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    Meet the female ‘SuperAgents’ of the UAE’s real estate

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    Over the last few years, Dubai has cemented itself as a hub for business, leisure and tourism which, in turn, has led to many moving to the emirate to set up homes.
    No longer can Dubai be seen as just simply a transient city, more and more people are making it a permanent base, which has seen a rise in property investment.
    But for those new to the UAE or new homeseekers in general, knowing where to start to look can be a daunting task. However, one such platform that is a go-to for finding a forever home – or even renting – in Dubai is Property Finder.
    In recent data by the PropTech company, it was found that one of the biggest priorities for buyers in the UAE was trust due to experiences with unreliable agents, false listings, late responses and more.
    Thus, this has led PropertyFinder to launch its ‘SuperAgent’ category. But, what exactly is a SuperAgent? Well, according to the website, it’s a “super-qualified agent who will provide you with an easy and hassle-free home-seeking journey… always looking to provide the best quality property listing and respond faster than any other agents to the home seeker’s needs”.
    The ranking by PropertyFinder is entirely data-driven, which is based on the individual agent’s performance, making it easy for buyers to discover exactly which SuperAgent will match their criteria.
    With over 5,500 available on PropertyFinder, utilising this tool of SuperAgent really does help homeseekers decipher who the best of the best is.
    Given that here at Emirates Woman we love to champion the incredible women in this region, we decided to take a deep dive into some of the best female SuperAgents on PropertyFinder specialising in luxe properties across the emirate.

    For more information visit propertyfinder.ae/en/find-agent or download Property Finder app onIOS or Google Play
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    The ultimate après ski experience makes a return in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: We may be missing a white blanket of snow here in Dubai, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the après ski experience altogether.
    This festive season, the Chalet 105 X Montblanc experiential dining adventure returns to Twiggy by La Cantine for the second year in a row after becoming a popular annual occurrence at parent restaurant La Cantine du Faubourg.
    Encapsulating the very essence of a cosy après ski experience following a day of swishing down the snowcapped mountains, Chalet 105’s vintage aesthetic and alpine setting allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city of Dubai.

    In fact, dare we say, you’ll feel as though you’ll be whisked away to the aura of the French alps as soon as you enter Chalet 105.
    This intimate dining experience, priced at Dhs425, at Twiggy starts with a welcome drink followed by delicious truffled chestnut soup.
    Then enters the main event, the ‘Fondue Savoyarde’, melted cheese accompanied with bread and green salad, as well as melted raclette cheese accompanied with green salad, potatoes and pickles, just as you’d enjoy it at an altitude of 2000 metres.
    Tying a nice festive bow on this après ski experience is a delectable chocolate fondue complete with a selection of fresh fruit and sweets.
    Enjoy the true meaning of the festive season with friends, loved ones or even colleagues with an exceptional winter touch at Chalet 105.
    Twiggy by La Cantine, located at the Park Hyatt Dubai Creek, is open daily from 9am to 2am. For reservations, email book@twiggy.ae, call +971 4 602 1105 or visit twiggy.ae.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    In pics: The UAE has rewritten history with its first mission to the moon

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    46 mins ago

    The UAE launched the Arab world’s first mission to the moon this weekend from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
    This highly anticipated moment for the country is one for the books, marking the start of the country’s long-term lunar exploration programme.
    The Rashid Rover is now on a journey of up to 140 days, with a landing window on the surface of the Moon in April 2023. To witness this remarkable occasion, Sheikh Mohammed along with other important members graced the MBRSC Mission Control Centre for the live launch.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai praised the UAE for launching the Arab world’s first mission to the moon and expressed his pride on Instagram in a video. The team witnessed a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket take off to deliver the Rashid rover into space.
    In the post, he said, “The United Arab Emirates launched the explorer Rashid today with the aim of landing on the moon. It is the fourth globally and the first Arab to land on the moon in case the mission is successful.”

    In a Twitter post, he later shared images of the mission and said, “Reaching the moon means reaching an exceptional station in the ambitious march of a country and a people whose ambitions have no ceiling.”
    “Explorer Rashid is part of an ambitious space programme for the UAE… that started with Mars… passing through the moon… to Venus… our goal is to transfer knowledge, develop our capabilities, and add a scientific footprint in human history,”
    Swipe through the gallery to see the mission launch.

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

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    In pics: Etihad’s much-loved A380 fleet makes a return in 2023

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    After a steep surge in demand, UAE’s national carrier, Etihad Airways is set to reintroduce its A380 fleets.
    Starting in 2023, four super-jumbos A380s will operate between Abu Dhabi and London with a host of new
    This expansive double-decker aircraft will feature nine First apartments, 80 Business Studios and 405 Economy smart seats. Other onboard amenities in the First class section include a large leather lounge, a 24” swiveling LCD TV monitor, a personal vanity and a fully-flat bed for utmost comfort.
    For First and Business class passengers to take a break from their seats, they will have access to a fully-served lounge at the lobby which includes leather sofas, refreshments, a large TV accompanied by a USB connection to ensure all devices remain charged throughout the time.
    His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, of Etihad Aviation Group, said, “It is wonderful to announce the return of this splendid aircraft.”
    “The A380’s reintroduction provides a further boost to Etihad’s capacity into the key UK market, with a knock-on effect for the wider GCC and Indian subcontinent that will bring more visitors to the city of Abu Dhabi,” he conveyed.
    For a sneak peek inside the new fleet, swipe through the gallery.

    This new fleet in 2023 will operate to London Heathrow and launch in other new destinations and increase frequencies to existing routes.
    For more information visit etihad.com
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    Images: Supplied More

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    Why you need to book this pool day in Dubai ASAP

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: There’s nothing better than a relaxing day by the pool as the weather cools down.
    For the ultimate relaxation this season, Coco Lounge is set to welcome tourists and residents with its highly sought-after deal this season.
    To unwind visitors can recline on a lounger and soak up the sun by day and rejuvenate by the pool at Dhs99, which is fully redeemable on food and beverages.
    The venue is complemented by a delectable poolside menu, that combines Latin American and Nikkei Japanese fusion cuisine with classic cocktails to sip on throughout the day. With a myriad of options varying from bite-size burritos to maki rolls, there’s enough for everyone to delight in.

    Everyone can enjoy this laidback day of blissful relaxation by catching up with their friends in the private cabanas, poolside chairs or sofas, while being looked after by the team of exceptional staff.
    With a new-age approach to liquid concoctions, guests can indulge in a plethora of beverages from day to night. To kick up the pace, this poolside venue plays chill lounge hits throughout the day to experience the outdoors at its best.

    Located in Media One Hotel on the 8th floor, pool access is open from 10am to 7pm with F&B available at Coco Lounge from 10am to 11pm.
    To make a booking or for more information visit mediaonehotel.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Sheikh Mohammed gives Dubai’s SushiSamba another royal stamp of approval

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s royals most definitely know where to dine in Dubai.
    Today, Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai paid a visit to one of the emirate’s most popular hotspots, SushiSamba.
    With not just one but two royal visits this year, this restaurant continues to stay on top of Dubai’s unending list of fine-dining havens this year. After Sheikh Hamdan visited the restaurant, Sheikh Mohammed who is regularly seen at the city’s various F&B spots followed to try the food out for himself today.
    The page even shared a photo on their Instagram of Sheikh Mohammed posing with the team and captioned it, “It was an honour to welcome HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for lunch today.”

    The venue is a must-visit for visitors and residents in the UAE with its glistening views of Dubai’s skyline and its multifaceted menu which seamlessly combines Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian influences. With evocative interiors and a tropical ambience, the restaurant brings an artful mix of culinary delights such as ceviche, tempura, Brazilian churrasco and more, making it a memorable experience for all, after already establishing itself in London and Las Vegas.

    Other A-listers earlier this year were spotted at this fine-dining haven. The famous tennis player Roger Federer visited the restaurant in October with the renowned actor Martin Lawrence who was seen posing with the Director of Culinary, Chef Kyungsoo Moon.

    Shortly after the restaurant opened and made a mark for itself in Dubai this year, Fazza thought it fit to host one of his most famous friends at the restaurant. The emirate’s Crown Prince was seen visiting the hotspot with famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this year and the restaurant’s team described it as an “honour” to welcome this Dubai royal and even shared a photo from his visit on their feed, as the duo enjoyed all the delectable dishes with the rest of the entourage.
    Located on the 51st floor of The St. Regis, The Palm, this fine-dining spot should be added to your celebrity-approved places to visit next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @sushisambadubai More

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    12 Christmas brunches in Dubai to celebrate with your loved ones

    Dubai is never short of festive celebrations to bring in the occasion.
    With Christmas soon approaching, brunches are all set to take place in full swing to bring on the holiday cheer.
    From renowned fine-dining havens to beachside venues, the emirate will be bustling with dining hotspots hosting special brunches with an array of mouthwatering dishes and well-crafted beverages.
    So, whether Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, there’s a brunch in every cuisine to tantalise your palate this year.
    SushiSamba

    For an exclusive festive celebration, this much-loved restaurant is bringing a blend of Japanese, Brazillian and Peruvian flavours to the table for its Christmas brunch. With a multi-sensory experience, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as black cod, crispy quinoa, beef gyoza and more. With a dynamic explosion of cocktails and scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this brunch is not to be missed out on. To make the afternoon even more enticing, DJ Megablast will play irresistible beats with the venue’s dazzling samba dancers to create an exciting atmosphere. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25 from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs649 for cocktails, hops, grape and house spirits and Dhs799 for eveything including premium bubbles. Located on the 51st floor at The St. Regis, The Palm, this spectacular brunch will promise an unforgettable afternoon.
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    Amazonico

    This special Jungle Bell Brunch gives Christmas a Latin. With the restaurants, best-loved dishes including delectable plates, creative cocktails, tunes from the resident DJ and an afterparty at its rooftop, this Christmas brunch can’t be missed out on. Set to take place in the heart of DIFC at Dhs575 soft drinks, Dhs675 house drinks, Dhs795 Champagne on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.ae
    La Cantine du Faubourg

    For a Parisian take on Christmas, this fine-dining haven is hosting a special festive brunch with a plethora of delightful dishes. From French toast with fresh berries to wagyu beef carpaccio, the options are endless in the bed-in-breakfast-themed concept. This special 105 brunch will take place on December 24 and December 25 for three hours from 12pm to 5pm with the soft beverages package starting at Dhs360 per person, the house beverages at Dhs485 per person and bubbles at Dhs725.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Fi’lia

    For a sky-high Christmas brunch with a view, this restaurant is the place to be. To ensure guests feel their best, this special brunch will serve a sharing-style menu with festive cocktails and ensure the live DJ plays your favourite hits throughout. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 for the soft beverages package, Dhs400 for house beverages and Dhs560 for bubbles at SLS Hotel in Business Bay.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Cove Beach

    For a sandy Christmas, soak in the festive spirit with a specially curated Christmas Day brunch at Two.0 restaurant located in Cove Beach Dubai. This picturesque venue will serve high-class culinary delicacies curated by a team of experts on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm. The packages start at Dhs299 for soft beverages, Dhs499 for house beverages and Dhs549 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit covebeach.com
    Netsu

    For a Warayki-style dining experience visit this fine-dining haven. With Warayaki-style grills, sushi, and sashimi platters, this restaurant promises the complete package. The evening is complemented by their interiors, music, flames, and the overall Christmas feel on Sunday, December 25. The packages for children from the age of 4 to 12 is priced at Dhs250 and for adults are Dhs495 for soft beverages.
    For more information visit netsu
    Bull & Bear

    This New York-inspired restaurant will make Christmas even more special for you with a Broadway-themed menu. Guests can savour perfectly cooked turkey served with all the trimmings and desserts to share, welcomed with classic mulled grape. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 5pm starting at Dhs195 for children from 6 to 12 years, Dhs395 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house beverages package and Dhs795 for the bubble package at Waldorf Astoria DIFC.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Address Beach Resort

    For a delightful festive buffet, The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort is hosting a wholesome afternoon of culinary delights with turkey and all its trimming. To complement the afternoon, guests can enjoy enchanting performances from its soulful choir along with Santa Claus who will make a special appearance to bestow the little ones with presents. The brunch will take plac eon Sunday, December 35 from 1pm to 4pm at Dhs788 for the soft beverage package, Dhs988 for the house beverages plus half a bottle of bubbles and 50 percent off for children from ages 7 to 11.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Rive Gauche

    Take a trip back in time with this vintage-themed festive brunch. Add extra sparkle to this year’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations by leaving it in the glamour-filled hands of new French dining and cabaret experience. The afternoon comes with special festive entertainment and a selection of starters, one main course, side dishes and delicious desserts. The three-course soft beverages is priced at Dhs390 per person, Dhs490 for house spirits and Dhs690 for bubbles and will take place on December 24 and December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit rivegauchedubai.com
    Toro Toro

    Explore delicious traditional dishes from across Latin America with friends and family looking for a merry time this Christmas. Celebrate the holiday season with a delectable set menu bursting with Latin American flavours at the award-winning restaurant. This entertainment-fuelled evening will feature a DJ, Latin dancers and percussionists while children can expect a visit from Santa Claus. All set to take place on Saturday, December 24, 2022 from 1pm to 4pm at Grosvenor House with packages starting from Dhs457 for soft beverages, Dhs675 for house beverages and Dhs975 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
    Nikki Beach

    For an all-white-themed brunch, Café Nikki is hosting a special Christmas buffet brunch with a live duo band, resident DJ and pool and beach access until sunset. This enticing brunch is set to take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with packages starting at Dhs500 for children below 12 years old, Dhs650 per person for house beverages and cocktails and Dhs860 for bubbles and house spirits.
    For more information visit nikkibeach.com
    The London Project

    Get ready to sleigh this Christmas at The London Project. Guests can sit back and relish merry entertainment, from singers, musicians, and Christmas-inspired performances. The brunch is filled with a host of delicious Christmas cocktails, festive food, jolly music and other dishes. Let The London Project do all the hard work, for a truly unforgettable day on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm starting at DHs495 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house package, dhs696 for the premium package and Dhs895 for the bubbles package with a 50 percent discount on the soft beverages package for children from 6 to 12 years.
    For more information visit thelondonproject.com
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    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Chanel Fine Jewellery 2021 Campaign More

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    How I got my job… as Co-Founder of this Dubai-based artisanal Italian restaurant

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs 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 Mohamed Jamal Alshamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Monno, which is home to artisanal Italian food using the finest ingredients.
    This exclusive Italian haven brings the most cherished culinary traditions to the forefront with recipes passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizzas to decedent desserts such as tiramisus, each dish is crafted to perfection as a true taste of Italy.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about his career path and how he converted his love for food into a full-time business.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    In school, I mostly enjoyed business studies.

    What was your first job?
    I studied to become a pilot, so that was my first job and is still what I do today – as well as being a first-time restauranteur with the opening of Monno.
    How long have you lived in Dubai?
    I am Emirati and was born and raised in the UAE.
    What inspired you to launch Monno Ristorante?
    Me and my business partner – the co-founder of Monno Hamad Hamad Abdelsalam, who is also a pilot, also shares a deep passion for Italy. Through flying there very regularly, we both developed a love for the country’s food and culture and noticed that there is a huge lack of quality and authentic restaurants in Dubai that fit in the casual Italian dining sector, so we decided to establish Monno.
    Talk us through the inspiration being your restaurant and its menu.
    At Monno, we focus on quality, value for money and authenticity. Fresh and natural ingredients imported from Italy are carefully calibrated and prepared, to deliver a nostalgic journey of the country’s most cherished culinary traditions. From exclusively using San Marzano tomatoes to importing artisanal Italian cheeses and olive oils for handmade pasta and genuine Neapolitan pizzas, our menu also features a range of antipasti, main courses and traditional desserts. Inside the restaurant, expect interiors and an ambiance inspired by that of a classic Trattoria found on the back streets of quaint towns in Italy.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    The key elements of my role are handling all things related to the food and beverage – so working with our chef to create the menus, food tastings, the development of special menus and more. I also handle the marketing and PR side of the business, while my partner, Hamad is our Chief Financial Officer and handles all things related to finance and accounting, then for general operational requirements, we do everything together.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    As a pilot, my daily routine depends on my flight schedule that week. If I’m flying that day, I go to work and complete my pre-flight procedures then take to the sky, however, if I’m not, my days are spent at Monno and with my family and friends.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps of opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    First and the most important advice is to think of something special and unique, something new that no one in Dubai has thought of before. Once you have a unique idea, work to execute it well.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    The best advice I ever received and believe in is simply ‘don’t rush’. Take things slowly and think twice before making your move, it will pay off in the long run.
    And what is the worst?
    The worst was to always be spontaneous and do things on the spot. I believe this connects to my best piece of advice, which is not to rush. I believe good things take time and we should think wisely before acting.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome when opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    The biggest challenge was when our opening fell close to the end of the pandemic. It was a huge challenge as there were so many restrictions in place at the time, so we could only accommodate a small number of guests at any given time, which is hardly what any new restaurant wants. We thankfully made it through that challenging time.
    What are the future plans for your brand, Monno?
    At Monno, we’re working on a couple of collaborations, which we will be able to announce in the coming months. We’re also working on an exciting pop-up for Monno that we hope to launch early next year. Watch this space!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More