nerves and trigger key acupressure points at Dhs360 for 60 minutes located at The Mall on Jumeirah Road.
    For more information visit taospa.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Supplied  More

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    Karen Wazen reveals what it takes to create a dream partnership in life

    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    Karen Wazen tells us what it takes to create a power partnership.
    What does love mean to you?
    I found myself when I fell in love. I discovered things about myself that I didn’t know I had in me when I fell in love. I grew when I fell in love and that is because the person that I love taught me how to love myself first. Love can be the most powerful feeling and that is why not confusing love with pure passion is important. Love is comfort, love is safety, love is respect, trust, support and commitment.
    What are the key qualities in a partner?

    Someone I can trust, someone supportive, someone who sets his ego aside and is proud and happy for the success of others, Someone who inspires me, someone who believes in me, someone who understands the value of a partnership.
    How do you ensure you’re on the same page?
    My husband and I communicate a lot – that is one of the foundations of our marriage. We started off in a long-distance relationship so communication was key because that’s all we had. The basis of our relationship was built on that. We very often check in with one and another and if we feel there is a period which might have led to one of us drifting away, we make sure to address it and fix it. We both prioritise our relationship and understand the importance of a healthy and solid relationship for our family.

    What is your love language?
    We are both romantics, we love spending time together and share a lot of similar likes. We are affectionate and caring and I especially love hugs and cuddles and he knows that so when he knows I’m feeling overwhelmed he knows a hug works to make me feel better.
    How do you ensure a work-life balance with your partner and your children?
    It is not easy balancing all these things but because we have our priorities set, we understand how important it is to make sacrifices to make things work. We often have date nights and we often surprise each other with little things that make each other happy. We do go through phases where we feel overwhelmed with everything that is going on and that’s when we make sure to take a step back and maybe take a family vacation or a break as we know that our well-being is more important than anything for the stability and foundation of our family.
    To you, what makes a ‘Dream Team’?
    Setting goals and targets together, complimenting each other’s skillsets and bringing the best out of one another.
    Last year changed a lot of dynamics in people’s lives, how did it affect your relationship?
    Elias started working from home and that actually brought us closer to each other. We give each other space but also are there for each other when we need each other. We also try to eat our meals together and exercise together which we enjoy.
    What is your advice for those looking for a partner in life?
    Find someone who makes you sleep and wake up with a smile. If it feels wrong, then it’s not the right relationship for you.
    What are the hurdles you have to overcome in love?
    We went through three years of a long-distance relationship and that was hard but with the right foundation, we made it work and here we are happily married with three children.
    This is ‘The Love Issue’ – how do you plan to instil love into your life throughout 2021?
    We plan to continue to grow together to build memories through the hard and good times. Always as a team.
    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More