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      From LA to Dubai: The Nice Guy lands in DIFC

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      1 hour ago

      With a never-ending A-list celebrity guestlist including Gigi Hadid, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Nicki Minaj and more, The Nice Guy has opened its first-ever venue outside of Los Angeles right here in Dubai.
      Launched in partnership with MKIA Hospitality, the group’s managing partner and co-founder, Mohammad Irshaid discusses what The Nice Guy has in store for its Dubai debut.
      Talk us through your career.
      It all started at the age of 21 when I travelled to New York to license the brand Sugar Factory, I did my training in NY, LA and Las Vegas, and a year later franchised Dum Dum Doughnuts from London. In between, I consulted for brands such as Bora Bora Juice Kuwait and Pizza Factory DIFC on menu development, brand concept creations and many more. Then around two years ago, the idea of The Nice Guy was presented and here we are.
      Where does your love for food come from?
      Throughout my childhood, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my mother, who is an amazing cook and would constantly be experimenting in the kitchen. From prepping lunches and dinner gatherings to late-night snacks. Other than being physically present in the kitchen I had a natural curiosity about the process of cooking and how flavours came together. This established the foundation of my passion for food and beverage.

      You’ve just opened the iconic LA hotspot The Nice Guy in Dubai. How long has this been in the works? Why Dubai?
      We started the conversations around two years ago during COVID-19. Dubai is home and is an emerging F&B hub of the world. Yet with everything around, I still felt there was a gap that The Nice Guy could fill. A place with an old school ambience, a good Italian vibe, great music and most importantly, a place to meet and connect with like-minded individuals.
      Talk us through the concept of The Nice Guy.
      The Nice Guy Dubai will follow suit of its LA predecessor as a highly sought-after, reservations-only destination, complete with a world-class lineup of classic Italian cuisine offerings for lunch and dinner, including signature menu items and crafted cocktails. In true The Nice Guy fashion, dining hours seamlessly transition into a nightlife backdrop with regularly programmed live entertainment and DJ sets.
      What are the hero dishes at The Nice Guy?
      Diners can expect distinctly Italian plates with a unique LA spin such as the kale salad, cacio e pepe, Margherita pizza. I would say that the meatballs and lobster pizza are the must-try dishes. We also developed special dishes and versions of dishes for the Dubai location that aren’t available in LA such as beef carpaccio and burrata salad.
      What sets the F&B industry in Dubai apart from the rest of the world?
      Dubai is a cosmopolitan melting pot of multinationals that come from all over the world to live in this city. Having people from all over the world based here creates a natural and constant demand for all types of local concepts and franchises to open and do so well here.
      What are your hopes for The Nice Guy Dubai in 2022 and beyond?
      My hope is for The Nice Guy to be an essential spot for anyone living in Dubai, but also for all the visitors. Our plan is for The Nice Guy to be a landmark spot in the region and to constantly give our customers what they want.
      November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      10 countries Sheikh Hamdan has visited

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 hours ago

      With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
      From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.
      After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed.
      United Kingdom

      Sheikh Hamdan has been seen in London quite a few times over the years and even recently made a visit with his twins, Rashid and Shaika, to the Godolphin stables. Having previously studied at Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Fazza has a strong connection to the UK and is often seen taking a trip to one of his favourite destinations.
      Tanzania

      Exploring both nature and immersing himself in the culture, Sheikh Hamdan’s picture-perfect safari trip to Tanzania looked beyond idyllic. While being surrounded by wildlife, the thrill-seeker shared a series of clips while jumping over a large pool of water and exploring the dense forests. The trip was indeed an adventurous one with all the outdoor activities the royal was seen trying out.
      Japan

      In 2019, Sheikh Hamdan made a visit east to Japan. Regarded as a highly-trained fitness enthusiast, the Dubai royal was seen posing with bronze sculptures of rugby player Michael Leitch and sumo wrestler Tochinoshin Tsuyoshi. He was also captured taking some classes and trying some delicious food, he’s undoubtedly ticked off a host of must-visit venues on his trip to Japan. From grazing through the enchanted streets or travelling by the high-speed bullet train to Tokyo, make a note of all the must-dos on your next trip.
      South Korea

      Nearly three years ago, in 2019, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to Seoul in South Korea. He posted a photo of himself in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the country’s must-visit attractions. Along with his Uncle Saeed, they visited historic spots in the city, as well as enjoyed matcha milkshakes, a very popular drink of choice in East Asia.
      Estonia

      In 2018, Sheikh Hamdan took his riding skills international, participating in a 160km endurance race in Estonia. During his travels in the Eastern European country, he also shared a series of photos of him cycling in Estonia along with his friend Saeed Jabber Al Harbi.
      Uzbekistan

      There’s no doubt, that Sheikh Hamdan is always seen posing in the great outdoors. His recent trip to Uzbekistan in November 2021 consisted of all the engaging activities such as camping, falconry, exploring nature and also visiting some of the local residents in the country.
      USA

      Back in 2018, Dubai’s Crown Prince travelled to the USA visiting popular cities like Chicago and New York City.
      Denmark

      Spotted on this self-governing archipelago, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands is known for its picturesque coastal cliffs and gorgeous open skies. Seen taking a selfie with nature, this popular photo was all over social media.
      Canada

      Exploring the peaks of British Columbia, the royal was seen enjoying this snow-filled holiday on Canada’s ski slopes back in 2019. This stunning wintry escape is everything one looks for in the cooler months. Snowboarding, snow-cover buildings and spruce trees were some of the elements which truly made this holiday complete.
      Italy

      Seen posing in the popular frame shot with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sheikh Hamdan visited Italy in 2017, as the snap was captured with perfect precision. From relishing some delicious pasta to walking on the cobbled steps, this beautiful destination is one to add to your list too.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @faz3 More

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      Your guide to F1 weekend with Yas Plaza Hotels’ special offerings in Abu Dhabi

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: As Abu Dhabi gears up for Formula 1 at full speed, Yas Plaza Hotels brings a host of exciting events to the table this month.
      To embark on an experiential journey, the capital’s favourite spots will be filled with action-packed days just opposite from the bustling Yas Marina Circuit.
      With six world-class hotels located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this enticing entertainment destination is home to various hospitality brands including Radisson Blu, Yas Island Rotana and more.
      If you’re looking to plan ahead of all the races this month, we have the ultimate guide to where to make your bookings from now.

      Visitors can make their first pit stop at Park Inn by Radisson Blu Yas Island and head to Underdog Club at Amerigos with a plethora of tempting dishes varying from tacos to churros. During lunchtime, guests can opt for the Chef’s signature lunch menu starting at Dhs169 for soft drinks and Dhs269 for house beverages from 12:30pm to 4pm. For the Mercadito evening table brunch, guests can experience four hours of brunching for Dhs299 with house beverages and Dhs399 with premium house beverages from 6pm to 12am on Thursday and Friday, November 17 and 18, 2022 with live entertainment from DJ Dave and Latin Duo. Those looking to visit the venue on the weekend, can avail of the Acapulco brunch starting at Dhs299 with house beverages 12:30pm to 4pm. In a laidback setting and experience a three-hour house beverage package starting at Dhs259 from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday, November 19 and November 20, 2022.
      To warm up for the Grand Prix experience, guests can wear their favourite orange outfits and embrace the Dutch spirit at one of the best seafood and steaks hotspots, Belgian Beer Café at Radisson Blu Yas Island for their second pit stop. With a delectable a la carte offering throughout the weekend from 12:30pm to 3am, visitors can cheer to their heart’s content. For some liquid fuel, visitors can try the house beverages package for three hours at Dhs259 from 4pm to 8pm and experience the best tunes for talented names such as Alena & Mya and DJ Daro.
      If you’re looking for the longest brunch, Live Action at Stills situated at Crowne Plaza Yas Island is hosting their award-winning party brunch, Funch from 12pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 with an after party from 4pm to 6pm at Dhs199 on November 19 and 20, with entertainment from DJ Cliff, DJ Rady and more for pit stop five.

      With a medley of the venues’ resident DJs, Go Unreal at Y Bar at Yas Island Rotana will serve sumptuous delights from 12pm to 4am throughout the weekend. As the eighth pit stop, guests can indulge in healthy greens, signature dishes, bubble and grapes to go in full speed and witness the F1 heroes on the big screen.
      At the second last pit stop, Michelin star Chef Jitin Joshi has created a menu that will tantalise your palate with Indian-inspired dishes at the British Indian Curry Club at Rangoli at Yas Island Rotana. From November 17 to November 20, 2022, visitors can enjoy the evening menu from 6pm to 1am and, to elevate their 2022 Grand Prix experience.
      For more information and to make bookings visit yasplazahotels.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Vacheron Constantin collaborates with Aljoud Lootah for its new Dubai flagship

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      Vacheron Constantin has unveiled its new flagship store in Dubai Mall.
      Seamlessly fusing the craft of watchmaking with the UAE’s heritage, the sophisticated horologist collaborated with Emirati designer Aljoud Lootah, to bring the brand’s four artistic installations to life in the new store.

      Exhibited through the flagship store, the Atrium’s entrance features three custom-built installations of external windows.
      With falcon feathers as the focal point of inspiration, Lootah seamlessly showcases immaculate attention to detail between watchmaking and nature to showcase its meaning of pride and unity.

      Designed with a mesmerising colour palette, the designer embraces the vibrancy of the region through blue, gold and silver hues. These timeless pieces represent Emirati cultures through each colour resonating with the UAE’s features. The colours highlight different elements with blue depicting clear skies, gold being the sand dunes and silver evoking the UAE’s skylines to give depth to each piece.
      With meticulous details, carefully selected beads, and traditional techniques, the brand continues to pass on a profound sense of legacy that’s rooted in Emirati heritage.
      Located on the Ground Floor at The Dubai Mall, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to 12am and for more information visit vacheron-constantin.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      In pictures: HH Sheikha Mahra attends two prestigious events in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      22 mins ago

      Known to attend some of the UAE’s most popular events, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was welcomed as the guest of honour for two premium events.
      Sheikha Mahra shared a series of new portraits after attending the World Fashion Week event in Dubai. Seen wearing an Aztec print kimono in blue, she looked stunning as per usual with her tied-back hair and some unique jewellery to complement her look.

      Held at Madinat’s Jumeirah Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA), this elaborate five-day event held from November 1 to November 6, welcomed the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as a notable guest of honour for the launch.
      Within the same week, Sheikha Mahra made an appearance at the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) 2022 annual event at the Dubai Creek Harbour on Sunday, November 4, 2022.
      Seen in a cream satin abaya with floral embroidery, Sheikha Mahra looked beyond elegant with her dark locks. The evening with all its glitz and glamour had hosts Sara Al Madani and Nour Al Din make the event even more spectacular. Guests were entertained by live performances by the likes of Emirati singer Balqees Fathi and Tunisian singer Nour Kamar.
      Swipe through the gallery of new portraits she shared after the event.

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

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      Everything to know about the full moon eclipse in Taurus

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      Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of the Karmic Soul
      Do you know where you’re going to?
      Do you like the things life is showing you?
      Where are you going to?
      Do you know?
      Do you get what you’re hoping for?
      When you look behind you there’s no open doors.
      What are you hoping for?
      Do you know?
      -Lyrics from the Theme from Mahogany (Lyrics by Michael Masser & Gerry Goffin and sang by Diana Ross)
      If ever there was a song to eloquently describe the upcoming Eclipse and the meaning behind it, it’s this one. In a quiet moment alone, take the time carefully to the lyrics and reflect on them.
      It’s crazy, but when the song was released back in September 1975, the Moon was actually transiting through Taurus who rules not only the throat but things of value. The lunation had something powerful to say as it sped through its cycle to quickly be back in time for the FULL MOON ECLIPSE again in Taurus on 18 November 1975. That song was also hot on the heels of the astrologically inspired song, “Venus And Mars Rock Show” by Paul McCartney & Wings.
      Or how about the Lunar Eclipse in Taurus in May 1994? Ace of Base sang the No. 1 hit song “The Sign” (and it opened up my eyes … no one is going to drag you up to get into the light where you belong). As we look back at astrological cycles and patterns we see the same messages repeating again and again in the strangest ways if you reflect carefully.
      For those who want to delve deeper astrologically, on November 8, the last eclipse of the year will be upon us. You will be moving out of the darkness and into the light as the Sun and Moon oppose one another. You can now put more structure in your life and see things for what they are.
      Saturn, the zodiac’s timekeeper, is out of retrograde and moving forward again in Aquarius lending you more inventive and original approaches to getting things done. He is also helping anyone who needs stability at work in publishing, politics, public speaking and foreign countries.
      Another manifestation is you may be either travelling too much or avoiding it altogether – through no fault of your own (someone else may be calling the cards as to where you can and can’t go). You are being manipulated to keep you stuck in a thought process. Saturn lends you a deeper, more reflective approach to the situation, but with challenging aspects, some may have to deal with intolerance, fundamentalism, chauvinism or those possessing dogmatism to punch their way through.
      The problem is we all have the emotional water, intellectual air and more practical earth energies wanting to change everyone to their way of things, and fighting to be heard. It’s not ideal because it’s all happening in fixed signs, all of which are ‘not negotiable’ characters.
      The recent eclipse in Scorpio still has you polarised and Jupiter, the planet of expansion, is in Pisces and still retrograding. He is going back over plans you have for the future, causing you to be less forgiving than you have been in the past to anyone who stands in your way of success.
      What did Scorpio and his ruling planets, Pluto and Mars, ask you to let go of in the recent Solar Eclipse? Pluto, the planet of transformation is still in bossy Capricorn, (his natural 8th house) and topics of hidden secrets and desires, death and other people’s money are highlighted. Mars is questioning your moral values around society and thinks, “your fear of acceptance is definitely holding you back?” Given the 8th house loves to shock and surprise, Pluto is sending Mars to do his dirty work. His first stop will be to get to the bottom of things with a talkative and curious Gemini. He’s demanding to know what you really value. Gemini doesn’t always give a clear answer. Pluto is sick of your preaching and pontificating. Oh dear, please make a decision.
      We need you to go into 2023 with a clearer view of the future. Pluto won’t be waiting too much longer as he reveals his plans for 2024 by April next year. It’s best you accept a burden of spiritual maturity and do what is being asked of you.
      Try to remain independent in your thoughts and avoid listening to the masses. If you do, there is a good chance you can easily fall victim to injustice or vilification.

      Spiritual Neptune in Pisces is looking upon us and dares to doubt the written belief system as currently scribed by men or crafty tyrants. Was it for the good of all or simply in the interest of a hidden few? Wow! Powerful words for a planet that is usually rather reserved.
      On the flip side, the Lunar Eclipse in Taurus is ruled by Venus, who wants to show you real love and the money you deserve – not just what you believe to be currently true, but it looks like greed, manipulation or false promises have taken their toll on you.
      The Taurus Moon asks, “what made you wiser this year, and how can you recover from any failure, disaster, job loss, or betrayal?” Change may feel slow in coming. If you don’t have your answer, spend time alone, in nature, with music and breath, honour your animal friends and surround yourself with that which you find beautiful.
      Venus is still sitting with her Scorpio friends. They like competency and people who can act more like grown-ups, they don’t think you are ready to hear the brutal truth. Have you been taken for granted? Venus wants to say what Scorpio wants to hear, she feels trapped as she knows Scorpio is doing her a favour and telling the truth. For those looking for a new partnership, you need to be with those who are more humble, unpretentious and supportive of you. Before you commit, what does your intuition say? Trust it. The right people will be naturally drawn towards you. For those seeking financial rewards, you will need to rely on big business.
      Be assured, you are finally finding your tribe, it will feel good. Creative types fair best, particularly gifted writers, journalists or scholars, Pisces and Cancer types especially; hats off to Taurus and Capricorn for seeing the light and moving in the right direction. Scorpio, put your energy into writing down your goals – look to Aries to help if you’re stuck. Gemini will be questioning value systems in even more detail but they may miss the power of fate and fortune, the Universe doesn’t always give straight answers or divulge his ultimate game plan, that would be too easy! Leo’s, however, will be ready to lead the charge, and for the rest of you? Just keep a low profile for now.
      I’m sure in six weeks you will all look back and wonder how you survived another surprising year!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @yana.potter.art More

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      How I got my job as… Founder of the UAE’s first leading decluttering company

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      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 Shelina Jokhiya, founder of DeCluttr Me and author of “Can you Find it in Five Seconds?” As the first podcast show in the Middle East focusing on decluttering and organizing your life, Jokhiya brings practical advice on how to achieve a clutter-free space and set up systems tailored to each individual’s needs.
      Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about her career path and how she’s converted her passion into a full-time business.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My favourite subject was English literature and Chemistry.
      What was your first job?
      In my late teens, I worked at Mcdonald’s making the burgers and putting the dressings on them – I was an expert. When I realised that I wanted to study law, I also worked as an intern at the county court chambers, and various law firms to learn more about the profession.

      What brought you to Dubai?
      I had been working as a solicitor in London and then I got a job as a lawyer at Emirates in 2005. I had visited Dubai 3 years before with my family so I knew a little bit about it.
      What inspired you to enter the organizational space?
      I have always been organised since I was a child. I used to organise my Madonna collection, music, DVDs, anything and everything. I dreamt about being an organiser when working in London in the early 2000s but I didn’t think anyone would pay for this service. After so many years of being a lawyer, I was fed up with my life and started to research online about being an organizer. That’s when I realised that it was a thriving industry and no one else was doing it in the Middle East so I thought I would start.
      How did you come to launch your own company?
      I created the website and social media accounts for DeCluttr Me in March 2013 whilst still working and then blogged for a few months to build content. I saved money at the same time and finally quit in September 2013 from my job to start this full-time. DeCluttr Me became the region’s first licensed, professional organising service.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Mostly decluttering and organizing clients’ homes, especially closets and kitchens. But I also help clients when they are moving into new homes with unpacking and organizing. I help a lot of clients who are dealing with mental health issues, grief, divorce or abuse which has manifested into physical clutter so it is not just about organizing and labelling items into nice boxes.
      Talk us through your daily routine
      I try not to look at my phone in the morning except to play Wordle, breakfast is cereal and a coffee and then if I’m working with a client it is getting my work bag ready and heading to their place. Usually I work an 8-hour session with clients so I am exhausted by the time I finish and get home. I try to cook in advance so that I can warm up the food, eat, catch up on admin and watch some tv and then sleep. If I have a day off I love hiding in the cinema watching movies. I love switching off my phone and my mind, and just concentrating on whatever I am watching. I am also currently trying to see as much of the UAE as possible so will book to go to a tourist attraction in one of the emirates on my day off.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Think about how you can help your clients. It is not just about organising into nice boxes like you see on TV and social media, there are other elements to consider when being a professional organizer including the temperaments of the clients and the clutter they have. If you get overwhelmed seeing clutter then this is not the job for you.

      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      If you are a solopreneur like me, have a board of friends and advisers to talk to about your business and to give you non-biased advice. I have five people I can contact at any time to discuss my business issues and achievements and to get their sage advice.
      And what is the worst? –
      I get so much unsolicited advice from people that I tend to block them out now.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      Getting people to understand what decluttering is and how it can be beneficial for you mentally and physically. Now it has become a cool thing to do but it took many years to get to this point.

      What are the future plans for your brand?
      I recently published my first book “Can you find it in five seconds?” which is available in hard copy and e-book on Amazon. I have also expanded DeCluttr Me to offer a wardrobe shopping service. It involves a visit from our stylist, who will assess the current contents of your wardrobe, evaluate what works for you, determine what should be kept, and how items can be mixed, matched and accessorised to create new looks. The idea is to help you to achieve a more sustainable, compact, capsule wardrobe that suits your style, from items you already have, without spending on new clothes. Next, I plan on creating another book, publishing worldwide and also getting a tv show about how decluttering and organizing has benefited my clients in the region.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pexels @marina-podrez More

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      This famed desert café is back for the winter season in the UAE

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      12 mins ago

      It’s finally time to take advantage of the cooler weather and this must-visit desert café is the best place to start.
      With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert.
      Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.

      For coffee connoisseurs, this venue is nothing short of paradise. With fine blends and premium quality products, varying from both hot to cold brews to sip under the starry skies.
      If you’re in need of that picturesque Insta-worthy shot, this scenic space features angel wings, natural ghaf trees, lights and minimal branding for those memorable shots.

      To add to the experience, this one-of-a-kind dining journey is complemented by sand dune views and live entertainment shows from Egyptian forklore and a live band for everyone of all ages to experience.
      Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
      For more information visit onedegree.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @onedegree.ae & Feature Image: Instagram @miko_0924 More