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      Dopamine decor: 11 feel-good items that will make your home your happy space

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      “Dopamine decor” is a term used to describe interior design choices that aim to stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, by creating a visually appealing and emotionally uplifting environment.
      Here are some ways to incorporate dopamine decor:
      Color Palette: Choose colors that evoke positive emotions. Vibrant hues like blues, greens, and yellows can create a cheerful atmosphere.
      Natural Light: Maximize natural light to improve mood. Open curtains, use sheer fabrics, and position mirrors strategically to reflect light.
      Texture and Comfort: Include plush cushions, soft rugs, and cozy blankets to create a sense of comfort and relaxation.
      Art and Creativity: Hang artwork that resonates with you emotionally. Abstract, colorful, and visually stimulating pieces can elicit positive feelings.
      Sensory Elements: Use scented candles, essential oils, or incense to engage the sense of smell and create a soothing environment.
      Organized Space: A clutter-free environment can reduce stress and anxiety. Proper organization promotes a sense of control and calmness.
      Positive Affirmations: Decorate with positive quotes, affirmations, or motivational artwork to uplift your spirits.
      Functional Design: Arrange furniture in a way that promotes easy movement and functionality. A well-organized space can reduce frustration and increase efficiency.
      Variety and Novelty: Incorporate elements that capture your attention and pique your curiosity. Unique or unexpected decor pieces can trigger feelings of excitement.
      10 editor-approved dopamine-inducing decor items you can add to your cart

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Farfetch & Feature Image: Instagram @ted.amsterdam More

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      7 must-visit Dubai spots for your matcha dessert cravings

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      27 mins ago

      As a healthier alternative to your caffeine intake, Matcha has increased in popularity over the years.
      With various cafés in Dubai bringing on a new take to Matcha in the form of new desserts, there’s a plethora of hotspots to visit with Japan’s most loved
      This delectable incarnation in cakes and other sweet tooth variables has been seen throughout the Emirate as the ingredient continues to rise in fame.
      So if you’re on the lookout for an experimental take on matcha, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the must-visit spots in Dubai.
      NETTE

      Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from. Their vegan Matcha and Chocolate éclair is a must-try for your matcha cravings. The quaint café is located inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz.
      Megumi Matcha

      As Dubai’s first matcha specialty shop, this woman-owned and operated café works as a farm-to-packaging concept. For all the macaron lovers, this Korean-style macaron comes with Black sesame matcha flavour with an irresistible taste. Run by women, guests can also delve into the history of the Japanese tea ceremony. Megumi hosts a matcha workshop at Vanilla Sukkar – a local mother-and-daughter-owned gem in Jumeirah.
      For more information visit megumimatcha.com
      The Kakao Guy

      Satisfy your sweet tooth with their luscious Matcha Nama Chocolate. Made with premium quality ingredients, this indulgent treat is a fusion of rich, creamy chocolate and earthy matcha flavors that will tantalise your taste buds. Known for their freshly bakes cakes and desserts this Nama chocolate with customers craving for more and can now be delivered straight to your doorstep.
      For more information visit thekakaoguy.com
      Yamanote Atelier

      At this artisanal Japanese bakery and café concept guests can expect a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes. Inspired by Japanese minimalist and pastel colours, this venue comes with a modern quirky edge. Reminiscent of the cafés Japanese culture, the pieces are baked fresh with authentic ingredients. For the matcha lover, the newly introduced matcha-flavoured dessert, Ya Baum is the perfect treat. Guests can visit the brand’s several locations across Dubai including Mirdif Hills, Dubai Frame, Al Seef Village Mall, Motor City, Al Ferdous Dubai and The Dubai Mall.
      For more information visit yamanoteatelier.com
      Bageri Form

      Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal café was elevating bakery classics and serving dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, the bakery also serves freshly sourced matcha in minimal cups for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagrammable-worthy. For all the matcha fans, the restaurant has recently added the matcha tartine with matcha butter and biscuit crumb. It’s located in Dubai Design District, Building 4.
      For more information visit bageriform.com
      Soo Matcha

      As UAE’s all Matcha-inspired café, visitors are sure to have the whole matcha experience. After first launching in early 2020, this hotspot comes with all things matcha. By experimenting with different flavours and constantly tailoring their menu, the brand even has its own matcha-flavoured ice cream that’s irresistible and must-try.
      For more information visit soomatcha.com
      More Matcha

      Located in DIFC, this new hotspot will have matcha lovers hooked, as it cater to all their craving. Besides the regular matcha drink and coffee, you can also enjoy matcha éclairs, donuts or soft serve. The decor and the aesthetic completely elevates the vibe of the place in a complementary pastel green palette, giving it a fresh facelift.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @beauty_snob More

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      Transforming Dubai’s dining scene: Zenon’s futuristic culinary odyssey

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      Life

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 hour ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: Adding another feather into Dubai’s already lavish culinary offerings, Zenon, an avant-garde restaurant and lounge located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, promises to redefine the concept of dining and entertainment.
      Oktay Unlu, the General Manager of Zenon, emphasizes, “Zenon is more than just a dining destination; it’s an immersive journey where innovation, art, and gastronomy seamlessly merge, reimagining the dining experience.”
      Blend of culture

      Zenon dares to experiment by combining the timeless flavors of the Mediterranean with the precision of Asian cuisine, set against a backdrop of digital wonder. The ambiance is a harmonious blend of modernity and otherworldly mystique, with a spectacular visual display.
      Futuristic ambiance

      Zenon’s venue features holograms that dance, and walls that come alive with dynamic digital art. A team of Microsoft Kinect cameras captures every movement, while the resident DJ, adorned with specialist headwear, transforms their energy into bespoke digital artwork.
      Infusion of AI

      Zenon’s commitment to innovation extends to the realm of artificial intelligence. With the power of Google intelligence and state-of-the-art Microsoft Kinect cameras, Zenon offers a dynamic, AI-driven visual journey that evolves from one moment to the next, enhancing the overall experience.
      Chefs behind the table
      Executive Chef Lorenzo Buccarini is a creative and passionate individual known for preparing exquisite dishes that showcase his love for culinary craftsmanship. Head Chef Tatsuya Ueda, who has a rich background in crafting exquisite sushi experiences, brings a world of flavors to Zenon’s menu with his unique Omakase counter concept.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Ed Sheeran to perform in Dubai (again) in 2024

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      Emirates Man

      by Ruman Baig
      48 mins ago

      International superstar Ed Sheeran has thrilled fans with the revelation of his upcoming ‘Mathematics’ concert tour in 2024.
      The beloved pop singer-songwriter recently unveiled his return to the stage, promising an electrifying global tour that’s generating immense excitement.
      Ed Sheeran expressed his eagerness to perform in a variety of cherished cities and countries across the world. One destination that’s particularly buzzing with anticipation is Dubai, where the artist is set to mesmerize his fans.
      While the exact date and venue for the Dubai concert remain a closely guarded secret, the good news is that fans won’t have to wait too long. Ed Sheeran’s official website has hinted that more details about the Dubai performance will be disclosed on November 6, 2023.

      Ed Sheeran’s ‘Mathematics’ tour isn’t limited to Dubai; it’s a worldwide journey that will take him to several destinations. Confirmed stops on his tour include Bahrain and multiple Asian countries. On March 9, 2024, the music enthusiasts in Manila, Philippines, will witness his live performance, followed by a concert in Mumbai, India, on March 16, 2024.
      The intriguing name of Ed Sheeran’s tour, ‘Mathematics,’ is derived from his albums, each inspired by mathematical symbols. His concert’s setlist will be a musical journey through albums named ‘Plus,’ ‘Multiply,’ ‘Divide,’ ‘Equals,’ and his latest creation, ‘Subtract.’ This thematic approach promises to deliver a diverse and unforgettable experience to his audience.
      Ed Sheeran last performed in Dubai in 2017 — after 7 whole years of wait, the singer will be back to serenade his ardent fans in the region.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @teddyphotos More

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      Alaya: Chef Izu’s new dining destination that strikes a balance of authentic delicacies

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      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES
      Located in Gate Village at DIFC, Alaya is the latest upscale lifestyle dining destination by award-winning Chef Izu Ani and F&B trailblazer Evgeny Kuzin.
      From one successful homegrown concept to another, Chef Izu continues to enhance the culinary offering in the region. The award-winning chef leads the way within the ever-evolving F&B space with an unrivalled flair and attention to detail which embeds his clean, fresh and light culinary style loved by royals including Crown Prince of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
      Evgeny Kuzin, the mastermind behind A-list approved iconic international venues such as Cipriani and Scalini to regional favourites like GAIA and Shanghai Me which blend ambiance, cuisine and location across the globe, enhancing Dubai’s culinary status globally.
      With its integrated approach, Alaya pays homage to the traditions of the region interweaved with a refined and elegant decor by Richard Saunders of Sagrada, that infuses Middle Eastern worldliness combined with the beauty of the Mediterranean to deliver a boho-eclectic sensorial dining experience.
      One of the hallmarks of Alaya is centered on the joy of sharing and dining in good company, which is expressed in the authentic dishes that are served through a sharing concept to draw people around the table. Whether you’re having a leisurely lunch or a hearty dinner, expect a gastronomic journey that are emblematic of the region. Among the appetising hot and cold starters and main dishes, The Shish Kofte stands out along with the Shish Wagyu – seasoned to perfection with a blend of homemade harissa, which comes highly recommended by the warm and well-trained staff. The restaurant prides itself on the high standards of its grilled meat so do not miss out on the rotisserie chicken, a centrepiece within the restaurant, for a warm and comforting dish that feels just like home.
      After a sumptuous meal, the journey continues at LY-LA, a refined speakeasy style bar and lounge tucked away behind a concealed door below the main dining space. From 11pm to 3am, guests can revel in nostalgia to afro, melodic house and organic beats alongside Middle Eastern instruments. The opulent space, adorned with Arabian-inspired fixtures adds a magical touch.
      For more information and reservations, visit www.alayarestaurants.com 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      GCC nations set to unveil unified tourist visa by 2024-25

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      In a significant development for tourism in the GCC region, the UAE Minister of Economy, Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri, has disclosed plans to introduce a unified Gulf tourist visa within the next two years. This visa will grant travelers access to all six GCC countries.
      The decision to launch this unified visa was unanimously agreed upon during the seventh meeting of GCC tourism ministers, which took place in Oman earlier this month. While the specifics and legislation for this initiative are yet to be finalized, the expected implementation timeframe is set between 2024 and 2025, contingent on the readiness of each GCC member state’s internal systems.
      Minister Al-Marri has also revealed that the UAE is gearing up to welcome international tourists in the wake of the unified visa’s introduction. Simultaneously, the UAE is diligently crafting a tourism route connecting its seven emirates.

      #GCC unified tourist visa to be introduced between 2024 and 2025: Al Marri tells WAM #WamNews https://t.co/K43AJqU080 pic.twitter.com/BYeSCKX3je
      — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) October 23, 2023

      Emphasizing the broader vision, Minister Al-Marri told Emirates News Agency (WAM), “This initiative is an integral component of the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, aimed at increasing the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP by fostering inter-GCC travel and bolstering hotel occupancy rates, thereby positioning the GCC as a premier global destination for both regional and international tourists.”
      Currently, the tourism sector contributes 14 percent to the UAE’s GDP, and the goal is to elevate this figure to 18 percent, aligning with the nation’s strategic tourism objectives.
      Furthermore, the GCC countries’ joint tourism strategy for the period 2023-2030 targets an annual increase of 7 percent in inbound travel to the region. Notably, the number of visitors to GCC countries surged to 39.8 million in the previous year, marking a remarkable 136.6 percent increase over 2021.
      With a single visa, tourists will gain the opportunity to explore the six-member Gulf bloc, which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. According to Minister Al-Marri, the visa is on track for implementation in 2024 or 2025, pending the finalization of regulations and procedures.
      This forward-looking step mirrors the aspirations of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s 2030 strategy, which seeks to heighten the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @visitdubai More

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      Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed supports ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ Campaign, showcasing solidarity

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      19 mins ago

      In a powerful demonstration of unity and support, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Member of the Dubai Council, made a heartfelt visit to the ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign centre in Dubai.
      This initiative, which began just last week, seeks to express unwavering solidarity with the Palestinians who are enduring the ongoing conflict and to relieve the suffering of the most vulnerable segments of the population.
      With the Gaza Strip’s population, more than half of which comprises over 1 million children, facing dire circumstances, the ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign has brought together a diverse community of individuals, both citizens and residents of various ages and nationalities.

      Organized at Qalaat Alremaal Events in Dubai, the campaign, overseen by Dubai Cares and part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, gathered a staggering 2,600 volunteers. Their collective efforts resulted in the preparation of over 7,500 relief packages that were specifically designed to extend a helping hand and demonstrate heartfelt support to those affected by the Gaza conflict.
      In a noble gesture, Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of Dubai’s Community Development Authority, accompanied HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed during her visit to the campaign center.
      Continuing the momentum of the ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign, two more events are scheduled for tomorrow. These events will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the supervision of the UAE Red Crescent and at the Sharjah Expo Centre under the watchful eye of Sharjah Charity.
      This collective effort demonstrates the strength of community and the commitment of the UAE to stand with the Palestinian people during these challenging times. The ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign is a testament to the compassion and determination of individuals and organizations working together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those most affected by the ongoing conflict.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @shekha_latifa_fanz More

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      Sonal Vara-Parmar on building the region’s most renowned artist management company

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      Sonal Vara-Parmar talks to Emirates Woman about how she successfully built IAM Entertainment, one of the region’s most renowned international artist management companies with a portfolio of global names.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      My daily routine is the only part of the day that remains consistent. I wake up with a gratitude prayer, as soon as I’m awake or even with my eyes closed, I say, “thank you for today.” I then follow this with a prayer and ten affirmations. It’s something I’ve learned from Steve Harvey to give gratitude, first thing in the morning. I then proceed to having my morning hot water with cinnamon and lemon and a meditation session for 15 minutes.
      What led you to launch IAM Entertainment and how did your previous roles support your ability to do this successfully?
      I didn’t want my wings clipped within a corporate structure. I was grateful to receive a roadmap into the industry, the teachings and structure, but knew I wanted ownership and the creative freedom to delve into more than one aspect of the entertainment industry. Setting up IAM gave me the opportunity to bring my best practices to the industry and be creative and more importantly learn and absorb areas I wanted to focus on at my pace. You’ve had a phenomenal list of clients from Mariah Carey and Alicia Keys to Tony Robbins. Black Eye Peas, Steve Harvey and Sadhguru who you recently bought to the region.
      How did these relationships begin and what values are key to retaining them?
      As a Libran, I function and believe in balance. As a business owner, I have an obligation to both my clients and my talent. Trust plays a large part in this, and therefore your network is everything. More often than not the relationship begins by someone endorsing or vouching for me or my team that is close to the talent, so there is a level of trust already there, it’s our job to honour this and nurture and respect that relationship.

      What are some of the creative ways you’ve found to successfully bring talent to the region?
      IAM prides itself with innovative concepts and ideas that don’t colour within the lines, and that’s the exciting part of what we do. Creating innovative out of the box concepts like Kevin Hart’s MarsShot campaign at the height of COVID-19, was something we are very proud of. A large part of the success of the campaign was Kevin’s own input, creativity and trust in the vision of our client, the UAE government. In the same way we conceptualised Alicia Keys first musical motivational event with her for the “Achieve the Unimaginable” event. She used music and her songs to tell and inspire the story of her life. The events industry is growing rapidly. How do you scale without compromising on quality of both talent and deliverables? I think each project where talent is concerned is very individual and focused. We could be working on a concert, or a brand campaign or talent in movies, each segment’s needs are so different that there is no conflict and compromising. Additionally, prioritise, hand-pick your projects to maintain the integrity and quality of the work we deliver. Giving the team ownership is equally important to maintain a high standard of work.
      How has social media supported growth and which platforms do you feel are most successful?
      The pandemic really helped the growth of the entertainment industry to grow social media. It was really the only tool to stay connected. Smart celebrities understood this and remained very present and connected to their fan base. They found innovative ways to stay engaging. They no longer had to be paid to be present, and this was a gamechanger for the entertainment industry. Celebrities are now much more candid, available and engaged with their fans and audience which makes interacting with them even more exciting. After years of not being on social media Jennifer Aniston broke the internet in 2019 when she joined Instagram. It’s evident she understood the changing times, and the connection she needed with her audience.
      Did you have a mentor and if so, what advice did they impart?
      I’m lucky enough to have Venus Brown, music producer, expresident of SongBMG. as my mentor. He’s mentored and worked with the largest names in music from Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, the Black Eye Peas. He has taught me in order to sustain and have longevity you have to build a brand. To achieve this, you need to have a great team around you to help execute, deliver and build so the company isn’t based around a single person but a multi-functioning entity that will hopefully outlive you.
      What piece of advice would you give your younger self?
      Do not let anyone disparage you from your dreams. Stay confident and true to yourself. Believe in God or a higher power and always be grateful and humble for what you have. Thank God every day, meditate and manifest. Your vision board is your greatest ally and your superpower.
      This is the Entrepreneur Issue – what does that mean to you?
      I think a true entrepreneur stays in the game, no matter the success or failures, it’s part of the journey as a business owner. Being recognised as an entrepreneur solidifies IAM Entertainment and I am in the long game to build something both unique but hopefully inspirational too.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More