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      How Embody Fitness takes their training and body transformation to a new level

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      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      3 hours ago

      Embody Fitness is taking training and body transformation to the next level.
      To understand more, Emirates Woman discusses innovation and staying at the forefront of the industry with Founder James Miller.
      How is Embody Fitness changing the game in terms of fitness and what are the core values at the heart of its DNA?
      Embody Fitness is unique in terms of how closely and scientifically we work with our clients so that we can basically guarantee life-changing results in just a few months now. Our core values always focus on putting our clients at the centre of everything we do. Then having a strong team ethic to ensure our clients get the very best of our team in all areas of our expertise from strength and conditioning, nutrition, recovery, and sports therapy.  Coming to Embody is like walking into your family away from home, we all have each other’s backs and are there to support, encourage, have fun, and achieve amazing results.

      The equipment is state of the art – how challenging was it to define what was needed for a superlative fit-out and to execute that?
      My partner and I have a strong vision for what our facilities need to look and feel like and how they should transport our clients as soon as they enter our doors. We are very design-led and attention to detail is really important to us. So many fitness centres lack inspiration, design, and basic cleanliness and we really want to continue to push the boundaries in terms of what can be achieved. We believe through the combination of a highly professional team through to award-winning design-led facilities means our clients remain inspired and motivated and can achieve the life-changing results they are looking for but never achieved previously.
      You have a recovery suite that focuses on temperature extremes. Why is this key to optimizing the body and mind?
      I am a strong believer in hot-cold therapy treatment having practiced this for a while myself. So we decided to incorporate a state-of-art recovery suite with the latest in infrared saunas and ice baths to bring this experience to our clients.  The latest research is showing so many new and important health benefits I believe most people would benefit their lives from this type of therapy in some way.  From improved muscle recovery, stronger immunity, reduced stress and anxiety, improved sense of well-being, fighting cancer, supporting detoxification and weight loss to improvement in chronic pain and auto-immune diseases there are just so many benefits to be gained.
      What has been the innovation that has changed the game in your life, career or business – and how so?
      Given I am turning 50 soon, I really grew up just ahead of the technology boom, so I would say Apple launching their iPod and then the iPhone changed the way we use to live our lives so much.  When my children see an “old fashion” fixed line telephone or cassette recorder they just laugh, and given how much of our lives exist on our mobile phones these days you can see why.

      What or who is innovative to you and why?
      Someone I grew up with who inspired me with their constant innovation was Richard Branson. He has launched more than 400 entrepreneurial initiatives across so pretty much every sector and has even joined the race to outer space.  A person who is always willing to put themselves in the arena, never afraid to fail, to buck norms, and be persistent in their pursuit to create opportunities for a better world is always going to inspire me in how I want to live my life.
      For more information visit: EmbodyFitness.ae
      February’s – The Innovation Issue – 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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      Everything to know about the upcoming ULTRA music festival in Abu Dhabi

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      One of the most highly-anticipated music festivals is coming to Abu Dhabi in March 2023.
      Since its inception in Miami in 1999, ULTRA Music Festival has grown into an internationally renowned, three-day event that showcases top-tier electronic music acts and unparalleled production every March.
      After gaining worldwide traction, this festival has paved its way to the Middle East.
      So, if you’re looking for upcoming plans in the month, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming ULTRA Music Festival in Abu Dhabi.
      When is it happening?
      This first-of-its-kind festival in the UAE is set to take place on Saturday, March 4 and Sunday March 5, 2023.
      Venue
      The festival will take place at the largest open-air venue in the region, Etihad Park, located on Yas Island. One of the world’s fastest-growing leisure and entertainment destinations and a pinnacle of luxury in the United Arab Emirates, Yas Island will provide the perfect setting for the destination festival.

      Phase one headliners
      With top global DJs all set to play at this enticing music festival, the lineup includes Adam Beyer, Afrojack, Amelie Lens, Calvin Harris, ILLENIUM, KSHMR, NGHTMRE, Sasha_John, Digweed andSkrillex.
      Final line up
      ULTRA’s famed resistance concept has added five more industry stalwarts to the event. Ilario Alicante, Kolsch, Melanie Ribbie, Mind Against and Pan-Pot are the latest world-class acts set to grace the Resistance stage this year.
      Premium offerings
      ULTRA Abu Dhabi will offer a Premium General Experience pass that allows access holders to dedicated entrance gates, toilets, F&B offerings as well as their own lounge area where they can experience the most amazing night of their lives.
      A VIP experience
      The concert will also offer bespoke VVIP Experiences at both stages, packed with bottle service, mind-blowing theatrics, and the very best view in the house. Details on table sales will be announced shortly on ULTRA Abu Dhabi’s social media channels and website.
      Tickets
      The advance 2-day tickets are priced at Dhs480 and regular are priced at Dhs540 for general admission. The premium general admission 2-day tickets are priced at Dhs680 and regular 2 day are priced at Dhs765. They can now be purchased online at ultraabudhabi.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @ultraabudhabi More

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      7 unique heritage sites to visit in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several spots that mark its rich heritage.
      In Dubai, there are many sites that display the nation’s history and pay homage to where it all began.
      As an ode to the UAE’s long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai.
      Coffee Museum

      Designed to pay homage to the UAE’s coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country’s heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture.
      For more information visit coffeemuseum.ae
      Etihad Museum

      Designed to highlight the nation’s history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE’s archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm.
      For more information visit etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae
      Old Souq

      This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai.
      Hatta Heritage Village

      Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai’s mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature’s beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE’s traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers’ inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway.
      Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding

      Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood.
      For more information visit cultures.ae
      Arabian Tea House

      To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city’s past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.
      For more information visit arabianteahouse.com
      Dubai Museum

      To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch’s base and highlights the history of the UAE.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @abusaif4446 More

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      du selects the winner of its prestigious uniform design competition

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      In September, du announced a competition to give the opportunity for Emirati designers to win Dhs50k to refresh, reimagine and rework uniforms for the thousands of company staff members in retail stores across the UAE.
      The announced winner, Shoug Al Fardan said, “I am so humbled to have been selected as the finalist for designing du’s new uniforms. To be selected from a wide group of Emirati talents, and to have the opportunity to have my work as part of an institution like du is an honor. I would like to thank them for providing me with this esteemed opportunity to have my designs a stage of this scale.”

      The competition, which opened in September, was aimed at encouraging young Emirati designers to think out of the box to design uniforms that would celebrate the brand’s forward-thinking vision.
      The contest drew over 120 entries, from which three semi-finalists were chosen by a judging panel at the du offices in January. Shoug won the competition with her innovative and creative design that captured the essence of du’s mission to redefine the digital customer experience.
      ‘We are delighted to announce Shoug Al Fardan as the winner of the uniform design competition. Her creativity and design align with the direction the brand is exploring with an omnichannel customer experience,” said Head of Direct Channels at du, Marwan Thani.

      The new and improved uniforms are set to mark a fresh, new chapter of transformation in du’s brand journey as a digital-first telco.
      In a mission to further celebrate homegrown talent, the UAE’s telecom operating giant continues to build a sustainable future.
      As part of du’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and continued efforts to build a sustainable future, the old uniforms will be donated to a recycling centre.
      For more information visit the official du Instagram account.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      10 fabulous activities to do in Dubai this weekend

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      The ultimate weekend guide in Dubai – February 17 to February 19, 2023.
      Put skincare first

      With science-backed treatments, AEON has recently opened its doors in the new Atlantis The Royal. Customers can choose from a host of treatments such as the Aquagold Facial, Morpheus8, Dermal Fillers, Botox, Profhilo, Mesotherapy, Stem Cell Facials and PRP. The clinic also offers FaceArt by Dr. Jaffer Khan himself, which is custom-designed for each patient through a detailed consultation, with a combination of both dermal Fillers and Botox. This treatment allows patients to restore volume in the under-eyes, cheeks, lips, chin and jawline. It also reduces wrinkles and restricts the overactivity of some facial muscles in order to create a lifting effect. So, book your treatment for an overall skin wellness experience.
      For more information visit theaeonclinic.com 
      Brunch alfresco

      If you’re looking for an outdoor venue to unwind, Cleo is the place this weekend. Situated at The Hyde Hotel, this Levantine-inspired restaurant has unveiled its terrace, providing guests with an immersive brunch experience with Levantine beats and cuisine that evokes crisp summer mornings on the coast by drawing inspiration from Lebanon, Syria, Greece, and Italy in a bright and airy ambiance with a view of the city. Guests can indulge in Cleo’s carefully curated grape and let the cocktail menu transport them back to the era of Cleopatra. The brunch is priced at Dhs299 per person and will be available every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm.
      For more information visit restaurantandbars.accor.com
      Try a luxe afternoon tea

      Head to Ladurée for a quintessential afternoon tea experience, one that promises to delight all your senses. Gather your loved ones for a laid-back afternoon and soak in the charming ambience and timeless elegance of Ladurée. Explore a tasteful selection of sumptuous beverages including Ladurée Coffee, Ladurée Tea or Ladurée Hot Chocolate. Guest can choose any two types of finger sandwiches and Mini Viennoiseries from the menu. Savour the pastries such Ispahan, Passion Raspberry and Plaisir Sucres, and don’t forget to try the coward favourite Macarons from the selections. The afternoon tea experience will be available all day in all locations except for Nakheel Mall and DFC. It takes place every day from 12 noon onwards and is priced at Dhs204 for two persons.
      For more information visit laduree.ae
      Enjoy a delectable breakfast

      Catch up with your loved ones over breakfast at the new Maison Mathais situated at West Beach’s voco Dubai The Palm. Visitors can admire views of the Arabian Gulf while being treated to the smells of the on-site bakery, with traditional baguettes, homemade sourdough, and fluffy brioche burger buns. The haven also boasts traditional croissants filled with chocolate and almonds, reminiscent of those found in charming Parisian cafés. The Daily Breakfast Menu is available from 7am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday and offers a wide selection of benedicts bursting with flavours including a collection of dishes. Diners looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can try Le Moelleux Au Chocolat, a hot, soft-centered chocolate cake served with vanilla ice cream.
      For more information visit maisonmathisvocopalm.com 
      Book a VIP beach club experience

      The city’s original and most iconic beach club, Nikki Beach Dubai is set to elevate its guest experience even further this winter with the addition of nine brand-new VIP Pool Cabanas. The private cabanas come with their temperature-controlled pools, relaxing daybed and green partition for a sophisticated beach club experience. Guests have the option to dine on an eclectic menu of light and fresh salads, sushi, ceviche, and grilled seafood either in the privacy of their cabana or in the elegant bar and lounge area. VIPs can also enjoy their own private area or easily venture down to the beach club pool. Renowned for its heady mix of live entertainment and energetic vibes, and set against a backdrop of Pearl Jumeira’s stunning pristine coastline. The weekend cabanas start at Dhs6,000 for up to seven guests with Dhs3,000 towards a bottle service and Dhs3,000 towards F&B.
      For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
      Take a look at this sculpture park

      DIFC’s open-air Sculpture Park returns with an immersive art experience titled ‘Tales Under the Gate’and the park will remain open to the public until September 30, 2023. During the event, well-established galleries, such as Firetti Contemporary, AWC Gallery, Leila Heller Gallery, Opera Gallery, Oblong Gallery, Belvedere Art Space and Zieta Studio, as well as independent artists will showcase their works.
      For more information visit difc.ae
      Give your hair the love it deserves

      Those looking for an effective treatment for smooth hair need to look no further. We Nails is now offering the hair treatment, Arknvie for silky soft texture. The product is tailored for different types of hair and can be used to straighten, or to enhance curls by eliminating frizz – it can even be used on hair extensions. The treatment penetrates the hair at a deep level, which is why it takes about 2-3 hours depending on the hair length and thickness. The original price starts from Dhs1000, depending on length & thickness with 20 percent off throughout the month of February. Hair detox is a tailormade treatment and a short consultation will be required before treatment begins to find out the desired outcome of each client. It’s located in Grand Trident Building, JBR.
      For more information visit wenails.ae
      Go for a fine-dining meal

      Josette is the latest Parisian fine-dining haven on the block. With show-stopping interiors and a selection of carefully curated dishes. The artistic director has brought together an array of burlesque stars, tap dancers, singers and more to surprise and delight guests for a 360-degree dining experience. After dark, the space transforms into Josette’s private dining room, setting the perfect scene for glamorous soirées and fabulous affairs. The menu includes Parisian classics. You can slice into tune tartare, foie gras terrine, escargot, ratatouille, soup a l’oignon, and plateau de Josette, a signature seafood platter.When it comes to the interiors, expect marble floors, mustard sofas, and mirrored columns. The restaurant is located in ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC and is open from 12pm to 3am.
      For more information visit josette.com 
      Get your hands on the latest Emirates Woman issue

      For our cover, we are very proud to have partnered with MOUAWAD, a brand delivering a cool, innovative and exciting new take on how we visualise fine jewellery. We discuss starting cutting-edge technology with industry heavyweights Carol Hilsum, Senior Director of Product Innovation and Kelly Kowal, Chief Platform Officer at FARFETCH in An Innovative Market, we interview the Founder of DREST, Lucy Yeomans in Innovating the Luxury Fashion Space and discover what it takes to grow your TikTok account in Digital Innovation.
      February’s – The Innovation Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Rania Fawaz cover shoot with Emirates Woman More

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      Saudi Arabia to develop the world’s largest modern downtown in Riyadh

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      As a new hub of modern developments, The Kingdom is now being put on the global map.
      Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the launch of the New Murabba Development Co. aimed to transform Riyadh’s landscape completely as part of the country’s 2030 vision,
      This expansive area will highlight a living, working and entertainment experience all in one with sustainability at its core, featuring green areas along with walking and cycling paths for visitors and residents to embrace an active lifestyle.
      The project will offer more than 25 million metre square of floor area, featuring more than 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, and more than 980,000 metre square of retail space, as well as 1.4 million metre square of office space, 620,000 m2 of leisure assets, and 1.8 million m2 of space dedicated to community facilities.
      Keeping in line with the Saudi Vision 2030, this magnificent project, will feature an iconic museum, a technology and design university, a multipurpose immersive theatre, and more than 80 entertainment and culture venues.

      The project will be situated over an area of 19 square kilometers, to accommodate hundreds of thousands of residents. #NewMurabba#TheMukaab#SPAGOV pic.twitter.com/a0swlIwKaI
      — SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) February 16, 2023

      Situated 20 minutes from the airport, the concept will include a 15-minute walking radius and have its own internal transport system for convenience and ease of travel.
      By taking inspiration from the modern Najdi architectural style, the area will host the Mukaab which will be one of the largest built structures in the world, standing 400m high, 400m wide, and 400m long.
      Overall, this project is expected to add around $50 billion to the non-oil economy and create 334,000 direct and indirect jobs within the county. As an additional source of income for the economy, the project is part of the Public Investment Fund’s strategy to contribute to new and upcoming projects.
      Due to be ready in 2030, many more developments in the Kingdom are in the pipeline.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Twitter @spa_eng More

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      10 luxe fine-dining restaurants to visit in Riyadh

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      43 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
      In the last few years, Saudi Arabia’s capital city has become a haven for fine-dining restaurants.
      With an array of choices to choose from, Riyadh is making its mark as a culinary epicentre in the GCC.
      From spectacular views to international brands making their way into the country, there are a plethora of refined restaurants that are worth a visit.
      With the Kingdom’s capital leaving tourists and residents spoilt for choice, here’s some of the best restaurants to dine at in Riyadh.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @mnkyhse More

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      Why a stay at Mandarin Oriental, New York should be added to your bucket list

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      Lifestyle

      by David Roberts
      1 hour ago

      Background
      The property has been a part of New York City’s luxury hospitality setting since 2003. Two decades on, it shows no signs of having aged and instead manages to hold its own while several newer brands have flooded the market over the last few years.
      Where is it?
      It is located at one of the most coveted addresses in the city – more specifically on Manhattan’s Westside at Columbus Circle and at the southern entrance to the sprawling Central Park. The hotel is a part of the Deutsche Bank Centre – in fact, the third-floor lobby has an exclusive entrance to the retail floors of the centre.

      What’s it like?
      You’d be hard-pressed to find a better location than this. There may be only one dining option in the hotel itself, but there are plenty more among the wide selection of shops on the expansive retail floors. The lower lobby houses one of the largest Whole Foods shop that I’ve come across in New York and you are a hop, skip and a jump from Central Park. The staff are extremely welcoming and the MO Lounge offers breakfast, all-day dining and dinner with spectacular views.
      Rooms
      There are 244 rooms and suites in the hotel. We stayed in the spacious 75 sqm Hudson River View suite, whose shades of teal are a nod to the river. It features floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the room with light and there is a large desk to work, a sofa and a dining area for four, while the master bedroom has a king-size bed. If you’re looking for an ultra-luxurious experience at this hotel, there’s the 207 sqm Presidential suite that also features stunning 250-year-old parchment calligraphy.
      Food and Drink
      On the 35th floor is the MO Lounge whose contemporary furnishings and décor give it the feel of a by-invitation-only members club. However, all are welcome to this space which is open throughout the day. Its lunch and dinner menu is restricted to a page – but each item has been crafted to perfection. Hands down, the soup we ordered was the best soup we’ve tasted in all of NYC. The burrata, risotto, and salmon croque monsieur – with the option to add Golden Ossetra caviar – are all highly recommended.
      Meetings
      There are stunning events and meeting spaces on the property – perhaps the most impressive of them is the pillarless 550 sqm ballroom with commanding views over Central Park. There are three smaller rooms for board meetings, as well as The Gallery space where events are held amidst unique art pieces.
      Leisure
      A 1,350 sqm spa spans both the 34th and 35th floors. Rather than choosing a treatment type, you can opt for the Time Ritual wherein you specify a length of time and the therapist will offer a bespoke treatment to fit within that time slot. You can drop by the Technogym-fitted gym on the 36th floor, and you can also request a personal session with an on-call trainer. On the same floor is a 75ft lap pool with great views of the Hudson River.

      Verdict
      We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here and whatever requests we had including transportation, etc. were dealt with very efficiently. It may be a hangover from the bad old days of Covid, but when we checked in there were no coffee and tea amenities in our room which we discovered needed to be requested – and were promptly provided by room service. The same applied to our mini bar which, although fully stocked, was not unlocked until we contacted reception. Probably a good idea to organise that at check-in.
      Best for
      Sweeping views of Central Park, NYC’s skyline and the Hudson River
      Don’t miss
      A meal at MO Lounge
      Price
      Internet rates for a weeknight in December for a Hudson RiverView suite start at US$3,075 (Dhs1,124)
      Contact
      80 Columbus Circle at 60th Street, New York, New York 100023; +1 212-805-8800; mandarinoriental.com
      This article was originally published on Business Traveller Middle East and has been repurposed here with permission.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More