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    Revealed: Sheikha Mahra shares a sweet photo of her wedding ring

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Wedding bells are ringing for the UAE royals and a wedding ring is one of the key elements that deserves attention.
    The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Manna Al Maktoum revealed the official wedding ring on her Instagram story.
    Seen holding her husband’s hand, Sheikha Mahra’s adorable story was shared to her 190,000 fans on social media.

    With Royal wedding rings receiving attention over the years, this precious jewel looks ever so stunning with its glistening shine as Her Highness held his hand and tagged his account with a red heart on the image.
    Per an official statement released on Sheikha Mahra’s official Instagram account, the marriage contract called a Katb el-Kitab in Arabic, was signed back in April. The couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony together along with the families as the contract was signed together.

    When are the wedding celebrations?
    The Instagram account, Arabian Royal Agency reveal the date for the celebrations which is all set to take place this coming weekend. On Saturday, May 27, 2023, guests will gather to shower the newly wed couple with their blessings. Reportedly, the men’s reception will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre- Za’abeel Hall and further details are yet to be shared regarding where the bride’s reception will take place.
    So as congratulations are in order for the Royal couple, we’re yet to see other details regarding décor, outfits and the final location.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    Looking for a luxe escape? A luxury stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa awaits you

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Take one step closer to nature, at Dubai’s most sought-after unspoiled paradise.
    As the region’s first original lifestyle resort, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa promises an unforgettable experience with its secluded villa sanctuaries that are suited for families who want to create memorable experiences.
    With 15 one and two-bedroom beach villas with a private pool in total, guests can experience this oasis away. Each of which is accompanied by private swimming pools, a terrace, entertainment systems and individual parking spaces.

    Designed with pristine white, urban concrete with flashes of turquoise and walk-in rain showers, guests can celebrate for a special occasion or simply book a much-needed getaway for the family.
    As the perfect option for hosting, the living space has a long bar that runs along one wall along with a one-of-a-kind pool table, 24-hour private dining, Floor-to-ceiling windows, a large private pool, personalized Malin & Goetz bathroom amenities, an exclusive celebration system with Nikki Beach music and mood lighting along with and LCD TV, a surround sound with the latest bespoke entertainment system.

    Situated in the heart of Pearl Jumeira, this private haven promises a spectacular view over the Arabian Gulf with a private entrance that is strategically located between the beach club and the hotel.
    The resort’s beachfront location provides direct access to the sandy shores of the Arabian Gulf, allowing guests to relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful views. The resort also offers multiple swimming pools, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views, as well as cabanas and loungers for ultimate relaxation.
    So, to go back in time with its retro-chic rooms, this luxurious villa needs to be booked ASAP.
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com/
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Sheikha Mahra’s wedding celebration details revealed

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Back in April, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum signed the marriage contract, and shared this news though their respective Instagram accounts.
    Last weekend, the Arabian Royal Agency, revealed more information about the royal couple’s impending wedding celebrations. In a function on May 27, invited guests will shower the bride and groom with their blessings. While the men’s reception will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre – Za’abeel Hall, no specific details about the bride’s reception have been shared.

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in the March.

    On 5th April, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    To break this auspicious news, the beloved couple posted a poem written by the groom’s father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum on their official Instagram accounts. The news have also been confirmed via the Arabian Royal Agency.

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum
    Here’s how the endearingly worded Arabic poem goes once translated to English. “There were joys on God’s day, books were written, and congratulations were exchanged from every home. Everyone is blessed with joy, and our night is as bright as day from the good news on the day of “Mana.” From the daughters of the wind and along the fringe is a “Mahra” in which there is fondness and estrangement.”
    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
    Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.
    While no official images or information about the ceremony has been revealed, we wish the royal couple a blessed future ahead!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

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    Eid escape: 12 destinations with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @clairerose More

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    Emirates passengers can now enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity onboard

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    According to a recently made announcement, Emirates passengers in every class of travel can now enjoy free connectivity once they sign up to Emirates Skywards.
    Always at the forefront of development, this has resulted in an additional 30,000 Economy Class passengers connecting to complimentary onboard Wi-Fi every week.
    Till date, the high-end luxury airline has invested more than US$ 300 million dollars into onboard connectivity. This is a great news for all Emirates Skywards members in every class of travel, as everyone can now enjoy some form of free connectivity.
    Skywards members, whether Blue, Silver, Gold, or Platinum tier, travelling in any class, whether Economy, Premium Economy, Business or First Class will enjoy free app messaging. In addition to that, First Class Skywards members along with Silver, Gold and Platinum Skywards members travelling in Business Class will have unlimited access to free internet. This will allow them to not just spend some leisure time on the internet but also shop or work online while inflight. Platinum Skywards members have complimentary internet access in all classes.
    This new welcoming change has been very well recieved by the Emirates passangers. Today, the airline sees an average of 450,000 users per month. This represents a 30% increase of passenger use in 2023 versus the same period last year. Currently, almost 10% of all passengers are utilising the complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. On routes through the Americas, almost 20% of passengers connect to Wi-Fi onboard, and on European and Africa routes the usage is over 11% of all passengers.

    “Emirates has persistently worked with our service providers to optimise and improve the connectivity experience. In March we delivered about 55% more data per customer session compared to early 2022 despite the number of sessions increasing by 68% in the same period. We will continue to work to invest in upgrades and enhancements, and our A350 aircraft will arrive with the next generation of satellite connectivity already equipped,” shared Patrick Brannelly, SVP Retail, IFE & Connectivity.
    Emirates also announced that it will offer new high-speed, inflight broadband powered by Inmarsat’s GX Aviation, onboard 50 new Airbus A350 aircraft – scheduled to enter service in 2024.
    This new agreement will make passenger experience better with enhanced connectivity and greater global coverage, even on flights over the Arctic. The Airbus A350s will be the first Emirates aircraft to take advantage of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) satellite network, which powers the world’s first and only globally available broadband network, ensuring passengers can enjoy uninterrupted global connectivity, no matter their destination, including the North Pole.
    The advanced high-speed capabilities of the broadband will enable Emirates passengers to stay connected with family and friends, browse the internet, and enjoy social media, all from the comfort of their seat.
    Emirates also confirmed an investment of over US$ 350 million to equip a 50-strong fleet of A350s coming in 2024 with enhanced passenger connectivity via Thales’ AVANT Up system and Optiq – the first smart display in the industry to offer two Bluetooth connections, built-in Wi-Fi for passengers to pair multiple devices including phones, tablets, headphones or even game controllers, while supporting up to 60 watts USB-C to fast-charge personal devices.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: @emirates More

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    6 inspiring Emirati TV presenters to follow on Instagram

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    The UAE’s TV presenters have a powerful voice in the region and beyond.
    From hosting events to reporting on social issues, TV presenters can influence their audience and educate them on recent news with utmost grace and poise.
    Several Emirati presenters have hosted prestigious events in the UAE with the most recent being Salik’s IPO public announcement.
    As numerous personalities have made a mark for themselves in the industry, Emirates Woman has curated a guide for all Emirati TV presenters to watch out for.
    Diala Ali

    As a TV presenter at Sama Dubai TV Channel, Diala Ali started her career in 2007 working for Dubai Media. She later became an inspiration for many Emirati women through her profound voice on social media. After graduating in Dubai, she later went on to present for several news and social programmes.
    You can follow her here.
    Amira Mohammed

    Amira Mohammed is a renowned journalist and TV presenter at Abu Dhabi TV and member of the Youth Media Council at the National Media Council since joining in 2015. Taking the lead for several topics including artificial intelligence, she sheds light on various technology-related subjects at highly reputed events such as the Knowledge Summit.
    You can follow her here.
    Mahira Abdel Aziz

    After making a mark for herself in the world of presenting, Mahira Abdel Aziz has scaled new heights after featuring in a UAE-made Netflix series in 2021 The Platform as one of its main stars. She has achieved great heights in the Arab world as a TV presenter and continues to establish herself as an actress. The Emirati TV star has also walked the red carpet during the Gouna Film Festival in Egypt. As an anchor for MBC, Abdel Aziz has paved the way for many women in the media industry.
    You can follow her here.
    Rania Ali

    Recognised by the Ministry of Economy, Rania Ali is an award-winning presenter and a leading bilingual MC and public speaker in the Middle East. With an extensive client list, she has presented for top-tier local and international brands in the region. Her extensive portfolio also includes events for the UAE royal family and top government officials in the Middle East region. Known for her experience across various fields, she has been part of different sectors including finance, banking and other corporate events.
    You can follow her here.
    Mahra Alyaqoobi

    This Emirati TV presenter is a training and development manager at Sky News Arabia and has established herself in the region after successfully taking the lead in the media world. With a passion for public speaking, she turned her hobby into a full-time career and eventually became a consultant for the youth who are looking to join the media industry.
    You can follow her here.
    Dina Muhammad

    As a leading TV presenter for Al Aan TV, Dina Muhammed has also made a name for herself in the real estate industry. This Dubai-based pan-Arab satellite channel launched in 2006 and focuses on global and regional issues related to health, politics, society or those of general interest. After translating her passion for real estate into a full-time job, she is now both a TV presenter and part of the real estate content creation community.
    You can follow her here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied  More

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    An all-new cabaret show is happening at Al Habtoor Polo Resort – here’s what to expect

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    Looking for a last-minute weekend plan? An all-new cabaret show is happening at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort.
    The Dinner Show features the latest cabaret entertainment in Dubai bringing international talent as well as regional artists for a night packed of dazzling performances.
    Running all throughout summer, the cabaret will showcase diverse acts and unique performances to keep yourself entertained.
    The show opens with Rocking Opera with West End talent Aaron Pryce-Lewis and Glain Rhys, who have performed in Les Miserables and Phantom of The Opera respectively. Expect an electrifying evening with special appearances from local talents such as talented pianist Ryan Gibb and guitarist Timi Ridgway.
    Show starts at 7:30 pm on Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 and is priced at Dhs450 per person inclusive of dinner and beverages. Extend the evening into a staycation with packages at Dhs699 for two guests which includes an overnight stay, breakfast at the hotel’s dining restaurant and two tickets to the show.
    For the upcoming shows happening on June 2 and 3, expect West End The Musicals, starring Siwan Henderson, and Steffan Hughes. Coming soon later on in the month will be A Night at The Movies featuring Tom Hier and Jade Davies from Footloose and Westside Story. The series of performances comes to an end with the spectacular All That Jazz, starring Phantom of The Opera and Les Miserables stars Luke McCall and Mared Williams.

    The Dinner Show, Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Wadi Al Safa, Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20, Dhs450 per person. Tel: (050) 937 2905, (show bookings), (0)4 436 2222 (staycations), alhabtoorpoloresortandclub.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    In a Flop Era? Here’s How To Bounce Back From Failure

    You win some, you lose some. And if you’re here with me now, I am going to go ahead and assume that you’ve found yourself in what TikTok likes to call “a flop era,” which essentially refers to a period of time in which someone experiences a failure—whether it’s epically large or only small enough for you to notice. While the size of the flop doesn’t matter all that much, the way it can make you feel, no matter how big or small, can take a toll on you and make figuring out how the hell to bounce back from failure feel like a colossal undertaking.
    But hey, without failure every now and then, how are we ever going to learn and grow? It’s a natural, albeit annoying, part of life that we all have been through and will inevitably go through again. Luckily, there are practical steps you can take to bounce back from failure and become stronger than before, and we’re sharing them in a step-by-step guide ahead.

    How To Bounce Back From Failure: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Give yourself a break
    First things first: Take a deep breath and give yourself grace. Failing doesn’t mean that you’re a failure. Read that again. If you failed at achieving your goals, don’t let that lead you to a fear of not being good enough to reach them. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your circumstances or you’re disappointed, that is OK, but don’t beat yourself up for it. Take this time to relax and reflect so you can come back stronger than ever.

    Find the lessons
    I know that the last thing you want to do is spend time finding the light in a less-than-ideal situation, but the truth is that there really always is a silver lining; there is always a lesson (or two or three) that you can take away from a crap situation. Whether you know you did things that led you to where you are now or you believe that what happened had nothing to do with you, I urge you to use this as an opportunity to learn from it. And don’t be afraid to dig deep and get uncomfortable in doing so. Maybe this means you’re learning more about yourself, someone else, your career, or something else altogether. Either way, the lessons you learn now will help you (excuse me for sounding like a professor who uses too many cliches) find success in the future.

    Develop a plan for moving forward
    Nothing changes if nothing changes. Harsh, I know, but once you’ve spent time reflecting on what happened and what you can learn from it, there’s no sense in wallowing in the past. Instead, start developing a plan.
    To start, ask yourself the following questions: How will I approach my goals differently knowing what I know now? What kind of support do I need that I didn’t have before? How can I avoid the things that interrupted my progress the first time around? Next, think about ways that you can hold yourself accountable: scheduling check-ins with yourself on your calendar, telling a friend about your plan, or keeping a log.
    Now, write down your new plan, including as much or as little detail as you need. This could look like a written step-by-step plan with check-in points, a refreshed vision board, or an intention stuck to your mirror to remind yourself what you need to do every day for your goals. It doesn’t really matter if it’s written down or in your head. All that matters is that you do what works best for you—otherwise, you will find yourself in the same situation as before.

    Take small steps toward your goal
    You might feel like you’re behind because you’re starting over on your goals or pivoting your plans altogether. That is normal, but the reality is that you’re not behind and you don’t need to rush; everything happens in its own time. So don’t go overscheduling yourself to death trying to “catch up”, and instead, set your eyes on the small steps you need to take in order to yield big results.
    For example, if you wanted to start working out more but “fell off the wagon,” it doesn’t do you any good to go to the gym twice a day for two hours each to make up for the lost time. Start small and commit to 2-3 days a week for 30 minutes, and when you can stick to that, then you can adjust your workout routine. Going in too hard too fast can lead to burnout, and that is what we want to avoid if we are trying to make long-term changes for the better and avoid failure.

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