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      Etihad Rail: Everything you need to know about UAE’s ambitious rail project

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      In 2004, the Gulf Cooperation Council’s six nations initiated a feasibility study for a regional railway network. Etihad Rail, founded in June 2009 through Federal Law No. 2, is responsible for overseeing the construction, development, and operation of the UAE’s national freight and passenger railway system.
      The primary objective of Etihad Rail is to connect key industrial and population hubs within the UAE and link them to other railways across the Gulf Cooperation Council.

      Etihad Rail links major trade hubs in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, through an extensive network of numerous depots and 593 bridges and crossings. The project will facilitate freight and passenger transport, supporting further social and economic development in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/aEpKjWlTXn
      — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 13, 2023

      Has the construction of Etihad Rail been finished?
      The UAE Network, constructed by Etihad Rail, is now finished. The 1,200 km railway spans the country, connecting Saudi Arabia’s border to Oman’s. It links key trade, industry, and population centers, enhancing trade and becoming part of the GCC railway network. Stage One has operated since 2016, moving sulphur, while Stage Two is done, connecting Emirates from Saudi border to Fujairah on the east coast.
      Is Etihad Rail intended for passenger use?
      The Etihad Rail Project encompasses a dual-purpose rail system, tailored to accommodate both cargo and commuter operations. The endeavor includes a substantial industrial facet, which has already commenced with the movement of granulated sulfur within the western region of Abu Dhabi.
      What is the estimated cost of the Etihad Rail project?
      Etihad Rail constitutes a significant 1,200km railway initiative under construction within the United Arab Emirates. Stretching from the Saudi border to Fujairah along the Indian Ocean coastline, this railway project is being built with an estimated investment of AED 40 billion ($11 billion).
      What are the planned destinations for the Etihad Rail network?

      Spanning the vast expanse from Al Sila to Fujairah, traversing through enclaves like Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi, this visionary endeavor aspires to curtail the vehicular migrations between Emirates by a notable margin of 30 to 40 percent. Anticipated travel times project the trains to gracefully glide through the landscape, with a journey of 1 hour and 40 minutes earmarked between Abu Dhabi and Sohar. In a striking contrast, the journey from Al Ain to Sohar will be an expeditious 47-minute odyssey.”

      Which nations will be linked by the Etihad Rail system?
      The Etihad Rail map displays a vast 1,200-kilometer network that links key urban areas such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain, along with industrial centers and ports. This rail system will also extend to Oman and Saudi Arabia, boosting trade and logistics.
      While cargo trains are currently in operation, passenger services will be introduced in the future.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @etihad_rail More

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      A new era of shopping via WhatsApp is here at Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      After a long week, a trip to the mall takes an ample amount of effort, time and energy.
      To solve this, Mall of the Emirates has launched an all-new Digital Concierge service as part of the brand’s vision to adapt to a digital society for unhindered convenience.
      With over 350 international designers and a plethora of homegrown brands, the shopping experience has never been easier than before through the power of technology as you can seamlessly shop via WhatsApp for a nuanced shopping experience. From brands such as Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Harvey Nichols, Zara and more, customers can choose from a myriad of products through this unique shopping experience.

      By blurring the lines between online and in-person shopping, this hybrid model will be able to reach a wide audience with a touch of a button and for a smooth journey when it comes to shopping.
      After placing an order through the simplified one-to-one WhatsApp conversation, customers can receive their purchases in a span of few hours right at their doorstep without any added hassle.
      “While we’ve always prioritised an omnichannel experience, we decided to elevate our offering with the Digital Concierge service which enables shoppers to shop from their most loved brands in the comfort of their own homes,” says the Managing Director of UAE Shopping Malls, Fuad Sharaf at Majid Al Futtaim Properties.
      For those in need of professional advice, the brand has also dedicated a stylist to revamp your closet through their specialist services. By visiting the website consumers can choose their preferred stylist and package, in order to receive a personalised consultation and unique shopping experience.

      The mall has also introduced a smart parking service for shoppers known as digital reserved parking allowing shoppers to avail of this by simply downloading the Mall of the Emirates application in order to reserve a space with the ‘Parking’ section and to complete the process after filling our details regarding their visit. With a ticketless parking, reserved parking and SHARE privilege parking, there’s more to follow for this revolutionised shopping experience.
      To try this new-era of shopping, simply visit malloftheemirates.com
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @veneti.a More

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      Britney Spears and Sam Asghari, latest to join the list of separated couples in 2023

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      2023 isn’t the year of love for celebrities. This morning, news about Britney Spears and Sam Asghari calling it quits broke, and with that, another Hollywood couple bites the dust.
      Britney and her husband Sam have separated after 14 months of marriage. The couple tied the knot in June 2022, after Sam popped the question in September 2021. In an intimate ceremony at the pop star’s Thousand Oaks home — the wedding marked a new era in Britney’s life, as she reclaimed power over her life after 13 years of conservatorship.
      Britney and Sam are amongst the many celebrity duos who have decided to go their own way this year. Just a week ago, One Three Hill alumni, Sophia Bush filed for divorce from her husband of a year, Grant Hugh. The Bear famed Jeremy Allen White was also spotted out and about without his wedding ring after rumours about his divorce kept doing the rounds.
      July was a sob-fest as well, from Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez heading for a divorce to Sophia Vergara and Joe Manganiello ending their marriage over irreconcilable differences – are marriages truly even made in heaven?

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

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      19 of the most Instagrammable restaurants to visit in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 19 IMAGES
      Dubai’s burgeoning food scene is growing by the day.
      With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these quaint cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
      Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.
      If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @portrayingmystyle_ More

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      QASIMI by Sheikha Al Hoor launches an initiative to supports UNICEF’s efforts in Sudan

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      QASIMI, helmed by Sheikha Al Hoor of Sharjah, has responded to the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan by launching a charity initiative to support UNICEF’s vital efforts on the ground.
      The initiative aims to provide critical aid and resources to affected children and families, showcasing QASIMI’s commitment to helping those impacted by conflict. Amidst the challenges, the initiative seeks to bring hope and make a positive impact in Sudan.

      The ongoing Sudan War has brought immense suffering, particularly affecting vulnerable children through displacement, food scarcity, and medical emergencies. Recognizing the urgency, QASIMI is leading an initiative to shine a light of hope amidst adversity.
      The QASIMI Charity Initiative has several goals:

      Raise awareness about the Sudan crisis and UNICEF’s crucial role in supporting families and children.
      Donate all proceeds from the sale of HOAG T-SHIRT through the QASIMI website to the cause.
      Bridge fashion and philanthropy, providing supporters with a meaningful way to contribute.

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

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      Want to plan ahead? Here’s the next public holiday in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      If you’re thinking of a short-haul getaway or in need of a quick staycation, then there’s some good news for you.
      During the month of September, Prophet Muhammad’s birthday towards the end of the month, allowing the UAE residents to potentially have a three-day long weekend. Known as Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi, which translates to ‘birthday of the prophet’, this occasion is known as the 12th day of the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, known as the third month of the Islamic Lunar calendar.
      As September 29, 2023 falls on a Friday, this means another three-day weekend for UAE residents at the end of the month allowing them to have Friday, Saturday and Sunday off.
      While official announcements are still yet to be released for both private and public sectors, there could most likely be a holiday as last year in 2022, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) declared this occasion a public holiday, however, it fell on the weekend on Saturday, thereby leading to no additional day off.
      The remaining holidays…

      Official holidays remaining in 2023.#UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/70CRhMoiug
      — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) April 22, 2023

      After September, the remaining holidays for the year include National Day on December 2 and 3, 2023, which will officially be declared one to two weeks prior.
      During the month of December, UAE residents can expect December 1, 2023, which is Commemoration Day and was previously known as Martyrs’ Day to fall on Friday 2023, after which National Day will fall on December 2 and 3, making it another three-day long weekend of the year.
      Following this, the holidays for 2024 shall be released and will start with a public holiday on January 1, 2024 which happens to be a be a Monday.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @visitabudhabi @naty_gorgosova More

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      Emirates Airlines to scale up London Heathrow flights

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, will be expanding its London Heathrow flights between October 31, 2023, and March 30, 2024.
      The additional five-a-week service aims to meet the rising demand during the winter season and provide travelers with more options. Currently operating six daily A380 flights to London Heathrow, Emirates will add extra flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, utilizing Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in a three-class configuration.
      The departure from Dubai is scheduled for 13:20hrs, reaching London Heathrow at 17:20hrs, while the return flight departs Heathrow at 20:15hrs and lands in Dubai at 07:15hrs the following day.

      These tickets can be purchased through various channels, including Emirates’ website, sales offices, travel agents, and online travel agents. With over 125 weekly flights to the UK, Emirates also offers a diverse range of entertainment options with its inflight entertainment system, ice.
      Furthermore, Emirates’ base in Dubai remains a popular destination, and UK visitors can leverage the Dubai Experience platform for customized travel itineraries.
      For more information, visit www.emirates.com.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: @emirates & feature image: Instagram @sarashakeel More

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      All the luxe hotels with private pools in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      As the sweltering heat is here to stay for the next couple of months, there’s nothing like cooling off in the privacy of your own private pool.
      From temperature-controlled swimming pools to luxe views of the UAE’s skyline, these exotic properties offer their own private swimming facility to unwind with friends and family.
      Emirates Woman has curated a list of must-visit resorts located both in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, that offer their own space to unwind as you book a premium villa or suite that best fits your needs.
      Abu Dhabi
      Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

      If you’re looking for a city escape in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this urban waterfront retreat offers an expanse of mangroves with waterfront swimming and mangrove kayaking during your stay as you unwind at the Mangrove pool suite. It offers a host of privileges from an abundance of space to basking on your terrace or in the mini plunge pool, which elevates your stay in UAE’s capital.
      For more information visit Anantara.com
      Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island

      Located on the pristine white beach of Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking Saadiyat Island, this one-of-a-kind five-star property features a striking modern Arabic architecture with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Starting with the one-bedroom beach villa, guests can rejuvenate at their very own large private plunge pool with a fully furnished terrace, as they absorb unrivalled sea views that are reminiscent of an elegant beach house with a location that is hard to beat.
      For more information visit Rotana.com
      Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Rooted deep within the desert landscape of Al Wathba, an intimate retreat with natural beauty lies at the hallmark of this hotel experience, with guests ready to embark on an individual wellness journey, immersed by privacy. With a secluded plunge pool, guests can take in serene views of the Arabian Desert from their villa with a generous amount of space as they lay back and absorb the beauty of the property.
      For more information visit alwathbahotel.com
      Dubai
      One&Only The Palm

      This glittering sanctuary with lush gardens is secluded on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah with opulent hotel rooms, while also featuring beachfront villas with their own private swimming pools as you witness breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. The premium villa allows you to step into the world of luxury with complete relaxation as you’re surrounded by lush private gardens and can cool off in your private temperature-controlled swimming pool with a majlis-style space shrouded by an oversized gazebo.
      For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
      Anantara The Palm

      With a private sanctuary that overlooks the beach and Arabian Gulf beyond, you can enjoy luxurious sunny days by the poolside with private concierge services at the Villa with options for one or two bedrooms as you unwind in style with oversized daybeds featuring a lagoon that is made into something special.
      For more information visit anantara.com
      Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

      With a relaxed yet effortless atmosphere, Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts prides itself in providing guests with an unrivalled luxury lifestyle experience, while offering guests contemporary dining with an enhanced Nikki Beach experience. The Nikki beach pool villa is pleasant to the eye, with a uniquely designed space featuring an external shower pool and vast recreational areas that are perfectly conceived down to the smallest detail. With a perfect combination of white, light blue and beige colours in the interiors, the outdoor area is fitted with high-quality furniture offering a unique area for private dining or relaxing.
      For more information visit nikkibeach.com
      Melia Desert Palm

      This urban oasis offers lush green surroundings with an elegant oasis in the one-bedroom hideaway villas with ground floor living and dining spaces that extends to the spacious outdoor as guests enjoy a home away from home for the ultimate privacy with an alfresco dining area, complemented with a stone-walled courtyard for utmost serenity. With fascinating views of Dubai’s skyline and your own space to unwind at, there’s enough of room in this superlatively designed area to relax with friends and family.
      For more information visit melia.com
      Bulgari Resort Dubai

      Bringing the Mediterranean style to the Middle East, while being surrounded by ocean views with a nautical spirit imbibed at the property, guests can unwind at the luxurious beach view villas with stunning landscaped gardens and a temperature-controlled pool, as the villas offer the perfect amount of space to have the ultimate luxury gathering with the feeling and privacy of being at home, while enjoying the details of a sunken marble bathtub in the layout.
      For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
      Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Just under an hours drive from the city of Dubai is Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa. This luxury hotel, which resembles a luxurious Bedouin encampment, is the perfect escape for a weekend recharge. While the resort’s location already ensures maximum privacy for guests, Al Maha’s 42 suites take luxury and privacy to the next level. Each suite boasts a private temperature-controlled pool overlooking the infinite desert views, alongside opulent interiors which pay tribute to Arabian heritage with handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artefacts.
      Ras Al Khaimah
      The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

      Escape to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah at The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach resort which has 32 luxurious villas that each have their very own private pool, as well as direct beach access.
      The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

      For those seeking a desert escape in Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert resort is ideal. Similar to its sister resort, there are 100 villas available each with its own private pool.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ More