lifestyle and culture

Subterms

    More stories

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      7 restaurants in Dubai that have stood the test of time

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Be it the pandemic or a surge of new restaurants opening in the UAE, there are certain fine-dining havens that have stood the test of time by strongly making their mark in the culinary world.
      From internationally acclaimed chefs to renowned names from around the world, Emirates Woman has gathered a list of all the restaurants which have come out stronger despite the circumstances.
      Zuma

      After opening in 2008, here in DIFC, Zuma has indeed stood the test of time as the restaurant has won numerous accolades and gained recognition worldwide. Having stayed relevant to date, this culinary haven has made a mark in the food industry with staple dishes, that are loved by all. This fine-dining concept always aims to serve the highest quality products in a sophisticated environment as guests gather to share their passion for food. Located in Gate Village 6, DIFC, it’s open from daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and Saturday to Wednesday 7pm to 12pm and Thursday and Friday 7pm to 1am.
      For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
      LPM Restaurant & Bar

      Opening in 2010 as one of the most anticipated new restaurants in the emirate, this restaurant has established itself with painstaking attention to detail that has gone into creating each and every dish. From sun-soaked artichokes to fresh seafood that’s served to perfection. With techniques that require extreme care and precision, LPM serves food that is inspired by the French Riviera. Located at Gate Village 8, DIFC, it’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 12pm to 11pm, Thursday 12pm to 11:30pm, Friday 12:30pm to 11:30pm and Saturday 12:30pm to 11pm.
      For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
      Babiole

      After a revamp in 2019, Babiole is the jewel atop Hilton Dubai. Whether lunch or dinner, there are plenty of enticing options to choose from with a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. While boasting stunning views of the city’s glistening skyline, Babiole is known for its ultra-glam interiors and Mediterranean menu which keeps its guests coming back for more. Located in Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Level 44, it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 1am and Thursday and Friday 12pm to 2am.
      For more information visit babioledubai.com
      Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

      Having opened its doors in 2017 in Dubai, this fine-dining Italian haven serves excellent Tuscan cooking, all made to perfection. Whether a special occasion or especially wanting to treat yourself, the freshness of the produce can be tasted with every bite, making it a must-visit here in the emirate. Situated in a relaxing surrounding by the water, It’s located in Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel and is open daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and 7pm to 11:30pm.
      For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
      Buddha-Bar

      This hip venue has become one of Dubai’s most sought-after places over the years, with stunning interiors and exceptional views of Dubai Marina. With indulgent flavours of the Far East & Asia, its innovative menu enamours guests from around the globe as they enjoy eclectic tunes from the resident DJ. As a wealth of sensory experiences await you, Buddha-Bar has been around for a long time and continues to make its mark here in the emirate. Open daily from 7pm to 1am, it’s located in Grosvenor House Dubai.
      For more information visit buddhabar-dubai.com
      La Cantine Du Faubourg

      After opening its doors more than a decade ago, this coveted address became a must-visit place for many with its range of dining and entertainment options. This Parisian restaurant has made a mark for itself here in the emirate, as it continues to create a multi-sensory experience for all. Having recently refurbished its interiors, La Cantine du Fauboug is back and with a host of events and a stunning alfresco terrace. Located in Jumeirah Emirates Towers, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 2am, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 5pm and then 7pm to 2am.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Toro Toro

      After opening its doors in 2011, Toro Toro soon became a luxury culinary concept with a menu establishing flavours from every corner of South America. While offering a stylish yet relaxed dining experience, this restaurant became the first of its kind in the emirate. With uber-chic leather furniture and aromas from Latin America, this restaurant was developed by leading chef Richard Sandoval. Located in Grosvenor House Dubai, it’s open daily from 7pm to 1am.
      For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @zumadubai More

    • 100 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      22 incredible women Emirates Woman championed in 2022

      by

      Year after year, Emirates Woman is proud to share the stories of many inspirational women from across the region and beyond and 2022 was no different.
      From philanthropic royals to budding entrepreneurs, these women show there is no hurdle too big to overcome and no challenge which can’t be solved.
      As a team, we take pride in being able to champion these incredible individuals.
      As 2022 comes to a close, we take a look at 22 influential women Emirates Woman championed throughout the year.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

      This year, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has made it her mission to support an array of different local initiatives in the fashion and creative space. The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended a number of showcases and exhibitions to show her support and learn about local artisans from the region including the Icons Exhibition, the 50th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Show Middle East in Sharjah, the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards, Dubai women’s empowerment event and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum took a huge leap in 2020 launching her eponymous fine jewellery brand – Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. Then, in 2021, she made the brave decision to show the face behind her label for the very first time on the cover of Emirates Woman’s April 2021 issue. This year, however, has been a big year for Sheikha Sana’s philanthropic ventures. The down-to-earth sheikha has worked closely with local communities this year in Dubai including hosting a lunch for underprivileged children, opening a new breast cancer centre in a Dubai hospital, meeting with elderly members of the community and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is no stranger to breaking records in the UAE, having become the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot back in 2019. Earlier this year, our former November 2020 cover star broke another record in the world of aviation, becoming the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotor, an air vehicle which combines the operational versatility of a helicopter and the performance of an aeroplane. Her Highness piloted the groundbreaking aircraft at the US helicopter headquarters of Leonardo, a global high-tech player in Aerospace, Defence and Security, located in Philadelphia.
      Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan

      In 2022, Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan became the first GCC woman to be appointed into a global and prestigious position. Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Her Highness was appointed as one of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program. Sheikha Shamma also graduated from Cambridge University this year, and also attended a number of events across the UAE in relation to sustainability and development.
      Wdeema Almheiri

      Emirati content creator Wdeema Al Mheiri has had an incredibly successful year appearing on her first magazine cover, opening her own beauty salon with her sisters and doing her first on-camera interview. For Emirati Women’s Day this year, Al Mheiri shared how she hopes to inspire future generations.
      “We have all seen Emirati women time and time again achieve their goals against all odds which is so inspiring to see as a younger Emirati woman,” she said.
      She also hopes she can be a source of inspiration for future generations, showing that there is no dream too big to pursue.
      “I hope to inspire women to take a leap of faith and to trust in their ability to achieve their dreams,” she said.
      Nora, Sarah & Dana Al Ramadhan

      For the better part of the last decade, Kuwaiti sisters Nora, Sarah and Dana Al Ramadhan have created their very own beauty empire right here in the GCC. Noticing a huge gap in the beauty space here in the Middle East, the trio launched Apotheca Beauty back in 2013, aiming to help new brands break into the region. Normally known to be the brains behind the scenes of the brands, the sisters appeared in their first-ever cover shoot in 2022. It’s a milestone that’s a big step for Nora, Sarah and Dana, who are normally championing and sharing other brands’ stories. But for The Pioneer Issue, we couldn’t think of three individuals better to share their story of building a business from the ground up, with a simple vision in mind: to bring the best in beauty to the GCC, thereby changing the landscape of the space in this region.
      Taleedah Tamer

      Taleedah Tamer first made history back in July of 2018, as the first Saudi model to walk the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Four years on, Tamer graced the cover of our November issue for which we partnered with iconic French fashion house Louis Vuitton.
      Dr. Barbara Sturm

      For our final cover of 2022, we were proud to partner with global skin guru Dr. Barbara Sturm. In our exclusive interview with her, we discussed what it takes to build and scale without compromising on quality. After launching her eponymous line in 2003, followed by a full skincare line in 2014, Dr. Sturm – or known as BB to her nearest and dearest – has become a pioneer in the beauty sphere, with her renowned anti-inflammatory philosophy approach to skincare.
      Salama Mohamed

      Appearing on our September 2022 cover, Salama Mohamed is an exceptional example of what it means to be an entrepreneur, combining both strength and femininity to build her platform and beauty brand, which celebrated its first anniversary this year.
      Fatma Almheiri

      Fatma Al Mheiri is an individual who wears many hats. With both a creative and business acumen, she not only heads up PR at Museum of the Future, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, but she’s also an entrepreneur and creative.This year for Emirati Women’s Day, she pays tribute to her country and the UAE leaders who are consistently empowering women to do more and achieve their goals.
      “I’m proud to be a woman of the UAE because our leaders helped us believe in ourselves in everything we aspire to do,” she said.
      Zeynab El-Helw

      Dubai-based entrepreneur and content creator Zeynab El-Helw appeared on the cover for our July/August 2022 issue. As the founder of socially conscious brand Reborn, she shared with us how she combines sustainability and style.
      Diala Makki

      Emirates Woman was proud to start 2022 with a bang welcoming Diala Makki as our cover star for The Confidence Issue. With a focus on health and wellness, the Dubai-based journalist and presenter shared with us her fitness journey and how she channels confidence. “Confidence is a state of mind and you only reach it when you appreciate your flows and listen to your needs physically, mentally and spiritually. Don’t compare yourself to others, work constantly on becoming a better version of yourself,” she told us.
      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is a leader in the publishing space. From being the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group to being the first Arab woman to become president of the International Publishers Association, Sheikha Bodour is leading the way for women both in the region and on a global scale. In our November issue, Sheikha Bodour shared with us how she created a niche in the UAE publishing space.
      Ingie Chalhoub

      Ingie Chalhoub is a trailblazer when it comes to business and luxury. Responsible for launching the very first Chanel boutique in the region, she has carved out an impeccable career.
      So, what’s her secret to success? “My success lies in understanding the importance of bridging the gap between the East and West,” she plainly said.
      As a true innovator and disruptor, Emirates Woman sat down with the Founder and Managing Director of Etoile Group to learn more about her business acumen and what exactly inspired her to become an entrepreneur for our September issue.
      Tania Santos Silva

      With women at its helm, Tania Santos Silvia founded Lala Diamonds to create “delicate, powerful and memorable” pieces for women who constantly inspire her. By working closely with each client, she ensures that the brand adopts a unique design process to represent what each wearer truly embodies.
      “Your fresh air is the team you choose to work with, without them you’re just another person with an idea,” she previously told Emirates Woman.
      Amna Banihashem

      By her own admission, Amna Banihashem is a “jack of all trades”. A mechanical engineer by profession with a Master’s in Moral Economy and Sustainability, a businesswoman and a philanthropist, it’s safe to say Banihashem can’t be pigeon-holed, as we learned when talking with her for Emirati Women’s Day 2022.
      However, what is her true passion and calling is horses. As an award-winning equestrian rider, Banihashem is one of the most decorated showjumpers in the region having ridden for both His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
      Sarah Alagroobi

      Artist, designer and educator Sarah Alagroobi is an individual offering insight and igniting new conversations in the region, which she highlighted with us for Emirati Women’s Day this year.
      “I don’t really view myself as a person who is breaking down stereotypes,” she said. “I think I have been blessed to be given the privileges and the knowledge, understanding and education to be able to provide a counter-narrative to the existing narrative in the UAE’s landscape.”
      Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud

      Inspired by adventure and experiences, Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud founded The Traveling Panther (TTP) in 2015. What initially started as a blog quickly turned into an experienced-based travel consultancy through which Princess Fahda, along with her co-founder Manayer AlSharekh, has been able to share her love for adventure with many others around the world. Emirates Woman sat down with Her Highness to find out more about TTP and her love for travel for our September issue.
      Alia Al Banna

      Appearing in our video series for Emirati Women’s Day, Alia Al Banna, co-founder and general manager of RollDXB, shared her pride to be a woman from the UAE.
      “Being an Emirati woman taught me to be brave and to have the courage to seek the unknown and the impossible,” she said. “I definitely agree with Sheikha Fatima’s word – Emirati women don’t fit a box.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

    • 175 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      10 must have gadgets to own for the tech addict in all of us

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Dan Robinson
      2 hours ago

      It’s the time of year when we’re all traveling to far-away destinations to visit family or friends so you might start thinking about updating your trusty I-phone or Laptop.
      Whether you’re heading to a winter escape or flying solo to a beach retreat, one thing for sure is we’re all reaching for our tech to help us get there. (You can switch it off and relax when you get there, we won’t tell anyone)
      To save you the legwork, Emirates Woman has created the ultimate tech-inspired gift guide to ensure you’re inspired this season.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied, Main image @Bellahadid instagram  More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      10 of the most luxurious city hotels to stay in Dubai

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Want to be close to Dubai’s most delectable restaurants and experience the finest of everything the emirate has to offer? We’re here to help.
      Known for its unending list of sophisticated activities such as afternoon teas, pool days, and fine-dining meals, there’s enough and more to enjoy with your loved ones as long as you stay at the right property.
      So, whether you’re here after the Qatar World Cup or simply looking to take a city break, Emirates Woman has created a guide with all the hotels to book on your next visit.
      25 Hours

      If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind property, this hotel is definitely one to stay at. With a nomadic touch, each element is carefully curated for guests to take a trip around the world. From co-working spaces to a creative studio designed for visitors to record their own podcasts this hotel is filled with a host of eclectic activities to ensure visitors are occupied all day long. With unrivalled views of the Museum of the Future from the pool, this hotel stay is all set to be a memorable one for all those who visit. Alongside the stay, in-house guests can even rent bikes or a Mini Cooper to experience Dubai without any added hassle.
      To make a booking visit 25hours-hotels.com
      Me Dubai

      Designed by Zaha Hadid, this architectural icon is known for its contemporary feel and a host of luxurious experiences. Home to an array of sophisticated fine-dining havens such as Roka, Basko and The Maine, this property is part of The Opus by Omniyat and is situated in a prime location next to the Burj Khalifa. If you’re looking to unwind, the hotel offers a premium rooftop pool with unending views of Dubai with the spa being the perfect place to relax.
      To make a booking visit melia.com
      Address Sky Views

      Another refined property to add to your list is Address Sky Views. By taking sightseeing to new heights, this property is also offering a new view of Dubai with its Sky View Observatory which gives visitors an unforgettable experience. There’s also fine-dining spots right on the property such as Amelia Restaurant and Lounge, CÉ LA VI, Lucia’s and more. To take a break, guests can enjoy sun dips at the pool with an Insta-worthy view of Dubai’s skyline.
      To make a booking visit addresshotels.com
      Anantara Downtown

      Situated in the heart of Downtown, this luxe property is an elegant sanctuary with pristine views of Dubai’s skyline. With 252 luxurious rooms and suites, the hotel has direct views of Burj Khalifa. Situated close to Dubai Mall, visitors have access to the Dubai fountain which is one of the leading attractions in the emirate. With exquisite gourmet experience and tranquil moments at this Thai-inspired hotel, guests can stay in style.
      To make a booking visit Anantara.com
      Palace Downtown

      This palatial oasis is a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern heritage and contemporary Dubai. The Palace is a striking symbol of modernity at the heart of a traditional Arabian village, with a backdrop of two iconic structures, the Dubai Fountain and the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Visitors can soak up the sun at the palm-fringed pool and opt for a plush chaise lounge or seek refuge from the heat in a traditional Arabian tent. With expert therapists on-hand to ensure guests reach the utmost relaxation and rejuvenation at the property’s house spa.
      To make a booking visit addresshotels.com
      Waldorf Astoria, DIFC

      For an urban luxury retreat, this property elegantly brings the heritage of New York to Dubai. If you’re looking for a city hotel, this is the perfect option with exceptional service and state-of-the-art facilities. With fine-dining restaurants such as Bull & Bear, and The Artisan, this hotel lies at the epitome of luxury in the heart of Dubai. Situated close to all the world-class activities in Dubai such as the Museum of the Future and Dubai Mall, there’s plenty to do within the vicinity.
      To make a booking visit hilton.com
      SLS Dubai & Residences

      Designed by Philippe Starck, this luxe property is created with fine attention to detail. With breathtaking views from the 75-story rooftop deck, this hotel offers unobstructed views of the world’s tallest building, including Dubai Creek. Brimming with character, this coveted address compromises of 254 expertly designed hotel rooms boasting spacious terraces and balconies. For an exquisite dining experience, there are a host of restaurants including the award-winning Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Filia, Carna By Dario Cecchini, and S Bar for an eclectic bar experience.
      To make a booking visit sbe.com
      Hyde Hotel

      For a relaxed state of mind, this hideaway destination presents a new kind of bespoke hospitality with an authentic experience. With over 276 spacious rooms and suites, guests have access to private balconies and are equipped with in-room luxurious amenities. When it comes to dining, the hotel offers three incredible concepts including the Mediterranean restaurant Cleo, a Japanese haven Katsuya and an exclusive speakeasy experience with hand-crafted burgers at Hudson Tavern.
      To make a booking visit sbe.com
      Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira

      With a pristine oceanfront setting, this urban resort has access to a host of alfresco facilities while still being nearby Downtown Dubai. For the ultimate pool day, this unforgettable getaway offers VIP cabanas and beach beds overlooking panoramic views of the emirate’s skyline. Now home to an exclusive pop-up concept store, K.I.N.D by M.O, in-house guests and visitors can shop at this sustainable shop that cares about our planet and gives back. For the ultimate wellness escape, guests have access to spa facilities that include both couple massages and other rejuvenating hammam treatments and massages.
      To make a booking visit mandarinoreiental.com
      The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC

      Residing at one of the most happening places in Dubai, this expansive property is surrounded by restaurants, nightlife, and a host of attractions. With five-star amenities on board, this hotel is tastefully designed for the ultimate staycation. For a chic botanical experience, Flair 5 ensures an unforgettable experience as the DJ spins a chilled soundtrack each evening. Taking it back a notch to the 1920s the European café, Café Belge serves a series of innovative dishes with fresh seafood and Belgian dishes.
      To make a booking visit ritzcarlton.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @medubaihotel More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Enjoy some under-palm relaxing at these luxe resorts in Mexico

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      For some serious downtown, book your escape to Mexico ASAP.
      La Valise Tulum

      La Valise is inspired by the natural beauty of the Tulum jungle. Palapa ceilings, stripped wood furniture, blonde and azure hues and Yutucan tex- tiles all combine to make this all you could dream of in a Mexican escape. Palm-lined sandy paths connect each area of the tiny nine-roomed resort. There’s no spa, but treatments are provided in-room and the restaurant is an exotic al fresco affair serving alternative takes on familiar Mexican classics.
      For more information visit lavalisetulum.com
      Viceroy Riviera Maya

      With 41 suites this adult-only, low-rise escapee is as peaceful as it comes. Pack light so you can make use of the kit on site as the hotel loans guests sombreros, books and snorkelling gear. For a true touch of luxe, book a thatched Royal Villa for your own butler, pool, hammock, huge soaking tub and indoor-outdoor showers.
      For more information visit royhotelsandresorts.com
      What to pack

      December’s – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Book your tickets for the ultimate cold escape this year

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      Looking to travel and in need of inspiration on where to go? We’re here to help.
      The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

      This unique hotel immerses guests in nature embedded in the lava formations and turquoise geothermal pools of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon complex, which is situated within the UNESCO Global Geopark. The spa is stand-alone in its design aesthetic and boasts both indoor and outdoor baths and treatments that make use of the site’s mineral-rich geothermal waters and naturally occurring materials, including silica and algae.
      For more information visit bluelagoon.com
      The Reykjavik EDITION

      This sophisticated hotel brings the first 5-star modern luxury experience to one of the world’s most sustainable capitals. The hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the wonders of the region, with the renowned Blue Lagoon within driving distance and the Northern Lights visible in the city during the winter solstice. A trip to the spa is also not to be missed.
      For more information visit editionhotels.com
      What to pack

      December’s – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Founder of Dubai design firm Concept Me

      by

      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 French entrepreneur and architect Nina Parvaresh, founder of Concept Me. The Dubai design firm first launched in 2008, branding itself as a “multi-disciplinary boutique studio” in the emirate. “Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects,” the founder says.
      Emirates Woman sat down with Parvaresh to discuss the making of Concept Me and all of the ups and downs in between.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      In short, my favourite subject was History/Geography. The way we studied those in France was as one subject. Maps really stunned me I remember. I was fascinated by the layout of cities, the visuals that showcased their constant development and changes. I would go through those plans and feel an obsessive need to know more about them, trace my hands across the different areas and automatically start visualizing how the little, intricate details in those cities of the past actually looked like. I had a tendency for the obsessive! So, I remember very vividly how much I loved that class and the stories I would make up about the maps and plans we were given.

      What was your first job?
      I was a teenager when I decided to get a job! I started tutoring other students when I was 15. I always liked explaining concepts and seeing how people understood ideas in their own ways. So, I continued tutoring different kids my age and younger to make some side money. Tutoring always made me happy because it’s a two-way interaction and because it involves two of my favourite elements: people and concepts! Following that, my first official job was a brief stint teaching Architecture in Saudi which didn’t last very long as I kicked off Concept Me around the same time. I don’t think I would make a very good employee, between you and I.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I moved to the Middle East (to Jeddah particularly) in 2008, a month after graduating. A couple of years after living there, I believe I wanted to be living somewhere with more flexibility, more openness and somewhere that would ease my way of doing business. I spent some time going back and forth to Dubai, it being the hub that it became during that phase and I found it quite easy to do business, set up the company and most importantly to source and recruit amazing talents. So, yeah, it was about remaining in the Middle East but in a place that I felt more at ease with.
      What inspired you to enter the architecture/interior space?
      I am not sure there was a specific inspiration for me to go into the field. For as far back as I remember, I was busy sketching houses as a child. I learned to draw before I could speak fluently! Even at home as a child, I had opinions on how we should lay out our furniture, how the elements in our space should be, and how decorative items should line up. Most importantly, I was always sensitive to the spaces around me, which unconsciously is why I was always drawn to the field. More so, I have always loved the human scale of architecture. I am not invested in creating landmark skyscrapers, but rather spaces for real people that can leave an impact on them. My love of maps, cities and the way urban grids dictated peoples’ livelihoods is also a contributing factor. As a child, my parents took me travelling frequently which fostered my obsession with cities like New York, Paris, Milan, etc.. The Middle Eastern heritage in me also goes to see the beauty of cities like Tehran, Beirut, Istanbul… So, I guess that’s what curated my directed love for this field.
      Talk us through the inspiration of what Concept Me does.
      As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. Creativity is at the core of what we do, being able to bring life and soul to high-end residential projects. However, we also have a mission to be ‘client-centric’. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team, their international talent and our empathetic intellect.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Essentially, I think I am juggling a bit too many roles at the moment, which is maybe natural in a boutique-scale company environment. However, I am working on this, gradually! Primarily, however, one of the key elements of my role is client management. I take it upon myself to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. The second key element is to be the final decision-maker on all design choices. As part of a multi-disciplinary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department! As I said, I am juggling a couple of roles…
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      This is a great topic haha! My calendar is usually locked from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. I aim to get a workout in as soon as I get up, which is contrary to my nature since I am not a great morning person! Luckily, I live close to the office and I am trying to maximize my steps count, so I manage to walk to the office where I sift through my emails. I then get to the essential part of catching up with the team, organizing what each one’s day looks like. And then it’s a non-stop rollercoaster of meetings between operations, logistics and design meetings. Of course, there are days when I am on site, days when I am at showrooms, galleries and supplier warehouses! In between those, I try to always make time for meetings with my marketing team and my financial team. It sounds much more organized on paper, but it doesn’t feel that organized when I am cramming my healthy lunch in between Zoom calls at the office! I eventually get home, feed my furry babies, get through some more emails, take a good walk, do my stretches and get to my pillow before I get back up, drink my hot water and lemon and do it all over again gladly!

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      The first piece of advice I would have for someone in the field is, ‘Find balance.’ I am someone who sacrificed her 20s for work. I took on quite a big load of stress early on in life. This took away from my health at some point. So, my advice is to prioritize your health, prioritize your personal life at some points, prioritize your best friends’ birthdays or weddings, etc. Keep in mind that sacrifice will come at every step. So, you might miss your trip with the people you love, you might not be there for family reunions and more. So, please, hustle all you can for the business, but find some balance so you don’t look back in retrospect and wish you had done it differently.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      I will keep this short so it resonates with whoever is reading it, ‘The universe has a lag time, so always be patient to see the result of what you’re planting.’ Now, repeat that to yourself.
      And what is the worst?
      ‘You cannot get this done, just give it up.’ Being the stubborn person that I am, I found strength in challenging all the people (and they were many) that told me to give up what I was doing.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      This answer is split two ways. The first massive challenge I had to get over professionally came when I was 30. Due to a couple of bad decisions and partnerships, I was left with a business that was bankrupt with 25 people dependent on me. I was abandoned by my business partners with a negative company balance. This was a real defining moment because I had to rebuild the business and grow it better than it was before. The burnout in the aftermath really hit me, but you know, we made it! The second part presents itself as going through a really powerful personal problem and having to live with it, get over it and heal from it whilst handling the complex and overwhelming operations that I run at Concept Me. Thankfully, I was able to get through these difficult situations through patience, self-reflection and a fantastic team.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      In summary, the future is to work with clients that are connoisseurs of the craft! I want to work with people who inspire me, who understand the powerful value of high-end design, to penetrate a market that appreciates what we do and push the limits of how spaces can really impact the ways we live. The plan is already underway, we have expanded our repertoire into the kind of markets we want to work on and we are taking the company international with aims to find the quality clients that will allow us to leave our design imprint globally! The future looks bright, thankfully.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      8 editor-approved podcasts for the ultimate audio fix this season

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
      For some much-needed escapism, podcasts are an ideal way to unwind.
      With an ocean of stories, interviews, in-depth discussions and trusted voices, they’ve become an interesting source of information that caters to a wide variety of audiences.
      From honest fashion reviews to female empowerment discussions, the topics are endless and can get you addicted in no time.
      To listen, you simply access the podcast through any of the streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and other smaller platforms, making it a click away.
      So whether a morning commute or a long-haul flight, you’re sure to be entertained with vital information through any of these information-fuelled podcasts.
      With the proliferation of podcasts, finding one to effortlessly incorporate into your daily routine can be quite the task and hence, Emirates Woman is here to help.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marshallheadphones More