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    Find out where the UAE ranks in the latest 2023 passport index

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    With travel back on everyone’s mind, visiting visa-free destinations has become of utmost importance.
    Per Henley’s 2023 Passport Index, UAE passport holders can access 178 out of 228 countries either without a visa or visa on arrival.
    As a mirror of the country’s day-by-day advancements and awe-inspiring progress, the visa-free travel option with this passport promotes freedom of movement to many countries around the world without any added hassle. The index overall compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations.
    According to the latest data released, it shows that the country has made remarkable progress since 2006 when it then ranked 62nd on the index. With its commendable leap, the UAE continues to remain the strongest in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
    At the bottom of the ranking is Afghanistan with 27 visa-free destinations, followed by Iraq with 29 destinations and Syria with a score of 30. The other countries on the list are Pakistan at 32 destinations, Yemen at 34, Somalia at 35, Nepal at 38 destinations and North Korea at 40 destinations.
    The most powerful passports in the world
    1. Japan2. Singapore and South Korea3. Germany and Spain4. Finland, Italy and Luxembourg5. Austria, Denmark, Netherlands and Sweden6. France, Ireland, Portugal and the UK7. Belgium, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and the US8. Australia, Canada, Malta and Greece9. Hungary and Poland10. Lithuania and Slovakia11. Latvia and Slovenia12. Estonia13. Iceland14. Malaysia15. Liechtenstein and the UAE
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @visitdubai More

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    Win tickets at the Motivate Media Group Chalet for the Dubai Desert Classic

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    9 hours ago

    For all the golf fans, we have some good news.
    DP World Tour’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic is back and here’s an opportunity for you to exclusively win passes to this highly-anticipated event.
    We have a pair of passes up for grabs for both Saturday and Sunday at the Motivate Media Group Hospitality Chalet overlooking the 18th green at Emirates Golf Club on January 28 and 29, when the likes of world No. 1 Rory McIlroy will be competing in the $9 million Rolex Series event.
    The exclusive Motivate Media Group Hospitality Chalet opens each day at 8am. Along with the best views of the action, the chalet experience also offers the following:• Breakfast from 8am• Lunch from noon to 3pm• High tea: 4pm-5pm• Bar opens at noon to 5.30pm
    We also have a pair of passes for the EGC Clubhouse on offer for the Saturday and Sunday, meaning you have double the chance of winning and upgrading your Hero Dubai Desert Classic experience.
    For your chance to win, just answer the question below and register to enter the draw.
    Prizes• 2 x Saturday Hospitality passes• 2 x Sunday Hospitality Passes• 2 x Club house passes Saturday (pass only)• 2 X Club house passes Sunday (pass Only)
    Question: Who is the reigning Dubai Desert Classic champion?
    To participate in the competition register here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    18 luxe outdoor terraces to dine alfresco in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    It’s the season to be outdoors again.
    As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars.
    From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection.
    For your next outdoor outing, Emirates Woman has created a luxe guide on where to book ASAP.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied, Feature Image: Instagram @manooh.j More

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    9 restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate Chinese New Year with your loved ones.
    The annual event is the first day of a new year on the Lunar calendar, which is more than 5,000 years old, allowing you to indulge in some authentic cuisine with your loved ones at these Dubai-based hotspots.
    Shanghai Me

    Being at the epitome of art deco elegance, inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, the practice of delicate dishes has taken centuries to perfect with the region’s rich heritage that can be seen throughout the menu serving recipes that have been preserved with a playful twist while maintaining Asian tradition with special treats for all diners. Open from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am and the terrace is open from 12pm to 2am and is located at Gate village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    Indochine

    Featuring exotic French-Vietnamese cuisine, while being perfect for intimate dinners, you can celebrate Chinese New Year’s with your loved ones at this timeless classic features an array of delectable dishes. Located in DIFC, Indochine opens on Sunday to Wednesday from 12pm to 1am and Sat 7pm to 1am, Thursday and Friday is 7pm to 3am.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com
    Hutong

    Celebrating northern Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting with a beautiful setting with amazing dim sums and creative cocktails. This award-winning chic restaurant is not one to miss as you embrace the new year in style. Located at Gate Building 6, DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2:30pm and 6pm to 12am.
    For more information visit hutong-dubai.com
    Mediterraneo at Armani

    Taking place on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22 , 2023 this exclusive buffet-style feast is the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year. Guests can tuck into a range of delectable delicacies from seafood on ice, fresh oysters, dim sum, noodle soup, sauteed vegetables, hot mains, and much more, all served up from live cooking stations. With an abundance of choices available, plus mouthwatering dessert options, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for an unrivalled evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for a memorable evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. Guests can enjoy all this for Dhs349 per person on either night.
    TakaHisa Restaurant

    Savour the blended flavours of Japan and China this Chinese New Year at TakaHisa in Caesars Palace, Bluewaters Island overlooking Dubai’s most famed beachside resort, elevated by decorative touches. Experience Chinese New Year with a menu of world-class Japanese and Chinese ingredients while sipping on a selection of special-priced premium rice and grape beverages at TakaHisa restaurant. Dazzling dishes made using ingredients from Japan’s famed Toyosu market, formally known as Tsukiji market, include Hand rolled Japanese lobster sushi with premium caviar, Kobe Beef Soba with truffle and not forgetting the restaurant’s most loved and exclusive dish Sea Urchin Nigiri.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 is officially welcoming guests at The Address Beach Resort, making it the Middle East’s first destination. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32.com
    Akira Back

    To welcome the year of the water rabbit, Akira Back is set to offer a selection of flavourful dishes oozing with an authentic Asian touch. the menu includes an array of must-try Pan-Asian specials featuring whole seabass, Toto Tataki, Wagyu Ramen and more. This specially-curated menu is available from January 22 to February 5, 2023 and promises an unforgettable evening. Dishes start from Dhs180 and is complemented by stunning views of the Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit akiraback.com
    Taiko

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate the Chinese New Year at Taiko, the contemporary Asian fusion concept, where dynamic duo- Chef Schilo and Chef Guido- join forces to create a unique multi-course set menu for one special night only. An explosion of flavours guaranteed to tantalise the taste buds, stand-out dishes on the menu include Gyoza paired with red curry sauce, fresh crab congee topped with black truffle or more. With Far East Asian dishes crafted to perfection, the package is priced at Dhs425 per person on Sunday, January 22, from 7pm to 11:30pm with one Aperitif drink and the two hours beverage package is priced at Dhs188 per person additionally at Sofitel, The Obelisk.
    For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
    Asia Asia

    The award-winning restaurant and lounge take its inspiration from the ancient spice route with a journey from Asia through to the Far East, as you dine and unwind with gourmet Pan-Asian fusion dishes and creative cocktails, complimented by incredible views of Dubai Marina’s skyline to celebrate this special occasion. Located at Pier 7, Asia Asia is open from Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 1am and Friday and Saturday 2pm to 1am.
    For more information visit asia-asia.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    10 restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 hours ago

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate Chinese New Year with your loved ones.
    The annual event is the first day of a new year on the Lunar calendar, which is more than 5,000 years old, allowing you to indulge in some authentic cuisine with your loved ones at these Dubai-based hotspots.
    Shanghai Me

    Being at the epitome of art deco elegance, inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, the practice of delicate dishes has taken centuries to perfect with the region’s rich heritage that can be seen throughout the menu serving recipes that have been preserved with a playful twist while maintaining Asian tradition with special treats for all diners. Open from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am and the terrace is open from 12pm to 2am and is located at Gate village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    LAO

    To mark the Lunar New Year, diners can embark on an authentic journey to with a specially curated menu for the celebrations. With a host of sensory experiences, guests can delight in special festivities and experience a traditional lion dance to immerse in the culture on Saturday, January 21 from 6pm to 6:30pm. This weekend of celebrations takes place between Friday 20, 2023 to Sunday, January 22 to indulge in a special four-course menu featuring delectable dishes such as Pelmeni Chicken Dumpling, salmon, wrapped in lotus and Sum-Sum Klelpon with Lapis with packages priced at Dhs299 and Dhs499 with wine paring at Waldorf Astoria.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Indochine

    Featuring exotic French-Vietnamese cuisine, while being perfect for intimate dinners, you can celebrate Chinese New Year’s with your loved ones at this timeless classic features an array of delectable dishes. Located in DIFC, Indochine opens on Sunday to Wednesday from 12pm to 1am and Sat 7pm to 1am, Thursday and Friday is 7pm to 3am.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com
    Hutong

    Celebrating northern Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting with a beautiful setting with amazing dim sums and creative cocktails. This award-winning chic restaurant is not one to miss as you embrace the new year in style. Located at Gate Building 6, DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2:30pm and 6pm to 12am.
    For more information visit hutong-dubai.com
    Mediterraneo at Armani

    Taking place on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22 , 2023 this exclusive buffet-style feast is the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year. Guests can tuck into a range of delectable delicacies from seafood on ice, fresh oysters, dim sum, noodle soup, sauteed vegetables, hot mains, and much more, all served up from live cooking stations. With an abundance of choices available, plus mouthwatering dessert options, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for an unrivalled evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for a memorable evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. Guests can enjoy all this for Dhs349 per person on either night.
    TakaHisa Restaurant

    Savour the blended flavours of Japan and China this Chinese New Year at TakaHisa in Caesars Palace, Bluewaters Island overlooking Dubai’s most famed beachside resort, elevated by decorative touches. Experience Chinese New Year with a menu of world-class Japanese and Chinese ingredients while sipping on a selection of special-priced premium rice and grape beverages at TakaHisa restaurant. Dazzling dishes made using ingredients from Japan’s famed Toyosu market, formally known as Tsukiji market, include Hand rolled Japanese lobster sushi with premium caviar, Kobe Beef Soba with truffle and not forgetting the restaurant’s most loved and exclusive dish Sea Urchin Nigiri.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 is officially welcoming guests at The Address Beach Resort, making it the Middle East’s first destination. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32.com
    Akira Back

    To welcome the year of the water rabbit, Akira Back is set to offer a selection of flavourful dishes oozing with an authentic Asian touch. the menu includes an array of must-try Pan-Asian specials featuring whole seabass, Toto Tataki, Wagyu Ramen and more. This specially-curated menu is available from January 22 to February 5, 2023 and promises an unforgettable evening. Dishes start from Dhs180 and is complemented by stunning views of the Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit akiraback.com
    Taiko

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate the Chinese New Year at Taiko, the contemporary Asian fusion concept, where dynamic duo- Chef Schilo and Chef Guido- join forces to create a unique multi-course set menu for one special night only. An explosion of flavours guaranteed to tantalise the taste buds, stand-out dishes on the menu include Gyoza paired with red curry sauce, fresh crab congee topped with black truffle or more. With Far East Asian dishes crafted to perfection, the package is priced at Dhs425 per person on Sunday, January 22, from 7pm to 11:30pm with one Aperitif drink and the two hours beverage package is priced at Dhs188 per person additionally at Sofitel, The Obelisk.
    For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
    Asia Asia

    The award-winning restaurant and lounge take its inspiration from the ancient spice route with a journey from Asia through to the Far East, as you dine and unwind with gourmet Pan-Asian fusion dishes and creative cocktails, complimented by incredible views of Dubai Marina’s skyline to celebrate this special occasion. Located at Pier 7, Asia Asia is open from Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 1am and Friday and Saturday 2pm to 1am.
    For more information visit asia-asia.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    Desk Essentials That Will Help You Survive the Gloomiest Season of the Year

    It’s dark out by 4:00, temperatures are plummeting, and we’re spending more time indoors—the gloomiest time of the year is officially here. This time can be challenging for everyone, but it can be especially difficult when you work from home. After all, when the workday’s done and it’s pitch-black and freezing outside, no one really wants to leave their house. And when you’re staring at the same four walls day in and day out, you’re more likely to go stir-crazy and feel the effects of SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
    That said, one of the easiest ways to combat this is to fill your space with items that make you feel excited and inspired. So, give your office a winter upgrade with these 20 desk essentials. These items will help you stay productive and survive the gloomiest time of the year without feeling like you’re losing your mind. Keep scrolling to learn more.

    Light Therapy Lamp
    The sun may only come out for a few hours each day (if at all), but this light therapy lamp can give you a little dose of sunshine right at your desk. If you find yourself tired, sluggish, or just not feeling it, turning on your light therapy lamp can give you the boost you’re looking for.

    The Everygirl x Day Designer
    30-Day Challenge Planner
    Life will test you sometimes, but our 30-Day Challenge Planner can help you set yourself up for success in spite of it all. With guided challenges pertaining to wellness, career, and more, even the gloomiest time of the year will be no match for you.

    Lulu’s Garden
    Love Rosé Garden
    Contrast the gloomy weather outside and infuse some brightness into your office with this adorable succulent plant box that’ll fit perfectly in the corner of your desk.

    Makeup by Mario
    MoistureGlow™ Plumping Lip Balm
    This multitasking lip balm is perfect for winter. With a formula designed to soothe, hydrate and plump, and a hint of dewy, glossy color, swipe on before your next Zoom meeting or throughout the day and take the world by storm.
    Available in 14 colors.

    Wireless Charging Stone
    If you’re on your phone a lot for work, then you need a good, reliable charger, and Einova has just the thing for you. This wireless charging stone is made with genuine Italian marble, so it looks chic AF, and charges your phone lightning-fast.
    Available in 7 colors.

    “Vacation” Eau de Toilette
    Dreaming of a tropical vacation? Same. If you can’t get away, bring the tropical vibes to you with Vacation’s signature scent: the smell of sunscreen and summer.

    Aroma Om® Cool Mist Diffuser
    Even the gloomiest of days will be no match for this cool mist diffuser. Fill with your favorite essential oil blend and bring natural, healing, and calming vibes into your space and breathe life back into your office once again.
    Available in white and grey.

    Pottery Barn
    Acrylic Memo Tablet with Pens
    Your to-do tasks, grocery lists, and words of affirmation have never looked so sleek. This customizable acrylic memo tablet will help you personalize your workspace and maximize productivity and creativity during the cold winter months.

    Snarky Pen Set
    This collection of pens comes personally recommended to you by our Chief of Sales, Ally. Sure, you can write with any old pen you have lying around, but if you’re looking to brighten your day, nothing will do that like a pen that reminds you just how badass you are.

    Smart Mug Warmer
    Whether you’re a coffee addict, tea drinker, or fan of hot water and lemon, this smart mug warmer will conveniently fit in the corner of your desk, keep your beverages hot, and warm you up from the inside out.

    Mark & Graham
    Lips Ceramic Catchall Tray
    Nothing’s more annoying than accidentally banging your jewelry on your desk. Preserve your pieces and place them in this adorable catchall tray while you’re working. The lip shape is feminine and stylish, and comes in blush and red.

    Project 62™
    Acrylic Round Desktop Organizer
    A cluttered desk when you’re already feeling trapped in one space isn’t going to do you any favors. Get organized with this round acrylic desktop organizer. With 4 compartments and a clear design, you won’t waste time picking out random objects until you find the right one, and will be able to fit everything you need inside.

    Finance Planner
    Take advantage of the cold weather and refresh your money mindset and work towards your financial goals with this planner. With money mentor articles, clarity pages, savings and debt reviews, and more, this planner will help you hold yourself accountable and keep track of your money moves and progress.
    Available in 3 colors.

    Amazon | Coolfor
    Electric Desktop Space Heater
    If you’re perpetually cold, you need this electric desktop space heater in your life. It’s tiny but mighty, and will have no trouble heating things up.
    Available in green and brown.

    Talking Out of Turn
    The Future Is Female Mug
    If you wake up feeling a bit “blah,” sip a hot beverage out of this empowering, motivational mug.

    Bright Ideas Mini Highlighters
    We’re all liable to become extra forgetful during this time of year, but with these mini highlighters you’ll be able to color-code important notes, tasks, and documents accordingly.

    Amazon | Ulefi
    Under-Desk Heated Slippers
    Getting warm and staying warm is practically impossible when your feet are cold, and I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time working when I’m freezing. Keep these heated slippers underneath your desk, and slip your feet in whenever you’re cold or want to feel warm, safe, and cozy.

    Mind & Body Reset Kit
    This kit comes with 3 roll-on essential oil blends that can revive, refresh, and renew. Whenever you’re feeling sluggish, uninspired, anxious or overwhelmed, roll on one of these blends to get yourself up and running again and get back to work.

    How To Survive Work During the Gloomiest Season of the Year More

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    10 sophisticated restaurants in Dubai with spacious private dining areas

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver.
    However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?
    With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.
    From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.
    Indochine

    There’s a piece of New York City right here in Dubai that you can enjoy – Indochine. Whether you wish to host a private event for a new launch or simply want to celebrate a special occasion, this is the place to be. The French-Vietnamese restaurant brings its classic dishes to the table with an in-house indie DJ for some eclectic tunes all night long. The restaurant can seat large parties of 10 to 20 guests in a luxurious private dining setting. Guests can relish a five-course menu served family-style accompanied by an evening of conversation and laughter in this intimate setting. Hosts also have an option of full or partial buyouts for larger gatherings.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com.
    Amazonico

    This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.
    Shanghai Me

    Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.
    For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. 
    Le Guépard

    Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.
    For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.
    Cé La Vi

    With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.
    For more information visit celavi.com.
    Roka

    If there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. 
    GAIA

    This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.
    At.mosphere

    In the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.
    For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. 
    Zuma

    By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb More

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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