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      6 of the best Sharjah desert cafés to visit this winter

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      15 hours ago

      With the weather cooling down and winter fast approaching in the UAE, soon it will be the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler weather by spending time outdoors.
      Encouraging people to embrace their natural surroundings, many different desert dining concepts emerged last season, particularly in Sharjah, and we’ll most definitely be paying a visit this year.
      With that, we’ve outlined the very best places to dine in a sophisticated setting whilst basking in the serenity of the desert.
      NOT a SPACE

      This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
      For more information visit notaspace.ae
      The Uncommon

      If you’re on the hunt for something different, this space is designed especially for you. Created against the backdrop of the picturesque Sharjah desert skyline, there’s a series of delectable hot and cold beverages to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surroundings. Known for its stunning mirrored display, visitors can capture those Instagrammable selfies or unwind at this relaxing spot. Designed to relish an array of delicious bites including baked goods in the heart of the desert, this sophisticated spot is unlike any other. You can book a spot to The Uncommon on the Requeue app.
      One Degree Café

      Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.
      Common Winter

      With a minimal aesthetic in the heart of the Sharjah desert, this gorgeous area is converted into a refreshing hotspot with a range of delectable and premium coffee. As an unmissable experience, this winter pop-up is designed with dispersed mirrors, unending views of the scenery, making it another gem in the middle of the desert. Situated near Al Faya Desert, this popular spot has already gained quite a bit of traction, making it everyone’s favourite spot who visits. Located in Al Fayah, it’s open from 3pm to 1am.
      Link by Mara

      With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
      Coffee House

      This sophisticated setup almost gives a wedding-like feel with flowy curtains and rattan chairs that set it apart from the rest. From croissants to carefully prepared beverages ranging from hot chocolates to coffees, guests can surely dine in style with the glistening skies above the setting. With the luxe décor featuring modern-day lights and the sandy desert combined, you’re sure to make multiple visits to this pop-up.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @_aljp More

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      Creative Director of Pellicano Group on fearlessly elevating the family firm

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      Life

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      CEO and Creative Director of Pellicano Group, Marie-Louise Scio talks to Emirates Woman about fearlessly elevating the family firm with fire, passion and an acute attention to detail.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I kickstart my day with a 25-minute meditation session. Itʼs like a mental reset button, helping me to stay centred and focused as I step into the day ahead.
      How do you combine legacy with modernity now that you are at the helm of the family firm?
      Balancing our rich legacy with the demands of the modern world feels like second nature to me. Itʼs all about honouring the values and traditions that have been the bedrock of our family business while infusing it with fresh ideas and contemporary approaches to meet our guestsʼ ever-evolving needs.
      How do you define the different DNA of the properties and is there a common thread that connects them all?
      Each of our hotels has its unique DNA, shaped by the captivating stories and settings of their locales. My approach involves infusing every aspect of our hotels, from design to cuisine and ambiance, with the very essence of these remarkable places. Itʼs all about creating a truly immersive and sensorial experience. And what ties them together? Itʼs an unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch quality across all our properties, ensuring our guests experience the utmost in comfort, service, and overall excellence.

      You launched ISSIMO – tell us how this brave move into ecommerce came about and what was the final catalyst to launch?
      The idea for ISSIMO blossomed from my desire to extend the magic of our hotels beyond their physical boundaries. I wanted to encapsulate the entire sensory experience in one digital space. So, I broke it down into various categories, and it naturally led to the creation of a dedicated website. Yes, ISSIMO is wonderfully diverse, but thatʼs precisely the point. Itʼs the online embodiment of the Pellicano world, reflecting our philosophy of quality and excellence. The name itself, ISSIMO, signifies ‘the bestʼ, and thatʼs precisely what we aim to offer. ISSIMO isnʼt just e-commerce; itʼs also a treasure trove of editorial content. Itʼs a place where you can shop and explore Italyʼs regions through the eyes of knowledgeable locals, guiding you to the best of everything.
      What has been the biggest success since the launch and. are there any pieces which drive sales season after season?
      Our most celebrated achievement since the launch has been the Monopoly ISSIMO. Itʼs a unique collectible edition, “The Italian Road Trip,” that adds an irresistible Italian twist to the classic board game. Players roll the dice and embark on a journey through the beautiful Italian landscape, discovering iconic locations, hidden gems, delicious cuisine, and storied artisans along the way. And yes, itʼs been a hit season after season. In addition, our hotel merchandising, from signature ‘stripesʼ towels to cosy bathrobes, has been adored by individuals and businesses alike. Itʼs a testament to the love for our brand.
      When have you had to be fearless in life and how did this materialize?
      Fearlessness has been a constant companion in both my personal and professional life. In my career, it often means trusting my instincts when doubt tries to creep in. Iʼve found that my most significant accomplishments occurred when I followed my gut and persevered through challenges.

      What is your biggest strength?
      Iʼd say resilience. Itʼs the ability to adapt, bounce back, and stay committed, even in the face of adversity,that has been a cornerstone of my journey.
      What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome it?
      Iʼve faced personal and professional challenges. My approach? Dive in and be fully present. By immersing myself in these challenges, Iʼve found solutions and worked through them.
      Have you had any mentors in life, and if so, what knowledge did they impart?
      Iʼve been fortunate to have many mentors whoʼve influenced my perspective and taught me a lot. My parents, in particular, have been pivotal. They taught me to think big, to never limit myself, and to push boundaries.
      What is a kindness you’ve received or a lesson you’ve learned that you’d like to pay forward?
      The importance of open listening is a lesson close to my heart. I strive to maintain this openness in my interactions, fostering meaningful connections and mutual growth.

      What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
      Iʼd tell my younger self not to rush and always to believe in myself. Trust your journey, and have confidence inyour abilities.
      How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
      I canʼt reveal all our secrets, but I can assure you that quality is at the heart of our approach. It’s non-negotiable. Quality permeates everything we do, from our team members to our products and services.
      What is the key to client retention in the luxury space?
      Client retention in luxury hinges on offering a unique perspective and delivering outstanding service and experiences consistently.
      October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – 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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      Exclusive: At home with Sofia Sayah, Founder of Sosaï Events

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES
      Founder of Sosaï Events, Sofia Sayah, talks to Emirates Woman about her home space and how it reflects her brand.
      How long have you been in this space?
      I moved in earlier this year but intend to make it a long-term home.
      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      I’ve had custom tables created to match my specific vision where I was seeking unique table legs, something I couldn’t readily find in the market. Although not a piece per se, my favourite addition to the villa is my window which I transformed into a single glasspanel which floods the space withsunlight all day.
      How do you think the interior buys reflect you and your brand?
      Every item I’ve chosen to furnish my space with is a true reflection of both me and my brand’s essence, which centres around a minimalistic and neutral aesthetic. Through our events, we aim to steer our clients away from excessive clutter and extravagant décor and instead encourage a focus on meticulous details and uncompromising quality.
      Describe your taste in three words.
      Organic, natural and contemporary.
      October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – 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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      4 times Salt Bae impressed the royal families around the world

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      13 hours ago

      A viral sensation who became famous for his meat-slapping, salt-sprinkling and signature sunglasses in no time, Nusr-et one of the most visited restaurants in Dubai.
      Chef Nusret Gökçe, also known as ‘Salt Bae’, has impressed many celebrity A-listers around the world, but he has also become a hit amongst the royal crowd.
      After winning credit for all his memes, he’s surely managed to wow royal families from around the world, as well as here in the UAE.
      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

      Sharing a photo to Facebook, the chef revealed the Ruler of Dubai visited one of his establishments back in 2017. The Ruler of Dubai paid a further visit to his Jumeriah Beach Road restaurant in 2018.
      His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

      With restaurants both in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, is seen laughing in this image, as he received yet another royalty’s stamp of approval. The shared image of him displays him shaking hands with the royal, captioning it “The King”. His Highness paid a visit to Salt Bae in 2017 in Dubai.
      King Mohammed VI of Morocco

      Belonging to the Alaouite dynasty, the King of Morocco was snapped in the lovely image with Salt Bae which he captioned saying, “Thank you for visiting me.” The monarch paid a visit to Dubai back in 2018.
      Jordan’s King Abdullah II & Queen Rania

      Posing with Jordan’s reigning monarch King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania, Salt Bae met the royals in 2017. Upon their visit three years ago, Salt Bae shared some photos of himself with the Jordanian royals and thanked both the king and queen for their hospitality and generosity.
      On our next visit to the world-renowned restaurant, we hope to capture a snap with Salt Bae himself if he’s in town.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More

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      In Pics: Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana enjoy a countryside vacation in the U.K

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      26 mins ago

      Away from the hustle-bustle of Dubai, newlyweds Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana have escaped to the United Kingdom for a cosy countryside getaway.
      Ever since their wedding, the couple has been seen spending quality time together. From exploring fun activities like visiting a shooting range club within Dubai to their recent water sports adventure in Greece, the royal couple is all about trying new things and making memories.
      Recently, for a rather quiet break, Sheikh Mana and Sheikha Mahra chose to spend their days nestled in the luscious countryside of the U.K. In a glimpse of their downtime, Sheikh Mana shared pictures of their luxurious estate, where the couple was seen enjoying each other’s company. Evenings in the balcony or long drives in the woods, it all looked like a picture-perfect vacation.
      Inside Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana’s romatic UK getaway:

      When did the couple get married?
      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in March. On April 5 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
      Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra @man3almaktoum More

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      Tàn Chá Brunch: A culinary gem for vegans and omnivores alike

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Nestled within the JW Marriott Marquis at Business Bay, Tàn Chá unveils a new gastronomic delight through the Tàn Chá Brunch.
      What truly distinguishes The Tàn Chá Brunch is its commitment to catering to a multitude of dietary preferences, encapsulated in two distinct set menus. For Dubai’s flourishing vegan community, an exclusive curated “Vrunch” menu promises a tantalizing array of oriental-inspired vegan delicacies.
      Even the most dedicated omnivores have succumbed to the allure of the delectable, health-conscious offerings on the menu.

      This culinary haven leaves no palate unattended, making it a hidden gem for all food enthusiasts in Dubai.
      But the brunch experience isn’t solely about exceptional cuisine. Guests are in for a treat with a dynamic atmosphere that includes a live percussionist and a DJ spinning modern tunes with a nod to the past, ensuring that the ambiance is as captivating as the food.
      The Tàn Chá Brunch guarantees a cherished culinary journey, where you and your loved ones can be promised a good time. Whether you’re a vegan connoisseur or a dedicated omnivore, prepare to embark on a taste expedition.

      Brunch Details:
      Time: 2 PM to 6 PMLocation: Tàn Chá Restaurant, JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay.
      To know more, email: Reservations@tanchadubai.com or phone: +971 56 681 8881.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      The Dubai Match Maker on the pivots that led her to build an AI-powered matchmaking app

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      Christiana Maxion aka “The Dubai Match Maker”, on how her pivots led her to finding her path, including being the Founder of an AI-powered social matchmaking app.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I hate to say but the first thing I do is reach for my phone. With clients all over the world and a team in all time zones, I check my phone first to see if I need to address anything critical. This is then followed by walking my toy poodle Toby in the garden then a coffee on my terrace with a view of the Burj Khalifa journaling. I journal every single day — my gratitude list, goals, and ways to contribute/ add value to others. The more you give, the more you receive.
      You’ve been fearless in changing your career – can you expand on this?
      My early studies and career were in Finance, but I changed course into Education. I had a very successful career as a curriculum coordinator, teacher trainer, school leader, and published author. I used to run a former Instagram account. I ran ‘dating in Dubai’ and what l learned from having that account was that people hated dating in Dubai and I was baffled! You can literally date the entire map here and the most incredible, ambitious people I have ever met have been living in Dubai. I’ve always been a solution seeker and took this as my next challenge to overcome… I’m going to solve dating in Dubai! With the introduction of new long-term visas, the amazing way the UAE dealt with the pandemic, and new laws promoting more freedom in dating and partnership, I decided to consult a legal team about the legalities of opening a professional matchmaking business here in Dubai. I got the green light in 2021 and opened my agency: Christiana Maxion Solutions. Only seven months into the launch of my agency, I was contacted by matchmaking giants Patti Stanger’s Millionaire’s Club and Cinqe Matchmaking to join forces to expand globally and enter into a formal partnership. This new affiliation not only marked a significant new milestone for Christiana Maxion Solutions, but also provides our clients with unlimited matchmaking opportunities across the globe, giving our clients an even greater chance of meeting “the one”.
      We work with the most sought-after HNWIs and UHNWIs in the world. Each has built empires with undeniable levels of success. Hiring a matchmaker isn’t their last resort, it’s their only option. The extreme success and high demand of my core business as a matchmaker to HNWI and UHNWI have led to the creation of my app: MAXION: Match & Meet. It is the first AI-powered social matchmaking concierge app, and a way to bring my niche services to the masses. As a first-time tech founder, there have been many highs and some lows, but entering a new world of tech forced me to learn and learn quickly! I’ve had people try to scam me, purposefully lead me down the wrong direction, and steal ideas… but I am so firm in my belief that I am going to change so many people’s lives with the connections that MAXION will create, that I have been so focused and only see success for us.
      MAXION is an AI-powered social matchmaking concierge. How can AI help in analyzing potential relationships?
      AI is a term that is now used too loosely. MAXION is using AI to master compatibility and concierge, so that all our members have to focus on is connection. I can share that our members’ feedback from their meets will curate their entire dating and social experience to help them find success. Our systems are based on the 96% success rate of my core business of matchmaking HNWIs.

      How has this been optimized to ensure the product is user-friendly?
      We are sharing our app with 500 selected beta testers. The team that built the billion-dollar app Calm, Gymshark, Marks & Spencer and many others, is now building MAXION: Match & Meet. This beta testing will ensure we can optimise the UX – we are working with both AI and real-life humans and connections here, so yes, it has to be right, and it has to provide the convenience and concierge we are promising, exactly what time-poor people need. This beta testing with founder members will be crucial for further developments. What metrics do you use to measure a successful match? There are several factors and with the app, there will be an algorithm that I can’t share publicly but I will share that feedback is super important for a successful match. The more you date, the more curated the experience becomes to find success in both your social and romantic lives. Feedback is everything!
      What are new product features that set it apart from other apps?
      Besides our unique compatibility algorithm and AI enhancements, it’s in the tagline: Match & Meet. No more ghosting, flaky daters, and swiping from an endless pool of incompatible partners. All MAXION Members are extensively verified. We are NOT a free-mium product and will ensure that all MAXION Members are of a calibre that is up to your personal standard. We advise all our members to never settle. We love picky people.
      How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
      MAXION: Match & Meet is a way to reach a wider audience and to create so much more connection in the region. Our extreme vetting process is still a handpicked process and our tech aides in all other aspects. For the core business of the personalised matchmaking of HNWIs, I am currently expanding my matchmaking team in UAE and UK in order to keep up with the demand for our services at Christiana Maxion Solutions.
      This is The Fearlessness Issue – what is your advice on how to fearlessly approach making real-life connections?
      Be fearless in who you are and what you bring to the table. Your successes, accomplishments, achievements, character, and values are what make you unique and special in every way. Stand firm and be proud of YOU. This will attract your ideal partner. Another bit of advice that I give to daters and entrepreneurs is to be a duck. Everything rolls off your back like water off a duck’s back. Don’t let the ups and the downs get you too low or too high and keep swimming along. Stay focused on your pursuits.
      October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – 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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      To renew the lease or relocate? Let the Dubai rental market report 2023 help you decide

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 hour ago

      The Dubai rental market is experiencing a transformation, with the latest report shedding light on intriguing developments.
      In recent years, Dubai’s rental market has witnessed a remarkable resurgence, effectively ending a period of negative growth that spanned from mid-2015 to late 2021.
      As of July 2023, the data from the Dubai Land Department reveals a staggering 43.5% increase in the total number of tenancy contracts registered compared to the same period in 2019, reaching a total of 325,727 contracts.
      This impressive growth has translated into average apartment rents reaching their highest levels since February 2017, and villa rents hitting record highs.
      However, beneath these headline figures, a significant divide has emerged in the rental market. The number of new contracts registered has dropped by 12.6%, while renewed registrations have grown by 29.0%. This suggests that tenants are opting to renew their leases rather than relocate due to the higher rates prevalent in new leases, especially in prime residential areas. These tenants are leveraging the protection offered by the RERA rental regulations, which cap annual rental increases at a maximum of 20.0%.

      To provide a comprehensive view, the report analyzed nearly 703,000 residential rental transactions between January 2018 and July 2023, focusing on both apartments and villas. In the apartment segment, it covered 23 different free-hold communities, while for villas, it encompassed 20 free-hold areas.
      For apartments, a noteworthy shift has occurred. Historically, new rental contracts averaged a 5.0% discount compared to renewed contracts between January 2018 and July 2021. However, with increasing demand, this trend has reversed, and in July 2023, new rental contracts commanded an average premium of 20.1% over renewed contracts.
      This change is not uniform across all communities; prime and core markets like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Business Bay started achieving premiums on new rental contracts in early 2021. Although, secondary neighborhoods have seen relatively negligible premium growth compared to prime areas.
      In the villa segment, supply constraints have led to a different dynamic. Demand for single-family homes has surged, resulting in a 29.9% increase in the number of tenancy contracts registered compared to 2019 levels as of July 2023. Consequently, new rental contracts command an average premium of 25.2%. While this is slightly down from its peak in December 2022, the premium continues to hold strong.

      In conclusion, the Dubai rental market is witnessing a fascinating interplay between new and renewed contracts, with varying trends across different segments. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both tenants and landlords navigating this evolving market.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied by CBRE Mena  More