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      Executive Chef at Mott 32 on bringing a contemporary approach to Chinese fine dining

      by

      Emirates Man

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Frankie Yang Tao, Executive Chef at Mott 32, talks to Emirates Man about the culinary evolution in Dubai and how important it is to blend traditional cuisine with modern techniques.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      The first thing I do every morning is cook breakfast for my daughter so I can spend quality time with her before the busy day ahead. I like to try different recipes and make a variety of dishes (she is a massive foodie). I then check guests’ feedback based on their experience from the night before and share their comments with my team, so we are constantly improving.
      Talk us through your career.
      Since I was a child, I have been deeply influenced and inspired by my family. I always wanted to explore and experiment with food. My grandparents are experts in cooking. Every Chinese New Year, we prepare a table full of dishes presented with different styles, tastes, and colours, which makes me admire the culinary process and inspires me deeply. I have been working in Dubai for 17 years (since 2006) and have experience cooking in various luxury hotels. My cooking style is not limited to Chinese food, as I am also experienced in Asian and European cuisine. From 2012 to 2016, I participated in the chef cooking and carving competition held at the Emirates Salon in Dubai. Such valuable experiences constantly inspire my process and have expanded my expertise. I am fascinated by the catering industry, and always treat my work with passion to keep the motivation going.
      How do you bring a contemporary approach to fine Chinese dining?
      I use a variety of cooking techniques combined with modern seasoning and take a lot of time sourcing the freshest ingredients from sustainable producers both local and abroad to maintain the quality of the food. However, what makes Mott 32 really stand out as a concept is its ability to marry traditional cuisine with modern culinary innovation.
      As the brand’s eighth global branch, what sets Mott 32 Dubai apart?
      Mott 32 Dubai is committed to providing customers with a unique and fashionable food experience, offering a standard of true Chinese cuisine that does not exist anywhere else in Dubai. The interiors are impressive, and we have an open-air terrace with views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai (it is one of the highest restaurants in the world). Our traditional menu is in line with the brand’s culinary creativity, where we use familiar and bold flavours of Mott 32’s signature gastronomy through adapted versions of its classic dishes. The menu concept is consistent yet wide in its offering but of course, we have adapted iconic and traditional Chinese dishes to fit the local palate of the Dubai market. For example, we do not feature pork on our menu. Some may say this is a challenge being a Chinese restaurant, however I believe it is an opportunity to showcase the versatility of the cuisine and how it can be adapted in a skilful, yet exciting way. By replacing pork with alternative ingredients, it allows us to experiment with new delicacies and flavours, while still respecting the culture.
      Tell us about the concept of Mott32 Dubai.
      Every Mott 32 celebrates the culture and food of modern Hong Kong with a fusion of traditional and culinary innovation. It brings a menu inspired by Cantonese, Szechuan, and Beijing cuisines, and yet also showcases some of the famed restaurant’s own signature dishes. Our food aims to bring the best from the past, with honoured recipes passed down from generations to generations. The location of Mott 32 Dubai adds to its magnificence. Nestled on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort, the Sunset Hospitality Group has made the whole dining experience so unique by incorporating culinary excellence, an energetic ambiance, and impeccable service all into one. Our culinary team has also been hand-selected by me, with most of our team members coming from other Chinese restaurants and 5-star hotels in the region. I truly believe we have introduced a completely new chapter of Chinese dining to Dubai’s restaurant scene.

      Having been in Dubai since 2006, how have you seen the culinary industry evolve in the region?
      In recent years the hotel and restaurant scene, as well as the increasing importance of sourcing sustainable produce from local farms and suppliers, have all contributed to the development of Dubai’s ever-expanding F&B industry. Simultaneously, there is an on-going need for fresh cooking exhibitions and large-scale food festivals. Most of the participants are professional chefs and culinary experts, which promotes the multicultural development of global tastes and deepens the depth of local culinary culture. The city’s culinary scene continues to evolve as society’s tastes and interests in food change and diversify. Dubai is definitely one to watch for all chefs around the world and now, we are seeing the rise of prestigious culinary awards, such as the MICHELIN Guide Dubai and Gault & Millau. After only four months of operations, I am delighted that Mott 32Dubai is already the recipient of one toque in the Gault & Millau UAE 2023 Guide.
      It is the world’s first luxury Chinese restaurant to expand from the East to the West, what makes it a pioneer in the Chinese fine dining scene?
      “Mott 32” pays homage to 32 Mott Street in New York, where the city’s first Chinese convenience store opened in 1891. The store served as the nucleus for what is now a vibrant Chinatown in one of the most dynamic cities. It brings the American Tang cuisine style back to Hong Kong in the form of high-end Chinese food and as a result, the menu design is simple and elegant. The unique collection comprises drinks, snacks, appetisers, and dishes from around the world. The name alone is classic. When it comes to Chinese food, few places can compare to Hong Kong. Whether it’s the best char siew or Peking duck, classic Cantonese cuisine or innovative cuisine, these restaurants can always satisfy all needs with outstanding dishes, with the highest quality of hospitality and beautiful surroundings.

      What are the hero dishes?
      We have created an ethical menu which offers Chinese dishes with Western cooking techniques and elegant presentation. Some of the diners’ menu favourites include the Applewood Roasted Peking Duck (which takes 48 hours to prepare), Truffled Mushroom Lettuce Cup Appetisers and Chilled Chicken with Szechuan Pepper and Chilli Sauce. Main courses include the signature Smoke Black Cod, Crispy Triple-Cooked Wagyu Beef Short Rib and Kung Pao Lobster are a must try. Guests also enjoy our selection of dim sum freshly made daily and plant-based signatures for those looking for a more sustainable approach to eating.
      How is Mott 32 Dubai different from its counterparts in other countries?
      We firstly implement the same quality of dishes and service as all Mott 32 restaurants globally. With its expansion to Dubai, we try to evoke the city’s energy and creative passion within our dishes and culinary style and have also curated signature cocktails and mocktails that are reflective of Dubai’s lively ambiance, such as the Fujian Negroni, Hanami, and Forbidden Rose.
      June’s – The Skin Issue with Instytutum – 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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      How I got my job as… Founder of this luxe hospitality group

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week Emirates Woman spoke to Aizada Usenova, Founder & CEO of Aiza Hospitality which currently has around 30 restaurants in their portfolio including such as EVA Beach House, Saya, Milky Jar and more.
      Established in 2015, this leading hospitality group has a vast portfolio of fine dining, casual dining and lifestyle concepts.
      To understand Usenova’s entrepreneurial journey, Emirates Woman spoke to her to delve into how it all began.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My Favorite subject at school was art, the classics and music. From early childhood I love to draw and paint and create art projects.
      What was your first job?
      My first job was as the assistant of a director in a large construction company. Whilst studying at university, I wanted my independence, and this job was the first stepping stone in my career to understand the intricacies of how businesses run. It was also my opportunity to step out from the shadows of my family and earn my own living.

      What brought you to Dubai?
      They say in Dubai you cannot dream big enough and my goal was to reach the sky. The desire to become an international restauranteur brought me to Dubai. I wanted to expand my F&B business globally and to create a brand that would conquer the world. In 2019, the brand Saya Brasserie was created here in Dubai, which is now franchising on a global scale with branches in Los Angeles, London and even Libya.
      What inspired you to enter the hospitality space and become and launch Aiza Hospitality?
      From early age I was very interested in different and unique concepts of restaurant. It was my big dream to open a restaurant from being a child and having an interest in hosting parties for my friends. At the age of 23, I opened my first project in my hometown in Bishkek and it had tremendous success in the city. After this, my passion was ignited even further, and I started to open more restaurants. At the age of 26, I already had around five projects.
      Talk us through the portfolio. What are the new launches in Dubai?
      The Aiza Hospitality portfolio has more than 40 restaurants all over the world in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and UAE. And each concept has been designed and developed taking into the many factors including the target demographic, specialty cuisines and delivering a memorable hospitality experience for our guests. The portfolio is vast; we have a coffee shop chain, steakhouses, sushi projects, Italian cuisine, a few nightclubs, a Beach club, and numerous restaurants. We will be opening additional restaurants in Kazakhstan this year and we are also planning to enter into the Uzbekistan Market which is developing at an incredible rate now. In the UAE, we are planning to expand and open a few more Saya Brasserie concepts as the goal is to achieve around 100 branches across the world. Our dream is to take Saya across the globe and what better place to start than Dubai.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      I like to take a hands-on approach within my role as the head of Aiza Hospitality, but the aim is to build a company that will be successful globally with amazing projects that not only I, but my team are extremely proud of.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      My daily routine revolves around my family and work. My day begins with my children and after I make sure to get them off to school, I try to get myself into the gym to work out. I feel like I need to have this balance as being a restauranteur, there are no shortages of food tastings and special dishes I need to try every day! From the gym I move into my daily meetings which revolve around trying to visit at least 2 different venues in my portfolio every day. Management meetings are a key part of my day which I prioritize to set weekly and monthly goals and to hear from my team about guest feedback, improvements for the venues and to hear from my team what they need. For me, teamwork is everything! At 7pm, I try to get home for family time and spend the evenings with my husband and kids. I call the weekends our “Holy time” as I exclusively spend time with my family trying to do different activities. We really enjoy spending time outdoors, especially going to different parks to cycle around. I find this time with my family to be really calming and necessary relief from the crazy work-week schedule.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      I advise everyone to proceed with caution. This is not the job for the faint-hearted, especially when you’re coming into the international market. High levels of care are needed. I know many people who have successful restaurants in their home countries who think that taking the brand abroad will also mean success in other countries. Market research is key! A great understanding of the market, the competitors and more so, the business practices is needed. I also believe that you need to live in the city you want to expand into for at least half a year to understand how it works. I also believe that the most important factor to consider is location. Location is EVERYTHING! And finding the right location isn’t easy. But once you do, and you have the right concept with the right location, you will always succeed.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      That everything has a reason. If something happening, then this happening for the best, even if you think that this is the worst. I always feel that is it important to believe in success and to take steps towards achieving it and never stop trying.

      And what is the worst?
      I will let you know when I receive it!
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I think the hardest challenge was navigating Covid. As a restauranteur, there was no manual on “How to Deal with Covid” as a business owner and this was the hardest challenge I have ever had to face. It affected every one of my outlets globally. Our restaurants are dine-in experiences, and we value the interaction with our guests above all else, and having to shut down was heartbreaking as I knew not only how it would affect me, but also my teams all over the world. It was a really hard time and there was no precedent on how to navigate something that no one knew anything about.
      What are the future plans for the brand?
      The future plan for Aiza Hospitality is to grow and hopefully, conquer the world.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @evabeachhouse More

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      The ultimate editor-approved guide to Dubai’s Wasl 51

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Bringing you all the best hotspots in Dubai, our editor-approved guide to another bustling community is back. This time featuring Wasl 51.
      From all the quaint eateries to an upcoming workout hub, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the activities to try out on your next visit.
      Restaurants & Cafés
      BLK Cab Coffee

      Homegrown in Dubai, BLK Cab Coffee has five locations across the emirate, one of them being in the heart of Wasl 51. As the name would suggest, the coffee chain is inspired by the black cabs of London. The coffee spot is the ideal place to meet for a quick work meeting or to see friends over a nice brew on the weekends.
      Brunch & Cake

      Created with love, Brunch & Cake believes in delivering each dish with the best possible ingredients. From zucchini pancakes to delicious French toast, the restaurant was created to push the boundaries of F&B in Dubai. Bringing grandma’s goodness to the table, the restaurant offers a perfect mix of healthy, wholesome and visually appealing items on the menu. Located at Wasl 51, ground floor, it’s open daily from 8am to 10pm.
      For more information visit brunchandcake.com
      Lana Lusa

      With Portuguese roots, the restaurant revives the neighbourhood soul of old southern Europe. By working in an open kitchen, the chefs create a series of mouth-watering dishes ranging from salted cod to grilled chicken. For a secluding and calming environment, this restaurant is an ideal place to leave the relentless pace of city outside. If you want a quick bite or a candlelit dinner, this restaurant has it all. Located in Plaza 1, Al Wasl road, it’s open on weekdays from 8am to 12am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.
      For more information visit lanalusa.com
      Milk Bar

      After starting as a family-owned, home-based dessert shop, this café provided a comfortable and trendy atmosphere with milk as its main ingredient. The urban environment focuses on bringing people together with lovingly prepared sweets accompanied with a cup of specialty coffee for the ultimate treat. Located in Shop 19, Wasl 51, It’s open from Monday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.
      For more information visit milkbar.ae
      Saya Brasserie

      This cosy concept has an array of delicious dishes in an Instagrammable setting. From Moroccan hummus to custom desserts, this restaurant provides the highest quality in everything served. Whether an enjoyable lunch or a romantic dinner, this restaurant has become an oasis of the sweet and desired. Located in Wasl 51, it’s open from 9am to 1am.
      For more information visit sayacafe.ae
      La Fabbrica Italiana

      This restaurant brings an exciting new side of Italy to Dubai. Based on a piece of Focaccia, this 2000-year-old Italian tradition is served with a modern touch at this haven. By serving history, the love of food, culture and customer is all combined together under one roof. From Burrata’s to Tiramisu, La Fabbrica is considered a foodie’s time machine with every bite of its heritage served on a plate.
      For more information visit lafabbricaitaliana.com
      Orfali Bros Bistro

      By pushing the boundaries of cooking, Orfali Bros allows guests to discover new flavours to Dubai’s food scene. By invoking a sense of creativity, pride and joy at the kitchen, the chefs bring their experience to the table with an avant-garde flair. Enhanced with an element of multiculturalism, the restaurant has evolved into a work of gastronomical art. It’s open from Sunday to Saturday 12pm to 12am.
      For more information visit orfalibros.com
      Salons
      The Lash Show

      Your eyes have the power to change your complete look and the lash show believes the same. It’s the first-ever concept beauty salon & café in the region. This one-stop shop for your lash and nail needs offers its clients an array of innovative techniques to leave them feeling flawless. With this salon truly being love at first blink, guests have the option to choose from various mocktails as their session takes place. It’s open daily from 11am to 9pm except for Tuesdays.
      For more information visit thelashshow.ae
      Fitness
      51 Gym

      This one-stop shop fitness centre lets everyone discover their potential with all the state-of-the-art fitness equipment and premium amenities. With classes ranging from boxing, TRX, HIIT, yoga, Reformer and Pilates, guests will surely come back for more. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness fanatic, this gym has enough sessions and expert levels to best suit your needs. Located in Plaza 1 Entrance, it’s open on weekdays from 6am to 10pm and at weekends from 8am to 8pm.
      For more information visit 51gym.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Supplied by Wasl 51 More

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      10 Things Successful Women Do Before 9AM

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      If you’re a wellness or corporate girly, you’re no stranger to morning routines. Your feeds are flooded with the GRWM for my 9-5 or the “my 5-9 before my 9-5” trends. I personally love these videos because they’re #aesthetic and they give me ideas for what I can incorporate into my own morning routine to optimize my day and life.
      However, sometimes I wish I could get a breakdown of the different components so that I could pick and choose what makes the most sense for me.
      After listening to hundreds of podcasts, reading blogs, and watching thousands of morning routine videos, I’ve compiled the different components of a successful woman’s morning routine so you can create one that works for you.
      Let’s dive into the 10 things successful women do before 9am.

      1. They prepare the night before
      Technically the night before is before 9am the next morning. Successful women know that the less they have to decide in the morning, the better their days are going to go and the more energy they’ll have for bigger decisions. 
      Set out your clothes the night prior and if you’re heading to a morning or after-work workout make sure your gym clothes are ready to go, too. Take it a step further by getting your water bottle ready for the morning and making sure you have your snacks and lunch ready, as well as your breakfast ingredients organized ahead of time.
      On top of ensuring items are in place, I like to review my calendar the day before so that I know what I am walking into the next day, this way I know in advance if I need to get up a little earlier or have more time for my morning walk.

      2. They don’t waste time
      Kiss the snooze button goodbye. Successful women know that snoozing will only make you more tired and feel less productive. Try putting your phone away from your bed or investing in an alarm clock that is placed in a spot that forces you to physically leave your bed to turn off.
      Remember, you set this alarm at this time for a reason, it’s important to respect yourself enough to honor that and get your morning started on the right foot.

      3. They hydrate
      WATER. Upon waking up, it’s extremely important to drink a glass of water to rehydrate after your long night’s sleep (you know, #science!). Hydrating with water before your morning jolt of caffeine can help you feel more energized throughout the day and be a mini act of self-care first thing after waking up.

      4. They focus
      One of the most critical things successful women implement in the morning is reviewing their goals and intentions. The morning is a great time to ground yourself and remind yourself what you are ultimately going after. 
      Consider creating a note in your phone of your goals or using post-it notes to stick your affirmations on your mirror to reframe your thinking while you get ready for the day. Habit trackers are another way to ensure you are staying on track. Consider reviewing a tracker each morning that outlines different habits or goals you are trying to achieve, mark what you tackled the day prior, and set intentions for the day ahead.
      For work, take a look at what is on the list for today and remind yourself of the larger career goals you are going after in order to propel you into a successful day ahead.

      5. They move
      This is no surprise, but moving your body in the morning prior to your work day is key. It can feel overwhelming for some based on your schedule, so remember that moving can be as simple as taking a short walk or stretching! While getting to the gym to lift or doing an online pilates class would of course be great, a little movement also goes a long way.
      Bonus points if you habit stack and listen to a meditation or podcast while you move.

      6. They breathe in the fresh air
      Successful women don’t forget to stop and smell the roses. In the morning, it’s important to get fresh air. Specifically, in the non-winter months, prioritize getting outside even if it is just for a minute of vitamin D and a few deep breaths. 
      This is a game changer to boost your mood and clear your mind for a productive day ahead.

      7. They practice good energy
      This is the fun part. I’m a big believer that how you decide to face the day is how it will go. So start your morning off with a positive attitude and mindset. This will look different for everyone, but this could mean listening to your favorite playlist, journaling on your current dreams and aspirations, listening to a podcast that inspires you or helps you grow, meditating on your future self, or being present in the day.
      Again, this will change for everyone—maybe you just want to dance around your house to Camp Rock (just me?). Just ensure you’re choosing to feel lucky and uplifted in the morning so that the day can unfold for you and not to you.

      8. They take care of themselves and their space 
      Successful women make their beds. They clean their breakfast dishes. They don’t skimp on their skincare routine. Make sure you are incorporating the practices that make YOU feel your best. Maybe it’s a lymphatic face massage, dry brushing, a cold shower—maybe it’s none of those things. 
      Find what self-care practices work for you, and implement them into your daily routine as you get ready.

      9. They keep it simple
      Of course, doing all of these things each day would be amazing! But we don’t all have 4 hours to do every single self-care thing we can find on the internet.
      After years of trying to do the PERFECT routine, I realized that for me, incorporating just one or two of these things daily is what works best. Some days I’ll do more than others, and that’s okay too. Life ebbs and flows and the best way to stay on track is to adjust with it, giving yourself grace as you navigate the different seasons of your life.
      If you don’t know where to start, try doing one of these things for a month and see where that leaves you.

      10. They keep it fun
      While it could be great to be someone that wakes up at 4:00 AM and hits the gym for leg day, meditates for an hour, then eats a large breakfast, and so on and so forth—we can’t do it all, and we don’t have to. As you’re crafting your own morning routine, remember to do it in a way that makes sense for YOU. It should light your life up, rather than drag you down. It won’t always be easy, but it shouldn’t be something you absolutely dread. So give yourself some grace, and incorporate just a few positive items into your morning to be the successful woman you know you’re meant to be.

      7 Things Successful Women Have On Their Resumes More

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      12 things you might not know about Sheikh Hamdan

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is constantly here there and everywhere.
      With an unending list of passions and hobbies, Emirates Woman has taken a deep dive into some interesting things you might not know about the Crown Prince of Dubai.
      He’s a massive foodie

      For those always on the lookout for places to dine in, these well-known establishments in Dubai have had the seal of approval from UAE royalty.
      Sheikh Hamdan absolutely loves to dine at the best eateries in Dubai including Roka, Ammos, Alici, Carine, Avli by Tashas and many more.
      He’s a doting dad

      His Highness became a father for the first time in May 2021, welcoming twins Rashid and Shaikha into the world. Since then, the Crown Prince of Dubai has truly become the ultimate doting dad. Fazza has shared tidbits of the growing twins on social media, sharing some adorable doting father moments with his 14 million followers on Instagram. He welcomed his third child in February 2023. Revealed to be named Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, he is the third addition to the Crown Prince of Dubai’s growing family.
      He cycled alongside an ostrich

      In a heart-stopping video taken to social media, Sheikh Hamdan is seen racing an ostrich in Dubai which is the world’s fastest bird on land. As he cycles with his entourage on the track, his love for the wildlife is beautifully depicted in this video.
      He’s passionate about underwater sports

      While inspiring many to take the plunge, Sheikh Hamdan makes the idea of deep water underground diving look very easy, as he continuously shares footage of himself under the sea, while also heading numerous metres below the surface to explore hidden underwater caves.
      He can fly a helicopter

      Starting off from Bluewaters island and making his way to Dubai Marina Mall as he goes around Dubai, Dubai’s Crown Prince’s video on social media has circulated around the UAE as he clearly loves to fly his chopper.
      The Crown Prince is also a poet

      With the caption for the above image being translated as follows, picking up poetry from his father has been one of the hidden talents he possesses, as he has also published under the pen name ‘Fazza’ which is an ode to a legendary Arab knight.
      Nature of the Soul
      My poems have meaning written with intuition I write my poems aware and observant My poems are not empty and a waste of my time They become more valuable with the passing of time
      What his nickname ‘Fazza’ means
      As mentioned, Sheikh Hamdan is affectionately known as ‘Fazza’. It means “the one who helps” in Arabic.
      He has climbed to the top of Burj Khalifa

      While scaling to new heights before the end of 2020, Sheikh Hamdan is seen scaling the sky-high building with his video amassing over 900,000 views and over 10,000 comments. He also showcases how high he is as he points the camera directly below him showing the busy Dubai highway and other buildings below. Well, this is not the first time he managed to do this, he also scaled to the top around seven years ago.
      He’s besties with Cristiano Ronaldo

      Over the years, Sheikh Hamdan and football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo have become firm friends. Whenever Ronaldo visits the emirate, the Crown Prince is always on hand to ensure he has the best time in Dubai.
      He launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge

      The annual fitness challenge which takes place every year inspires residents of the emirate to work out for 30 minutes every day for 30 days. Fazza himself launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge back in 2017, encouraging people to be more active in the emirate.
      He’s an avid traveller

      With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed. From Scotland to Japan, this Royal has travelled the globe and continues to make trips around the world.
      He’s a keen photographer

      While he’s an adventurer at heart, Sheikh Hamdan is also a keen photographer always capturing spectacular shots of the travels he’s on and photographs around Dubai.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Faz3 More

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      9 exciting things to do in Dubai this weekend

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      The ultimate weekend guide in Dubai, June 2 to June 4, 2023.
      Savour a delectable breakfast

      For a hearty first meal of the day, One Life ensures guests can indulge in clean, honest and delicious for just Dhs100. Situated in the heart of Dubai Design District, guests can savour two breakfast dishes plus two coffees, making it perfect to catch up with your colleagues, friends and family. From a selection of both sweet and savoury dishes such as Turkish Eggs, a New York bagel with baked beans and hash brown on the side, a Japanese fluffy pancake and more, complemented with a variety of croissants baked in-house, there’s always something to look forward to at this unique café.
      For more information visit onelifedxb.com
      Enjoy a luxe waterfront escape

      Address Grand Creek Harbour is an architectural spectacle that will leave you breathless as you marvel at the scenic views of old Dubai on one side and the majestic skyline of new Dubai on the other.  Beat the rising temperatures in Dubai by spending time at this waterfront spectacle this season. It promises soothing sunsets and Leisurely walks on the promenade with a breathtaking view. The newest Address in Dubai is nestled in a serene location overlooking the skyline and the creek. It houses 223 rooms and suites, an exquisite infinity pool and several lip-smacking dining venues to have your meals at. From Now until August 31, 2023, you can get up to 25 percent off your summer bookings at Address Grand Creek Harbour.
      For more information visit addresshotels.com
      Visit an art gallery

      Opera Gallery Dubai is proud to unveil its latest exhibition, “Roots and Routes: From Ghana to Dubai,” an immersive experience that transcends boundaries and invites art enthusiasts and collectors to embark on a profound exploration of Ghanaian artistry. From May 25th to June 9th, the gallery becomes a haven for the soul, embracing visitors in a captivating tapestry of vibrant hues, pulsating with the essence of Ghana’s cultural heritage and diverse artistic expressions. The selected artworks emanate a magnetic presence, enticing viewers to delve into a world where joy intertwines with nostalgia and raw expression. Located in Gate Village Building 3, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm, Friday 10am to midnight, Saturday 2pm to 9pm and Sunday 11am to 9pm.
      For more information visit operagallery.com
      See the famous DJ Note Dame live

      La Cantine is thrilled to welcome French artist, musician, and DJ producer NOTRE DAME on Saturday, June 3, 2023. Guests can experience an electrifying evening of music supported by Resident DJs. Walk-ins are priced at Dhs250 per person for entry only from 11:30pm onwards, VIP Tables are priced at Dhs8,000 for up to 8 guests, premium guests are for Dhs4,000 for up to 4 guests, lounge tables are for a minimum spend of Dhs4,000 for up to 4 guests and high tables and dining areas are for Dhs2,000 minimum spend for up to 3 guests.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Try this new summer menu

      Bringing fresh flavours inspired by coastal Italian summers, Monno Ristorante in Jumeirah is launching its new artisanal menu Transporting guests to Italy’s seafood-abundant shores this summer, Monno’s new menu was created by Italian Head Chef Federico Bartoli and his team, to showcase this season’s delights from the Mediterranean and Atlantic, while remaining true and respectful to both ingredient and Italian culinary tradition. From Parmigiano Reggiano to pastas and pizzas, guests can include in an array of delectable dishes. Located at 304 Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, it’s open daily for lunch and dinner from 12pm to 12am.
      For more information visit monno.ae
      Indulge in this vegan mochi

      Little Moons the beloved mochi ice cream brand has officially launched in the UAE, bringing a burst of flavor and joy to dessert enthusiasts. The snackable ice cream segment comes with its artisan-quality mochi ice cream bites that are both made without comprise and are less than 80 kcal per ball. As the perfect post-dinner snack, this brand uses quality ingredients and expert techniques to create artisan gelato ice cream bursting with flavour. Now available on Deliveroo, Talabat and other delivery platforms starting at Dhs32 for 8 pieces.
      For more information visit
      Book a fine-dining experience

      The renowned Italian restaurant, The Artisan has a host of new À La Carte dishes where each item on the menu is carefully crafted with the finest ingredients, presenting traditional flavours in an elegant way. From homemade potato gnocchi to homemade cappellacci, there are a host of hearty dishes that transport guests to Lombardy in northern Italy. The Artisan’s new menu is a celebration of traditional Italian food, crafted with elegance and sophistication. With dishes that highlight the flavours of every region, diners can embark on a gastronomic journey without ever leaving the comfort of their seats. Located in Waldorf Astoria in DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am.
      For more information visit theartisan.ae
      Shop ‘til you drop

      Why don’t you treat yourself this payday week? Hit refresh on your basket bags as the new season sees new forms and finishes of the humble beach bag. From mini bucket bags, all-over sequin tote, the raffia beach bag will be the most hardworking piece of you closet this summer – taking you from work to play all season long. Beach bags don’t need to be reserved just for beach trips – structured styles with low-key luxurious leather trimmings like Saint Laurent’s Manhattan shoulder bag and Prada Panier bucket bag are elevated and can replace your everyday work tote. The beach bags can also effortlessly be incorporated into your vacation wardrobe. To see our top picks, Emirates Woman has curated an exclusive guide.
      Read our latest Emirates Woman issue

      In this issue, we focus on optimizing your skin from the inside out as well as at the surface level. For the cover, we have partnered with INSTYTUTUM, a result-driven skincare brand founded by Nataliia Derkach, MD, Ph.D. , with innovation at its core in The Skincare Guru – Cover shoot with INSTYTUTUM. Maison Francis Kurkdjian CEO and Co-Founder, Marc Chaya, discusses scaling a global brand successfully and how important skin is to fragrance in Scaling Scent; Lauryn Bosstick, Founder of The Skinny Confidential, tells us why we need to invest in an ice roller in The Game Changer; Founder and CEO of Sana Jardin, Amy Christiansen, shares what it takes to build a sustainable fragrance brand that’s gentle on the skin in Second Skin and Body Fwrd Founder Kenzie Burke shares what kickstarted her passion in wellness, overcoming challenges, and the importance of nourishing within in Feed Your Skin.
      June’s – The Skin Issue with Instytutum – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @Oumaymaboumeshouli More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      Jordan Royal Wedding in photos: Surprise guests and other highlights

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      With grace, simplicity and lots of love, HH Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa Al Saif married each other in a Royal Wedding.
      To celebrate their union, dignitaries from across the world made their way to Jordan to congratulate the happy couple and the rest of the Jordanian Royal Family.
      From the official ceremony to the reception, everyone was beaming with joy — especially the bride and the groom.
      The couple looked ethereal in their respective attires as they vowed to spend the rest of their lives together.
      Princess Rajwa wore two designer gowns — a simple yet understated gown by Elie Saab and an elaborate yet elegant couture number by Dolce & Gabbana. The groom looked like a vision in his military attire, which he wore for both the ceremony and the reception.

      The proud parents of the groom, King Abdullah and Queen Rania greeted royalties from across the globe while also partaking in the traditional ceremony. Crown Prince Hussein’s siblings — Princess Iman, Princess Salma and Prince Hashem were responsible for leading the bride to the aisle, and they did that with ease and poise.
      The population of Jordan’s capital was out on the street to greet their future King and his new bride. A military procession led the newly wedded couple to their reception venue where they celebrated the night away.
      With traditional music, performances and life-sized cake, the newest royal couple commenced their married life. Both families gathered around the newly weds sharing laughter and moments of joy on their big day.
      Royalties like the Prince and Princess of Wales, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and King and Queen of Netherlands were also spotted congratulating and celebrating with the Jordanian royal family.
      In case you missed it, all the unseen photos from the Royal Wedding last night.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Image: Supplied by the Royal Hashemite Court, Feature Image: @queenrania  More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      10 nature-fuelled cafés to unwind in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Immerse yourself in nature for a midweek city life escape.
      To take a break from the hustle and bustle, Dubai is home to a myriad of green cafes that will most definitely transport you to the suburbs.
      For a botanical-themed afternoon, the emirate is never short of nature-fuelled cafés to experience with your loved ones and go for a coffee break or even a refresh.
      If you’re in need of inspiration, scroll through our guide of idyllic cafés to visit ASAP.
      Seven Seeds

      With an Instagram-worthy outdoor setting, this picturesque café promises a nature-driven experience as visitors can dine in the luscious expansive area. From fresh salads to a delectable array of desserts, this venue is one of the most popular cafés with a host of dishes to try. Located in the heart of Jumeirah 1, this café is open from Monday to Thursday 7am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 7am to 12am.
      For more information visit 7seeds.ae
      SEVA

      SEVA has been a trailblazer in the region as the first 100 percent plant-based, gluten-free, cane-sugar-free, and GMO-free venue. While you may come for the delicious, healthy and environmentally conscious food and beverage options, you’ll stay for the secluded and laid-back vibes. This place embodies a Sunday morning feeling with its casual, healthy, and holistic approach to dining. The spaces always make it a great place to decompress with a meal away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai. To fully immerse in nature, the venue promises other mindfulness sessions such as sound healing, yoga and more.
      For more information visit sevaexperience.com
      Comptoir 102

      This award-winning ethical concept offers conscious choices with ingredients sourced from local organic farms, serving delicious food while promoting sustainability. From homemade nut milk to its famous smoothies, there’s enough and more for everyone who visits. The hero dish is the Plant-Based Bunless Burger, which is sure to tingle your taste buds. It’s located on Jumeirah Beach Road and is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
      Maisan 15

      This secret oasis lies expands beyond a café with its hidden library perfect for a getaway. With impeccable customer service and a courtyard experience, this one-of-a-kind space lies in a secluded spot for visitors to unwind. With fresh foliage and a fountain inside a bath, this peaceful area, is exactly where to visit during the cooler months. From sakshouka to other classic dishes such as avocado on toast, this space promises a booth-style dining experience with an artistic touch. Located in Al Barsha South, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
      The Farm

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      At this oasis of calm with a botanical waterside backdrop, guests can enjoy a range of culinary flavours from the Mediterranean to Middle Eastern as The Farm serves high-quality foods with an ambience for you to take in with friends and family, in a relaxed and tranquil setting making it the perfect place to enjoy breakfast amid nature. It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 8am to 10:30 pm and Friday and Saturday 7:30am to 10:30pm at Al Barari.
      For more information visit thefarmdubai.ae
      Amongst Few

      This Dubai-based space echoes minimal hues and textures with both an outdoor area for relaxing and an indoor for working from. By using simple materials such as natural wood, steel counters and lots of plants, this café also serves organic fair-trade coffee and fresh seasonal dishes to match the standards. With refreshing raw finishes, one can’t help but notice how seamlessly the café blends with creative space. Located in Villa 3 on Al Wasl Road, Palm Strip and Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 9am to 9pm.
      For more information visit amongstfewcafe.com
      Roseleaf Café

      For homemade goodness, this independent café ensures locally roasted coffee and other carefully prepared dishes in this sanctuary. With fresh quality ingredients and green space, guests can experience the warmth of the venue and feel at home. This café is located in two prime venues in Al Quoz and Emirates Golf Club and it’s open daily from 8am to 8pm.
      For more information visit roseleafcafe.com
      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. Located inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz, it’s open daily 8am to 10pm.
      For more information visit matcha-club.ae
      The 100 Café

      Founded by Asma Hilal Lootah opened the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre – The Hundred Wellness Centre – in the country in 2008. Surrounded by natural greenery, this lush destination promises a holistic approach to living. This tranquil space promises healthy dishes and nutritious comfort food in a serene location. Located in Jumeirah 1, the centre is open from Saturday through Thursday, 7am to 8pm.
      For more information visit thehundred.ae
      Harvest & Co.

      This farm-to-table concept is situated in the heart of Dubai Garden Centre giving visitors the ultimate botanical retreat. This rustic-meets-modern greenhouse restaurant ensures an urban retreat for all those who visit with its fresh produce and an industrial palette for the complete experience. With signature roast coffee and other wholesome dishes, this homegrown experience, promises a homely atmosphere. Located in Al Quoz, it’s open daily from 8am to 6:30pm.
      For more information visit eatx.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @nette  More