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    Etihad and Emirates collaborate to give travellers to the UAE a flexible itinerary option

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    With the new deal signed both tourists and residents now have a flexible travel option in the UAE.
    For a seamless return from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, customers from each airline cab now have this option when they purchase a return ticket from either Emirates or Etihad. With tickets from either of the airlines, customers can choose which airport to arrive at.
    Known as an ‘interline agreement’, this partnership came into light at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) by representatives of both airlines. As the first of its kind, it allows you to buy a ticket to either Dubai or Abu Dhabi and return seamlessly via the other airport.
    With the purpose of attracting more visitors by developing inbound interline traffic from select points in Europe and China. As a means to cater to the influx of tourism and cater to their needs, this collaboration is a one-of-a-kind partnership in the airline industry.

    The President of Emirates Airlines, Tim Clark said, “We are pleased to be working again with Etihad Airways – this time to allow each carrier to offer a new range of seamless travel options in and out of the UAE.”
    Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways echoed the same enthusiasm for the relationship, stating: “We’re delighted to partner with Emirates in our shared mission to support inbound tourism to the UAE and facilitate travel to our vibrant cities.”
    So, for an enhanced travel experience, this partnership promises a convenient itinerary for your next trip.
    For more information visit emirates.com and Etihad.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @emirates & @etihad More

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    Istituto Marangoni and GFX launch a large-scale clothing swap in UAE

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    46 mins ago

    Istituto Marangoni Dubai and Global Fashion Exchange (GFX) have come together to organize a clothing swap in the region.
    The idea behind this initiative is to attract students and consumers through the act of swapping clothing — which promotes sustainability and circularity through actions and not just mere words. The event will take place on May 4, between 4pm to 7.30pm at Istituto Marangoni, Dubai.
    The clothing swap project is a clever way of addressing the fashion industry’s sustainability issues. Through the act of swapping clothes, the participants can reduce their carbon foot print and make a contribution towards a more eco-conscious future.

    There’s no denying of the fact that the fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution and waste — it is not just essential but imperative to take collective action towards a more mindful future. This project will give the attendees an opportunity to come together and make a meaningful impact.
    To make the evening even more constructive, there will be a panel discussion led by Journalist and Author, Sujata Assomull, including Elena Marinoni, Director of Education at Istituto Marangoni Dubai, Florence Bulte, Chief Sustainability Officer, Chalhoub Group and GFX founder Patrick Duffy. The discussion will shed light on sustainable fashion and the importance of circular economy. Attendees can also participate in customization stations where they can learn how to “re-value” gently used items, and a photo booth where swap-goers can be photographed in their new looks.
    “The clothing swap project is a perfect example of how we can come together and take collective action towards sustainability. It is exciting to see institutions like Istituto Marangoni Dubai take a leadership role in promoting sustainable fashion practices, and we are thrilled to partner with them on this project,” shared Patrick Duffy, founder of Global Fashion Exchange.
    Join Istituto Marangoni Dubai and Global Fashion Exchange on 4th May at the Istituto Marangoni Campus located in DIFC Gate Village 8, and be part of this innovative initiative.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    8 times Queen Rania was twinning with her precious daughters

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    There’s no bond stronger than a mother and daughter and Queen Rania is the epitome of that with her two girls, Princess Iman and Princess Salma.
    As the young princesses have grown up, they have come to look like their powerhouse mother more and more.
    Throughout the years, the trio have been seen at many public engagements together, as well as in photographs shared on Queen Rania’s Instagram where Princess Iman and Princess Salma continue to display an uncanny resemblance to their mother.
    With that, we take a look back at some of Her Majesty’s precious moments with her lookalike daughters.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @queenrania  More

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    Looking for a tranquil escape in the UAE? Visit The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    For the ultimate cityscape in the UAE, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah promises a pristine weekend retreat all-year round.
    From the moment you enter, the property’s bespoke fragrance transports you to a different world. As a reprieve from the fast-paced city living, this mindful resort ensures you disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and spend quality time with your loved one in utmost luxury.
    So, if you’re on the lookout for a short-haul escape without the added hassle of taking a flight, here’s exactly why The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah’s picturesque resort is where you need to book ASAP.
    Spacious rooms
    Infused with calming earthy hues, the spacious accommodation includes rooms with private gardens, spectacular suites and secluded villas with private pools. Every room is complete with a balcony, while the villas and suites feature large terraces and private pools for an intimate, uninterrupted escape. With clean aesthetics, both the two and three-bedroom private villas come with 24-hour private butler service and are flooded with natural light and fantastic garden and sea views.
    Bespoke Italian architecture

    Afloat on the azure waters, the minimalist design of this property came to life by the architect Lissoni. This sophisticated contemporary resort encompasses an open-plan concept complete with earthy tones to seamlessly blends in with its natural surroundings. Located just next to the resort are a golf course and an extensive natural park with lagoons and mangroves, ideal for those who wish to do some exploring. The thoughtfully designed property is laid out across three platforms, which lead down onto the property’s private sandy beach.
    A culinary journey

    The 355,209 square-foot resort houses two dining concepts – Vinesse and Aquario. The former is the resort’s main restaurant which offers all-day dining with international cuisine with a contemporary twist, meaning there’s something for everyone. The resort’s restaurant Aquario promises a renewed commitment to environmental protection and long-term sustainability. The ambience is perfect for a late lunch in the sun or for an early dinner overlooking the sunset.
    Unwind with the relaxing treatments
    Further revitalises yourself at the Oberoi Al Zorah’s luxury spa which features private treatment rooms with open-air showers and private hammams. Choose from a wide range of treatments including bespoke facials and massages, advanced holistic treatments, hammam scrubs and more.
    Kayak in the mangroves
    Situated in the heart of the UAE, this lush property boasts almost sixty species of birds, marine life, flamingos and more as you paddle amid the pristine lagoons. To immerse yourself completely in nature, the kayaking experience ensures a one-of-a-kind journey unlike any other experience before.

    For the golfing enthusiast
    As for activities, the Al Zorah golf course is a stone’s throw away for those who are keen golfers. The course is set in a stunning natural environment, with flowing sand dunes and an inland mangroves whose water levels change with the tides, located just minutes away from the resort making it a dream golfing destination.
    Starting at Dhs1,900 per room for one night, this secluded getaway didn’t fail to impress us with its hospitable staff and to make a reservation visit oberoihotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram oberoialzorah More

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    The Managing Director of ROAM on what luxury travel in Saudi Arabia entails

    Exceptional and hyper-curated experiences are upending high-end travel.
    With the launch of ROAM, travellers can experience Saudi Arabia in a new light. Stuart McNair, Managing Director at ROAM discusses what luxury experiential travel means.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    We are in the midst of an incredibly exciting time for Roam. Having launched the brand earlier this month and our mobile camp opening in Tiaf this summer, it’s all hands-on deck. I spend my time between our offices in Jeddah and Riyadh, so early mornings are often spent catching domestic flights and enjoying my fair share of delicious Saudi coffee.
    What was the catalyst to launch Roam?
    When the Kingdom opened itself to tourism in 2019, it created a host of new opportunities for both domestic and international travellers. A genuine new frontier, and the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi stretches along the length of the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Home to stunning natural landscapes, historical sites and modern architecture, it truly has something for everyone. With so much to offer, it is an exciting time for everyone involved in the travel industry. With our heritage and local experience, Roam hopes to support the evolving landscape by becoming the most trusted luxury travel company in the Kingdom.

    How did the partnership come about between Cool Inc and Pelorus?
    Roam is the result of a joint venture between Saudi luxury and lifestyle hospitality company, Cool Inc, and bespoke travel and yachting company, Pelorus. The partnership came about in order to rewrite the narrative for luxury travel in the Kingdom. Together they have been able to develop a unique strategy that incorporates the essence of Saudi culture and leverages each company’s strengths to create innovative and enduring DMC experiences. By combining Pelorus’ expertise in experiential travel with Cool Inc’s local knowledge and market understanding, Roam can now offer tailored DMC services specifically designed for the Kingdom, setting them apart from their competitors and enabling them to provide unparalleled levels of customer service. This approach distinguishes Roam as a luxury travel and tourism brand that delivers exceptional, one-of-a-kind products and services, contributing to the development of the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and making it easier for travellers to discover its beauty.
    You offer a bespoke travel service within unexplored regions in Saudi Arabia – can you expand on this?
    Roam’s multi-vertical, product-driven, and service-led business is made up of four key verticals, including bespoke travel, tour services, accommodation bookings and transportation. The company will also offer aviation, concierge services, brand experiences & events, luxury events & activations and VIP guest management.
    Roam’s unique products include mobile camps, day camps, e-quads and private dining experiences. These products highlight the very best of Saudi Arabia and are available for purchase as part of the company’s bespoke travel service or as standalone experiences.
    Roam will be activating in different regions throughout the year, following the seasons. Destinations include Tabuk, NEOM, Al Ula, Jeddah, Riyadh, Al Ahsa Oasis, and Red Sea from October to March, and Taif, Al Baha, Tanomah, Abha, Jazan region, and Farasan Island from May to September.
    What does it take to launch and offer a hyper-seasonal luxury travel concept in Saudi Arabia?
    At the heart of Roam, are its people. Our team is made up of a majority of Saudi talent, and we expect this to continue to increase as we attract more bright, young Saudis into this budding market. With the experience of living it, we are able to find, craft, and deliver experiences in Saudi year-round. Our mobile camp allows us to capitalise on the cooler temperatures to the south, then move north for the winter months, allowing guests to enjoy the desert regions of AlUla and Tabuk.

    Tabuk
    What are the experiences at Roam?
    Roam aims to be bold in all its endeavours, constantly evolving and developing new experiences for our clients. As we continue to activate new regions across the country, we will be bringing luxury to remote regions for the first time with our mobile camp. In June, the camp will launch in the beautiful, mountainous region of Taif. The first of its kind, the camp will then move across the Kingdom every 8-12 weeks, allowing travellers to experience undiscovered regions of KSA, without having to compromise on comfort or indulgence. Each spectacular remote location offers the perfect weekend getaway for friends, family or colleagues. The camp is designed and decorated to showcase modern Saudi with traditional touches, as well as small attachments that will change to reflect the local region. In addition, our expert team have been scouting out the best locations for trekking, climbing, stargazing and nature activities helping you explore the local area. Our camp equipment will include our own fleet of Land Rovers, electric quads, fat bikes and more.
    “From uncharted areas of the Red Sea, offering world-class diving, to archaeological wonders in Hegra, vibrant cities and ever-evolving Giga projects, Saudi offers an exciting and undiscovered world to explore.”

    Tabuk coast
    What sets the travel industry in Saudi Arabia apart?
    KSA is on the cusp of significant change for Saudi Arabians and international travellers alike. Given the numerous products and services on offer throughout KSA, combined with the fact that it’s a relatively new travel destination, there is so much to be discovered. From uncharted areas of the Red Sea, offering world-class diving, to archaeological wonders in Hegra, vibrant cities and ever-evolving Giga projects, Saudi offers an exciting and undiscovered world to explore.
    This is ‘The Horology Issue’ – time is such a luxury today. What do you think is the future of travel and how we spend this time?
    We must redefine the industry to charm the innovators of tomorrow, become a pioneering and thriving model of excellence and spark an inclusive future, ripe with investment opportunities for all. We believe all this combined means the tourism market in the Kingdom could become very significant indeed, as outlined in Vision 2030.
    May’s – The Horology 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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    9 timeless Instagram accounts to follow this month

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    For an aesthetic feed, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of horological-inspired accounts to follow on Instagram.
    Charles Oudin@charlesoudin

    Parisian watchmakers since 1797.
    Hôtel des Horlogers@hoteldeshorlogers

    A place to make time for things that matter.
    Missoni@missoni

    An unmistakably Italian way of living and dressing since 1953.
    Josette@josettedubai

    Embark on a nostalgic culinary journey to evoke the vintage Parisian spirit.
    SHA Wellness Clinic@shawellness

    Turn back time using proven natural therapies.
    Christie’s Middle East@christiesmiddleeast

    Authentic timepieces meticulously curated at auction.
    Dubai Watch Club Girls@dubaiwatchclubgirls

    The UAE social club for women who love watches.
    Rolex@rolex

    A brand known for its perpetual pursuit of excellence.
    ROAM@experiencesbyroam

    Taking luxe travel to the next level in Saudi Arabia.
    May’s – The Horology 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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    Optimize your time – The Horology Issue with Blacklane

    Lifestyle

    by Amy Sessions
    34 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 13 IMAGES
    Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Ziga MihelcicFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska at MMGModel: Kristina Stojanovic at MMG
    Welcome to The Horology Issue.
    For the cover, we have partnered with Blacklane, a luxury brand synonymous with a top-tier approach to saving time, with a dedicated team of professional Academy-trained chauffeurs that allow you to maximise your travel time.
    Blacklane’s Chauffeur Service delivers an unparalleled ride experience so you can optimize your travel time.
    You are the first all- electric fleet Chauffer service. Can you expand on this initiative and why it was so key to be sustainable?
    At Blacklane, we understand the significance of creating a sustainable future for generations to come. Our all-electric fleet in Dubai is a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship. We aim to make a positive impact by setting an example for others in the industry to follow, joining us in our mission towards sustainability. Since 2017, we have been offsetting carbon emissions, and in 2021, we went further by offsetting our remaining emissions from our inception. The next logical step was to reduce emissions altogether which is reflected by our transition to an all-electric fleet, this move also brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of becoming a net zero company by 2040.
    Blacklane is a luxury brand. What are the key signifiers for you of luxury?
    We pride ourselves on delivering a luxurious experience that sets us apart from other transportation options. We believe that certain signifiers such as comfort, convenience, and professionalism, are essential to our guests and our brand. We place a strong emphasis on attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of our guest’s rides is carefully considered and executed to perfection. Our chauffeurs are meticulously trained to provide a seamless and safe experience for our guests. From the cleanliness of the vehicle to the in-car amenities and features, we go above and beyond to exceed expectations. Guests can indulge in a variety of in-car amenities, such as choosing your own playlist, sipping on still or sparkling water, and even enjoying a massage in a cool-air ventilated seat. We believe that these small touches make a big difference, ensuring that the journey with us is not only comfortable but also enjoyable. Quality is another important signifier. We believe that our clients deserve the best, which is why we offer a fleet of premium vehicles that are well-maintained and equipped with the latest technology, included HEPA filtered cabins that remove fine particles and other pollutants from the air inside the car, ensuring our guests breathe clean, fresh air throughout their journey. We also understand that convenience is key and with our app, guests can select from our on-demand or pre-scheduled service, ensuring that they have the flexibility to book a ride that works best for them. We understand that unexpected delays can happen, which is why every booking comes with a complimentary 15-minute wait time, for airport pickups, we go the extra mile by offering a 60-minute complimentary wait time with a meet and greet service.
    What is the core DNA of the brand?
    At the heart of our brand, Blacklane is driven by a mission to create true peace of mind today for a better tomorrow. Through our commitment to delivering perfect experiences around the world, we seek to inspire a brighter future that is sustainable, socially responsible, and economically sound. Our core DNA is built around providing a seamless, premium travel experience that is tailored to individual needs. Our commitment to excellence, reliability, and professionalism is at the forefront of everything we do, ensuring that every journey with Blacklane is a memorable one.
    You train all Chauffeur’s in the Academy- can you tell us what this involves?
    Our chauffeurs are the backbone of our service. Their comprehensive training through the Blacklane Chauffeur Academy is essential in delivering unparalleled experiences to our clients. The Academy ensures that our chauffeurs are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to create seamless and memorable travel experiences. The program covers a diverse range of topics, from professional driving techniques, safety procedures, customer service, communication skills, navigation and route planning, vehicle maintenance and upkeep, to etiquette and discretion. Our training program, developed by global experts and conducted by experienced instructors, guarantees that our chauffeurs are always up to date on industry best practices.
    You have the option to have a female Chauffeur- is this popular with female clients in the region?
    We recognize the importance of personalization when it comes to delivering an exceptional ride experience and understand that our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have unique preferences, which is why we offer a range of options to better meet their needs. For instance, we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests who have opted for our female chauffeurs and we’re proud to offer this option to ensure that every aspect of the travel experience is tailored to their preferences.
    Time is precious. How does this service allow its clients to optimize their time?
    Time is one of our most valuable commodities, and we’re dedicated to providing a service that optimizes every moment of our guest’s travel experience. Imagine being able to work on a crucial project, make an important call, catch up on some reading, or simply relax in a massage seat during your daily commute. Our easy-to-use app enables quick and hassle-free bookings, while our commitment to punctuality ensures that you’ll arrive at your destination on time.
    As well as advance booking trips you can book a car by the hour- has this been a popular feature to date?
    Our hourly booking option resonates deeply with the discerning clientele who value adaptability and the freedom to dictate their own schedules. This sought-after feature offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing our guests to travel the city at their leisure, enjoying the convenience of a dedicated chauffeur and a luxurious vehicle especially as temperatures rise. Our emphasis on personalization and timesaving ensures that we can cater to the needs of our guests, whenever and wherever they need us.
    You can now download the app from the iOS store here.
    May’s – The Horology 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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    In pics: Fazza gives us the ultimate wanderlust inspiration from his recent trip to Japan

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai is known for his avid love for travelling and Japan is the latest to be added to his list.
    From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fuelled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.
    In a series of photos shared on Sheikh Hamdan’s feed to his 15.7 million fans with the caption “I love Japan”, snippets from his trip are seen along with his love for photography which is vividly captured.
    Known for travelling the globe, Sheikh Hamdan has visited a series of countries over the years including Tanzania, South Korea, Estonia, Denmark and more.

    Previously, in 2019, Sheikh Hamdan had made a visit east to Japan. Regarded as a highly-trained fitness enthusiast, the Dubai royal was seen posing with bronze sculptures of rugby player Michael Leitch and sumo wrestler Tochinoshin Tsuyoshi. He was also captured taking some classes and trying some delicious food, he’s undoubtedly ticked off a host of must-visit venues on his trip to Japan. From grazing through the enchanted streets or travelling by the high-speed bullet train to Tokyo, make a note of all the must-dos on your next trip.
    Japan eVisa for UAE residents
    The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system, and only residents of a select few countries, including the Emirates and KSA, as well as Brazil, UK, USA, Cambodia, Canada, Mongolia, Taiwan, Singapore and South Africa can apply for the same. 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 eVisas for up to 90 days in Japan.

    So if you’re thinking of your next trip, here’s exactly where you need to visit next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @faz3 More