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    13 underground speakeasies to visit in Dubai ASAP

    Dubai’s best-kept secrets are finally out.
    What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today.
    After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights.
    To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
    So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
    Smoke & Mirrors

    For an experimental new twist, the destination bar comes with an extensive menu of niche drinks and contemporary Art Deco design, that’s curated to impress. With Cuban-inspired cocktails complemented by dark wood panelled walls and shelves, this bar is tucked away on the hotel’s 74th floor bringing a South-American touch to the heart of Dubai. Located at SLS Dubai, the bar is open daily from 6pm and 3am and comes to life with its plush interiors.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Gohan

    La Cantine du Faubourg, located in Emirates Towers, is one of the staple restaurants in Dubai and has been on the emirate’s dining scene for over a decade. But, did you know it’s now got a secret venue hidden within its walls? Enter Gohan, the Japanese restaurant concept by the team at La Cantine. This intimate space can seat 30 diners at a time with the DJ spinning to some of the most eclectic tunes all night. “The main guideline when it comes to Gohan was to get as close as the authentic Japanese food with a twist of modernity and street food”, Chef Gilles Bosquet told Emirates Woman in an interview. It’s open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 4pm and for dinner from 7pm to 2am daily.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Suave

    Tucked inside the new bustling fine-dining haven of Basko, an antique staircase leads to this eclectic space that’s designed to make any night feel young no matter what day of the week. This underground bar has brought back an era reminiscent of glitz, glamour and galore. Dating back to the 1960s, this retro-fueled bar features a library of over 200 vintage records, featuring hits from Queen to David Bowie, with the DJ spinning to tunes that are sure to impress all those who enter. Located at Opus by Omniyat designed by Zaha Hadid in Business Bay, this new sophisticated venue is one to add to your must-try list.
    For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
    Behind the Yellow Doors

    With a strict no-flash photography policy, the hidden venue allows guests to witness unobstructed views of Dubai’s skyline. For the ultimate late-night experience, this new speakeasy has a list of unending events throughout the week with a diverse mix of high-energy progressive house hits delivered with the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. To find it guests need to search for an unassuming entrance that leads into a classic interior space that’s executed through a modern lens. Located at Weslodge Saloon on the 68th Floor at JW Marriott Marquis Business Bay, this venue is open on Friday and Saturday from 11 pm to 3am and on Sunday from 10pm to 3am.
    For more information visit btyd.weslodge.ae/
    Hudson Tavern

    This urban escape takes cues from a New York-inspired speakeasy with its wooden surfaces and vintage lighting. If you’re looking to wind down in solitude for the evening, reconnect with friends, or go on date night with your partner there are enough seating options in this dimly lit space surrounded by brick walls. From Gillard oysters to exquisite ingredients like beluga caviar, this luxe space at Hyde Hotel in Business Bat is open from 4pm to 1am.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Off The Wall

    This sleek offbeat bar located at Hotel Indigo in Dubai pushes the boundaries with its unique storytelling experience from the art-laden walls to the signature drinks which offer a fresh take on cocktails as it’s curated with unusual ingredients. It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 6 pm to 2am and Thursday to Saturday from 6pm to 3am, with Mondays closed and expert mixologists who are ready to give you a completely off-the-wall experience.
    For more information visit hotelindigodubai.com
    Nyx at Gaia

    For that ultimate after-dinner soirée, this underground nightclub located at Greek haven Gaia, makes for the perfect way to end your night, as it’s previously welcomed several A-listers from around the globe such as 50 cent, Rita Ora and even A$AP Rocky to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Dubai. From hand-crafted cocktails to a night of nostalgia, this venue is surely one to visit as it’s located in the heart of DIFC.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
    Flashback Speakeasy

    By transporting you straight to the 1920s this surreptitious speakeasy bar located at Paramount hotel is most definitely one to visit. With soulful hits and that take guests to a vintage era back in time, the bar offers handcrafted cocktails to relish with live gripping performances. It’s open daily from 6pm to 2am.
    For more information visit paramounthotelsdubai.com
    Bund Lounge

    To go back in time, Shanghai Me welcomes guests to a world of decadence and glamour with an exclusive 1930s-era experience. With royalty and eclectic energy, visitors can experience rich traditions that lie hidden behind closed doors. Accompanied by a team of expert mixologists, Bund Lounge is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening from 10pm to 3am and serves an array of alluring libations, including classic and contemporary signature cocktails and tailor-made concoctions to entice every palate. With an endless evening of enigmatic wanderlust, this restaurant is located in Gate Village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    LY-LA

    Hidden in one of DIFC’s most popular new venues, Alaya, this speakeasy is designed for guests to experience a night like no other. With Middle Eastern nostalgia at the forefront, this sophisticated venue promises a one-of-a-kind affair, through upbeat harmony and otherworldly tunes influenced by the region and beyond. The modern Art Deco bar comes to life with its radiating lights and the grand Bedouin-inspired ceiling, offering a lavish immersion into the region’s culture with its richly decorated embroidery, textures, and colours. LY-LA is now open for reservations daily from 10pm until late and is located in Gate Village 4.
    For more information visit Alaya-dubai.com
    The Unlucky Cat

    From delicious cocktails to mixed beverages, this Asian speakeasy welcomes guests in a dimly lit space, with numerous offers and tasty nibbles, positioned right at the entrance of Miss Tess. It’s located at Taj Dubai, and is open from 6pm to 2am, with reservations not required, so definitely pay a visit as you’re guaranteed a relaxing time.
    For more information visit misstessdubai.com
    The Green Room

    For an underground experience, Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah has now launched a new secret space. With vibrant entertainment and eclectic music all night long, guests can enjoy the glamour of a bygone era in an alluring setting. The venue offers the perfect amalgamation of Asian-inspired dishes, private booths and lush green velvet armchairs, making it a must-visit. Every Friday and Saturday, guests can experience burlesque-themed dinner shows with dancers showcasing their talent through a series of jaw-dropping performances. This hidden space is open daily from 7 pm until late.
    For more information visit sohogardenpalm.com
    The Other Side

    As the ultimate post-dinner spot, this oriental island bar brings Tokyo to the heart of Dubai in a tasteful manner. A team of expert mixologists will be on-hand to guide you through the extensive cocktail menu, accompanies by a range of tastefully prepared dishes. Located in St. Regis Dubai on the 23rd floor, this speakeasy bar is open on Saturdays from 11pm to 4am.
    For more information visit tabudubai.com
    Galaxy Bar

    With more than just a private dining area, the bar has a host of signature celestial-inspired cocktails that are handcrafted especially for all those who visit. By transporting guests to Greece, this luxe concept encapsulates the same feeling when guests start at the Aegean Sea at night-time. With shimmering stars and an organic design process, this intimate space has been designed into a magical experience for guests to experience. Located at Avli by Tashas, this bar was born to provide visitors with a stellar journey.
    For more information visit galaxy-bar.com
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    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 shoot with Haya Jarrar for By Far More

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    Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out now…

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a new tool has officially been launched to check your eligibility for the same.
    Through a short quick quiz available on the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, users can answer a few questions relating to their contribution to the country’s economy and additionally find out more about the supporting documents needed for each criteria.
    After first being implemented in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa residency programme was introduced as a means for expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years without the need for a sponsor.

    Several talented individuals such as Chef Izu, content creators Ola Farahat and Karen Wazen, actor Shah Rukh Khan and others have already been granted this visa after their notable achievements within the industry and beyond.
    With immense benefits for Golden Visa holders, the visas extend to immediate family members to ensure expats can keep their members can keep their family members live in the country hassle-free.
    Eligibility
    So, are you eligible for a Golden Visa? The UAE government has made it easy to see if you are with a two-minute quiz which you can take here.
    Below, we’ve also outlined the key players who are eligible for the Golden Visa.
    Entrepreneurs
    With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
    Real estate investors
    The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
    ‘Exceptional talents’
    The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
    Scientists & researchers
    Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
    Outstanding students
    Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
    Skilled workers
    Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
    How to apply once eligible?
    Eligible candidates will need to follow the six-step process via the Dubai Smart Application after downloading the GDRFA application, then create a new user account, select the required service, follow the attachment of the required documents, pay the fees and ultimately submit the request.
    Candidates can also apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa through AMER Center, if they wish to physically submit the documents and make the payment.
    If you think you’re a potential candidate to receive a Golden Visa, take this two minutes quiz on smartservices.icp.gov.ae to find out your eligibility.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @Dubai More

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    The Emirates Woman editor-approved guide to JLT

    Whether you’re staying or paying a visit to Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), there’s plenty to do in this area that’s compiled of 26 clusters.
    Being one of the largest residential communities in Dubai, JLT offers a wide range of activities from gyms to salons, all in one area for easy access.
    As you venture into JLT, Emirates Woman has compiled a list of all the venues to visit on your next trip to this social hub.
    Co-working spaces
    AstroLabs

    In need of a venue to expand your business? Known for fostering a collaborative coworking community, AstroLabs offers a range of bespoke training programs, incubators and a private facility to get your head down and work. With practitioner-led courses, entrepreneurs are sure to have a boost in their journey, making the entire work environment and enrolling a seamless process. Located in Parkside Retail level, Cluster R, it’s open daily for 24 hours.
    For more information visit astrolabs.com
    Nook Coworking Space

    Designed to promote a healthy environment for sports, fitness and wellness, this co-working space is an exciting place for everyone to begin their entrepreneurial journey. From flexible spaces to rent with meeting rooms to dedicated office spaces for a reasonable price every month, this venue has all your needs under one roof. It also comes complete with an onsite gym and studio space with wellness instructors who can train individuals and small groups. Located in One JLT on the 2nd floor, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 8am to 8pm and Friday and Saturday 9am to 6pm.
    For more information visit nookwork.ae
    Salons
    Willow Lane

    This popular boutique-style salon lets you feel your very best with services ranging from nails, to hair, to eyebrows and more, Willow Lane is the place for you. Located in Cluster C, it’s open from Saturday, Tuesday to Thursday 9am to 7pm and Sunday 9am to 9pm and Friday 7:30am to 4pm.
    For more information visit willowlane.ae
    The MANE

    Being home to some of the most talented hairdressers in the industry, The Mane is one of the most sophisticated salons located in the heart of JLT. With founder Anthony Walsh bringing his expertise to the table, all guests are left in the hands of the experts. Whether a cut or a blow dry, you’re sure to feel your very best at this salon. Located in JBC 4, Cluster N, It’s open daily from 9am to 7pm.
    For more information visit manehairandbeauty.com
    The Grove Salons

    With meticulous attention to detail, The Grove Salons is known for its precious and tailor-made haircuts which create the perfect shape for you. From styling to hair treatments for silky smooth softness, the salon offers a holistic approach to both hair and skincare with a range of top-quality products to choose from. Located in Al Seef 2, Cluster U, It’s open daily from 10am to 8pm except on Friday.
    For more information visit thegrovesalons.com
    That Hair Tho (THT)

    The experts in the THT team are there to make your hair dreams a reality. They use sustainable and naturally made hair colours, they ensure to protect your hair during the entire process. Located in Cluster, the Dome Tower, it’s open daily from 10am to 9pm and is closed on Sundays, while Friday is open from 9am to 8pm.
    For more information visit thathairtho.me
    Restaurants
    Friends Avenue Café

    With a fresh blend of all your favourites including Açai bowls, gourmet burgers, a breakfast-style menu and healthy smoothies, Friends Avenue Café lets you enjoy your food completely guilt-free. Aimed to provide food that reminds you of home, this concept launched in 2015 and has been a hit ever since. Located in Fortune Executive Tower, Cluster T, It’s open daily from 7am to 10pm.
    For more information visit friendsavenue.ae
    Couqley French Bistro & Bar

    This chic French Bistro offers delicious dishes that are served with careful attention to detail. The restaurant has a true family feel to it, and offers some of the best French dishes in Dubai. It’s located in Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A and is open daily from 12pm to 1am.
    For more information visit couqley.ae
    Mythos Kouzina & Grill

    Are you dreaming of a summer in Santorini? Bringing authentic Greek food to the table, Mythos offers a compilation of dishes with hand-selected ingredients creating food that’s pure, light and healthy. There are an array of delectable dishes ranging from Gyros to fresh salads at this sophisticated haven. Located in Cluster P, it’s open daily from 12:30pm to 11:15pm.
    For more information visit mythoskouzina.com
    Maiz Tacos

    This homegrown Mexican street food restaurant began as a food truck in 2018, while later moving into a brick and mortar store residing in JLT. From high-quality dishes made affordable for all, while keeping their motto ‘To make tacos great again’ in mind.’ Located in Lakeshore Tower, Cluster Y, It’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 10pm and Thursday and Friday 12pm to 11pm
    For more information visit maiztacos.com
    Pickl

    From delicious chicken tenders to juicy burgers, Pickl is a homegrown favourite that has gained popularity in no time. With each dish handcrafted to perfection, guests are always craving for more after each visit. Located in the heart of JLT, it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday, 11am to 1am and Thursday and Friday 11am to 2am and is located on the ground floor of One JLT Tower.
    For more information visit eatpickl.com
    1762 JLT Stripped

    Serving delicious food with everything from gourmet sandwiches to delicious salad concoctions, 1762 works year-round to bring mouthwatering menus that everyone can enjoy. With quirky elements, including its signature truck, guests can enjoy a range of fresh juices and a delicious blend of coffees. From freshly baked scones to speciality drinks, this artisanal Deli is a must-visit with your friends and family.
    For more information visit 1762.ae
    Jazz@Pizza Express

    With freshly baked pizzas from the oven, this authentic Italian restaurant is constantly innovating with new recipes and cosy interiors to ensure you have the best dining experience. From various kinds of pasta to a host of other wholesome dishes, Pizza Express is the perfect place for friends and family to gather. Located in JLT Cluster A, It’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 1am and Thursday and Friday 12pm to 2am.
    For more information visit pizzaexpress.ae
    Gyms
    Elevation Fitness

    Elevation Fitness is there to help you achieve your workout goals with a personalised training regimen for those who require it. With long opening hours in a friendly environment, guests are motivated to workout with supervised care. Located in Oaks Liwa Heights, Cluster W, it’s open on Saturday to Thursday 6am to 11pm and Friday from 9am to 9pm.
    For more information visit elevationfitness.ae
    Pilates Academy Dubai

    With tailormade workouts, each structured lesson ensures that you get the attention you deserve with only three to five participants in each class. The gym has beautiful interiors and a calming environment, guests are sure to feel energised after each class. Located in Jumeirah Bay X2, Suite 4202, Cluster X, It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 9am to 7pm, Thursday 9am to 6pm and Friday 9am to 1pm.
    For more information visit pilatesacademydubai.com
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    Feature image: Instagram @jltdmcc More

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    7 glamping spots to book in the UAE for a premium escape

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Looking for a quick cityscape? Your staycation experience in the UAE is about to get a whole lot more luxurious.
    For a big city detox, the UAE is home to a myriad of unique glamping spots that undoubtedly offer the best of both worlds. With scenic views of nature accompanied by utmost comfort, this bespoke staycation is an experience you simply can’t miss out on.
    So, if you’re ready to pack your bags this winter, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the must-visit glamping spots for a getaway with your loved ones.
    Mysk Moon Retreat, Sharjah

    Discover a stay under serene skies and stunning surroundings with a dome or tent of choice. Developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the eco-friendly destination will be the ideal place for a unique overnight stay. This experience comes fully equipped with private pools and a majority of lodgings to choose from. As for activities, guests can enjoy stargazing at night and during the day hikes through the incredible landscapes of Mleiha or visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Prices start at Dhs1,350 inclusive of breakfast with pristine mountain views.
    For more information visit myskhotels.com
    Sedr Trailers at Hatta Resorts

    If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
    Pura Eco Retreat, Abu Dhabi

    For a complete wellness experience, this bespoke retreat lies in the heart of Jubail Mangrove Park with several activities such as kayaking, waterslides and yoga sessions surrounding nature. There are also several options for your camping experience, such as individual camping, serviced camping, and luxury camping. With minimalist chic domes with neutral hues and a hands-on active camping experience in the tents, guests can wander amid nature in utmost tranquility. The domes with breakfast start at Dhs1,750 for the packages and are not to be missed out on.
    For more information visit staypura.com
    Longbeach Campground, RAK

    This is the perfect getaway to get close to nature with various recreational facilities such as beach yoga, sea view aerobics, kite flying and exhilarating water sports. If you’re looking for a fun-filled camp, kids will be far from bored with all the host of onboard activities for them to try out during the stay. There’s also a pleasant site of farm animals for kids to interact with at the petting zoo. Starting at Dhs249 for the authentic deluxe tent with a comfortable setting, this will make the perfect home for your next camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah.
    For more information visit bmhotelsresorts.com
    Bedouin Oasis, RAK

    You can live like a bedouin for a day with luxury in the middle of nowhere with thrilling desert experiences, and traditional hospitality at its best all set in the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah with a traditional style setting offering a host of exciting activities as you witness a touch of the Arabian culture with beautiful landscapes on the trip starting at Dhs750 for three adults.For more information visit bedouinoasis.org
    Banan Beach, RAK

    If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy glamping spot, Banan Beach effortlessly transports all its guests to Greece. With infinity pools, bars and enchanting views of nature, this venue should definitely be on your list this season. Starting at Dhs650 for a tent, guests can prolong their stay for more than two nights for the ultimate escape.
    Starlight Camp, Dubai

    This unique glamping destination is found 45 minutes from Dubai. Designed only for one couple at a time, the dome comes with a crystal roof and a relaxing four-poster queen size bed as well as outdoor dining space, so you can tuck into an inclusive breakfast while admiring the surroundings with utmost comfort. At the venue, guests can prepare their own stargazing feasts with the BBQ facilities provided to dine in style. Starting at Dhs 2,400, this one-of-a-kind experience comes fully equipped with onboard amenities.
    For more information visit starlight-camp.com
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    6 places in the UAE for an unforgettable horse riding experience

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    58 mins ago

    From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy.
    So, get your equestrian hat on to enjoy the outdoors and experience nature at its finest.
    As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse-riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year, especially now.
    Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

    With a state-of-the-art polo and equestrian community located in Dubailand, with over six million square feet of land, it consists of four world-class polo fields, a polo academy, a riding school with a dedicated riding aren’t emulating that Andalusian elegance with an oasis of excellence and uncompromising luxury. The instructors help fine-tune your skills with the well-schooled horses as it operates from Sunday to Saturday, 6am to 12am. Prices start at Dhs240 for beginners in a group setting and Dhs475 for a private beginners class.
    For more information visit poloclubdubai.com
    JA Equestrian centre

    Featuring its own air-conditioned stables with a vast expanse at JA, The Resort. This wonderful place for horse riding in the UAE provides expert qualified instructors for both experts and beginners in a fully-equipped schooling environment where regular riders can venture out and enjoy the natural desert environment, making it available all year round. The stables operate from 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm.
    For more information visit jaresortshotels.com
    Dubai City stable

     
    This family-friendly oasis located in Umm Sequim district, being only 10 minutes from Dubai’s Downtown area is perfectly suited for city residents who are either trained or wish to begin their horse riding journey as this stable is truly the perfect point for all horse desert adventures as they offer both private and group tuition for beginners through various events too. Starting at Dhs190 for 45 minutes, this place is definitely one to visit.
    For more information visit dubaicitystable.com 
    Sharjah Equestrian and Racing club

    Being one of the first equestrian clubs in the UAE established under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, this riding club is located on Al Dhaid Road. It’s home to one of the largest indoor riding facilities in the Middle East ensuring that its well equipped with qualified trainers and riding instructors who have advanced their technical skills. The riding school is closed on Tuesday and is open from morning 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
    For more information visit serc.ae
    Emirates Equestrian centre

    Whether you’re interested in horse riding or simply wish to experience a tranquil equine desert escape, riders of all levels are welcome and also have the opportunity to learn about show jumping, dressage, eventing, join the pony club or visit the riding school. With fully qualified instructors being able to answer your queries, polo events also take place for you to simply visit. The lesson hours are available from 7am to 11am and 4pm to 7pm and is located on Al-Ain Road, Dubai.
    For more information visit emiratesequestriancentre.com
    Al Wadi Equestrian Centre
    Located at the Ritz Carlton resort Al Wadi in Ras Al Khaimah, this equestrian centre offers lessons and experiences for guests of all ages and skill levels. Group and private lessons are available for experienced and beginner riders, including children. Spacious paddocks and a horse-walking arena are among the facilities.
    For more information visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/

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    Feature Image: Al Wadi Equestrian Centre More

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    This Dubai-based expert shares how to recalibrate your body in 2023

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    59 mins ago

    Anisha Joshi, Osteopath at Euromed Clinic Dubai, explains how recalibrating your body will help you go into 2023 with renewed strength.
    Talk us through your career.
    With my parents collectively working four different jobs to partly fund my journey through private school, this work ethic was something I carry through my life now. My sister and I both decided to go down the osteopathy route, so determination and hard work is something that runs in my family. After graduating in 2010 from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine in London, I decided to travel across the globe to Australia where I cut my teeth in osteopathy, gaining a wealth of experience before deciding to open my clinic at the age of 23. With support from my parents – they remortgaged their house twice to put the initial deposit down – I managed to open her own clinic. Fast-forward 13 years; the clinic’s growth has been impressive; hiring multiple practitioners has seen it grow from 1 treatment room to 6 across two different locations. Since then, I have won Principal Osteopath of the Year, appeared on This Morning TV show and have been sought out by many magazines and national papers for expert commentary. My patient list includes many professional athletes as well as A-list celebrities such as Rita Ora, who seek out my advice and treatment. After the global pandemic and its subsequent lockdown, I decided to merge with my sister to form Osteo Allies; where we are keen to continue expanding our brand and creating opportunities to nurture fellow osteopaths.
    What inspired you to enter the healthcare space?
    I’ve always been inspired by how amazing the human body is and how it doesn’t take much in order for it to adapt and get better.
    What does your role as an osteopath entail?
    People still assume that osteopaths just help bones or back pain, but most aches and pains have multiple factors that contribute to them. Osteopaths conduct a detailed case history and ensure that they take all elements of your lifestyle into consideration. This includes nutrition, your mental health, and exercises. Combining advice in all these areas helps to support your complaint. The main difference between a treatment with an osteopath and a sports masseuse is the in-depth assessment an osteopath will provide you. Osteopathy is a complete system of diagnosis, treatment and overall management.
    When it comes to aches and pains, what do you find is the biggest cause?
    In a world where most of us spend half of our time at a desk, experiencing shoulder and neck pain is very common, and is something that often develops into headaches. Usually, this occurs when someone has been doing something in the same position for too long; working on a computer, for example. The majority of pain is due to a lack of movement.
    “I’ve always been inspired by how amazing the human body is and how it doesn’t take much in order for it to adapt and improve.”
    What is the biggest issue people come to see you to help with?
    The biggest issue people come to see me to help with is back pain. In fact, 84 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their life. There is a lot of fear around back pain, but the truth is that it occurs in varying degrees. Those who experience persistent pain come to me for a diagnosis and treatment plan so that we can work together to strengthen their body.

    In terms of your career, you’re a female working in a male-dominated space. What’s this like and how do you hope to change the narrative for women in this space?
    As a young woman of colour I had to work doubly hard in a white male medical world but far from deterring me; if anything it spurred me on. I hope that my career thus far stands as an example that women can not only succeed in this space, but also become one of the leading in their field.
    How have you harnessed the use of social media to share your tips and tricks?
    I have found social media to be a great tool for sharing my expert tips and tricks with a wider audience. I frequently post Reels on my Instagram (@osteoanisha) giving advice on a variety of topics and educating my audience on the best ways to easily relieve certain muscle stresses and pains. It’s amazing to be able to share my passion for osteopathy with lots of people all at the same time.
    What advice do you wish you had received at the start of your journey?
    I guess the advice I wish I had got was that you may at times feel like you’re undeserving of your success. However, the impact you will have on other peoples’ lives is beyond what you feel about yourself.
    Looking back over your career, can you tell us some major hurdles you’ve had to overcome?
    I’ve had to overcome the fact that many people don’t know what osteopaths do. I’ve also had to overcome the pandemic when unfortunately my business didn’t receive any government help and I was on the verge of filing for bankruptcy. It was a really tough time and I had to make some tough decisions to make the business work. I never thought that a year after the pandemic I’d have expanded my business into three clinics in the UK and now a clinic in Dubai.
    On the opposite end of the spectrum, what are your top milestones from your career so far?
    I am lucky to say that there are various milestones in my career which I am very proud of. Being awarded Principal Osteopath of the Year by the prestigious Institute of Osteopathy was a huge achievement for me and solidified my position as one of Britain’s leading osteopaths. Appearing on ITV’s This Morning, to discuss the benefits of treatment and tips to keep moving, is another notable milestone. Finally, I have recently spent some time in Dubai after partnering with Euromed Clinic. This has been an amazing experience for me and has not only allowed me to experience a new place but also to meet a variety of amazing people and patients.
    Your top tips for taking care of aches and pains at home?
    To take care of aches and pains at home, it is important to make an effort to do strengthening exercises to alleviate muscle stiffness and get an early night’s sleep. Movement and sleep are both research-driven practices that can help ease body soreness. As well as this, nutrition plays a big role in muscle and joint repair. To stay energised, it is crucial to stay hydrated and eat a well-balanced, protein-heavy diet. Daily supplements of omega-3, magnesium and iron, all also help to promote better energy levels. Omega 3 is found in oily fish like salmon and is really important for muscles, joints, skin and hair. Also, relaxing in a warm bath is a great way to restore the body, acting as a way to switch off and relax.
    Going into 2023, what is your advice for living a more pain-free and healthy life?
    Recognise that pain isn’t a reflection of damage and that we need to move more than we think we do. In a world where we stay stationary more than ever, this is key. If you’re experiencing any aches or pains, then it’s good to chat to an osteopath.
    January’s – The Reset Issue – Download Now 
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    UAE to ban single-use plastic bags from 2024

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    By making a conscious effort to protect the environment, the UAE will ban the production and circulation of single-use plastic shopping bags from January 1, 2024.
    As per the state news agency WAM, the resolution prohibits the import, production and circulation of single-use plastic shopping bags from next year.
    Additionally, the government has told authorities, retailers, suppliers and consumers to prepare “suitable, sustainable and multi-use alternatives in all shopping stores, retail stores and sales outlets on a permanent basis,” as reported by the agency.
    A rule has already been implemented in Dubai since last summer for a nominal 25 fils charge on plastic bags in Dubai on plastic bags with most plastic bags banned in Abu Dhabi since last year.
    In order to ensure, certain produce remains fresh, thin bag rolls will be excluded from this decision and will require a clear label in order to proceed with in the future. Other bags made with recycled materials shall also be exempted from the rule.
    Without limiting to plastic bags, the UAE will also ban plastic products such as cups, plates, cutlery, containers, straws, stirrers and boxes from January 1, 2026.
    With four emirates having already regulated the use of plastic and announcing bans, others will soon become part of the vision to follow sustainable practices and for the UAE’s pledge to reach net zero by 2050 was a first for the MENA region.
    Looking for plastic bag alternatives? Swipe through our full edit below

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    Anoud Al-Asmari becomes Saudi Arabia’s first international female referee

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Saudi women are continuing to break barriers globally, especially in the world of sports.
    By making the nation proud, Anoud Al-Asmari has become the first Saudi international female football referee to receive the international badge from the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) according to the list announced by The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) published on Thursday on Twitter.

    الاتحاد الدولي لكرة القدم يعتمد قائمة الحكام السعوديين الدوليين لعام 2023 🔽 pic.twitter.com/MSnlsM5Gom
    — الاتحاد السعودي لكرة القدم (@saudiFF) January 5, 2023

    The list of Saudi international referees for 2023 released titles for eight arena referees, nine assistant referees and six video referees with a futsal referee, making Al-Asmari the only woman on the list.
    This announcement came one year after the KSA’s women’s football team won its first-ever international match, making history. The Greens Team witness a victorious moment as they won their first international game with Seychelles in February 2022.

    As one for the books, this historical moment also received an official congratulations from the renowned football player Péle on his personal Twitter account.
    By hoping to see more Saudi women compete in sports and reach professional levels globally, the leaders are taking all the necessary steps to ensure, women receive adequate representation and are change agents for future generations and bring about new reforms in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.
    Saudi’s first women’s football league
    In November 2020, The Kingdom officially launched its first women’s football league after a lengthy postponement due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. With a total of 24 teams with over 600 players in different cities in the country, including Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh.
    Per the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), the league aims “to empower women to encourage them to become active and to participate in sports at the community level.”
    A big kudos to Saudi Arabia’s first female referee for paving the way for women in the future!
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