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    8 times Sheikha Mahra shared a special bond with animals

    Lifeby Ruman Baig2 hours ago In a delightful showcase of her profound love for animals, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra, shared a few images of herself from the desert, posing with camels and horses.The royal’s genuine connection with animals can be sensed through her frequent affectionate posts for them – it ranges from serene strolls through stables to captivating encounters with falcons during leisurely outings. Take a close look at the UAE royals’ enduring admiration for the animal kingdom.Everytime HH Sheikha Mahra Showed Her Love for Animals:– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    12 inspiring women from the UAE making a big impact on the world

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Women from the UAE are consistently making exceptional contributions to society, inspiring us all daily.Their invaluable role in modern society is not to be underestimated as we constantly learn from them.Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al MaktoumOur cover star of November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is inspiring the new generation of incredible women have risen to great heights in the aviation industry.“I’m most proud of becoming the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot,” she told EW of her proudest moment. “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.”Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al MaktoumAs a truly powerful and inspirational figure, Her Highness – who graced the cover of EW’s September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – knows exactly how to keep her mind in champion mode. Sheikha Latifah has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. She’s an equestrian athlete who competed in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, becoming the first woman to represent the UAE at the Olympic games.Her Excellency Dr Maryam MatarHaving had the dream and desire to serve in the medical field since she was young, Her Excellency Dr Maryam Mohamed Fatima Matar MD, Ph.D. has become a pioneer and a visionary in the healthcare space in the UAE.Not only is Her Excellency a pioneer in the medical space, but she is also a role model for many women in the UAE seeking to succeed, whether that be in healthcare or other industries. Additionally, she’s able to facilitate change, paving the way for other women and girls in the region.Captain Salma Al BaloushiAs the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad Airways, Captain Salma has had a long sparked interest in aviation while also completing her higher education in Aviation Management, forming the face of the modern woman in the UAE as it has taken years of hard work and dedication.Amna Al HaddadAmna al Haddad has defied stereotypes by becoming a positive figurehead for women in the region. As an Olympic weightlifter and also by being the first Emirati and GCC national to compete in Asia’s regionals, she later on also became a part of Nike’s latest campaign on inner strength, as she continues to push herself to the limit.Nayla Al KhajaShe is the first female film director-producer in the UAE, while also being the CEO of Nayla Al Khaja films. Having directed several movies, they have been presented with awards at various international film festivals as she is also very active in the TV commercials domain, while also constantly directing for various international brands.Asma Hilal LootahAs the founder of the Hundred Wellness Centre, Asma Hilal Lootah is paving the way in the wellness space in the UAE. The Hundred is the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre, which opened in 2008, and now champions wellness in the mind, body and soul for all around the UAE.Dr. Sara Al MadaniWhile being a well-known entrepreneur and motivational speaker within the UAE, Dr. Sara Al Madani was selected as a board member at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, making her the youngest member on the board inspiring women everywhere since 2014.Dr. Suaad Al ShamsiDr. Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer. With a degree in aviation management and in aerospace engineering, Dr Al Shamsi has reached great heights, inspiring the younger generations of the future.Fatima Al QubaisiFatima Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati woman to graduate from Harvard Law School. She is now a fully qualified lawyer practising in the UAE and continues to champion and advocate for fellow females in this country.Zahra LahriKnown as UAE’s first female professional figure skater to compete in a hijab while also being titled as the ‘Ice Princess of the UAE’. With her growing prominence in the sport, she has defied all odds and broken down barriers to inspire generations of athletes to chase their dreams.Amna Al QubaisiKnown as the first Emirati female racing driver, especially as she’s no stranger to breaking new ground in motorsport with the Emirati driver making her name during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Al Qubaisi’s success at Yas Marina Circuit was one of the major milestones in her motor racing career.– For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.Feature Image: Instagram More

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    7 fabulous activities to do in Dubai this weekend

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph4 hours ago Your ultimate weekend guide, January 5 to 7, 2023.Indulge in a vegan mealWith Dubai adopting a healthier approach to dining, it’s important to know where all the must-visit havens are located in the emirate. From vegan-friendly menus to completely plant-based concepts that are sure to impress, Emirates Woman has it all covered. So as Veganuary commences in January, it’s the perfect occasion to try out healthy spots in the city and to schedule a lunch or dinner with your friends.It’s brunch timeSoul Kitchen’s “Flowers on Toast” is a sophisticated gathering of all things groovy. Experience the daze of the 60s and 70s funk & soul era with our expert sound selectors. Each Saturday promises to turn into a foot-tapping, hip-grinding soulful affair that’s perfect for crowds longing for something different from Dubai’s usual mega brunches. Complementing the gastronomic experience, bar guru Jaco Raath introduces sharing serves for some new classics born out of the Soul Kitchen bar. The brunch prices for the non-alcoholic beverages Dhs400, The Good Vibrations with a selected of beverages Dhs500 and Dhs615 with all food options. With dishes such as sea bass ceviche, wagyu kafta, tamarind lamb chops, vegetarian manti, eggplant 3 ways and other chef’s delectable items.For more information visit soulkitchendxb.comVisit Dubai’s low-key dining spotsWith a significant number of noteworthy eateries, Dubai is not shot of delectable restaurants that cater to your palate. It always becomes a well-deserved meal when you finally reach a meal that requires usage of a GPS, a guidebook or simply instructions by a colleague at work. If you’re looking for an unconventional hidden restaurant, then you’re in the right place. Swipe through our guide of unique gems which include restaurants such as Gohan, Honeycomb HI-FI, WAWA Dining and more.Unwind at a spa daySet within the tropical gardens and azure waterways of Jumeirah Al Qasr, Talise Spa diversifies its offering with exclusive multi-dimensional wellness modalities to perfectly. Through a comprehensive 360-degree approach to sustainable wellness, the programme aims to customise each customer’s wellness journey without any restrictions on movement or diet. Developed by leading industry practitioners, Talise Wellness encompasses four crucial pillars of wellness – Mental Wellness, Mindful Movement, Internal Wellbeing, and Restore – each with a vast. Developed by leading industry practitioners, Talise Wellness encompasses four crucial pillars of wellness – Mental Wellness, Mindful Movement, Internal Wellbeing, and Restore – each with a vast.For more information visit Jumeirah.comSatisfy your sweet tooth cravingsCraving a sweet treat this weekend? Chef Nicolas Lambert presents his take on the famous Galette Des Rois with an inverted caramelized puff pastry, a homemade almond “frangipane”, and Madagascar vanilla almond praliné. Presented in a timeless box, the Galette comes complete with a hidden ceramic fève and golden crown. The Galette Des Rois, a traditional French pastry has roots dating back to Roman times when the festival of Saturnalia involved selecting a “king” through a lucky bean hidden in a cake. This dessert is available at Shai Salon in Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach from January 5 to January 7, 2024 and is priced at Dhs250.Go jewellery shoppingPoison Drop has officially launched a new store at Dubai Hills Mall. Everyday jewellery pieces are the foundation of any collection, offering the enduring versatility that suits every occasion and complements your unique style. Indulge in the timeless allure of crystals – these bright and shimmering gems are your ticket to an elevated and sophisticated style. Whether it’s for evening gowns, daring minis that exude confidence, or impeccably tailored suits that command attention, crystals have the innate ability to enhance any outfit. Let your jewelry do the talking and let your unique style shine.For more information visit dubaihillsmall.aePut your fitness to the test2024 is all about amping up your fitness routine and what better way to start than with a spin class. By combining the best of both worlds, everyone can escape for 45 minutes with challenges for all level, for each participant to move at their own pace. So to begin, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of the best studios that offer spinning to take your fitness regime to the next level. From 1Rebel to Crank Fitness Studio, each fitness boutique elevates your overall fitness routine.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon More

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    10 vegan spots in Dubai to kick in Veganuary

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGESIf you’re looking to start the year with a plant-based diet, Dubai has a myriad of well-known spots that are in line with a new year’s resolution for most of us.So as Veganuary commences in January, it’s the perfect occasion to try out healthy spots in the city and to schedule a lunch or dinner with your friends.From a fancy gluten-free dining experience or a sweet treat that won’t make you feel guilty after indulging? then we’re here to help.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wildandthemoon More

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    Kintsugi Founder on pushing her vision forward to create a unique wellness space

    Lifeby Camille Macawili38 mins ago Kintsugi, which translates to “joining with gold”, is a Japanese pottery repair technique of mending broken ceramic pieces with gold.Drawing from this inspiration of embracing imperfection is a new wellness concept located on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi that aims to uplift and empower its community.Here, Kintsugi Founder and wellness guru Patrizia Bortolin shares with Emirates Woman about finding the confidence to push her creative vision forward to create a unique space dedicated to wellness in Abu Dhabi.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?I love starting slowly and gratefully. As a coffee specialist, I indulge in tasting my favourite brew right off the bat. Following this, I engage in a session of either yoga Nidra or Vipassana meditation – two practises that hold immense significance in my life.What is the idea behind Kintsugi?I’m guiding this beautiful project and community within a management board. I’m also particularly glad to curate the concept behind the brand and its future evolutions. Kintsugi Space, nestled within a pristine seven-floor pale pink building on Reem Island, is a haven for wellbeing. This carefully curated community brings together female wellbeing artists, healers, therapists, inventors, scientists, and coaches to address both emotional and physiological aspects. It’s a continuously evolving world of interactive experiences, cutting-edge technologies, exclusive signature treatments, transformative rituals and natural therapies within a sanctuary of peace, movement and stillness.How did you know it was the right time to launch Kintsugi and which steps led you to realise this path?The core idea of Kintsugi echoed within me since the first call to consult for the project. I embraced the challenge with an open heart, aiming to bring genuine inspiration and support for women navigating life’s challenges. Recognising the need for a more meaningful, sustainable and inspired approach to wellness, I laid the foundation of Kintsugi through an initial deepening and expansion of the original vision, strategic planning, then operational enhancements, creative execution, and ongoing training, creating a masterpiece of care and synergies between all those incredible women.Patrizia Bortolin, wellness guru and Kintsugi founderThere are three different branches within the brand. Can you expand on the different concepts?Kintsugi is a movement with aligned activities. The brand will develop, and new projects are expected in the coming year, catering to both our Abu Dhabi Space members and global wellness enthusiasts.Kintsugi offers a unique approach to self-care – what wellness activities and practises are available for members?At Kintsugi Space, we offer a diverse blend of ancient healing modalities, modern technologies, scientific expertise, creative wellness and holistic therapies. Our aim is to guide members toward happier and healthier lifestyles, defying categorisation as we blend healing, technology, culture, artistry and community. We believe in creating healthy routines, purifying the body, stimulating the mind, thinking less, enjoying and observing more. Our team of professionals, including wellbeing specialists, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and intuitive healers, provides personalised consultations and recommendations for a tailor-made service.Can you define the inspiration behind the flagship space?Kintsugi Space was inaugurated on 6th November 2023 and stands as Abu Dhabi’s first women-only member’s club specialising in holistic wellness. It’s an exquisite sanctuary in the heart of Al Reem Island to rest and reset with the help of pioneering wellness practitioners. Rooted in a vision of blending scientific innovations with vibrational energy work, ancient healing and holistic treatments, it offers whole wellbeing experiences supported by psychology and enhanced by unparalleled quantum technology.The space focuses on guiding customers to a higher frequency – why is this important to our overall wellness?Elevating frequency is crucial for overall wellness as it enhances the quality of everything around us, when the frequency is high, every global aspect of life feels better. It’s a measurable shift that encourages conscious living and mindful energy management.How is the wellness culture growing in the Middle East?We are delighted to inspire women in the region to explore holistic wellness. It’s time to navigate the diverse wellness offerings with a smooth, personalised approach, creating genuine values. While the last few years have seen a rise in the priority given to healing wellness, there’s still a need to bridge the gap in understanding on how to craft meaningful and effective offerings. At Kintsugi we promote conscious, joyful nutrition for a happier mind and gut, combined with the importance of having a calm mind and more awareness of how to improve energy. Natural beauty is encouraged to preserve energy and harmony. We can see a real interest from women in the Middle East in this matter.How do you measure success in the wellness industry?Success in the wellness industry, for me, is defined by significant improvements in both the team and guests’ daily lives. When a place is perceived as an oasis for self-discovery and the joy of being alive for everyone involved, that’s when true success is achieved.What are your therapeutic must-haves for modern-day mindfulness?Essential to my modern-day wellbeing are moments of stillness and silence, outside and inside. I particularly like smelling essential oils, each with its unique uplifting power – orange for joy, and lavender for relaxation for example. I’m a fan of natural remedies, tasty vegetarian food, meditation, quality massage, and face yoga. I deeply relax with a head and face massage, Vichy shower when available and I promote laughter yoga.This is The Alignment Issue – what activities help you align after a hectic day?After a bustling day, I find alignment through meditation, particularly Vipassana, and yoga Nidra. I was taught by an Indian nun that spending quality time cooking a meal for others prepared with fresh ingredients while focusing on good intentions, serves as a deep spiritual practise. I’m blessed by sharing a lot of time with a few authentic healers and great human beings and this is a huge support. Happiness is an inside job.January’s – The Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    Start the new year on a floral note with the UAE-based florists Darcey Flowers

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Stand out and make a statement this New Year with a collection of lively peaches and playful pinks infused with vibrant, bold hues.Treat your loved ones and present a token of love on any special occasion with a myriad of arrangements from the Joy Beyond Flowers collection. From expressing joy and love to sympathy and condolences, this boutique sends flowers to convey a wide range of emotions. To delve into the science behind flowers, Darcey Flowers has launched its own blog to also understand more about the joy behind floral arrangements.From roses to tulips, you can opt for a bouquet that best fits your home. Choose from an array of options on the website and even send a token of appreciation to a loved one in your life. Starting from Dhs275, the arrangements come in various colourways to complement any interior.Whether table set-ups or birthdays, Darcey is known for its irresistible creations, that are sourced specially from around the world. Designed to make any evening or occasion memorable, these bouquets are carefully prepared by a team of in-house experts. The team at Darcey Flowers has found work immensely fulfilling by being able to spread happiness in the form of floristry within the past few years, it has inspired them in finding contentment within ourselves and the work we do. With the belief and promise of Joy being our purpose,Beginning with the suppliers to the team receiving the flowers, the cheerful energy one experiences from customer service to the love and passion their florists put into the design, right up until the delivery team hands its arrangements to the customer is a step-by-step process of intentionally and thoughtful understanding that we all have the power to spread joy, hence this collection was born.Swipe through our guide to see our top picks from the arrangement.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied  More

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    Alberto Caliri on crafting the artistic tapestry of Missoni Home and building a legacy

    Emirates Manby Ruman Baig2 hours ago Alberto Caliri has not only overseen ready-to-wear collections for Missoni but has also made substantial contributions to the realms of home decoration and furniture design for the luxury brand.His distinguished curricular studies and research in arts, textiles, and colours have cultivated a unique perspective that has seamlessly evolved with Missoni since 1998.Transitioning to the position of Missoni Home Collection Creative Director in March 2022, Caliri’s journey reflects a deliberate fusion of Missoni’s heritage with contemporary elements.In a freewheeling chat with Emirates Man, Caliri talks about the intricacies of his vision, examining the intersection of chromatic shades, irony, and profound sensitivity that shape Missoni’s Home collections.Alberto, your career with Missoni spans over two decades, transitioning from overseeing ready-to-wear collections to becoming the Creative Director of Missoni Home Collection. How has your journey evolved, and what inspired this transition?I’ve dedicated two decades working with Missoni, where it has allowed me to showcase my creative prowess. I’ve always been passionate about home design, so it was a natural choice for me to transition to Missoni home. It has been a lifelong passion which I’m happy to finally embrace. It has evolved naturally, and I think there is no better time to do it but now especially with the opportunities to create beautiful homes and leisure destinations.Missoni is known for its iconic colour palettes and zigzag patterns. How do you ensure a harmonious synergy between Missoni’s heritage and contemporary elements in the brand’s home collections, particularly in Moonstone Interiors by Missoni residences?Throughout the creative process of Moonstone Interiors by Missoni, we made sure to showcase the unparalleled expertise in luxury design and craftmanship Missoni has been known for. We did our best to integrate the natural environment of beachside living, with the design elements of Missoni, through a harmonious play with light, silhouettes, and shadows – creating a sophisticated coastal allure.The Moonstone Interiors by Missoni project in Ras Al Khaimah reflects a passion for art, culture, and nature. Can you elaborate on how Missoni’s iconic elements blend with details inspired by natural beauty, creating a unique and refined environment for this residential project?Unique combination of lines and colors, when applied to every detail of the project from the architecture to the interiors, furnishings and accessories, reflected a clear distinction and created an imprint that cannot be replicated. We played with the natural environment and the sophisticated craftmanship of the development – allowing us to create a distinctive Missoni residence that has the coastal imprint and opulent design.The Moonstone Interiors by Missoni residences are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. What challenges and opportunities do you anticipate in bringing Missoni’s design philosophy to a luxury residential project, and how does it differ from your work in fashion collections?One of the challenges we faced is the anticipation of the final product, where you are unable to see, touch and feel the ‘real thing’ until they finish the development. You are only able to experience such through renders and alike. Whereas clothing pieces can have prototypes to see the look and feel. However, with the long-standing expertise of our team, we have sharpened our abilities to ensure that the design philosophy of Missoni is gracefully executed and experienced by its residents regardless.The development includes various amenities such as a swimming pool, rooftop sunset pool, gym, spas, and more. How do you approach the integration of interior design with functional spaces to enhance the overall living experience for the residents?Our team made sure that the unique and vibrant aesthetic, along with the fusion of colors and patterns, echoes the vibrant essence of beachside living that is boasting in AlMarjan Island. Being aware of the natural elements, and the energy of the place allowed us to integrate the Missoni beachside allure, which is present in some of the properties we have launched previously.Reflective and transparent surfaces are strategically integrated into the Moonstone Interiors, creating a kaleidoscopic effect with natural light. How does this design choice contribute to the overall ambiance, and what impact do you expect it to have on the residents’ experience?Our goal is for its residents to experience a visually immersive experience that isn’t disruptive of daily life. We wanted the Missoni allure to effortlessly, and naturally fall into place by simply elevating the already existing luxury living within the property.Missoni as a brand is associated with bold design, elevated luxury, and attention to detail. How do you ensure that these values become the hallmarks of Moonstone Interiors by Missoni, and what sets this development apart in terms of design and luxury within the real estate landscape?With the brand’s commitment to luxurious craftmanship, the interiors typically feature a harmonious blend of Missoni’s signature patterns and textures, creating a visually striking and cohesive living environment. The attention to detail extends to the selection of furnishings, textiles, and finishes, all carefully curated to embody the brand’s unique style. This holistic approach to design sets Missoni residences apart, offering residents a truly immersive and exclusive lifestyle.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied by Missoni  More

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    10 Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurants to visit in Dubai

    Lifeby Team Emirates Woman2 hours ago With a plethora of restaurants available in Dubai, it can be hard to choose where to go.However, we’ll happily go to any place that’s approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.Here’s ten restaurants in the emirate that are approved by His Highness.AlayaKnown for his love for food, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has given Chef Izu Ani’s latest restaurant a royal thumbs up. In a video shared on Chef Izu’s Instagram, Sheikh Mohammed is seen exchanging a handshake with the restauranteur outside new venue Alaya, whilst also sharing a few moments of laughter together. Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man’s former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.CÉ LA VIThis world-famous Singaporean restaurant received the royal seal of approval after Sheikh Mohammed visited in February 2020. Known for their contemporary Asian dishes and incredible views of Dubai’s sweeping skyline, the restaurant is located on the 54th floor terrace of Address Sky Views. Posing against the outdoor infinity pool, this restaurant is one of the most popular fine-dining spots in Dubai.FlowKnown for their wide range of vegan, dairy-free and gluten options, this restaurant has branches all across Dubai. As a healthy eating hub in the emirate, the ruler of Dubai visited along with his son, Sheikh Hamad and enjoyed a cup of coffee while interacting with the staff.Shanghai MeThe Ruler of Dubai was seen dining out at Shanghai ME located in DIFC with others in September 2020. This establishment is famed for its culinary classics of East Asia, which all have a playful twist.GaiaIn 2021, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted out in DIFC at Gaia, a restaurant founded by Chef Izu Ani. The venue serves up a fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine including seafood orzo, baked feta cheese, indulgent truffle potatoes and the unmissable mille-feuille that is nothing like you’ve ever tried before – trust us.ZumaAs one of the top restaurants in Dubai, it’s no surprise Zuma has Sheikh Mohammed’s stamp of approval, who is believed to have visited the establishment on multiple occasions. Famed for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, Zuma has been a leader in the Dubai F&B space for over 12 years.SirajKnown for its authentic Emirati cuisine with a contemporary twist, Siraj is another Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurant. It’s located within the Souk Al Bahar, the world-famous Arabian Souk overlooking the Dubai Fountain.Farzi CafeHis Highness has previously been spotted at this famous restaurant in City Walk known for its fabulous Indian cuisine.Fish Beach TavernaThis Mediterranean beach hotspot will transport you to Greece in no time. With an Aegean menu of Turkish food with the stunning backdrop of the Arabian night sky. This fine-dining seafood has welcomed both Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan in a course of two days as both the royals enjoyed various dishes across the menu in a relaxed setting. Located by the peaceful shores of Le Meridian Mina Seyahi, this restaurant is most definitely a must-visit to enjoy with friends and family.Baku CaféWhen opened in 2017, Sheikh Mohammed paid a visit to this eatery that pays homage to the cuisine from Azerbaijan. As a popular dining spot, this royal was amongst the first to visit this traditional restaurant. Situated in the heart of City Walk, there a variety of dishes to try such as the the cafe’s baklava, stuffed vine leaves, and a delicious plate of lamb.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @celavi More