More stories

  • in

    Looking for a wellness getaway? Visit this holistic resort for an inside-out cleanse

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    RAKxa shares how this wellness experience has put Thailand on the wellness map with its holistic treatments and deep detox focus.
    Talk us through the bespoke wellness consultation process you’ve designed for guests.
    Guests can embark on a journey with a three-step assessment that includes a health and wellness consultation session, a functional fitness assessment at RAKxa GAYA, and an in-depth doctor consultation at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre and Traditional Wellness at RAKxa JAI. We place emphasis on addressing the entirety of an individualʼs health by comprehensively examining their medical history to gain a complete understanding of the current health status. Upon completion of the initial consultation, a tailored programme is designed to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident incorporating changes into your daily life. The treatment plan will evolve over time as you progresson your wellness journey. Next, we move onto the Functional Fitness Assessment(FFA) to analyze your daily essential functional movement including strength, mobility, balance, and coordination to guide you to the right treatments, classes, and exercises that suit you best while with us and in your everyday life back home. Then guests will have the chance to consult with an anti-ageing doctor to review all your conditions. Additionally, at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre at RAKxa Wellness, a full repertoire of laboratory tests including complete blood test, hormone panel screening, food intolerance test, micronutrient test, and urine metal test is provided along with online consultation with nutritionists. Our anti-ageing doctors will work collaboratively with the other RAKxa’s traditional therapists with years of experience in practising Ayurveda, Traditional Thai medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, to create a fully integrative personalised wellness programme.

    What was the inspiration behind launching RAKxa, the luxury wellness destination?
    We understand that everyone’s health journey is unique and ever-changing. When it comes to individual health, a ‘one size fits all’ treatment will not be as effective as a personalised one where each individual’s health issues are uniquely treated. We are dedicated to being your trusty health guide, offering valuable support to those navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. We are dedicated to healing, sustaining, and preventing – a lasting wellness journey tailored to your unique needs. We embrace an integrative approach as a whole to wellbeing through a combination of health care, therapies, treatments, and wisdom of traditional and modern medicine, along with, nutrition, rest, and taking advantage of their unique healing benefits that complement one another, then integrate them into a healing system or what we call a programme, to deliver synergistic and complementary wellness results, with a more pleasant healing experience. Our brand philosophy states, ‘Health is Wealth’ – Everyone wishes to guard and cherish their health as much as their wealth.
    “We believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.”

    The villas are designed to encourage deep rest and reflection. How does the design and layout ensure utmost relaxation?
    The layout and function of the villas are ergonomically designed by doctors to create a safe and comfortable resting space for everyone. The bed’s height is set to no higher than 70cm for comfort, especially for elderly guests or those with back pain and injuries. Natural materials such as hypoallergenic cotton silk bedsheets are chosen, with a choice of six pillow types for our guests to choose from (contour massage, cervical opedic, classic natural latex, buckwheat, companion, and memory foam), all are made from natural materials. The organic selection of amenities made from high-quality natural materials designed by Thai local brands embraces the idea of giving back to the local community. Our rooms are decorated with earthy tones, creating a calm and serene atmosphere. Soft fabrics and blackout curtains are installed throughout the villas so that our guests can enjoy a peaceful and undisturbed night’s rest.
    The RAKxa’s wellness cuisine is centered on ingredients. How does the retreat focus on restoring balance through food?
    We believe that good food is the best medicine. Our food philosophy is rooted in the idea that what we eat can profoundly impact our overall health and wellness. By understanding each of our guest’s unique dietary needs, conditions, and preferences, we could offer a personalised healthy and balanced dietary menu. At the beginning of your programme – our chefs and nutritionists collaborate with doctors and use dietary lab test results to curate personalised menus that meet individual health goals, from optimising gut health for efficient nutrient absorption to striving to minimise and eventually eliminate harmful toxins accumulated in the body. Also, we work with our traditional medicine doctors – we believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.

    Science and tradition come together at RAKxa. How are the traditional treatments combined with energy healing practices?
    Energy Medicine at RAKxa Integrative Wellness is a healing practice that is based on the perpetual transmutation of vibrational energy and has been around for centuries. The techniques are cultivated in various cultures and traditions, and our talented guru’s conduct with grace and skill. At RAKxa, we offer unique examples of this methodology from all corners of the world: singing bowls from ancient Tibet, chakra and pranic healing, part of ancient Ayurveda methodology, healing with crystals which date back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, and Reiki, which originates from Japan. The transformative effects of energy healing help to unleash joy and peace by manipulating brainwaves, enhancing individuals’ chemistry and hormone levels, removing energy stagnation and improving your overall wellbeing. Energy healing can be integrated and treated alongside other medical services, whether it is exercises, physical therapies, or administering medical care such as intravenous vitamin (IV) infusions, because we want everyone to be in good health both inside and out and, importantly, in mind and spirit.

    The property’s medical gym uses technology, functional medicine and the science of movement – what are some of the bespoke exercise routines available?
    Our medical gym at RAKxa Gaya uses a diagnostic approach, drawing upon technology, physiotherapy, sports medicine, and the science of movement to create a personalised exercise. RAKxa’s team of physiotherapists and sports scientist conduct a comprehensive assessment of guests’ body posture, stability, endurance, strength, coordination and balance, as well as everyday movement using state-of-the-art equipment and world-class Olympic Grade Standard machines such as walk-pattern analysis with Gait Analysis, Functional Assessment with Huber, and Neuromuscular reactivation using Redcord Muscle Function Restoration with Red Cord Exercise. Following a thorough assessment, the results are then interpreted by a staff of movement specialists, physiotherapists, and wellness trainers who create custom-made training plans that blend results-oriented, corrective exercises,that are both modern and traditional. Your training programme will be specifically tailored to your conditionsand abilities, as well as your personal wellness goals. Head to Toe Stretch, which is a one-on-one session provided by medical gym staff, is recommended. This passive stretch helps you gently loosen up your physical tension, reduce lactic acid build-up, and improve your range of motion and flexibility.
    The VitalLife provides hyper-personalised treatments – what’s the science behind this technology?
    Our anti-ageing medicine is an array of modern technologies from advanced diagnostic equipment to innovative therapeutic interventions that create hyper-personalised treatments designed to restore and optimise guests’ health and longevity. We strive to provide guests with the highest level of medical standards and care, ensuring they receive the most advanced and tailored anti-ageing solutions in a comfortable and welcoming environment. The treatment sessions are based in the Medical Wellness Clinic under the supervision of medical professionals from VitalLife.
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    5 things Zayn Malik opened up about in his first public interview after six years

    Emirates Man

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Pakistani-British singer, Zayn Malik, is known for being notoriously private. His first public appearance in six years allowed his fans to get a glimpse of the man beneath the mystery.
    At all 17, Zayn Malik became an overnight sensation with four other British boys when One Direction was born. Thanks to Simon Cowell, The X Factor judge of the time who spotted these talented boys and clubbed them together in a band.

    After tasting the height of success and fame at an early age, Zayn was the first to venture out alone. His journey as a solo artist hasn’t been like that of a regular pop star — the Pillow Talk singer, despite the success he found in his solo stint, decided to step away from the limelight when it cost his mental health.

    In a modern world, where fame is fleeting and icons are always changing, it is refreshing to see an artist who is purely around for the love of the art. Recently, the 30-year-old singer appeared as a guest on Alex Cooper’s popular podcast, “Call Her Daddy” before the release of his summer single, “Love Like This” where he opened up about his life in the last few years and the reason behind reappearing in front of the world.

    In an hour-long conversation with Alex, the Dust Till Dawn singer covered a lot of grey areas and speculations around his life. Here are the top 5 things that stood out in this interview.
    Why he left the band
    It broke the hearts of millions of fans when Zayn Malik decided to leave the beloved British band, One Direction. Although everyone knows what happened next, nobody knew what led to it. Shedding the light on this turning point of his life, the singer said, “I had been thinking about it for a hot minute. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes, there’s a lot of politics, pressure and I decided to come ahead of it by taking this decision. It might sound cheesy, but before I quit the band, I called up my mum and asked if she still got a bed for me back home and when said come back home son, I went ahead and did it. also, as an artist, I wanted to make music about more mature and deeper stuff which wasn’t necessarily the demographic of the band.”
    How becoming a parent changed him
    Zayn shares a two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Khai, with his supermodel ex Gigi Hadid. The former couple welcomed this daughter in September 2020, after which they split in 2021 and have been co-parenting her ever since. “As an adult, your life tends to become grey and monotonous, she added the colour back into her life. I have my daughter with me for 50% of the time and when she is with me, all of my time is dedicated to her.”
    Dealing with anxiety in the present
    Even at the pinnacle of his fame, Zayn was one of the few artists who was vocal about his mental health struggles. Whether it was about cancelling his musical tours or stepping away from the overwhelming world of fame. Today, as he is about to share new music with his fans, he is also making an attempt to reconnect with the world. “I am doing this for my daughter, learning how to deal with my anxiety and speaking in public. I want her to know that her dad can overcome his fears and do things and set that example for her.”
    Importance of leading a quiet life
    Unlike other celebrities who live in LA or New York, the StoryOf My Life singer chose to raise his daughter in Pennsylvania. Away from the hustle-bustle and the shutterbugs, he prefers to protect the privacy of his child by giving her a normal life. “She didn’t choose this life, I did. I at least want her to have an option in the future. I am able to do normal things with my daughter here, which would be difficult to do with cameras flashing all the time. It’s a quiet life with a lot of farm animals. I have three cats, three dog, three turtles and six chickens.”
    Remaining unfazed by the media narrative
    After his breakup with ex-Gigi, the media was quick to build a narrative positioning him as the bad guy. According to many news outlets, the breakup was a result of an altercation between the singer and his partner’s mother, reality star, Yolanda Hadid. Although, neither of the parties confirmed the incident, the internet held him accountable. While sensitively bringing up the subject during the podcast, Alex asked him if there was any merit to the rumour and did it affect his share in custody. Respecting all the parties involved, he cleared the air. “I have 50% custody of my daughter and it wouldn’t have been the case if things said in the media were true. I don’t believe in giving explanations about myself, especially to people who don’t know me. The people who do, know what happened. It was a family matter and I wanted to address it privately. I didn’t want my daughter to grow up reading this as a subject that was discussed in public.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @zayn_br and @onedirection More

  • in

    In pics: Sheikha Mahra enjoys her first outing with Sheikh Mana after marriage

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    29 mins ago

    When it comes to planning activities, the UAE Royals know how to get the adrenaline pumping.
    After Sheikha Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and her husband Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum got married in April, the couple decided to experience a fun activity together.
    Seen at Jebal Ali Shooting Range Club, the couple decided to try their hand at shooting and head to an exhilarating spot in Dubai. Sheikha Mahra even almost managed to hit a bulls eye and shared a series of adorable photos on her feed.
    Situated in the luxurious facility of JA The Resort, this highly-popular spot caters to both beginners and seasoned shooters, serving as a perfect option for an action-packed day. Located in the midst of the Jebel Ali desert, this unique facility stands like a fortress with five floodlit clay shooting ranges, giving its visitors a real taste of the sport.
    When did the couple get married?
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in March. On April 5 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

  • in

    Here’s how travel can impact your wellbeing in a holistic way

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    1 hour ago

    Negin Baradari discusses the importance of knowing the power of where you travel to and how it can impact your wellbeing.
    What “energy” does summer hold?
    Summer escapes can be a wonderful opportunity to recharge our batteries, experience new cultures, and create lasting memories with loved ones. But did you know that the location you choose for your summer getaway can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing? That’s where the concept of “AstroCartography” comes in.
    What is AstroCartography?
    AstroCartography is a type of locational astrology, created by astrologer Jim Lewis in the 1970s. Simply speaking, it is a visual system for mapping how your astrological birth chart (natal chart) corresponds to different locations on earth.
    How can it affect our choice of travel destinations?
    AstroCartography is the study of how the alignment of the planets and stars at the time of your birth can influence the places where you feel most energized and fulfilled. Similarly, AstroGeology is the study of how the geological features of a location can impact your overall wellbeing. Both of these concepts suggest that every destination holds a certain “energy” that can either support or detract from your individual energy typology. AstroCartography is the study of how the alignment of the planets and stars at the time of your birth can influence the places where you feel most energized and fulfilled. It suggests that every destination holds a certain “energy” that can either support or detract from your individual energy typology. By considering Astro-Cartography when choosing a travel destination, you can align your unique energy typology with the location, potentially enhancing your overall wellbeing and travel experience. By doing so, you can maximize the benefits of your summer escape and ensure that you’re choosing a location that aligns with your unique energy typology. For example, if you’re someone who is naturally drawn to water and feels most at peace when you’re near the ocean, you might consider destinations that have a strong water element in their astrocartography or astrogeology. This could include places like Hawaii, Bali, or the Greek islands, which are all known for their beautiful beaches and ocean views. On the other hand, if you’re someone who is more drawn to mountains and enjoys being surrounded by nature, you might look for destinations that have a strong earth element in their AstroCartography or AstroGeology. This could include places like Colorado, Switzerland, or New Zealand, which are all known for their stunning mountain ranges and outdoor activities.

    Why is it so important to choose the right travel destination based on your energy typology?
    The impact our environment can have on our overall wellbeing is key. Research has shown that being in nature can have a range of health benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting cognitive function. Similarly, being in a location that resonates with your individual energy typology can help you feel more grounded, centered, and at peace. It can also help you tap into your natural strengths and abilities, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re looking to make a major life change or pursue a new goal. Travel can be a wonderful opportunity to take a break from our daily routines, recharge our batteries, and create lasting memories with loved ones. By considering your AstroCartography or AstroGeology when choosing a travel destination, you can potentially enhance the benefits of your summer escape and create a deeper connection with the places you visit.
    What do you see when you look at someone’s AstroCartography?
    The Power Spots. AstroCartography can help you identify specific locations where the planetary alignments at the time of your birth have a strong influence. These “power spots” can be areas where you feel more energised, fulfilled, or in alignment with your true self. By knowing these spots, you can prioritise them in your travel plans and experience a deeper connection to the places you visit.
    The New Opportunities. Astrocartography can reveal areas where the planetary energies are aligned to support specific aspects of your life. For example, if you’re looking for career opportunities or personal growth, astrocartography can point out locations where the astrological conditions favor those pursuits. Exploring these places can potentially open up new avenues for success in your chosen field.
    The Enhanced Relationships. AstroCartography can shed light on locations where the energy is conducive to building and strengthening relationships. If you’re seeking love or looking to improve your existing partnerships, AstroCartography can guide you towards destinations where the planetary alignments support harmonious connections and emotional fulfillment. It can be an exciting way to plan a romantic getaway or a meaningful trip with loved ones.
    The Spiritual Connections. If you’re on a spiritual journey, AstroCartography can assist in finding places with strong spiritual energy. These locations might have sacred sites, meditation retreats, or spiritual communities that align with your spiritual beliefs and practices. Visiting these destinations can deepen your spiritual connection, provide transformative experiences, and offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
    The Self-Reflection and Healing. AstroCartography can help you identify locations that are aligned with self-reflection, healing, and personal development. These places might offer opportunities for introspection, holistic therapies, or wellness practices that resonate with your energy typology. By visiting such destinations, you can createspace for self-care, rejuvenation, and inner transformation.
    What is your key travel tip?
    For effortless travel, honour your own energy by becoming aware of what energy the travelspot holds uniquely for you. It is as much a journey inwardsas it is an exploration of your selected destination.

    July/August’s – The Travel Issue – Indulge Your Wanderlust  – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    20 Life Rules Every Successful Woman Follows

    When you feel like being an adult is an active struggle, it’s easy to become envious of women who seem to have it all figured out. You know who I’m talking about—the women who naturally attract money, promotions, love, glowing skin, and shiny hair into their life. To us mere mortals, it seems as though these women glide effortlessly through life, but the truth is, they simply follow the same 20 life rules. Keep on reading to learn all about the life rules successful women follow, and watch everything around you fall into place.

    1. Love the skin you’re in
    Successful women are not immune from insecurities—they are human, after all. Nevertheless, they still make an active effort to love the skin they’re in. They’ll speak kindly to themselves and engage in self-care rituals and activities that nourish their soul regularly. Likewise, they’ll also admire their body—they’ll run their hands over it in the shower, look in the mirror, or hug themselves, and this helps them connect with themselves and increase their self-love.

    2. Always rise to the opportunity and accept new challenges
    Successful women have no trouble rising to the occasion. They’ll never say “no” to any new opportunity or challenge that comes their way because they know that life is a never-ending learning journey. While mindset helps them grow in every aspect of their life, it’s especially beneficial for their career—it makes them reliable and hardworking, and that only contributes to their success.

    3. Ask for help when you need it
    Although we’re taught that doing everything on our own is a sign of success, successful women know better. They know that doing it all often leads to exhaustion and burnout, which is why they ask for help when they need it. They’re not ashamed of this either. In fact, they know that setting aside your pride and seeking help from others is a sign of strength—not weakness.

    4. Take control of your finances
    Successful women work hard for their money, and they’ll be damned if they don’t have a handle on their finances. They make it a point to go out of their way and stay in the know when it comes to their finances. They’ll track their income and expenses, review and adjust their budget as needed, and conduct research and ask a financial expert questions when they don’t know something. Regardless of what they do, they don’t leave their financial situation up to fate.

    5. Take care of yourself
    Women who are thriving in life seem to have a natural glow to them, and it’s because they prioritize taking care of themselves. They know that health is wealth, so while they enjoy looking good, they enjoy feeling good even more. So, they’ll attend routine health checkups and dental cleanings, exercise regularly, hydrate and eat a well-rounded diet, and get plenty of rest. Likewise, they also won’t deprive themselves; they know life’s about balance, and will indulge from time to time in moderation.

    6. Invest in and bet on yourself
    Successful women have no trouble focusing their attention and putting their money towards whatever’s going to help them reach their goals. This might mean pursuing a postsecondary degree if it’ll benefit their career or taking a certification class in order to make a career change. Or, they might buy a new outfit for a once-in-a-lifetime interview to help boost their confidence. Whatever the case may be, these women have no trouble betting on themselves, and that inner confidence radiates outwards.

    7. Put yourself out there
    Putting yourself out there can be scary, but successful women do so in spite of that fear. This goes for both work and relationships. They know that stepping outside of their comfort zones is a surefire way to get noticed. So while it may be intimidating, they believe in themselves enough to take that leap of faith. More often than not, this move pays off tenfold in the end when they land their dream job or manifest their ideal partner.

    8. Don’t spend your life worried about others
    Letting go of caring what others think is sometimes easier said than done, but it’s a rule successful women swear by. They know that when it comes down to it, you can’t please everyone. Which is why they’ll surround themselves with an uplifting, positive social circle. And being surrounded by people who only want the best for you ultimately makes this rule an easy one to follow.

    9. Build an emergency fund and save for retirement
    For successful women, knowing that they can fall back on themselves financially if push comes to shove is non-negotiable. So, they prioritize building an emergency fund and saving for retirement. Not only does this help them become financially independent, but it also sets them up for success and the ability to fully enjoy the fruits of their labor and embrace their golden years when it comes time.

    10. Never compete for your partner’s love or attention
    It’s not uncommon to come across someone who makes you feel as though you have to compete for their love and attention. However, successful women won’t tolerate feeling this way from a romantic partner. If their partner ever makes them feel like this, they’ll talk to and see if they can get through to them, or they may cut their losses and part ways. Of course, every relationship is different, but ultimately, successful women don’t have time to play games and vie for their partner’s love.

    11. You are the author of your life
    It’s easy to let other people or the things that have happened to you define who you are, but successful women refuse to fall victim to that mindset. Instead, they take charge of their story because they know they are the sole author of their life. And while there will always be things that are out of their control, this ultimately makes them a force to be reckoned with.

    12. Talk to the people you care about regularly
    Everyone is busy, and it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But time can slip away all too quickly and life can change in an instant. So, successful women make it a point to talk to and connect with the people they care about regularly. It doesn’t matter if it’s over text, a call, FaceTime, or in person—all that matters is that they’re connecting. Plus, it helps remind everyone that they’re not alone, which is something we all need.

    13. Have a morning and nighttime routine
    It’s not uncommon to feel like your career, relationships, and overall responsibilities demand more of your time as you get older. But successful women make sure these demands don’t take away precious time for themselves. Instead, they combat this by having a morning and nighttime routine. Besides all the benefits that can come from having these routines, this allows them to steal and carve out extra time for themselves no matter what. And this helps them stay grounded and make strategic moves in life.

    14. Don’t apologize for your success
    Unlike many of their traditional male counterparts, women often feel the need to apologize for their success. While successful women certainly won’t brag about their accomplishments, they won’t go out of their way to hide them either. They know how hard they work for what they have and they refuse to apologize for it. And they know that their accolades simply reflect the time, effort, and dedication they’ve put in—and that’s something to be proud of.

    15. Know what you bring to the table
    The saying “know your worth, then add tax” applies here. Successful women know exactly what they bring to the table and have no trouble asking for what they deserve. They refuse to settle for being underpaid and underappreciated in every aspect of their life. So, they’ll ask for a raise if the odds are in their favor or take their talents elsewhere and surround themselves with people who love them exactly as they are.

    16. Balance is essential
    Successful women don’t buy into the mindset that life is all work and no play. Instead, they know that balance is essential. This is why they have a life outside of work—whether it’s a hobby, side hustle, or simply going out with friends. Likewise, they also carve out time for themselves and treat themselves and splurge every once in a while. In short, they let themselves enjoy life and luxuriate in it.

    17. Support other women
    Society often pits women against each other, but successful women are actively working to change that. Rather than compete against each other, successful women lift up and encourage each other wholeheartedly. They know that a win for one woman is a win for all women everywhere.

    18. Compromises shouldn’t come at the cost of happiness
    It’s no secret that relationships consist of compromise, but flourishing women don’t let those compromises come at the cost of their happiness. So while they have no problem being flexible, they won’t agree to anything that jeopardizes their overall well-being (think: giving up their career, etc.). After all, the right partner will make sure their happiness is a priority and won’t ever put it on the back burner.

    19. Look at the glass half-full
    Despite the fact that successful women aren’t immune from hardships, they still choose to look at the glass half-full. This doesn’t mean that they fall into toxic positivity—they’ll still cry, scream, and get their emotions out when they need to. Rather, it means that they remain optimistic in spite of life’s trials and tribulations. And this positive outlook is ultimately what helps them attract abundant success into their life.

    20. Set goals and go after them fearlessly
    By now, you probably know that goal-setting is vital, and successful women swear by this as well. Not only do they set goals, but they also formulate plans to reach those goals and go after them fearlessly. Ultimately, they never lose sight of their dreams. And they know that no dream is too big or unattainable—they believe in themselves and their abilities and will wake up every day and take tangible steps in the real world that help them bring their wildest dreams to fruition.

    10 Things Successful Women Do Before 9AM More

  • in

    UAE public sector residents will have a long weekend next week

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    39 mins ago

    If you’re thinking of planning a short escape, next week might be the perfect opportunity to do so.
    The UAE government has announced the date for the Islamic New Year holiday for federal employees. Friday, July 21, will be a holiday for those who work in the federal government, on the occasion of the Hijri New Year.
    The Ministry announced today that the holiday marks the start of the Islamic year 1445, will result in a day off for public sector workers.
    Per, The Emirates Astronomy Society (ESA), the new Hijri year (Muharram 1) is likely to be on Wednesday, July 19.
    However, the dates can be changed based on when the crescent moon is spotted.
    When is the next long weekend?
    The next public holiday after New Year is just over two months away as Prophet Mohammed’s birthday falls on Friday, September 29, which also gives people a long weekend.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @visitabudhabi More

  • in

    Here’s what happened when we dined at Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin-star culinary haven

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    4 hours ago

    Atlantis The Royal in The Palm beckons discerning epicureans to indulge in its exquisite gastronomic offerings.
    Boasting an impressive line-up of culinary masterpieces crafted by world-renowned chefs, it stands as a beacon of unrivalled luxury and culinary excellence, putting Dubai on the map as a culinary hotspot.
    A can’t-miss experience? Dining at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. This exceptional culinary destination offers an exquisite dining experience of unparalleled culinary artistry that transcends expectations.
    Having earned its prestigious Michelin star this year, this exceptional restaurant nestled within Atlantis The Royal invites guests on an extraordinary gastronomic journey curated by the visionary chef, Heston Blumenthal.

    The renowned Michelin star chef Heston Blumenthal OBE, reigns as an emblem of culinary prowess, commanding the epicurean stage with his signature style that exudes refined decadence. Blending avant-garde techniques with an unwavering commitment to the timeless British classics, Blumenthal’s gastronomic creations transport diners on a captivating journey through taste and texture. From his humble beginnings in Oxfordshire to the opulence of his world-renowned restaurants, each dish meticulously crafted by Blumenthal embodies an exquisite symphony of flavours, artfully harmonised to tantalise the senses.
    Chef Heston Blumenthal OBE comments, “Atlantis The Royal and Dubai were the perfect locations for Dinner outside of London, I like the idea of the juxtaposition of the old and the new, historically inspired recipes reimagined with modern techniques; so there’s the old and the new, housing it in an incredible new building; Atlantis, on the sea in Dubai.”
    THE AMBIENCE
    Stepping into Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is akin to entering a world where time-honoured traditions meet avant-garde innovation. The theatre of the Tudor dining experience, adorned with contemporary accents and a harmonious colour palette, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. A notable part of the decor is the pineapple rotisserie installation featuring a pulley system and clock that powers a clockwork spit roast in the kitchen that cooks the pineapples.
    Blumenthal shares, “The Dubai venue has something extra special that our London guests won’t see, a giant pineapple escapement, which is the magical centrepiece of the restaurant, that also provides a functional element, turning the rotisserie which has roasted pineapples on it. Pineapples, historically, were unbelievably expensive, they were seen as unbelievable luxury… and so ours will signify adventure, exploration and discovery”

    THE HERO DISHES
    The menu at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is a symphony of flavours, showcasing Blumenthal’s unique vision and culinary expertise with dishes offering edible history dating as far back as the Medieval and Victorian times. Inspired by historical British recipes, each dish ignites the senses with re-imagined culinary delights that are a masterful blend of traditional elements and modern techniques.
    A five-course tasting menu starts out with an intriguing bite-sized caviar ball covered with white chocolate followed by an exceptional serving of sherried scallops cooked to perfection. The real dining experience though begins once the “Meat Fruit” is served – an unexpected true showstopper of the night. This iconic dish, presented as a vibrant mandarin, is a flawless revelation and recreation of a medieval delicacy. Delicately crafted chicken liver parfait, encased in a citrus-infused gel, delights the palate with its velvety texture and exquisite balance of flavours.

    As the feast progresses, the “Roast Halibut” a succulent fish cooked to perfection is served with a medley of seasonal vegetables and a green rich, buttery sauce with a side of triple-cooked fries. Not bland nor boring, the marriage of flavours is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing the harmonious interplay between the ingredients and the unwavering dedication to sourcing the finest produce. It is then followed by the “Powdered Duck Breast”, a complex and rich main paired with duck hearts and pickled cherries with braised red cabbage is a testament to the level of detail that goes into each dish.
    No gastronomic journey would be complete without a sweet nitrogen-infused conclusion, and the “Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream” does not disappoint. However, what stands out from the dessert menu is another signature creation that marries simplicity with decadence. The “Tipsy Cake” is a fluffy brioche lightly basted in Sauternes, baked to golden perfection, and served alongside a generous dollop of spit-roasted pineapple – a fitting finale for guests with discerning palates.

    THE SERVICE
    Complementing the culinary offerings, the restaurant offers an extensive beverage list including an impressive selection of vintages from around the world. The sommelier’s expertise and guidance elevate the dining experience to new heights of sophistication, as they effortlessly curate and pair each course with a perfectly suited beverage, enhancing the overall sensory journey.
    The attentive and knowledgeable team at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal elevates the experience further, giving the highest standards of service. From the moment you are welcomed to the final farewell, their impeccable attention to detail and genuine passion for gastronomy create an atmosphere of indulgence and exclusivity. Each dish is presented with precision and finesse, and the staff’s profound knowledge of the menu ensures that every culinary nuance is brought to life.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Atlantis The Royal More

  • in

    All the times Salt Bae impressed the royal families around the world

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    A viral sensation who became famous for his meat-slapping, salt-sprinkling and signature sunglasses in no time, Nusr-et one of the most visited restaurants in Dubai.
    Chef Nusret Gökçe, also known as ‘Salt Bae’, has impressed many celebrity A-listers around the world, but he has also become a hit amongst the royal crowd.
    After winning credit for all his memes, he’s surely managed to wow royal families from around the world, as well as here in the UAE.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

    Sharing a photo to Facebook, the chef revealed the Ruler of Dubai visited one of his establishments back in 2017. The Ruler of Dubai paid a further visit to his Jumeriah Beach Road restaurant in 2018.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

    With restaurants both in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, is seen laughing in this image, as he received yet another royalty’s stamp of approval. The shared image of him displays him shaking hands with the royal, captioning it “The King”. His Highness paid a visit to Salt Bae in 2017 in Dubai.
    King Mohammed VI of Morocco

    Belonging to the Alaouite dynasty, the King of Morocco was snapped in the lovely image with Salt Bae which he captioned saying, “Thank you for visiting me.” The monarch paid a visit to Dubai back in 2018.
    Jordan’s King Abdullah II & Queen Rania

    Posing with Jordan’s reigning monarch King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania, Salt Bae met the royals in 2017. Upon their visit three years ago, Salt Bae shared some photos of himself with the Jordanian royals and thanked both the king and queen for their hospitality and generosity.
    On our next visit to the world-renowned restaurant, we hope to capture a snap with Salt Bae himself if he’s in town.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More