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      In pics: Sheikh Hamdan’s most adorable childhood moments

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 minute ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 15 IMAGES
      His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, often gives his loyal fans a snippet into his childhood.
      Having garnered over 14.3 million followers, Fazza has always shared some of his favourite moments from when he was young.
      Ever since he was young, travelling around the world has been a core component of Sheikh Hamdan’s childhood and the old pictures on his feed portray the same.
      From precious family moments to embracing the wild with his favourite animals, we just can’t get enough of these adorable occasions caught on camera.
      As Emirates Woman scrolls through Fazza’s Instagram there are a host of throwback moments that shed light on his memorable moments as a young boy.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @fazza  More

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      Economy class is now upgrading to lie-flat plane seats

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 minute ago

      With rampant innovation in the aviation industry, lie-flat pods in economy class are the latest amongst them.
      For all the avid globe trotters, finding a way to get comfortable sleep on an airplane feels near impossible and Air New Zealand is here to change that in 2024.
      On June 28, the airline company announced the launch of its latest SkyNest concept, with flat seats, real mattresses, cooling pillows and bedding.
      Each aircraft will come fully equipped with six pods which include bunk beds stacked three high, available to anyone ticketed in economy or premium economy class.
      To ensure utmost hygiene, the linens will be replaced in 30-minute cleaning windows, for guests to feel comfortable and rejuvenated for any long-haul flights.

      In addition to the flight ticket, passengers will need to pay a fee, in order to rent the spot, that’s bookable in four-hour increments.
      Greg Foran, chief executive of Air New Zealand said, “We wanted to offer our economy customers a lie-flat option and that’s how SkyNest was born. It’s going to be a real game changer for the economy travel experience.”
      Currently, New Zealand Air offers SkyCouch at no extra cost on a complimentary basis. Customers can extend the specifically designed footrests from all the three seats in an economy row to effectively widen the seats and turn them into a makeshift bed.
      The revamped flights will include a host of new amenities to cut back on carbon emissions and overall aesthetics. With lighter-weight designs and new upholstery, the newly-released aircraft will definitely make a difference for any future bookings.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Eid Al Adha 2022: UAE residents to potentially have a four-day long weekend

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 minute ago

      Get ready to pack your bags as another long weekend awaits us.
      The UAE has released dates for when Eid Al Adha 2022 is most likely to fall next week.
      Known as the festival of sacrifice on the 10th Islamic month Dhul Hijjah, the festival follows the Hijri Lunar calendar. This period honour the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to obey Allah’s command, but a lamb was sacrificed instead.
      Per The Emirates Astronomy Society, the holiday dates revealed after the sighting of the crescent moon or by astrological calculations are most likely to be from Friday, July 8, 2022, until Monday, July 11, 2022.
      With Saturday, July 9, 2022, most likely to be the first day of Eid Al Adha, Arafat Day will fall a day before, counting toward the upcoming long Eid holidays.
      So if you’re looking to take a break, without the added hassle of travelling, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the luxe staycations to book for a quick escape in the UAE. If you wish to travel without the COVID-19 restrictions, Emirates Woman has made a list of all the countries that are easy to book without any PCR test or vaccination certificate requirements.
      The exact holiday dates for both public and private sectors are to be announced closer to Eid Al Adha. Keep a close watch for confirmed dates, that are set to be revealed soon.
      With the upcoming Islamic holiday set to fall next week, per the Gregorian Calendar, we’ve also rounded up when you can expect the rest of the public holidays in the UAE to fall in 2022.
      Islamic New Year
      A couple of weeks later it’s the Hijri New Year. Falling on Muharram 1, it’s projected to fall around July 30, 2022.
      The Prophet’s Birthday
      The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday will fall on the 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal, which is predicted to be around October 8, 2022.
      Commemoration Day and National Day
      To close out 2022, those in the UAE will have another break to look forward to with Commemoration Day, December 1, and National Day, December 2.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Unsplash More

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      Dubai-based singer Lisa Scott-Lee on her journey to success

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 minute ago

      The British dance-pop group, Steps were formed in May 1997 and Lisa Scott-Lee was a key member of the band.
      Seeing many ups and downs together, the five-member band experienced an unexpected split in 2001, which led each member to pursue their solo careers later on.
      When the pop group reunited after 10 years for a concert they were seen rise up in five separate glass tubes to portray them being awoken after the split, showcasing that their bond in truly unbreakable.
      A few years after the band came back together, Scott-Lee moved to Dubai in 2014 along with her husband and launched the Dubai Performing Arts Academy while balancing parenthood.
      “We decided to give something back to the community, and pass on our wealth of performing experience to budding young performers in the region,” she tells Emirates Woman when asked about her reason for launching the academy.
      Despite years of being in the industry, the band was asked to reunite on stage once again for a prestigious event in the UK and the release of their latest album, ‘The Platinum Collection’.
      To celebrate the band’s 25th anniversary they came together on one of the most important occasions in history for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Concert “in front of an audience of 10K,” she mentioned.
      For this significant event, the Welsh singer said, “It was wonderful to be a part of the celebrations and see the country come together.”
      As she continues to make a mark in the region and grow her loyal fanbase year after year, Emirates Woman speaks to her about her career and how Dubai has played a vital role in making her dream come true.
      You’ve had an incredible career to date across many facets. Can you walk us through these and how they connect to each other?
      I feel blessed that Steps are celebrating 25 years in the music industry. We are thrilled to have recently received two prestigious awards, an ‘Icon’ award and a Lifetime Achievement award, and we were honoured to perform for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Concert in the UK. The celebrations continue this summer and a UK Tour and the release of our Greatest Hits album, the ‘Platinum Collection.’ Here in Dubai, we are proud to be the first school to launch BTEC in Performing Arts Diplomas in the Middle East, in affiliation with Pearson and Taaleem. We are thrilled to have received outstanding results for our first BTEC in Performing Arts graduates, our students have all received a 100 per cent distinction and it is proving to be a wonderful and successful year.

      What inspired you to launch the Dubai Performing Arts Academy in 2014?
      With me being in the International pop group Steps, and my husband, Johnny being from London’s West End, we decided to give something back to the community, and pass on our wealth of performing experience to budding young performers in the region, and hence, DPA was born.
      What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
      I think the biggest challenge is trying to balance my work in two countries, along with motherhood. I am lucky to have a wonderfully supportive husband and our beautiful children Jaden and Star-Lily. We are fortunate that our children are following in our performing footsteps, and love coming to DPA, which means we can spend a lot of time together. Our son Jaden is currently playing Billy Elliot in the UK musical, which is dream come true for him, after having trained with us at DPA from an early age. We are also lucky to have found a lovely network of friends, who have become our ‘Dubai Family’, and enable us to enjoy so many incredible experiences both in the UK and here.
      What brought you to Dubai and how has your journey evolved to date?
      We originally moved to Dubai as we wanted to buy property on The Palm, I was blown away by the engineering and unique design, and The Palm continues to dazzle me until today. We moved to Dubai in 2011 with two babies, two suitcases, and a two-year plan. We fell in love with Dubai and decided to raise our children in this beautiful, cosmopolitan safe city, which it is very much my home years on. After having been awarded the prestigious Golden Visa in 2021 for our services to Performing Arts, we are here to stay.

      We love the fact that new careers can emerge or reemerge at any age. Do you feel people are having more than one career in their lives these days?
      I think a lot of it comes down to pure hard work and determination. I also think Dubai and the UAE is the land of opportunity, and the rulers and government are very supportive of new setups, which helps incredibly.
      How has the industry changed since you started out and how has the evolvement been throughout?
      The industry has changed massively over my 25-year career span. When Steps launched in 1997, neither the internet nor social media had been invented and so this has brought the biggest change for artists, in terms of streaming and having instant feedback from fans. As we know, there are pros and cons to Social media, but for music artists, it’s a great tool for sharing music and news from around the world.
      You’ve just played at the Queen’s Jubilee in the UK. How did this honour come to fruition?
      Steps were honoured to be asked to close the Queen’s Jubilee Concert filmed in Manchester Arena, in front of an audience of 10K, in the mark of her 70 years of service. London and the UK were decorated with flags and bunting, and it was wonderful to be a part of the celebrations and see the country come together.
      What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
      Listen to your elders. I think with time, you realise how important it is to listen to the advice of those who have experienced life before you, and also to treasure this and loved ones.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Getty More

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      Sheikha Shamma makes history becoming first GCC woman to hold this position

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 minute ago

      As the young royals of the region continue to pave the way for a promising future, one Abu Dhabi sheikha has just made history.
      Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan has become the first GCC woman to be appointed into a global and prestigious position.
      Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Her Highness has been appointed as one of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program.
      The group will be invited as core participants to the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Forum in January 2023 held in Abu Dhabi.
      “The selection of Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan as one of the women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program, and her hosting of the Atlantic Council Global Forum, reflect Abu Dhabi’s commitment to achieving its 2030 environmental vision,” the Abu Dhabi Media Office stated.

      Sheikha Shamma herself also shared her pride in being appointed to the prestigious position.
      “I’m delighted to be a 2022 Fellow on the Atlantic Council’s Women Leaders in Energy and Climate Programme,” she said, “I look forward to sharing perspectives from a region that is heavily investing in tackling climate change and is soon going to be hosting #COP28.
      “Women’s voices are imperative in all spaces, but especially in the context of the climate crisis, and I’m confident this initiative will continue to create great impact.”
      Having had a keen focus on the environment and sustainability for many years, Sheikha Shamma is the founder and CEO of the Alliances for Global Sustainability.
      Her mission is to empower women and the youth and to focus on sustainable initiatives that create change. In November 2021, Sheikha Shamma also signed five sustainability agreements at the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images/Media: Abu Dhabi Media Office More

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      Everything you need to know about the New Moon in Cancer

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 minute ago

      Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of the Karmic Soul
      This morning we are all waking up to the glorious New Moon in Cancer, where she is at her happiest until just before dawn on July 1.
      We won’t see it, of course, as the moon sits in her shadow but you will feel this lunation, she is making sure women are being noticed. She asks us to be more receptive, caring, sensitive and loving toward others. Cancerians are famous for synchronising their moods to the waning and waxing of the Moon.
      Although we may feel empowered, we can also expect to feel a bit like our fair Moon Maidens, moodier. It seems whatever you have to say may not be taken seriously. This is inflaming things for you as it relates to your value system. It begs the question: what will be revealed by the Full Moon in Capricorn on July 13?
      Cancers will be in the thick of it, our mystical Scorpio friends will be keeping a low profile knowing it was all going to kick off (and probably started this whole quagmire), Pisces tried to tell you so, and Aquarians, Taurus and Gemini gals can expect to fair best. Good luck everyone else, see you on the other side. Show us what you’re made of!
      Cancer rules breasts, the stomach and motherhood – those matters will be highlighted and at the forefront, particularly this week. Women may even seek you out in your home for advice, which will affect them long-term.
      Did you know women can be unusually fertile during the New Moon in Cancer if your moon cycle is in sync with her?
      It appears a partner or beau is very encouraging of what you’re doing in and around work; you may even be travelling overseas or committing to higher education. An intelligent foreigner can easily fall for you (your accent or popularity); luckily, they admire your selflessness and kindness to others.
      Are you putting yourself first for a change? You will score more points if you. Hopefully, you are chasing your dreams, working in the public eye, or an area related to women. The New Moon favours those in media, writing, academia, charity work and law.
      One precursor is to be wary of quick results and those you cannot intuitively or entirely trust. You may feel someone is trying to dent your image. Perhaps you are insecure generally; either way, diplomacy will win the day; keep your thoughts and hearsay to yourself. You’re better off hanging out with those who believe in you.
      By the end of the week, you may be bent on revenge. Is someone attacking you for something you strongly believe in? Again, you would be wise to keep any drama totally separate from your work life.
      Thank goodness, by July 7, you will be back on track again. Keep a low profile as your psychic energy is a bit wired right now. You don’t want someone calling you crazy, right?
      Let the spirits flow through you until the Full Moon in Capricorn rolls around mid-July. You will look back and realise you were more emotionally capable and far wiser than you believed and the Universe had your back. Power-up, ladies.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @yana.potter.art More

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      11 luxury UAE staycations to book this Eid Al Adha

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      Are you looking for some lavish escapism without the added hassle of travelling? We’re here to help.
      From beachside resorts to plush hotels, the UAE is known for its unending list of staycations.
      With the upcoming long weekend for Eid Al Adha fast approaching, Emirates Woman is here to help you sort your getaway plans in advance.
      Abu Dhabi
      Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

      If you’re dreaming of a Parisian escape, this property is the one. Starting at Dhs625, guests can enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the Luxury Room subject to availability, accompanied by an indulgent breakfast, luxurious views of the city, an array of exquisite dishes for dinner and 25 per cent off on all F&B and spa treatments with the package being valid until July 15, 2022. For a small getaway, in-house guests can also enjoy complimentary shuttle services to the Corniche Beach, Yas Mall and Louvre during their stay.
      To make a booking visit sofitelabudhabicorniche.com
      Dubai
      Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Just under an hour’s drive from the city of Dubai is Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa. This luxury hotel, which resembles a luxurious Bedouin encampment, is the perfect escape to recharge over the Eid Al Adha break. While the resort’s location already ensures maximum privacy for guests, Al Maha’s 42 suites take luxury and privacy to the next level. Each suite boasts a private temperature-controlled pool overlooking the infinite desert views, alongside opulent interiors which pay tribute to Arabian heritage with handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artefacts.
      St. Regis The Palm

      Celebrate Eid Al Adha in style at this luxurious getaway at The Palm. Guests can enjoy attractive room rates starting from Dhs850 per night with complimentary breakfast for two and 25 percent off on all the hotel’s dining outlets which include Cordelia, Dip Pool Bar, Her by Caroline Astor and The St. Regis Bar along with all the rejuvenating spa treatments at Iridium Spa. For more activities guests have access to Nakheel Mall land The View at the Palm.
      To make a booking visit stregisdubaithepalm.com
      Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites

      Situated amidst the azure waters of Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious beach resort allows one to escape this Eid. With a host of culinary experiences, guests can try a host of sumptuous feasts at the restaurants along with Dubai’s shimmering skyline. Guests can avail of 20 percent off on all rooms, 15 percent off on spa reservations and 20 percent discount on F&B.
      For more information visit rixos.com
      Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

      This newly opened romantic getaway comes with a host of experiences to unwind over the upcoming long weekend. Situated on the pristine shores of the Arabian Gulf in Palm Jumeirah, this sophisticated beachfront property is offering UAE residents with a special offer this Eid. The rates start from Dhs899 inclusive of breakfast, complimentary lunch or dinner with unlimited alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, 20 per cent discount on F&B, an upgrade to the next room category and two for one offer on Indian Aromatherapy Massages at JIVA Spa.
      To make a booking visit tajhotels.com
      Address Beach Resort

      This luxe property that’s home to the highest infinity pool is offering the ultimate Eid flash sale. When guests book between July 1 to July 3, 2022, for a stay between July 1 and September 30, 2022, they can receive up to 30 per cent off on the best available rates. With breathtaking views and an unparallel array of dining options at this staycation with leisure experiences to enjoy with your loved ones.
      To make a booking visit addresshotels.com
      Palazzo Versace

      If you’re looking for a getaway at any glistening property, this is the one. For your Eid escape, this hotel provides an ideal setting with stunning pools, a state-of-the-art spa and exceptional restaurants. Starting from Dhs1,000, this exclusive staycation package includes a deluxe room, breakfast at Giardino and 20 per cent discounts on massages at The Spa and other dining experiences including Q’s Bar and brunch packages. Situated in the heart of Al Jaddaf, this luxe property is the ultimate luxe destination.
      To make a booking visit palazzoversace.ae
      Park Hyatt

      This stunning waterfront property is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Guests can experience the resort’s refined rooms and suites along with other facilities such as the Championship Dubai Creek Golf Course. During Eid, guests can save up to 30 per cent during the stay with daily breakfast for two adults and two children, 20 per cent of restaurants and bars along with access to various other facilities such as the swimming pools, Lagoon Beach, mini golf and The Cave Kids active Club.
      To make a booking visit parkhyattdubai.com
      Sharjah
      The Chedi Al Bait

      To embark on a traditional Emirati cultural journey, guests can book a getaway at this ultimate summer retreat. With the new offer, guests can escape to the property for Dhs1,200 per night and receive the entire amount in credit to indulge in facilities and dining options onboard. This special ‘Your stay on us’ offer extends beyond Eid throughout the summer until September 30, 2022, giving guests an opportunity to experience a distinct cultural setting.
      To make a booking visit ghmhotels.com
      Ajman
      Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah

      For total relaxation and peace, swap the bustling streets of Dubai to the serene feeling of Ajman. Just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Dubai is the Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah. This luxury resort is like no other in the UAE, offering complete tranquillity to guests with its peaceful surroundings. The resort has just 89 rooms and villas, making it an exclusive and quiet getaway for guests. The resort’s facilities include a luxurious spa, private beach, 24-hour gym and the longest heated swimming pool in Ajman at 85 metres. The hotel also has two on-site restaurants – Vinesse which offers international cuisine and Aquario which is the resort’s beachside restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine.
      To make a booking visit oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-al-zorah-ajman. 
      Ras Al Khaimah
      Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert

      Hidden amidst the dunes of the Arabian desert lies the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert, a resort embodying the epitome of pure luxury. With 100 Bedouin-inspired villas taking guests back to the country’s archives, each stay at this property is beyond the norm. The all-villa resort provides guests with complete privacy as each has its own private entrance and private pool, with the option for in-villa dining also. Brimming with nomadic heritage, this stunning destination ensures tranquillity in every corner. To truly relax and revitalise, escape to the Al Wadi Desert spa.
      To make a booking ritzcarlton.com/alwadidesert.
      Waldorf Astoria

      For a short trip away from Dubai, this elegant property offers the perfect break. During Eid, guests can save up to 25 per cent off. The hotel is accompanied by views of the twinkling seafront and eight delicious restaurants and lounges onboard. So, if you’re keen to take a mini-break, this family resort is an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway.
      To make a booking visit hilton.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @addressbeachresort More