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      In pics: Royal pilot Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum gets a taste of Dubai’s flying car

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      4 hours ago

      Earlier this week the world’s first public flight of the two-seater eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) flying car X2 took place in Dubai.
      The flying car, designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng, made its debut at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in the emirate.
      With over 100,000 visitors to the convention, one of the people to get a taste of the revolutionary flying vehicle was none other than Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum.
      The Dubai royal made a visit to the biggest technology conferences in the Middle East earlier this week where she explored what the future of technology has to offer.

      The former Emirates Woman cover star shared a series of photos on her official Instagram page and in one of the snaps Her Highness is seen sitting in the eVTOL flying car X2 getting an experience for what it’s like – but on the ground for now.
      “A vision for the future from visionary leadership… From Metaverse to self-flying Cars, what an exciting future ahead of us … #gitex2022,” she captioned the post.
      Given that she’s a qualified pilot – she’s actually the first Emirati royal who qualified as a commercial pilot for Emirates Airline – we’re sure Her Highness would have no problem taking this vehicle to the skies.
      The eVTOL flying car X2 took to the skies on Monday at the Dubai Marina completing a 90-minute test flight, marking an era of short-haul flights and intelligent mobility solutions.
      The two-seater eVTOL flying car X2 is equipped with an intelligent flight control system and autonomous flight capabilities and is developed by XPENG’s affiliate XPENG AEROHT. The X2 emits zero carbon dioxide and is designed with low-altitude city capabilities, with a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres per hour.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikha Mozah Instagram More

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      Lebanese dance group Mayyas to perform in Dubai next week

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      After gaining worldwide traction following their triumphant win of America’s Got Talent, Mayyas are set to perform in Dubai next week.
      The Lebanese dance group will be part of an upcoming three-day music festival, Relm Fest, taking place next weekend.
      A host of regional artists such as Adonic, Jadal, Emirati singer-songwriter Hamdan Al Abrim, Lebanese singer Lea Makhoul and will also be performing.
      This star-studded three-day event will take place from October 21 to October 23, 2022 at Palm Jumeirah’s The Pointe to recognize emerging musicians in the industry. Mayyas will be performing on Saturday, October 21.
      In partnership with global platforms such as TikTok and Anghami, this event gives such individuals a platform to advance in their careers.
      [embedded content]
      How did it all begin?
      The Lebanese dance group won season 17 of the show after showcasing a series of seamless dance performances including their finale performance, where the team of 30 women “danced as one” in the words of the actress and judge, Sophia Vergara.
      The female-led dance group took home a $1 million (Dhs3.7 million) grand prize, with a host of congratulatory messages being shared on social media from the likes of celebrities such as Lebanese singer Maya Diab, Egyptian superstar Sherihan and more.

      The performance ended on a joyous note with the audience holding up the Lebanese flag as they cheered for the crew. After months of hard work, the group is now known globally with the group now making its mark in Dubai.
      To attend the concert restaurant booking is essential or guests can opt for the limited standing capacity near the stage on the east and west promenade and doors open at 5pm. To RSVP, complimentary entrance is available subject to availability on relm.thepointe.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @mayyas More

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      HH Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan attends GITEX in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      3 hours ago

      One of the biggest technology conferences in the Middle East has taken centre stage in Dubai this week.
      This year, the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) unveiled a flying car, the rise in NFTs and Metaverse and has attracted over 100,000 visitors, one of which includes Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan.
      The Abu Dhabi royal attended the conference earlier this week where she discussed how tecnology is “accelerating sustainable practices”.

      In the UAE, we have always challenged ourselves to progress on all fronts, and forums like GITEX have been vital in inspiring both innovation and creativity,” she said, sahring photos from her time at the exhibition.
      She continued, “The cutting-edge technologies being demonstrated at this year’s exhibition were truly impressive. I look forward to seeing these innovations be used as a force for good as they are integrated into our daily lives.”
      At GITEX, Sheikha Shamma explored many of the different booths on display, which included a futuristic car.
      A Cambridge alum
      A few months ago, Sheikha Shamma graduated from one of the world’s top universities, Cambridge University in the UK.
      The granddaughter of the late UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, shared the exciting news on Instagram, revealing she had graduated with a Master’s in Philosophy in Modern Middle Eastern Studies.

      “Words can’t describe how honoured I am to have graduated yesterday from Cambridge University with an MPhil in Modern Middle Eastern Studies,” she said, also sharing her gratitude for her professors and lecturers at the university.
      “Our many discussions have been such an important part of deepening my understanding and appreciation for the region I’ve grown up in,” she added.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikha Shamma Instagram  More

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      Dubai Design Week makes a creative return to the emirate next month

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      As the UAE continues to be at the forefront of design, Dubai Design Week plays a key role in nurturing this creative spirit.
      All set to take place from November 8 to 13, 2022 at Dubai Design District (D3), this 8th season showcase will push the boundaries of design.
      At one of the region’s most artistic programme, visitors can experience a curated design experience through installations, exhibitions, and experiential mediums that shed light on various talented individuals and platforms in the Middle East and globally.
      “Dubai Design Week is an annual celebration of design and designers that we are proud to be continuously supporting,” said CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash.

      With Metaverse at the core of technological advancements, this year’s annual event will include an exploration of this subject through a series of exhibitions with locally based designers.
      To engage in positive conversations surrounding the environment, this year’s installation programme entitled design with impact with feature immersive installations to showcase new changes in the design world.
      For engaging panel discussions and an opportunity to learn from experts in the industry, visitors can attend talks at The Forum at Downtown Design to delve into in-depth design-related conversations and learn from them through material experimentation.
      Held at this avant-garde district, Dubai Design District is an inspiring community of talented individuals that contribute to the country’s burgeoning artistic sector.

      “We are proud to present the eighth edition of Dubai Design Week, which is set to be – once again – a very exciting highlight of Dubai’s autumn calendar. We look forward to bringing the design and creative community together to engage, connect and be inspired by the ideas, talents and artisans presented across installations, exhibitions, talks, workshops, the Downtown Design fair and the market,” said Vice President of d3, Khadija Al Bastaki.
      As a regional hub for art, design and fashion, this highly-anticipated programme is held at one of the most sought-after venues that engage with like-minded individuals.
      For more information visit dubaidesignweek.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @dubaidesignweek More

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      11 hidden speakeasies in Dubai to visit ASAP

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      Dubai’s best-kept secrets are finally out.
      What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today.
      After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights.
      To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
      So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
      Smoke & Mirrors

      For an experimental new twist, the destination bar comes with an extensive menu of niche drinks and contemporary Art Deco design, that’s curated to impress. With Cuban-inspired cocktails complemented by dark wood panelled walls and shelves, this bar is tucked away on the hotel’s 74th floor bringing a South-American touch to the heart of Dubai. Located at SLS Dubai, the bar is open daily from 6pm and 3am and comes to life with its plush interiors.
      Gohan

      La Cantine du Faubourg, located in Emirates Towers, is one of the staple restaurants in Dubai and has been on the emirate’s dining scene for over a decade. But, did you know it’s now got a secret venue hidden within its walls? Enter Gohan, the Japanese restaurant concept by the team at La Cantine. This intimate space can seat 30 diners at a time with the DJ spinning to some of the most eclectic tunes all night. “The main guideline when it comes to Gohan was to get as close as the authentic Japanese food with a twist of modernity and street food”, Chef Gilles Bosquet told Emirates Woman in an interview. It’s open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 4pm and for dinner from 7pm to 2am daily.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Suave

      Tucked inside the new bustling fine-dining haven of Basko, an antique staircase leads to this eclectic space that’s designed to make any night feel young no matter what day of the week. This underground bar has brought back an era reminiscent of glitz, glamour and galore. Dating back to the 1960s, this retro-fueled bar features a library of over 200 vintage records, featuring hits from Queen to David Bowie, with the DJ spinning to tunes that are sure to impress all those who enter. Located at Opus by Omniyat designed by Zaha Hadid in Business Bay, this new sophisticated venue is one to add to your must-try list.
      For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
      Behind the Yellow Doors

      With a strict no-flash photography policy, the hidden venue allows guests to witness unobstructed views of Dubai’s skyline. For the ultimate late-night experience, this new speakeasy has a list of unending events throughout the week with a diverse mix of high-energy progressive house hits delivered with the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. To find it guests need to search for an unassuming entrance that leads into a classic interior space that’s executed through a modern lens. Located at Weslodge Saloon on the 68th Floor at JW Marriott Marquis Business Bay, this venue is open on Friday and Saturday from 11 pm to 3am and on Sunday from 10pm to 3am.
      For more information visit btyd.weslodge.ae/
      Hudson Tavern

      This urban escape takes cues from a New York-inspired speakeasy with its wooden surfaces and vintage lighting. If you’re looking to wind down in solitude for the evening, reconnect with friends, or go on date night with your partner there are enough seating options in this dimly lit space surrounded by brick walls. From Gillard oysters to exquisite ingredients like beluga caviar, this luxe space at Hyde Hotel in Business Bat is open from 4pm to 1am.
      For more information visit sbe.com
      Off The Wall

      This sleek offbeat bar located at Hotel Indigo in Dubai pushes the boundaries with its unique storytelling experience from the art-laden walls to the signature drinks which offer a fresh take on cocktails as it’s curated with unusual ingredients. It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 6 pm to 2am and Thursday to Saturday from 6pm to 3am, with Mondays closed and expert mixologists who are ready to give you a completely off-the-wall experience.
      For more information visit hotelindigodubai.com
      Nyx at Gaia

      For that ultimate after-dinner soirée, this underground nightclub located at Greek haven Gaia, makes for the perfect way to end your night, as it’s previously welcomed several A-listers from around the globe such as 50 cent, Rita Ora and even A$AP Rocky to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Dubai. From hand-crafted cocktails to a night of nostalgia, this venue is surely one to visit as it’s located in the heart of DIFC.
      For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
      Flashback Speakeasy

      By transporting you straight to the 1920s this surreptitious speakeasy bar located at Paramount hotel is most definitely one to visit. With soulful hits and that take guests to a vintage era back in time, the bar offers handcrafted cocktails to relish with live gripping performances. It’s open daily from 6pm to 2am.
      For more information visit paramounthotelsdubai.com
      The Unlucky Cat

      From delicious cocktails to mixed beverages, this Asian speakeasy welcomes guests in a dimly lit space, with numerous offers and tasty nibbles, positioned right at the entrance of Miss Tess. It’s located at Taj Dubai, and is open from 6pm to 2am, with reservations not required, so definitely pay a visit as you’re guaranteed a relaxing time.
      For more information visit misstessdubai.com
      The Green Room

      For an underground experience, Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah has now launched a new secret space. With vibrant entertainment and eclectic music all night long, guests can enjoy the glamour of a bygone era in an alluring setting. The venue offers the perfect amalgamation of Asian-inspired dishes, private booths and lush green velvet armchairs, making it a must-visit. Every Friday and Saturday, guests can experience burlesque-themed dinner shows with dancers showcasing their talent through a series of jaw-dropping performances. This hidden space is open daily from 7 pm until late.
      For more information visit sohogardenpalm.com
      The Other Side

      As the ultimate post-dinner spot, this oriental island bar brings Tokyo to the heart of Dubai in a tasteful manner. A team of expert mixologists will be on-hand to guide you through the extensive cocktail menu, accompanies by a range of tastefully prepared dishes. Located in St. Regis Dubai on the 23rd floor, this speakeasy bar is open on Saturdays from 11pm to 4am.
      For more information visit tabudubai.com
      Galaxy Bar

      With more than just a private dining area, the bar has a host of signature celestial-inspired cocktails that are handcrafted especially for all those who visit. By transporting guests to Greece, this luxe concept encapsulates the same feeling when guests start at the Aegean Sea at night-time. With shimmering stars and an organic design process, this intimate space has been designed into a magical experience for guests to experience. Located at Avli by Tashas, this bar was born to provide visitors with a stellar journey.
      For more information visit galaxy-bar.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 shoot with Haya Jarrar for By Far More

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      Travel to NYC in true luxury with Etihad’s new business class offering

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      4 hours ago

      On June 30, 2022, UAE airline Etihad Airways celebrated the inaugural flight of its new A350-1000 flying from Abu Dhabi International Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy International airport (JFK). The 14-hour business class flight offers a seamless experience from the moment you step into the airport to the moment you touch down at JFK. The newly-launched flight accommodates 371 passengers and is one of five new Airbus A350s. Forty-four of the seats are in the business cabin and “provides a luxurious experience comparable to first class on other international airlines,” according to Martin Drew, senior vice-president of Global Sales and Cargo, Etihad Airways.
      Not only does the business cabin provide a plush in-flight experience, but the aircraft itself is also highly efficient, enhancing the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s sustainability goals. “This is an incredible aircraft with highly-efficient fuel consumption and CO2 savings, which enables us to support our goals to reduce carbon emissions and deliver an unmatched flight experience for our guests,” Drew explains.
      First Impressions
      With a departure time of 1015, I was picked up from my home in Downtown Dubai by Etihad’s complimentary business class chauffeur service at 0600. It was a smooth and quick journey to the UAE’s capital, with ample time for check-in.
      I arrived at the airport at around 0715 and was welcomed by the friendly Etihad staff at the business class check-in area. An attendant assisted with my bags and led me to the check-in desk where I was shown to a seat while I waited for my bags to be checked and to receive my boarding pass. I presented my passport, along with my ESTA (the visa required to enter the US) and vaccine certificate which I had obtained via the Alhosn app. At the Etihad business class and first class check-in, there is a separate immigration and security section which ensured I got through with plenty of time to spare.

      The Lounge
      I then headed to the Etihad Business Class lounge where I enjoyed some downtime before the long-haul flight. The lounge is expansive with sofa areas, individual seating and dining tables – plenty of options for whatever you need. It was relatively quiet when I entered and the staff were welcoming and friendly, ready to help with anything I needed.
      For F&B offerings, there were a plethora of options at the buffet – everything you could want for a hearty breakfast and a coffee to kickstart your travel day. There were also fully-stocked fridges with soft drinks and other snacks for passengers to help themselves to. The bar was quiet in the early hours of the morning, but it was a welcoming space to relax before a flight.
      Overall, the lounge is a great space for guests to recharge before their flights, get last-minute emails done prior to take-off and enjoy a bite to eat.
      Boarding
      Those travelling to the US from Abu Dhabi need to be mindful of the time when heading to the gate because you’re able to go through US customs whilst physically still in the UAE. This is all done through Etihad’s US pre-clearance, the only United States Customs and Border Protection facility in the Middle East. While it means you need to leave slightly earlier when heading to the gate at Abu Dhabi airport, it saves a huge amount of time and effort when arriving in the US, avoiding immigration and queues. The whole US immigration process went smoothly and I then headed to the gate where I arrived just as business class passengers were being called to board. My ticket was scanned at the gate, and I then headed down the walkway to board the new A350 to New York City.
      The Seat
      Business class is the highest cabin class on the A350 and is complete with 44 seats, all with a generous amount of space. The layout is a standard 1-2-1 layout with cream, brown and gold interiors which gives the cabin a relaxing ambience. It also felt extra spacious as there were no overhead bins in the centre of the cabin – not to worry though, there was no shortage of hand luggage space.
      Business class on Etihad’s new A350
      The seat pods were designed with technology and style in mind with faux marble finishes and the colour hues of the rest of the cabin echoed in the seats. The fold-out table expands out to be approximately 42cm long and 46cm wide, perfect for those who want to work during their flight. There are also several charging spots including a standard power outlet, a USB-A and USB-C charging ports. The seat itself was incredibly comfortable with huge amounts of space and privacy afforded by the double-closing doors of each pod. When fully reclined, the seat turns into a 200cm bed.
      The Flight
      I was welcomed by the friendly Etihad flight attendants who were attentive from the moment I boarded. After making myself comfortable, and ready for take-off, I was given a welcome drink and asked to look at the menu to let them know my meal of choice. We took off in great time, with an effortless transition from the runway and into the air.
      As for entertainment, there were plenty of in-flight movies from all genres to enjoy, as well as television shows and even a few live TV options, all of which could be watched on the 18.5-inch touchscreen TV.
      There was also onboard WiFi. However, business class guests only receive a 350MB complimentary voucher. Thereafter, it’s chargeable with a 24-hour session for 350MB priced at US$29.99.

      Food and drink
      I ordered from the a la carte menu prior to departure and I could choose the time that I wanted to eat my meal. I opted for the Arabic mezze starter which was a great option – filling but not too heavy on a long-haul flight. I then had the truffle pasta which was superb. However, I was sufficiently full, so didn’t opt for dessert.
      Arrival
      The landing was smooth as we touched down at JFK and we made it to the arrival gate ahead of schedule. The whole immigration process was already completed in Abu Dhabi and so we arrived as if we were domestic passengers, heading out through the domestic exit. The whole process was easy and faultless as I headed to get my bags and enjoy a cool 48 hours in New York City.

      Verdict
      From start to finish, the service of the whole Etihad Airways A350-1000 business class was seamless. If you’re due to travel from the UAE to New York City, I couldn’t recommend flying from Abu Dhabi enough, even if you are based in Dubai.
      Price
      Internet rates for return business class flights from AUH to JFK start at Dhs10,740
      For more information visit etihad.com
      This article was originally published on Business Traveller Middle East and has been repurposed here with permission.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      UAE introduces new laws to protect domestic workers, fines of up to Dhs10m

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      6 hours ago

      The UAE is continuing its mission to improve the protection and rights of employees across the country.
      The latest update to policies and laws is set to help and protect UAE domestic workers.
      According to the Khaleej Times, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation stated that as of December 15, 2022 all employers will need to be licensed when hiring domestic workers.
      “The new law stipulates that the recruitment or temporary employment of domestic helpers shall not be allowed unless after obtaining a licence from the ministry,” the Ministry stated.
      Strict rules and regulations will now be in place for recruitment agencies which are licensed and offices to follow in order to protect the working environment of maids, nannies, housekeepers, cooks and more.

      Take a look at the new Domestic Helper Law and learn more about how it safeguards the rights of employees, employers and recruitment agencies. #UAE #MoHRE pic.twitter.com/pZCI2A041S
      — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) October 10, 2022

      In the new framework announced, all domestic workers are entitled to one paid day off per week; are entitled to 30 days of leave per year; a return ticket home is granted to the employee at the cost of the employer; and more.
      “The UAE continues to establish a legislative framework that safeguards domestic helpers, in line with its mission to establish the country’s pioneering status as a preferred global destination to live and work,” the ministry stated.
      As part of these new laws, new fines have also been introduced to those who do not adhere to regulations.
      Fines of up to Dhs10 million will be enforced for those who employ unlicensed domestic workers, according to The National.
      The outlet also reports a slew of other fines are also in place if laws are not adhered to. This includes a Dhs200,000 fine if workers under the age of 18 are employed and fines of up to Dhs1 million if anyone attempts to employ a worker without a permit or misuses the online portal provided by the ministry.
      For more information visit mohre.gov.ae/mohre.domestic.ui/home/. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash  More

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      Bella Hadid pays a heartfelt tribute to her Palestinian roots

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Bella Hadid never shies away from celebrating her Arab heritage and marking her birthday was no different.
      The supermodel turned 26 over the weekend and she made sure to pay tribute to her Palestinian roots.
      Indulging in some traditional cuisine, a Palestinian baker made a special kunafa cake just for Hadid in celebration of her birthday.

      Shadin Hamdan, the founder of Kanafa Cups, created a bespoke signature heart-shaped kunafa cake with a topper that read “Happy Birthday Bella”. Created with the bakery’s signature bright orange-hued phyllo dough, crushed pistachios and rose petals, Hadid was clearly overjoyed with the final outcome in images shared by the bakery founder.
      “This has been a dream of mine and I’m so excited!” Hamdan said. “This journey with Kanafa Cups really started as a dessert I was good at making for friends and family and turned into a business that made it all the way to Bella Hadid!
      “I never thought I would be writing this. Work hard and it will all pay off in the end.”
      This special dessert was gifted to the supermodel by the Palestinian makeup artist, Nadia Tayeh who plays a key role in creating Hadid’s red carpet looks.

      In a group celebration with her friends including Hadid, the birthday girl received another cake baked by her sister. The simple white cake highlighted symbols close to her heart such as the Palestinian flat, a pizza, a burger, and a butterfly logo for her brand Kin Euphorics’ making it a memorable birthday.
      With a close affinity to her culture, the model never misses an opportunity to pay homage to her culture and she is always vocal about her support for Palestine.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Image & Feature Image: Instagram @kanafacups More