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      How I got my job as… a luxe UAE-based interior stylist

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      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week we chat with Ale Aster Akinbiyi, a luxe interior stylist based in the UAE with clients from all around the world. From offices to retreats, her vast portfolio of clients features VIP gala dinners for brands such as Bloomingdales, Harvey Nichols and Erdem.
      With over 13 years of experience in the industry, Akinbiyi launched her business three years ago and since then has never looked back.
      To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down with this interiors and events styling expert out more about the journey and entrepreneurial vision.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My favourite subject at school is sport. Maybe because I was incredibly good at it. Even to this day, it brings me immense joy, ranging from Wakesurfing and Tennis to Stand up Paddling, Skiing, Running, and cycling.
      What was your first job?
      I was a wedding planner in Barcelona. I had the chance to work with a Wedding Agency for three months over the summer and it was magical.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I worked with Avantgarde, a German-based creative agency that has a presence in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. At the time, their client was Mubadala, and they needed support with organising Formula 1 Gala Dinners and VIP Events.
      What inspired you to enter the interiors space and launch your brand?
      As someone who has designed temporary spaces such as pop-ups, exhibitions, events, and fashion shows for a long time, I wanted to expand my scope to something more enduring. I wanted my design to have longevity. My experience of working with Al Tayer and designing spaces for Crate & Barrel solidified this desire. Obtaining an Interior Design Diploma became a natural progression for me. Once I familiarized myself with the various facets of interior design, I quickly realized that furnishing and styling, also known as FF&E and OS&E in industry parlance, was my calling. I had no interest in demolishing walls. My desire is to fill this specific niche was what inspired me to launch my own brand. Given the rarity of such a focus, starting my own brand was the only viable option for me.
      Talk us through the inspiration behind your aesthetics.
      Growing up, beauty and creativity were ingrained in my family’s DNA. My mother is a florist, and my father’s family has been in the jewelry business for generations. My aunts and uncles are architects, artists, and painters. It’s not surprising that creating beauty in any shape or form is in my blood. Being a Libra, I just have a special place for aesthetics in my heart and I love to experiment and express beauty in all forms. In my work, I find inspiration in the tiniest of details. Deep conversations with my clients to understand the emotions they want to evoke is usually what inspires me the most. While many look for beautiful spaces, my contribution to the world is making spaces look beautiful.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      I sometimes simplify my role by saying that I “place cushions for living.” However, my responsibilities go way beyond that. As an Interior Stylist, I am responsible for improving the overall aesthetics and functionality of a space without altering its fundamental structure. I don’t engage in major renovations like knocking down walls. Instead, I help determine the look and feel of a space by selecting, placing and styling furniture, paint, textiles, décor, plants, flowers and fragrances. Many people feel overwhelmed by an empty space. My role is to fill the space with carefully selected items that they will love, need, and that will complement each other.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      As a working mama to a 4-year-old, my husband and I enjoy a delicious breakfast together before I hop on my bike to take my little one to Kindergarten. Once back, it’s time to get ready for work and kick-start my creativity. I love to read up on the latest interior design news. Browsing magazines, platforms, and newsletters for at least 30 minutes each morning is a great way to start the day off right. Depending on where I’m at with a project, I might hit up some shops or showrooms in the morning to scope out some products. It’s usually quieter in the morning, so it’s the perfect time to double-check things like finishings and comfort levels or find some new items to propose to my clients. If I don’t have any projects on the go, I’ll usually tackle some admin work or trying to push my marketing and social media content creation. As an entrepreneur, I’m constantly juggling a million things at once. From marketing to new business to finance and admin, it’s all in a day’s work for me. Oh, and I also do some interior styling on the side. I spend a good part of my day in front of my laptop doing things like furniture layouts to scale or sourcing items online. Before my day wraps up I spend some time getting organized for the next day, making lists, and setting reminders. Evenings are all about friends and family. I’m Italian, so I absolutely love good food. I’m always on the hunt for new places to try out and check out their interiors. At least once a week, you’ll find me out and about. Other than that, I love to cook and spend time with my family at home.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Discovering your niche and specialisation is essential. It’s important to accept that not everyone will appreciate your work and that’s okay. In fact, don’t try to cater to everyone’s preferences. Go find your fans, they will motivate and inspire you to keep going. Then, seek out your audience, they will appreciate what you have to offer. Finally, find the right clients, those who recognize and value your unique talent. They will be eager to pay you for the exceptional work that only you can deliver.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve ever received was to tune out the competition and concentrate on my goals, on what I aspire to accomplish, rather than what others are doing. The market is flooded with noise, particularly on social media, and it’s too simple to get sidetracked, compare yourself to others, and lose sight of your objectives. I’ve personally unfollowed accounts and blocked out all the noise, which has allowed me to remain focused on my work and what I want to achieve. It’s a humbling experience to recognise that success is not about how you compare to others, but rather about staying focused on your own ambitions and working hard to achieve them.
      And what is the worst?
      The worst advice I received was people saying ‘Just Follow your Passion’ ! It’s wonderful to have a passion for something, but being obsessed with it is what truly makes you excel. So instead of “just following your passion,” I suggest making your passion your hobby and turning your obsession into your profession. Remember, it’s the drive and determination that comes with obsession that leads to success.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I would say for me there were two major challenges. First, I have experienced the journey of transitioning from a corporate job to entrepreneurship, and that was not easy. Suddenly, I found myself with no title, no one recognizing me and the absence of a monthly income. I also realised that if I didn’t work one day, I don’t get paid, which made me view my free time differently. It took me a while to enjoy weekends, and holidays again instead of worrying about no income during the ‘rest time’. The second challenge I had to overcome is linked to the advice I have given. When I started out, I thought I needed to cater to everyone and offer every service related to interior design. It took me a while to build up the confidence to only offer what I am truly good at. Finding my niche was a big step, but being comfortable with saying no to projects that don’t align with my strengths was not easy. Even now, I sometimes still have to fake it until I make it. But I’ve learned that being true to myself and offering what I do best is the key to long-term success.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      A field I would like to explore is the Hotel Industry. There’s a huge potential for collaboration in this field, and I feel that the work I do, can help hotels stay trendy and up-to-date with the latest in styling, season after season. The work of an Interior Stylist can inject fresh and new energy into these properties and help them continue to shine in the hospitality industry. Another field we are exploring is the launch of a product. It’s a little piece of furniture that brings together the expat experience with local heritage. It’s been a couple of years in the making, but we’re just a production facility and strategy away from getting it out there in all its glory. Fingers crossed, we’ll have it ready to rock by 2024.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      How To Change Careers at 30

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      Career changes are stressful, exciting, and downright emotional at any age, but there’s something about making them at the big 3-0 that can feel particularly conflicting. After all, society tells us that we’re supposed to have it all figured out by our thirtieth birthday, so the idea that you may have gotten your career wrong can be an unpleasant reality. On the other hand, the prospect of potentially exploring a new job that feeds your soul can be invigorating. After fumbling through your 20s and getting the hang of adulting, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s even possible to change careers at 30 and if these emotions are worth exploring and starting all over again over.

      Can You Change Careers at 30?
      Yes, you can absolutely make a career change at 30. In fact, it’s arguably the best time to make a career switch because you typically have fewer responsibilities than you would at 40 or 50. Naturally, this can make it easier to invest in yourself, start a new career, and become successful as you spend the next 30+ years making money from something you’re passionate about before retiring.

      Switching Careers at 30 Can Lead To the Best Years of Your Life
      Life is too short to be anything but happy, and if you’re going to work for a living, it might as well be doing something that brings you satisfaction. At age 30, you know yourself better and what your priorities are, how you work, and what you want out of life. This mental clarity can help you find a new career path that aligns with your goals, values, and what lights your soul on fire. For example, if you value your downtime, you’ll know to look for a position that prioritizes work-life balance when it comes time to find a job.
      Additionally, at 30, you have around 10 years of work experience under your belt, and employers won’t discount your relevant experience or skills you’ve spent the past decade cultivating and honing. There’s also a strong chance you won’t have to start your new job at an entry-level position; there has to be at least one transferable skill in your repertoire (though you likely have a very long list). Likewise, the professional network you spent your 20s building can also help make the switch easier, and will come in handy should you ever need references for future employers.

      Questions To Ask Yourself If You’re Looking For A Career Change At 30 Years Old?
      Career changes are a big deal, so it’s important to take some time to evaluate and discover the true reason behind your desire for change. Doing this will help give you the confidence you need to make the leap and move forward.

      Am I good at what I do?
      Do I enjoy what I do?
      Is my work environment toxic?
      What is it about my current career that isn’t working?
      Am I feeling adequately challenged in my current role?
      What am I passionate about?
      What do I see myself doing for the rest of my life?
      Am I willing to take a pay cut and work my way up at a new job?
      What kind of job do I already have the skills for?
      What are my life goals?
      How will changing careers impact my finances?
      Would I stay if something in my current role changed?
      What can I gain by quitting?
      What do I lose by quitting?
      Am I following passion or money?
      Are my expectations realistic?
      What do I want my life to look like in 5 years?

      How To Change Your Career at 30

      1. Examine your current career
      On The Everygirl’s podcast episode about changing careers, our Branded Content Editor, Ashley, shared how she made the transition from full-time nursing to a career in media and content creation, and suggested first checking in with yourself about your current career before making a change. This honest self-assessment will help you determine what’s missing from your current role and get clear on what kind of job you want to pursue.
      Think about what led you to your current field and position. Was it driven by passion? Did you choose it because it was deemed a “safe choice” by the adults in your life? Consider any interests that led you to this job, and which aspects you like and don’t like about it. Be sure to write this all down on a list or plug it into a pros and cons template to keep track of everything.

      2. Take inventory of your skills and passions
      It’s also a good idea to make a list of all your skills and passions. Once you’ve done that, go through that list and contemplate which career path you might want to explore and which of your skills are transferable (think: communication, flexibility, time management, etc.). Chances are, a lot of them will be helpful for your next career. Getting clear on your exact skill set, what you’re good at, and what lights a spark in you will make finding the right career easier.

      3. Determine your new career path
      Use your notes from the first two steps as a reference and begin thinking about a new career path. Assess your strengths and weaknesses, personal interests, and what you want long-term out of your next full-time job. This might include better benefits, a solid retirement plan, flexibility, the ability to quickly scale the career ladder, and so on. With this information, you can then determine which career path you’d like to explore.

      4. Find your new career 
      There are numerous jobs in every industry, so it’s important to do your research and look at basic job descriptions, average salaries and requirements, and typical paths for every occupation in your chosen field. This will help you decide exactly which job to pursue, get clear on the relevant experience and transferable skills you already have for that job, and what you need to obtain in order to be fully qualified. Also, make sure to research companies you might want to work for, and if you’re looking to branch out and do your own thing, be sure to conduct extensive research on the best ways to do so successfully and everything you need to get started.

      5. Refresh your resume
      Having an up-to-date resume is never a bad thing. After all, you never know when potential employers or other professionals might seek you out. So regardless of your experience or whether you have all the skills needed for your dream job, refresh your resume to include all relevant skills and experience you currently do have. Then, share it on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, FlexJobs, a personal website or portfolio, or link in your social media bio.

      6. Gain relevant experience and obtain new skills
      Consider what skills you need for your dream job, and look into various ways to get it. This can include things like going back to school part-time and working towards a new degree or enrolling in skill training courses, reading self-help or educational books, and studying people you look up to in your dream job. In addition, freelancing, volunteer work, internships, and job shadowing are also great for this and can help you build your professional network in your new career.
      Likewise, honing your skills in your free time is also invaluable. If you’re interested in writing, start a personal blog; if you want to become a graphic designer, download Canva and experiment. The list goes on and on, and the options are truly endless—we live in a world where gaining experience and skills is easier than ever, so be sure to take full advantage of it.

      7. Prepare your finances
      Career changes can be tough financially, so if you’re getting ready to make the switch, now’s the time to prepare. Look at your income, living expenses, debt payments, and what you’re putting into savings every month; see if there are any ways you can adjust your budget and contribute more to your emergency fund or areas you can cut back in to decrease the total amount you’re spending per month. You may have to change your lifestyle for the time being, but having a substantial financial cushion will make it easier to transition into a new role and adjust to any changes in your income.

      8. Put yourself out there
      Putting yourself out there can be scary, especially if you’ve been at your current job for a while, but doing so will give you the confidence to apply for new jobs, accept new opportunities, and step into the woman you want to become. Market yourself on social media and reach out to friends, family members, and your professional contacts in the industry you’re looking to join; let them know what your career plans are, and ask that they kindly keep you in the back of their mind for potential opportunities. Making career moves quietly can be empowering, but marketing yourself will put more eyes on you and potentially help you land your dream job faster.
      Don’t be afraid to apply for new jobs—not getting the job is the worst that can come from it. At the very least, you’ll get in touch with and put in front of the right people, and have a chance to make an impression that can help you later on after you’ve built up the necessary skills and gained relevant experience.

      9. Don’t burn a bridge
      Lastly, don’t burn a bridge in your current role with your current employer. Keep going strong at work until you land your dream job, and once you do, be sure to tell your manager right away and give at least two weeks’ notice. Thank them for everything they’ve done for you and express your gratitude for what the job taught you; send an email to your colleagues telling them this as well. Likewise, be sure to offer to train your replacement, and go through and organize your work files before your departure.
      Career changes don’t happen overnight, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Take advantage of the fact that they take time by starting out slow. Dedicate yourself fully to pursuing what you’re passionate about and give it your all. In no time, you’ll be exactly where you want to be in your career.

      Networking Works: Here’s How One Connection Changed My Entire Career More

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      May’s – The Horology Issue with Blacklane

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      Life

      by Amy Sessions
      3 hours ago

      Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Ziga MihelcicFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska at MMGModel: Kristina Stojanovic at MMG
      Welcome to The Horology Issue.
      In a society where everything is so fast-paced, time has become a precious commodity. From maximizing your time to spending it wisely and saving it – the focus on time has never been more important.
      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.
      We also focus on the timeless craft of watchmaking in this issue from an edit of the most outstanding novelties at the annual Watches and Wonders in Geneva in The Watch Addict, to discussing the art of watch collecting with Melika Yazdjerdi, Co-founder of Perpétuel and Ashfields Consultancies in Time to Begin. Private Label London tell us how the secure impossible-to-find pieces in A Rare Breed, and Christie’s Remy Julia discusses the art of the watch auction process in Timeless Investments.

      Beauty and lifestyle wise, we compile an edit of anti-aging products that deliver results in Turn Back Time, we look at innovative designs that make the best long-term investment pieces in The Pad, and we ask some of the most incredible women we know how they optimise time and what wisdom time has brought to their lives in Priceless Time.
      Time is precious, spend it wisely.
      The Hero Buys

      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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      A major update for UAE residents to convert their license without any lessons

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 mins ago

      If you’ve recently moved to the UAE and have a foreign license, you might now be able to easily convert it without any added hassle.
      Per Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), a “golden chance” is now being given to expats to seamlessly convert to their UAE driver’s license without attending driving classes.
      Via an announcement made on Twitter, It grants visitors the right to drive with their national driving license or exchange it with a UAE license if they hold a residence permit.

      This is your Golden Chance to apply for a new driving license without attending driving classes and get a direct road test via RTA’s website.To apply, visit: https://t.co/FUovyYXMRd
      — RTA (@rta_dubai) April 28, 2023

      According to a list posted on the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website, license-holders from these 43 countries are allowed to swap a driving license from their home country for a UAE license. License holders from Albania, Portugal, Hungary, Greece, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Estonia, Slovak, Slovenia, Serbia, Cyprus, Latvia, China, Luxembourg, Lithuania, the United States of America, Iceland, Montenegro, France, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Malta, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Spain, Norway, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Poland, South Africa and Australia.
      Foreign license holders that are required to take lessons and a driving test can now easily apply to complete the road test from the RTA website, without completing driving lessons, under the ‘golden chance’ scheme.
      Previous rules
      Before, in order to obtain a UAE driver’s license in Dubai when holding a foreign driver’s license– it was mandatory as per the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) for certain countries to complete driving classes and a knowledge or road test. However, as per the latest scheme, it is now easier to apply for a UAE driver’s license in Dubai.
      To now apply you can visit rta.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: March 2022 Inside Shoot with Ferrari  More

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      Choupette’s Met Gala debut is set to make fashion history today

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      29 mins ago

      Ready to make history as one of the most unique guests at the Met Gala this year is none other than Karl Lagerfeld’s cat, Choupette.
      As an ode to the 2023 theme, ‘Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty’, this theme celebrates the designer’s most celebrated looks over the years.
      Alongside some of the biggest celebrities in the industry, Choupette is set to walk down the Red Carpet today at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, making a notable appearance to pay homage to the legacy of the late designer and his master.
      Per NY Post, Lucas Berullier, Choupette’s agent and owner of My PetAgency received an invitation for her and said, “It’s an event in honour of the legacy of Karl, and Choutpette is obviously a central part of the legacy.”

      Known for her Instagram-worthy presence, this reputed feline has a fan base of 133k followers
      With her lavish sartorial choices, this guest of honour is known to travel on Lagerfeld’s private jet, making rare appearances in fashion editorials and even owning custom-made Goyard pieces that cost a fortune.

      Following Karl Lagerfeld’s passing in the year 2019, many believed Choupette inherited most of his large estate. Per CBS News, Choupette was set to inherit a chunk of Lagerfeld’s $300 million net worth after she was written into his will.
      So now, we’re yet to see details regarding which luxury Maison, she’ll be donned in for this special occasion.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @choupetteofficial More

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      17 apps women living in the UAE need to download on their phones ASAP

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      With our lives condensed into the palm of our hands on our phones nowadays, it’s essential to have all the necessary apps you need.
      From getting quick grocery deliveries to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, to ensuring you can get the best deals to experience life in Dubai, here’s 17 apps every woman living in the UAE needs to have on their phone.
      Ounass

      As the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best local and international brands on the Ounass app. In Dubai there’s two-hour delivery available, meaning you can get that new outfit for a weekend brunch in the blink of an eye.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Bloomingdale’s

      Bloomingdale’s Middle East recently launched a new iOS app for the region, meaning you can shop right on your phone for all the latest new buys. Not only will shoppers have access to the most sought-after brands at their fingertips, but the delivery time for pieces will be minimal. For those based in the UAE, same-day delivery will be available and for Kuwait and Saudi, express shipping is available.
      You can download the app on the iOS store.
      Careem

      This hassle-free app is your one-stop-shop solution for all provides all your needs as you ride, order food and more around the UAE.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Microsoft Teams

      With the world adapting to the new work-from-home measures, the best way to stay connected to your team is through this all-encompassing app where members can chat, collaborate, share documents professionally and video call. Designed for hybrid working, this app lets company members connect from any part of the world making it easier to coordinate any upcoming project or assignment.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Level Shoes

      If you’re a shoe lover, this app is for you. This one-stop-shop haven gives you access to all the latest accessories all from the comfort of your home or even if you’re on the go, In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, this month Level Shoes will release a host of exclusive pieces from your favorite designer brands to get your hands on.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Talabat

      This online food ordering company ensures prompt service for all your needs, From restaurant deals to medicine delivered to your doorstep, this app connects customers to hundreds of restaurants and shops nearby making each service accessible without any added hassle. With the T-mart service on the app, customers are guaranteed fresh grocery deliveries in under 20 minutes without the need to physically visit any grocery store.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      RTA

      This award-winning app allows residents to top up their metro Nol card, renew their license, top up for parking and renew any car service. This smart app is designed to allow users to chat with RTA agents for any questions pertaining to safe driving measures. Users can also calculate their Green points according to the public transportation services used to keep an eye on the money, time and carbon dioxide emissions saved.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Deliveroo

      After paving its way in Dubai, the British food delivery company seamlessly delivers groceries, takeaways and event floral arrangements right to your doorstep. With an integrated delivery network, meets all your food needs with a plethora of restaurants including fine-dining options.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Viya

      To enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer you need to ensure you download the UAE rewards app Viya. Think of the platform as your VIP access to around 100 city’s top restaurants and bars as well as sporting experiences, exclusive spa days and rounds of golf on Dubai’s leading courses. Sunseekers will love exclusive access to hotel pools and beaches by booking day pass via the app. The format is simple and works on a two-way loyalty system. For every Dhs10 you spend at a Viya partner, the app will reward you with Dhs1 that can eventually add up and go towards an unforgettable experience. In addition, you will enjoy savings on every purchase via the app. Your five-star access awaits from only Dhs1,375 for three months.
      InstaShop

      Get your groceries from your trusted local supermarkets on InstaShop at the same in-store prices with a 45 minute average delivery depending on your location. You need to simply download the app, sit back and the experts on this platform will handle the rest.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Entertainer

      This money-saving app is packed with numerous one for two offers along with 25 per cent off at some major outlets, be it restaurants, spas, shops, hotels or even activities as you experience more and pay less.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Namshi

      As the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest pieces at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Spotify

      What better way to listen to all the songs and podcasts you love than on one consolidated app, giving you access on any gadget whether a phone, computer or tablet. Always ready at your fingertips, you can even let Spotify surprise you with their personalised playlists which are curated especially according to your taste as you sit back and relax with the premium subscription also available for uninterrupted learning.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Dubai Mall

      As the largest shopping centre in the world, getting around The Dubai Mall can prove to be difficult if you’re new to the UAE. However, the app is your ultimate guide to helping you get around the mall to find the best shops and restaurants Dubai Mall has to offer.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Zoom

      With strict worldwide travelling measures, keeping in touch with your friends can be quite the task. The Zoom app has made staying up-to-date with your loved ones easy, as with a click of a button you can all connect as frequently catch up with each other.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Washmen

      For those on a busy schedule or just want an app that can take care of your washing, Washmen will be a godsend. Washmen is a simple app that takes care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services. The usual turnaround time for garments is 48 to 72 hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      6thStreet

      The elevated fashion and lifestyle e-commerce brand is committed to providing round the clock service for bags, shoes and outfits. Delivered right to your doorstep, the platforms give users the best of global brands at the most accessible prices. From activewear to an exclusive selection of fragrances, shoppers can scroll to their heart’s content.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: @veneti.a More

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      It’s time to prepare for deep transformation amid Mercury Retrograde

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      Life

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 hour ago

      Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of The Karmic Soul
      Let’s once again pay attention to some big changes that are around us all as we are in the middle of not only a Mercury Retrograde cycle but also in the middle of an Eclipse series.
      The Universe asks you to focus on your thoughts, feelings, and conversations around your future. The lunar Eclipse on 5 May forces you to let go of what is no longer useful around topics in your Scorpio house.
      During Mercury Retrograde, the stars see intolerant, vengeful or secretive conversations with friends, groups, and companies. If you feel your current situation is not right, it’s not. It could signal a ‘no going back’ energy around what is said. You will soon be ready to move forward with things you have always wanted to do and, excitingly, with a better team around you. Have you already started talking about a different future? Being true to your spiritual self and your journey will be important.
      Remember, mighty Pluto has moved into Aquarius, where he intends to stay until January 2044. However, this small but powerful misfit still needs to do something in Capricorn. On 12 June, he will saunter back to try to finish a chapter in your life that kept you inhibited, stuck, or plodding along. This is the time to tie up any loose ends relating to long-term commitments, especially if you don’t want a ball and chain around your ankle. Do it before Pluto stations back into Aquarius on 22 January 2024. If the risk-averse miss this opportunity, they will have one last chance in September 2023, waiting until November 2024 to taste freedom. Do you want to be ahead of the pack or fight for a position?

      Pluto insists you move into a new way of thinking, so he has given you a sneak peek of his abstract, compulsive influences that will affect you for the next 20 years. Pluto always represents the end of an era. The curtain is coming down on a significant part of your life over the next 18 months.
      Obsessive and addictive Pluto ultimately pushes you into uncomfortable situations. Look at the house topics Pluto rules for you in your natal chart. Don’t forget to check Pluto’s natural ruling position in the chart, the 8th House of sex, death, other people’s money, addictions, secrets, tax, government, and your partner’s finances. They all point to deeply transformative and hidden messages that shape the quality of our life. What are the themes you will need to contend with? This is the time to prepare for the inevitable so that you can buffer any shock. Remember, life determines your character when things aren’t going well.
      Pluto’s reforming and destroying urges shake up the status quo. It will be heartening to know that if anyone close to you passes, they will ‘return’ to lend a helping hand to guide you through any difficulties. Be assured that you will be very spiritually aware of their presence.
      Although doubling down on the painfully slow-moving and highly regulated Pluto-Capricorn energy, the Pluto-Aquarius transit represents progress and independence, suggesting you may be more ‘in it alone’ than you imagine. We have prepared you with ample guidance for this reason.
      Reflect upon the past six weeks. What events or thought processes changed that led you in a new direction? Since Mercury Retrograded on 21 April, you have been making serious decisions with respect to your future. Saturn will station retrograde in Pisces in mid-June, giving you extra time to toil for your dreams by giving you more time to consider the structure around what is still not clear.
      It may seem an age away, but 2025 is when you feel you are finally moving forward, know the Capricorn lessons that haunted you are finished, and for the next 30 years, you will embark on the next significant cycle that defines your legacy.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      in lifestyle and culture

      4 plush locations to witness and celebrate King Charles III’s Coronation from Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      The big day for British monarchy is just around the corner. King Charles III is all set to take the throne, as the official coronation will be held on May 6 and 7, 2023 at London’s Westminster Abbey.
      To commemorate his journey as the new King, celebrations will continue to take place across the weekend. While fans of the monarchy within the country will fill up the streets of the United kingdom in joy — back in Dubai, if you wish to watch the iconic moment live and celebrate along, here are a few places you can visit.
      Speakeasy Dubai

      The classic neighborhood lounge in the heart of JBR will be hosting the live screening of the coronation of King Charles III across the weekend on Saturday May 6 and Sunday May 7. To be a part, head to Speakeasy and enjoy the screening on massive indoor and outdoor screens while relishing the All Day Royal Breakfast, Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie.
      Venue: Speakeasy Dubai, Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach
      Date: Saturday and Sunday, 6th and 7th of May, 2023
      Timings: 1:00 pm onwards
      Price: Various deals and offers
      Reservation Details: +971 4 439 8881 or visit www.speakeasydubai.com
      QE2 Dubai

      For an authentic feel of the actual celebration, spend the evening at the QE2 Hotel, attending the King’s Coronation Charity Gala Ball. In the UK, the King has urged people to make the most of the public holiday and participate in “THE BIG HELP OUT” – where people will volunteer to help all sorts of charities and community projects. Following a similar sentiment, this gala is origanised to provide aid for initiatives like Gulf For Good and Larchfield Children’s Home, Tanzania. 
      The event line up includes a Royal Marines Corps of Drums, a Royal Marines Piper, a brilliant string duo, a DJ to encourage you to the dancefloor and Dubai Eye’s own Tom Urquhart will be your host for the evening. Along with these fun activities, for every place booked at ball, the organising committee will be donating Dhs50 to the charities. There will also be Raffle prizes and an auction held on the same evening.
      Date: Friday 5th May 2023
      Time: 7:30 pm onwards 
      Price: Dhs750
      Venue: Queen’s Room, QE2 Hotel, Port Rashid
      Dress code: Black tie, Formal or National Dress
      Age Policy: 21 years+
      Reservation Details: visit theatrebyqe2.com
      At.mosphere Dubai
      Situated at the level 122 of the mighty Burj Khalifa, this restaurant is inviting everyone to enjoy the screening of the coronation with a perfect-for-the-occasion afternoon tea deal. To make it even more fun, the high-end eastery is also offering an English sparkling beverage package.

      Date: Saturday 6th May 2023
      Time: 6pm-11pm
      Price: Dh350
      Venue: Atmosphere Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
      Reservation Details: 04 888 3828
      Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

      The newest hot spot at the recently opened Atlanis The Royal is offering a five-course tasting menu, influenced by the dishes served at Britain’s previous coronations. The menu will include nostalgic gastronomical items from the coronation of the previous monarchy like that of British King Henry V in 1413 and George IV in 1821.
      From a rendition of the chicken tart that was served at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 to the exquisite beef royale — the unmissable meal pays the perfect homage to the British Royal family.
      Date: May 5th  to May 14th
      Time: 12.30pm-3.30pm
      Price: Dhs1,250 per person
      Venue: Atlantis The Royal, The Palm Jumeirah
      Reservation Details: 04 426 2444
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      Images: Instagram More