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      12 of the most Instagrammable cafés in Dubai to visit ASAP

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGES
      Dubai’s burgeoning café scene is growing by the day.
      With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these quaint cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
      Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.
      If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @nofiftyseven More

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      How I Made the Leap From Full-Time to Freelancer Without Going Broke

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      When I tell people I work as a freelance writer, the most common question I’m asked is about how I manage with an inconsistent income. The thing is, my income isn’t all that inconsistent. Yes, I make varying amounts of money each month, but generally, I know what range to expect and make consistently more than I would at a salaried job. This setup works well for me, but it took time to get here. 
      Making the leap to full-time freelancing is scary for anyone—no matter how much experience you have. I had a savings safety net in place, but I couldn’t help but worry about how fast those savings were going to dwindle. It’s very fair if you’re wondering how on Earth you’re going to pay for rent, food, and transportation. Not to mention the biggest money concern that all soon-to-be freelancers have—health insurance. 
      The good news is that with a lot of work and patience, I soon began to not only make as much as I did at my last full-time job but much more. The fears I had were reasonable, but I’m happy to report that I now know that my current income ceiling is so much higher than when I worked full-time. I’m not a big fan of gatekeeping career success—so here’s how I made the full-time to freelance transition without going broke.

      I Built A Freelance Resume
      While the experience you gain from having a full-time job does translate to being good at freelancing, many clients like to see that the freelancers they hire have experience working for themselves. This is understandable as the clients need to know that the freelancer they’re working with can manage to work with multiple clients at once, can work independently (for the most part), and can stay on top of deadlines without having a manager check in on them. 
      I freelanced consistently outside of my salaried jobs from 2015-2018 (the year I quit my last 9-5 job). Not only was I able to build up a portfolio that helps me sell my services to clients by doing freelance work on the side, but I built my network which made it easier to find more work when I was ready to freelance full-time. Starting from scratch with no salary or benefits on my side probably wouldn’t have worked out all that well for me. 
      I’d like to give a shout-out to The Everygirl for being one of my first freelance clients all the way back in 2016!

      I Found Clients Before Quitting
      Because I had a robust freelance network on my side, before I even put in my two-week notice, I arranged for freelance work. This led to a small amount of overlap between having a full-time job and working for myself, but it was worth working a few late nights on freelance projects to keep the transition from full-timer to solopreneur smooth. 
      I would highly recommend balancing a full-time role and freelance work for a few weeks before quitting your job. It takes a while to drum up work and get projects rolling—even after a client hires you, it can take weeks to get everything in order to start working together and even longer to get paid. By starting early while you still have a steady income coming in, you can really reduce your stress levels when you do start your first day as a full-time freelancer.

      Source: Color Joy Stock

      I Took on Part-Time Work
      Freelancing, side-hustling, consulting, call it whatever you want—work is work. Before I quit my job, I arranged a freelance job that was more like a part-time role as it required being available for 15-20 hours per week. Nowadays, I try to spread out my sources of income much more than this, but at the time, having much-guaranteed work was a game changer. I knew I could make enough money to pay my bills while I built out the rest of my freelance business, and I still had 20 or so hours a week to do that. Taking on a part-time role may feel like the opposite of freelancing, but doing so can make it a lot easier to focus on strategically building out other areas of your business. 
      If you’re always stressed about money, you’ll end up making desperate decisions when accepting new clients and rates. Having a steady stream of income until you have your feet firmly on the ground can be what stops you from having to return to a full-time job.

      I Had an Emergency Fund
      I can’t stress this enough—save and plan for freelancing. As I just mentioned, being stressed about money doesn’t do your freelancing business any favors. Having some money set aside in an emergency fund to help you fill in the gaps those first few months can buy you time, which is extremely valuable as a freelancer. It takes time to start a business—especially a thriving one. 
      An emergency fund can also be really helpful when waiting for your first paychecks to come in. I often don’t get paid for the work I do until 30 or more days after I submit an invoice for a project, so having money already waiting for me in the bank makes it so that I don’t have to sweat it if an invoice is a bit late.  
      If you’re unhappy at your job or are itching to start a new adventure, it’s hard to be patient. When my freelancing work started to pick up steam in 2015, I knew that’s what I wanted to do for a career, but I waited. It was a long and hard wait, but spending a few years building up my freelance business on the side, learning on the job at my full-time jobs, and building my savings are what made it possible to build a sustainable freelancing business that I get to enjoy today.

      I Work for Myself—These Are The Productivity Hacks That Actually Help Me Get Work Done More

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      15 new Netflix releases in the UAE this August

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Looking for some binge-worthy content this month? We’re here to help.
      From drama-fuelled series to movies that will have you on the edge of your seat, Netflix has an array of gripping TV shows and movies to keep an eye on.
      August 5
      Skyfall (2012)
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      Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. Daniel Craig is back as Ian Fleming’s James Bond 007 to track down and destroy the threat.
      Carter – Netflix Movie
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      A man with no memory has to complete an action-fuelled mission. He comes across a new revelation throughout his journey.
      August 6
      Reclaim – Netflix Film
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      A retired woman in Taipei lives Yeh Lan-hsin begins to lose the sense of reality as family pressures weight on her.
      August 7
      Riverdale, season 6
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      This season will be a wild ride with magic, time travel and some major character deaths, with a new reveal in every episode.
      August 8
      Code Name: Emperor
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      An intelligence agent tasked with incriminating a squeaky-clean politician must decide if there are still some lines he won’t cross.
      August 10
      Bank Robbers: The Last Great Heist
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      Through candid interviews, the accused of Argentina’s most notorious bank heist share details of how they carried out the entire operation.
      Instant Dream Home – Netflix Series
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      In this home renovation series, deserving families get the surprise of their lives when their dilapidated house is transformed in just a few hours.
      August 12
      Never Have I Ever, season 3 – Netflix Series
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      A first-generation Indian-American teenager continues to establish herself in school and make her mark.
      August 17
      Look Both Ways – Netflix Film
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      On the night of her college graduation, Natalie’s life splits into parallel realities after she takes a pregnancy test. What will life and love bring?
      Royalteen – Netflix Film
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      A teenager struggles to keep her scandal-ridden past and a big secret from getting out when she strikes up an unlikely romance with the crown prince.
      August 19
      Glow up, Season 4
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      Ten new contestants test the limits of their creativity as they tackle a variety of challenges in hopes of becoming the next big name in makeup.
      August 24
      Selling The OC – Netflix Series
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      A fresh set of realtors square off, competing to establish themselves at The Oppenheim Group’s second office on the Orange County coast. Can these agents handle the pressure?
      August 25
      That’s Amor – Netflix Film
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      Love, romance, food, cooking class, what could possibly go wrong? Watch to find out.
      August 26
      Partner Track – Netflix Series
      [embedded content]At an elite NYC law firm, Ingrid Yun fights to make partner — and hold onto her principles — while balancing romance, friends and family expectations.
      Me Time – Netflix Film
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      When a stay-at-home dad finds himself with some “me time” for the first time in years while his wife and kids are away, he reconnects with his former best friend for a wild weekend that nearly upends his life.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Pexels @cottonbro More

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      How I got my job as… Founder of The TRUENUDE & Head of Marketing at FoodFund

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      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 Nawel Aderghal, head of marketing at Foodfund International and Founder of THE TRUENUDE. In her marketing role,  Aderghal oversees some of the most well-known food and beverage concepts in Dubai –  SAN Beach Club, Clay and The Meat Co., just to name a few. Alongside her full-time role, Aderghal has founded her own fashion brand, THE TRUENUDE,  a project which she started to “fill my own needs”. Noticing there was nothing on the market to work as transitional streetwear pieces post-workout, the idea for THE TRUENUDE was born.
      Emirates Woman sat down with Aderghal to find out more about launching her own brand, her role at FoodFund International and how she’s able to balance the two.

      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My favourite subject at school was history and social studies. I have been always attracted to history and focusing on the people involved in history as well as human contributions that lead to historical events. Even if I did find it hard sometimes to understand because history involves looking into the past by reading texts and thinking tirelessly, trying to piece bits of historical data together. I love learning and discovering new languages, and cultures… I am kind of an explorer.
      What was your first job?
      My first job was when I was 16, I had the opportunity to do a paid internship with a National Bank located in the south of France. It was a great experience and an interesting introduction to the work industry.
      What eventually brought you to Dubai?
      I have always been fascinated by Dubai. Working in the hospitality industry and willing to make a career of it, it was clear to me that I would have to move to Dubai at some point.
      This hospitality sector plays a major role in the region. The opportunities to be part of a large group and have a successful career can only be offered in the Middle East. The hospitality sector of Dubai is considered one of the fastest-growing industries in the UAE and contributes almost 6.2% of the country’s GDP. A budding industry and emerging opportunities are two important factors for me. Within four years I have gained so much experience and learned so much. I am so grateful that I moved to Dubai much earlier.

      What inspired you to enter the fashion space?
      THE TRUENUDE actually started as a project to fill my own needs. Being a woman who doesn’t necessarily love to wear sweatpants or hoodies, I struggled to find my go-to layering options post-workout. I’ve had these thoughts floating in the back of my mind for a few years. I wondered for quite some time whether that void was unique to me but soon realized that there was in fact a significant opportunity to address women’s needs post-workout.
      Streetwear has evolved through the decades and has become a part of the fabric of everyday life. Through the influence of various subcultures such as activewear, athleisurewear, and urban wear, I decided to create a line for every woman’s every day, something that was dedicated to women which fit them in their daily routine. I want to encourage versatility and balance in women’s wardrobes, keeping their style contemporary while also being classic. Clothing is not only a necessity but a way to express yourself, elevate your confidence, and brighten up any mood.
      Talk us through the concept of THE TRUENUDE.
      THE TRUENUDE is a female-first brand inspired by Nature and earth tone colours, defining natural beauty and cultivating femininity amongst real women.
      The latest athleisure range to land in the region isn’t only an aesthetic concept, but a brand that explores the depths of women, going beyond the surface, prompting them to look within and celebrate their individuality.
      THE TRUENUDE provides a contemporary feel with a multi-faceted collection while integrating new and trend-driven designs, that showcase innovation, making each piece a ‘must-have’ for every closet. The collection includes interchangeable pieces in neutral color tones to ensure timeless classics that will last.
      The essence of the brand is to develop pieces that are versatile by incorporating everyday pieces that can be translated to workwear essentials as well.
      What are the key elements of your role at FoodFund international?
      As head of Marketing and communication for FoodFund international, the key elements of my role are;

      Creativity- by bringing a brand to life and introducing a new concept in a competitive market.
      Communication – by creating enough brand awareness around the brand and keeping up with a strong interest to visit the venue
      Budget – by having a great strategy aligned with the head office goals
      But in general, I would say Crafting strategies for all our venues, including Digital, Advertising, Communications, and Creative.

      Talk us through your daily routine.
      I’m normally awake before my alarm around 8-8.30 am and snuggle in bed for a few minutes.
      I jump into the shower and start my morning beauty routine. I try to stay away from the phone (texts, emails, and social media) for 1 hour or so, as I think self-care and “Me” time are so important before kicking a busy day.
      I then get ready and start with my phone, then emails and start phone calls. I usually have a busy morning with meetings and admin for group marketing and like to keep my afternoon free to visit the venues and work from there.
      Weekend and time off are usually dedicated to shooting and my clothing brand expansion.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      I would like to advise anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps to
      Break big goals into smaller tasks, by defining goals and what needs to be done to accomplish them. To have a vision and be consistent is key.
      But as well Surround yourself with motivated people and stay focused. I have been blessed enough to join FoodFund International and be surrender with a great-minded leader and passionate team. They have always been a such great support and listen to ideas. Working with motivated people makes a difference, it becomes much easier to stay focused on your end goals. You’ll feel better about yourself. You’ll feel energized and motivated when you spend time with these people.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Be audacious. Dare to explore. Be someone who shows new ways. It helped me to gain respect in the industry, network with like-minded professionals, and most importantly, build trust with my network. If I ever wanted something to be done, I had to jump from my comfort zone and challenge myself. Learning how to master a task and exploring new ways have helped me to grow and build my confidence.
      And what is the worst?
      I would say there are no bad pieces of advice. By seeking advice from different people you can develop smarter solutions to problems, deepen your thinking, and sharpen your decision-making. And by becoming a better adviser, you’ll extend your influence and learn from the people who come to you for guidance.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I believe the biggest challenge is being able to be on top of everything I do. Leading the marketing and communication for 18 home-grown brands in a busy industry such as hospitality, and launching e-commerce in the region while keeping up with the hard work has been a journey. I am proud to say that I found the right balance, and am super excited about the future. A few more openings have been announced, and we are thrilled to introduce new concepts in the region.
      What are the future plans for Foodfund International?
      We are set to launch a new concept called Loren, an Italian restaurant located at The Club, Palm Jumeirah. We are also about to embrace our first opening season in October for SAN BEACH. I have a really busy schedule for the next six months, a lot of ideas to share, and many collaborations to focus on.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum shares throwback photos with father Sheikh Mohammed

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 mins ago

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has shared a series of throwback photos with her father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
      Having followed in the footsteps of Sheikh Mohammed, sharing his love for horses, Sheikha Mahra is also a keen rider.
      Taking a trip down memory lane, the Dubai Ruler’s daughter shared a series of photos of when she took part in horse riding competitions.
      In the first few snaps, His Highness is seen visiting his daughter at her respective stables. One photo shared by Sheikha Mahra showcases her father’s famous white G-Wagon with the ‘1’ number plate, as he visits his daughter during a riding session.
      Her Highness also shared photos from a separate riding event, where it appeared she had won a medal, along with some team members, at a competition. In the pictures, Sheikh Mohammed stood proudly next to his daughter and the other team members.
      Take a look at the sweet throwback snaps below.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum Instagram  More

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      The ultimate visitors guide to Beirut

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Two years following the devastating blast, Beirut is still on its way to rebuilding itself.
      However, with the spirit of Lebanon’s people and as a city with a rich heritage, it’s a place that continues to be a go-to destination for visitors the globe over.
      From handicrafts to restaurants with seafront promenades, the city presents a host of activities for all those to be experienced with friends and family.
      So, for your next trip to Beirut, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the must-visit hotspots to add to your itinerary.
      Restaurants
      Amelia

      Guests are taken on a culinary journey born of Japanese and Peruvian origins. With freshly baked pizza and a host of must-try cocktails, this fine-dining haven is the perfect way to unwind in a regal setting. Located on Armenia street in Mar Mikhael, this restaurant is sure to please your taste buds.
      Em Sherif Café

      To rediscover culinary traditions, this luxe restaurant serves sumptuous bites and delectable delicacies with authentic flavours. With a first-class dining experience, this restaurant serves dishes in a cosy environment with a wide variety of mezze and food. Located in Minet El Hosn, Downtown, this café is open from Monday to Sunday 9am to 3am.
      emsherif.com
      Clap

      This fine-dining Japanese restaurant authentically presents culture through its omakase-style menu. From grilled umami chicken wings to black cod miso, there are a host of dishes to try in an intimate environment. Located in Martyr’s Square, Annahar Building, this restaurant lies in the heart of the city.
      clapbeirut.com
      Yamas

      For traditional Greek cuisine with an artistic twist, this restaurant brings exciting classic flavours and a fun ambience. From stunning sunset views to a carefully curated menu, there’s enough and more to feel at home at this restaurant. Located at Aishti by the sea, at Atelias Seaside Road in Lebanon, it’s open daily from 5pm to 2am.
      Hotels
      Hotel Albergo

      Emulating an old-time charm, this sophisticated sanctuary delivers old-fashioned service with boudoir-style suits, antique hunted pieces and dead sea amenities for the ultimate luxe escape. Tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood in East Beirut, this chic property lies at the epitome of peace.
      For more information visit albergobeirut.com
      Riviera Hotel & Beach Lounge

      Whether you’re on the lookout for a sunny day by the pool or escape with a lavish beachfront, this hotel is the place to be. The rooms offer a panoramic view of the city with beach lounge access to unwind. From VIP areas to private jacuzzis, this luxe getaway offers the perfect escape on your next visit.
      rivierahotel.com.lb
      Kempinski Summerland Hotel and Resort

      By bringing the most refined European experience to the heart of Beirut, this luxurious property gives visitors a break from the bustling city life. This five-star resort is situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea with a labyrinth of pools, private jacuzzi bungalows and an ideal getaway for creating memories worth a lifetime.
      Kempinski.com
      Activities
      Visit the Pigeon Rocks

      This famous natural structure is situated close to Ramlet el-Bayda and is open to the public to experience its clifftop walks, natural harbours and 60-metre rocks reminiscent of a bygone era. For those who wish to get a closer look, they can take a boat trip to witness this wonder closely.
      Sursock Museum

      For an insight into Lebanese art, this museum is an inviting space that supports artists within the country. Born out of Lebanese collector Nicholas Sursock’s commitment to art, this contemporary haven showcases International artists, Japanese engravings and Islamic art with over 800 pieces on display. Located in Achrafieh, this museum’s structure gives visitors an insight into Lebanon’s classic architecture.
      sursock. museum
      Discover the Ancient Roman Baths

      As a meeting house for local people, these major thermal complexes have become an archaeological site for tourists and residents to visit. Situated 15 minutes away by walk from Saifi Village, it is now used as a concert venue and a section is transformed into a home for medicinal plants that were used during Roman times to nourish and heal the skin.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lebanonalacarte More

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      Chrissy Teigen announces pregnancy two years after heartbreaking miscarriage

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      2 hours ago

      Chrissy Teigen has announced she is pregnant with husband John Legend, two years after her heartbreaking miscarriage.
      The 36-year-old took to Instagram to share photos of her growing bump saying that “joy has filled our home and hearts again”.
      “The last few years have been a blur of emotions to say the least, but joy has filled our home and hearts again,” she said.
      However, following her miscarriage in September 2020 where she lost her baby – a boy which she and Legend had named Jack – the US model admitted it was difficult to feel excited about the pregnancy, adding that she was apprehensive about announcing she was expecting.

      “Every appointment I’ve said to myself, ‘ok if it’s healthy today I’ll announce’ but then I breathe a sigh of relief to hear a heartbeat and decide I’m just too nervous still,” she explained.
      “I don’t think I’ll ever walk out of an appointment with more excitement than nerves but so far, everything is perfect and beautiful and I’m feeling hopeful and amazing.”
      Teigen and Legend already have two children – Luna, six, and four-year-old Miles.
      Back in September 2020, lost her unborn baby after being admitted to hospital due to excessive bleeding. At the time, she described it as “pain we’ve never felt before”.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Chrissy Teigen Instagram  More

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      5 of Sheikh Hamdan’s most heartwarming moments

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, is known for his kind gestures and truly getting to know the people of the UAE.
      From lending a helping hand to those in need to being a doting dad, His Highness continues to inspire the people of the nation.
      As we dig into the archives, Emirates Woman takes a look at some of Sheikh Hamdan’s most heartwarming and inspiring moments.
      Extending a helping hand

      At the annual Dubai Fitness Challenge in 2021, Sheikh Hamdan joined the participating residents in the 5km and 10km run and was seen assisting an 18-year-old with a rare genetic condition. He participated in the last race with Rio Watson who has a chromosome disorder known as Iq44 deletion denovo that affects motor and speech functions. The official @teamangelwolf Instagram page said, “Thank you for being such an inspiring leader, a true role model, and making time for your community!”.
      Heartfelt praises

      The good man has been found. Thank you Abdul Ghafoor, you are one of a kind. We will meet soon! pic.twitter.com/ICtDmmfhyY
      — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) July 31, 2022

      Sheikh Hamdan is known for praising the good people of Dubai. Recently, the Crown Prince praised a Talabat delivery driver for removing two concrete blocks causing a road obstruction to oncoming traffic. The good deed was caught on camera which was shared on Instagram by Sheikh Hamdan where he referred to the individual’s actions as “an act of goodness in Dubai to be praised” and called on his followers to help him find the man. Once found, Fazza personally thanked him on social media.
      Taking a selfie with fans abroad

      In a recent visit to the UK’s capital, this down-to-earth royal was seen interacting with two of his fans when he was in the car. He took time to stop for some photos with the two individuals and enthusiastically posed with the fans. He even patiently waited to ensure they get the right shot. In a span of 24 hours, the video went viral garnering nearly 300,000 views and around 20,000 likes.
      Being a doting dad

      Since welcoming his two children Rashid and Shaikha in 2021, Fazza has been the ultimate doting dad. One particularly sweet moment was when he took the twins to visit the giraffes. The father-of-two shared two beautiful snaps on Instagram of himself with the little ones.
      Kind words for his father

      Much like his father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Fazza is also a keen writer and poet. Showcasing one of his hidden talents, Sheikh Hamdan wrote a poem for his father back in 2018.
      He wrote, “This is the son of Rashid the great oneHe sees through his mind before his eyesThrough his global vision coming from above the cloudsHe creates for you glory in the skies.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @faz3 More