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    12 fabulous things to do in Dubai (and Abu Dhabi) this weekend

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    4 hours ago

    Your ultimate guide to this weekend in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – November 18 to November 20, 2022.
    F1 in Abu Dhabi

    The F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is making its return for 2022 this weekend with the best in racecar driving set to descend upon the UAE capital. In tandem, there’s also plenty happening in the emirate including huge post-race concerts – Kendrick Lamar will be performing on Saturday night, while Def Leopard will take to the stage on Sunday.
    Brunch time

    Dine in style for brunch this weekend at Ongaku, the hidden bar within Clap. The popular nightlife hotspot comes alive in the day every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm. The luxe brunch includes a huge sushi station, prawn cocktail tower, fresh oyster section, dedicated ceviche station and more – and this is just the starters! For mains enjoy the black cod, pistachio crusted baby chicken and beef sando and an indulgent surprise courtesy of the chef, all served family-style with sides of grilled vegetables and wasabi mash. Prices for the brunch start at Dhs495.
    Dior arrives at Nammos

    A unique Dior pop-up store has recently opened its doors for the second year at Nammos in the Four Season Hotel in Dubai. The fascinating architectural installation of the pop-up unveils the latest Dior Cruise 2023 collection with an exclusive selection available only in Dubai.
    A picture of health

    Biolite, Dubai’s premier aesthetic clinic for over 15 years, has launched the region’s first Healthness Centre, offering a personalised and preventative approach to aesthetics, health, and longevity with the aim of optimizing the client’s overall health and ageing process. The concept is formed of carefully crafted health and wellness modalities supporting longevity, nutrition, and sleep, developed, and designed through years of research by the Biolite advisory board and founder, Mona Mirza. The new centre takes you on a health journey with a comprehensive consultation with an integrative medicine doctor, IFMCP certified. Unlike a typical GP visit, the examination starts with innovative preventative diagnostic testing and extensive health intake designed to accumulate as much information as possible. Genetic testing, tracking of functional biomarkers, microbiome analysis are just some of the tests clients do in the process. Visit their website for more details.
    Italian feast

    Enjoy a classic rituale Italiano at Fi’lia – the Aperitivo. Traditionally known as a way of ‘opening the palate’, guests can enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages paired with light bites from 4 to 6pm daily. The perfect way to relax and unwind, the Aperitivo is served in the lounge area adjacently located to Fi’lia and guests can expect Italian classics such as beef tartare, vitello tonnato and an antipasti platter amongst other culinary delights.
    Kick-off time

    World Cup fever is officially underway. Taking place in Qatar, the official kick-off takes place this Sunday, November 20. If you haven’t been able to snag yourself a ticket to the live action in Qatar, there’s plenty of places to watch here in Dubai. Take a look at our Emirates Man edit here.
    The Dubai Run

    This Sunday, November 20, the fourth edition of Dubai Run – one of the key highlights of Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) – will take place. Runners of all ages and fitness abilities are able to register and enjoy a once-a-year chance to run along Dubai’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Road with two routes to choose from: a 10km route and a 5km route. Register for the Dubai Run here.
    Escape to the desert

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE. Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future. With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts. To keep you in the know, we’ve rounded up some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter – click here to read the full edit.
    A fashion pop-up

    Homegrown fashion label Second Summer has teamed up with beachside hotspot Koko Bay to launch a month-long pop up La Sol Shop. KoKo Bay will play host to an immersive pop up with Second Summer’s consciously curated collection of seasonal lines made up of effortlessly cool pieces that will be retailed at the Bali inspired restaurant. Given that the cooler weather is finally here, it’s the perfect time to visit this seasonal pop-up.
    The Lion King comes to Abu Dhabi

    This weekend marks the first of The Lion King musical in Abu Dhabi after launching on November 16. The popular Broadway musical is being performed at the Etihad Arena until December 10 and you can book tickets here.
    Burger time

    Indulge this weekend on some succulent sliders from London Slide this weekend. Located at Bluewaters Island, the casual dining venue brings the “grace of essence” of London to the shores of Dubai. From sliders packed with shredded blue lobster to Wagyu beed with shaved truffle, this haven offers bite-sized eats with something on offer for everyone.
    Pick up the latest copy of Emirates Woman

    For November, we are proud to present The Collectors Issue. We are proud to have partnered with Louis Vuitton for our cover shoot – an incredibly fitting brand for the theme of this issue as their luggage is a multi-generational icon. We shot their CR23 collection with rising star and Saudi model Taleedah Tamer. In this issue, we share an incredible collection of stories, women and voices. For us, depth is a priority as without this there is no value. We champion collected wisdom, learnings and understanding as paramount in importance, as well as the aesthetic symbols which bring peace or sentiment. Pick up a copy in stores now or download the issue here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Nadya Hasan Instagram More

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    UAE confirms public holiday dates for Commemoration Day and National Day

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    35 mins ago

    The UAE cabinet has confirmed the public holiday dates Commemoration Day and National Day this year.
    It was announced via state news agency WAM that the public holiday will commence on Thursday, December 1 and will be observed through to Saturday, December 3, with work set to resume on Monday, December 5.
    December 1 will mark Commemoration Day, which was previously known as Martyrs’ Day. The day is held in remembrance of those who served as members of the UAE armed forces and gave their lives to their country in service.

    #UAE Cabinet approves holidays of the Commemoration Day and the #UAENationalDay51 for 2022.#WamNews pic.twitter.com/Jl3FE47Xfp
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) November 17, 2022

    The following day, December 2, is UAE National Day which marks the unification of the seven emirates and the creation of the UAE as a nation. This year the UAE will celebrate its 51st National Day.
    While it is presumed both the public and private sectors will have the same number of days off to mark Commemoration Day and National Day, it remains to be confirmed by relevant authorities.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Instagram @dubai.uae.dxb More

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    Where to buy your Christmas tree in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    55 mins ago

    The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching (six weeks and counting…).
    With that, now is the time to start thinking about decorations and the most important of them all… your tree.
    Luckily, there’s plenty of places in the UAE where you can buy the perfect tree to celebrate the festive season with your loved ones.
    Real Trees
    Ferns N Petals

    If you’re looking to decorate a real Christmas tree before Santa’s arrival Ferns N Petals has the ideal option – a five-foot tree coming complete with decorations. Priced at Dhs999, this option just made Christmas time a whole lot easier.
    To purchase visit fnp.ae
    Bloombox

    Grown in Billund Denmark, this Danish Nordman tree from Bloombox is approximately six to seven feet and priced at Dhs740.
    To purchase visit bloombox.ae
    ACE Hardware

    One of the most affordable options for a real Christmas tree is from Ace Hardware. Currently, the UAE-based store has ‘Fraser Fir Fresh’ Christmas trees available with prices starting at Dhs399.
    To purchase visit aceuae.com
    Kibsons

    The Nordmann Fir Christmas Trees are sourced from sustainable farms in Denmark. While being pet-friendly this 5ft tree has a classic shape with dark green glossy needles making it much more resilient to heat while giving off a fresh, clean, citrus smell too and is priced at Dhs245.
    Pre-order on kibsons.com
    Fake/Faux Trees
    Crate & Barrel ME

    Want a real tree but don’t want the hassle of the upkeep? This artificial tree from Crate & Barrel offers some of the most real-looking trees. With this 6ft Abies Nordmann Deluxe Xmas Tree you won’t be able to tell the difference.
    Bloomingdale’s

    This artificial Christmas tree comes with exotic branches and luxe LED lights for the ultimate seasonal décor and is priced at Dhs2,200. All the ornaments to complement the tree can be availed at this popular e-commerce platform too.
    To purchase visit bloomingdales.ae
    Irony Home

    Looking to celebrate Christmas in style and go all out? Well, Irony Home should be your go-to place for all things festive in Dubai. Priced at Dhs10,450, this 9.5ft pre-lit white tree with 1250 LED lights will make for a truly luxe Christmas.
    To purchase visit ironyhome.com. 
    West Elm

    Designed for a realistic feel, this simple tree can be spruced by adding your favourite lights and pieces to ring in the festive season. Priced at Dhs2,650, the faux unlit tree is 9ft and is generously created with all its branches.
    To purchase visit westelm.ae
    Dragon Mart

    If you’re on more of a budget, opt for this artificial Christmas tree from Dragon Mart. Priced at Dhs135, this 6ft Christmas tree adds to the vibrancy in any home with its clever design.
    To purchase visit dragonmart.ae
    Home Centre

    This faux Christmas tree from Home Centre is decorated with berries and cones to ensure a classic finish to be reused every year. Priced at Dhs499, this tree is 6ft in height.
    Available for purchase on homecentre.com
    Home Box

    This Alaska Christmas Pine Hook Tree is designed for easy maintenance and utmost convenience to add to the festive season in any home. Made with good durability, it’s priced at Dhs299.
    To purchase visit homeboxstores.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Andy Warhol’s ‘vibrant and iconic works’ to be showcased in Saudi Arabia

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    2 hours ago

    Some of the most iconic artworks by legendary artist Andy Warhol are to be showcased in Saudi Arabia at the beginning of 2023.
    Arts AlUla is set to present a new exhibition, ‘FAME: Andy Warhol’, starting February 17, 2023.
    Some of Warhol’s most profound pieces will be on display in a specially curated exhibition for Maraya, the stunning and unique mirrored building located in the desert canyon of the Ashar Valley in AlUla.
    Paintings and prints by Warhol, who is known to have a personal fascination with fame and celebrity, that are set to be showcased will include Hollywood stars, sporting legends and musicians such as Elizabeth Taylor, Muhammad Ali and Dolly Parton among others.

    Nora Aldabal, Executive Director, Arts and Creative Industries for Arts AlUla has described the exhibition as a “homage to a heritage built by diverse cultural perspectives”.
    “We aim to drive a new era of cultural exchange, including exhibitions that feature the most important regional and international artists from the mid 20th century to the present day,” she added.
    Meanwhile, Patrick Moore, director of The Andy Warhol Museums shared his excitement at having Warhol’s |vibrant and iconic works to this monumental landscape”.
    “FAME is intended to be an introduction to the aspect of Warhol that I believe is most fascinating to many young people, including Saudi youth, as Andy Warhol’s journey, which started as a child staring at the movie screen and collecting publicity stills, is becoming more common through the rise of social media,” he added.
    FAME: Andy Warhol will be on display at Maraya from February 17 until May 16, 2023. For more information visit experiencealula.com. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Emirates launches groundbreaking fast-track service at Dubai airport

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    Standing in long immigration queues for international passengers is now a thing of the past courtesy of Emirates’ latest partnership.
    Travellers can soon move hassle-free within Dubai International Airport terminal 3 due to the innovative biometric technology that will give passengers a smart check-in option starting in 2023.
    As per an agreement between Emirates and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA), the official announcement was made by the Dubai Media Office on November 15, 2022.

    .@emirates signs an agreement with @GDRFADUBAI offering international travellers the opportunity to speed up their airport experience by consenting to the use of biometric data starting from 2023.https://t.co/OHFAJfK7uj pic.twitter.com/r4XP993H8A
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 15, 2022
    While this service was previously only available to UAE residents and GCC nationals, it’s now open to everyone. Through its pre-populated biometric database, the technology can seamlessly identify travellers at multiple points in the airport. With facial recognition systems paired with artificial intelligence, this instant identity will improve traffic efficiency inside the airport.
    “Dubai is one of the world’s most aspirational destinations, and 2022 has already seen more than eight million tourists arrive in the city,” said Lieutenant General Mohamed Ahmed Al Marri, director general of the government body.

    How does it work?
    All passengers can provide their official consent through the Emirates app, at Emirates self-check-in kiosks, or in person at the desk.
    This experience will add to the myriad of other services that contribute to the Emirates travelling journey which include the self-check-in kiosk, checking in online 48 hours before, dropping off luggage a night before travelling and using the app to receive all the updated flight information.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Emirates Instagram, Feature Image: Rimowa Instagram More

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    Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out…

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a new tool has officially been launched to check your eligibility for the same.
    Through a short quick quiz available on the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, users can answer a few questions relating to their contribution to the country’s economy and additionally find out more about the supporting documents needed for each criteria.
    After first being implemented in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa residency programme was introduced as a means for expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years without the need for a sponsor.

    Several talented individuals such as Chef Izu, content creators Ola Farahat and Karen Wazen, actor Shah Rukh Khan and others have already been granted this visa after their notable achievements within the industry and beyond.
    With immense benefits for Golden Visa holders, the visas extend to immediate family members to ensure expats can keep their members can keep their family members live in the country hassle-free.
    Eligibility
    So, are you eligible for a Golden Visa? The UAE government has made it easy to see if you are with a two-minute quiz which you can take here.
    Below, we’ve also outlined the key players who are eligible for the Golden Visa.
    Entrepreneurs
    With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
    Real estate investors
    The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
    ‘Exceptional talents’
    The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
    Scientists & researchers
    Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
    Outstanding students
    Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
    Skilled workers
    Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
    How to apply once eligible?
    Eligible candidates will need to follow the six-step process via the Dubai Smart Application after downloading the GDRFA application, then create a new user account, select the required service, follow the attachment of the required documents, pay the fees and ultimately submit the request.
    Candidates can also apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa through AMER Center, if they wish to physically submit the documents and make the payment.
    If you think you’re a potential candidate to receive a Golden Visa, take this two minutes quiz on smartservices.icp.gov.ae to find out your eligibility.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @Dubai More

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    7 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
    From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
    To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
    Book an alfresco dining experience

    It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
    Try a glamping experience

    If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
    Visit this famed desert café

    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. 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
    Hone your equestrian skills

    From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
    Swing your best shot

    For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit topgolf.ae
    Go ziplining

    Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
    It’s time to trek

    Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
    To make a booking head to visithatta.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More

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    The best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
    Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
    With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
    To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    One Degree Cafe

    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. 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. 
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    My Space

    Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
    BBQ Station

    Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More