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      in lifestyle and culture

      Sheikha Mahra shows French Montana the royal Dubai hospitality

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      11 mins ago

      Showcasing the true Middle Eastern hospitality, HH Sheikha Mahra took Moroccan-American rapper French Montana to Bab Al Shams — a luxe dessert resort in They were joined by Dr. Mahra Lutfi, the first Emirati stem cell doctor, the trio was seen enjoying the luxury property.

      Sheikha Mahra, French Montana and Dr. Mahra Lutfi at Bab Al Shams
      French was dressed in a traditional outfit, repping the culture. Sheikha Mahra looked resplendent in a turquoise blue kaftan. Surrounded by sand dunes and camels, Dubai’s royal Princess gave the singer an experience to remember.

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was first seen with French Montana at Nammos Dubai. Her Highness took the Moroccan-American rapper for an evening out in the city.

      In the series of photos, there were photos of him along with Dr. Mahra Lutfi, the first Emirati Stem Cell Doctor posing with the perfumes launched by Sheikha Mahra.
      Is Nammos her favourite spot?
      In April 2024, the royal Princess visited Nammos, which continues to be one of the most popular beach clubs in Dubai along with her mother. They both looked stunning in relaxed lounge wear, perfect for a beach club.

      This Mykonos-inspired getaway offers the best of the best for Mediterranean cuisine and ambience combined. With glistening views of the Arabian Gulf, guests can feel rejuvenated with a fresh allure under the sun.
      The Perfume Brand by Sheikha Mahra
      The Royal has made a significant splash in the fragrance world with the launch of her new brand, Mahra M1. The highly anticipated debut fragrance, “Divorce,” is now available for purchase on the official Mahra M1 website.

      The launch of Mahra M1 comes just four months after Sheikha Mahra welcomed her daughter, Mahra. This personal connection adds a layer of depth to the brand, as it represents a new chapter in her life and a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.
      Fans and fragrance enthusiasts can now purchase “Divorce” and other Mahra M1 products directly from the brand’s official website.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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      6 Dubai places with delectable hampers to gift this Diwali

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      22 mins ago

      Diwali hampers are a popular way to celebrate the festival of lights, offering a variety of food and beverage (F&B) options beautifully packaged.
      To breakdown, there are a myriad hamper styles to gift this Diwali.
      Traditional Indian Sweets and Snacks Hamper
      It contains assorted mithai (like laddoos, barfis, kaju katli), namkeen (salty snacks) dry fruits, and nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios). This comes with a traditional Indian-themed packaging with vibrant colors, festive ribbons, and decorative elements.
      Gourmet Fusion Hamper
      With a mix of traditional and modern treats such as flavored nuts, gourmet chocolates with Indian spices (e.g., cardamom, saffron), artisanal crackers, exotic tea blends, and grape. This is elegant and minimalistic with a mix of gold and earth tones, perhaps with a floral motif.
      Healthy Diwali Hamper
      Sugar-free sweets, roasted snacks, gluten-free namkeen, superfood snacks (like quinoa chips or protein bars), cold-pressed juices, herbal teas. Focuses on eco-friendly packaging with sustainable materials, emphasizing health and wellness.
      The luxury hamper
      Premium chocolates, macarons, gourmet cheeses, fine wines, premium teas, honey, saffron, and exotic jams. It features high-end packaging with silk-lined boxes, metallic accents, and a sophisticated look.
      Diwali Beverage Hamper
      This contains a selection of fine teas, artisanal coffee, premium juices, and non-alcoholic sparkling beverages. It comes with stylish glass bottles or tins, presented in a sleek and modern box.
      To see which are the most premium F&B gifting places this Diwali, see our editor-approved guide.
      Khoya

      Each Diwali hampers are a party in a box. They are filled with just our signature mithais but also a curated selection of savoury treats, teas, coffees and more. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, this is the best option.
      MyGovindas

      MyGovinda’s is celebrating Diwali 2024 with a variety of offerings, including special gift boxes and festive menus. Their Diwali gift boxes feature premium Indian sweets such as Kaju Fancy, Rose Laddoo, and Gulkand Katori, available in various sizes. They also offer healthier options like zero-sugar sweets made from dates, figs, and prunes. These boxes range from 16 to 48 pieces, catering to different preferences. Prices range from Dhs51 to Dhs191.
      For more information visit mygovindas.com/
      Bateel

      The range introduces two distinct collections; Lavanya and Florise. Each piece within the range embraces a perfect blend of traditional artistry and modern sophistication, encapsulating the spirit of Diwali. Bateel’s newly launched Diwali collection is a celebration of grace, beauty, and prosperity, captured through its meticulously crafted designs. The Lavanya collection, meaning “grace” or “beauty”, is inspired by the intricate curves of the paisley pattern, a symbol of elegance and timeless charm; this design is available in three colours, each corresponding to a specific size. Bateel’s Diwali range is available to shop across all the brand’s boutiques in the UAE.
      For more information visit bateel.com
      Varak

      At Varak, only the finest premium ingredients are used to craft each confection. With their masterful technique, luxury presentation and careful selection of premium ingredients, it’s no surprise that Varak has captivated gourmands from every corner of the UAE. The latest edition to the hamper range is The Sewing kit is our take on reversing the algorithm and resolving childhood trauma. The box is a pure culinary brilliance with four top biscuits. It includes Pistachio Pinwheel, Burnt chocolate miso, Black garlic palmier and Earl grey raspberry. Prices for this start at Dhs125.
      For more information visit varakedibleluxury.com
      Sugargram

      Your favourite itty bitty delectables are created keeping in mind the special festival of lights. Embrace Diwali with these 5 limited-edition bonbon flavors!
      For more information visit deliveroo.com/sugargram 
      VEGO Café & Confectionery

      This is a chain of homegrown cafés situated in Dubai. They focus on innovation using wholesome ingredients packed with flavour to create dishes that are simple but never basic. For all your guilt-free indulgences, VEGO is your place. The limited-edition sweets and savoury hampers are here to add a touch of deliciousness to your festivities. The box of 25 is priced at Dhs120 and is packaged in a premium format.
      For more information visit vegocafe.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

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      Is French Montana an ambassador for Sheikha Mahra’s perfume brand?

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was seen with French Montana in a series of images on Instagram.
      The Moroccan-American rapper was seen in snippets across Sheikha Mahra’s post on Instagram to her one million followers.

      In the series of photos, there were photos of him along with Dr. Mahra Lutfi, the first Emirati Stem Cell Doctor posing with the perfumes launched by Sheikha Mahra.
      Is Nammos her favourite spot?
      In April 2024, Sheikha Mahra visited Nammos, which continues to be one of the most popular beach clubs in Dubai along with her mother. They both looked absolutely stunning in a printed tropical-inspired kaftan worn by Sheikha Mahra and a white and gold set worn by her mother.

      This Mykonos-inspired getaway offers the best of the best for Mediterranean cuisine and ambience combined. With glistening views of the Arabian Gulf, guests can feel rejuvenated with a fresh allure under the sun. Adding to the ambience, the French fashion house also took over Nammos once again starting from November 2023. The elevated venue has been given a full Dioriveiera makeover, for the third season in a row, with umbrellas, sun loungers, cushions and more transformed with the brand’s famous blue and white material.
      The Perfume Brand by Sheikha Mahra
      The Royal has made a significant splash in the fragrance world with the launch of her new brand, Mahra M1. The highly anticipated debut fragrance, “Divorce,” is now available for purchase on the official Mahra M1 website.

      The launch of Mahra M1 comes just four months after Sheikha Mahra welcomed her daughter, Mahra. This personal connection adds a layer of depth to the brand, as it represents a new chapter in her life and a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.
      Fans and fragrance enthusiasts can now purchase “Divorce” and other Mahra M1 products directly from the brand’s official website. The perfume is priced at Dhs1,000, while the hair and body spray and scented.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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      12 editor-approved podcasts for the ultimate weekday break

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGES
      For some much-needed escapism, podcasts are an ideal way to unwind.
      With an ocean of stories, interviews, in-depth discussions and trusted voices, they’ve become an interesting source of information that caters to a wide variety of audiences.
      From honest fashion reviews to female empowerment discussions, the topics are endless in each of these podcasts and can get you addicted in no time.
      To listen, you simply access the podcast through any of the streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and other smaller platforms, making it a click away.
      The History of Podcasts
      The concept of downloadable audio content began as early as the 1980s with audio blogging and internet radio. In the 1990s, the MP3 format revolutionized digital audio, enabling easier storage and sharing of sound files. At this time, some early experiments in digital audio distribution appeared, but they lacked the infrastructure we associate with podcasts today.
      The Evolution
      Podcasts have become a truly global phenomenon, with creators and audiences emerging from all over the world. More podcasts are available in multiple languages and cater to various regional cultures and interests. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 accelerated the popularity of podcasts, as people spent more time at home and sought new forms of entertainment and learning.
      So whether a morning commute or a long-haul flight, you’re sure to be entertained with vital information through any of these information-fuelled podcasts. Overall, podcasts are a fantastic way to learn, be entertained, or just dive into topics you’re passionate about. Whether you’re into true crime, comedy, history, science, or even niche interests like knitting or board games, there’s probably a podcast out there for you.
      Fashion, being a visual medium with a relatively niche audience, may not appear to be the most conducive subject matter for a podcast. But in an era of intuitive podcasts, where there seems to be a show for everything, style has no shortage of audio content.
      From Dior Talks to The goop Podcast hosted by Gwyneth Paltrow, there’s no dearth of information around us with a click of a button to listen, learn and educate ourselves during any long-haul flight or even our daily commute.
      With the proliferation of podcasts, finding one to effortlessly incorporate into your daily routine can be quite the task and hence, Emirates Woman is here to help.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @tialineker More

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      Dubai introduces stricter penalties for distracted driving

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      12 mins ago

      In a concerted effort to enhance road safety and curb reckless driving habits, the Dubai government has implemented stringent new penalties for motorists found to be using their mobile phones while behind the wheel.

      New Penalties for Distracted Driving

      Effective immediately, any driver caught distracted by their phone while driving in Dubai faces the risk of having their vehicle impounded for up to 30 days. This substantial escalation in punishment serves as a stark warning about the serious consequences of such behavior.

      Previously, the federal traffic law in the United Arab Emirates imposed a fine of Dh800 and four black points on a driver’s license for using a mobile phone while driving. However, Dubai has now introduced a more severe consequence to deter distracted driving.

      Other Offenses Leading to Impoundment

      The updated driving regulations also outline other offenses that could result in vehicle impoundment. Drivers who suddenly deviate their vehicles in a manner that endangers lives or property, or fail to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, will now face a 30-day impoundment.

      Additionally, Dubai has clarified existing punishments for various driving infractions. Heavy vehicles that do not adhere to mandatory lane discipline, entering a road without ensuring it is clear, reversing in a dangerous manner, or failing to follow lane discipline can lead to a 14-day impoundment.

      Other offenses that could result in a 14-day impoundment include parking on the hard shoulder in non-emergency situations, overtaking vehicles on the hard shoulder, driving without a vehicle license number plate or with only one plate, obstructing traffic, and changing the vehicle’s color without permission.

      The introduction of these stricter penalties underscores Dubai’s commitment to road safety and its efforts to create a safer driving environment for all. By holding drivers accountable for their actions, the authorities hope to reduce accidents and fatalities caused by distracted driving.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @tialineker More

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      5 spellbinding Halloween celebrations in Dubai this year

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      29 mins ago

      As one of the most eerie nights of the year approaches soon, it’s time to get your most spooktacular outfits ready for Halloween this year.
      From dinners to exclusive events, there are an array of options to choose from as the city is packed with events for a fang-tastic time on during the week.
      So, if you’re ready for things to get a little spooky this weekend?
      Here’s eight ways you can celebrate spooky season in Dubai.
      Adaline for Halloween

      Dubai’s newly opened contemporary supper club in the heart of DIFC, reveals the theme for its highly anticipated Halloween celebration. This year marks the inaugural Adaline Halloween Ball, taking place on Wednesday, October 30, transforming the venue into an evening of lavish mystery and retro-gothic touches, with live music lasting late into the night. Guests are invited to dress in sophisticated black-tie attire with a retro-gothic twist, setting the tone for a night of bold style and enchanting extravagance. Adaline’s Halloween Ball promises an unforgettable celebration, full of fun, intrigue, and surprises.
      For more information visit adaline-restaurants.com
      TATEL for Halloween

      One of Dubai’s favourite new Spanish hotspot, TATEL Dubai is bringing an incredible themed Halloween dinner experience. It’s complete with live entertainment, incredibly reimagined Spanish dishes, as well as unlimited drink packages featuring uniquely spooky cocktails. It takes place on Thursday, October 31, from 9pm to 11pm. The soft beverages package is priced at Dhs375 per person, the in-house package is priced at Dhs475 per person and the premium package with champagne is priced at Dhs725 per person.
      For more information visit tatelrestaurants.com
      Voyage by Amelia for Halloween

      Celebrate at Voyage by Amelia, the exclusive speakeasy on the second floor of Amelia Lounge. With a theme of “A Spy on the Dance Floor,” expect an evening brimming with suspense, sophistication, and style. Set against the chic backdrop of Amelia Lounge at Address Sky View, the celebration kicks off at 11 pm on October 31st and keeps the revelry going until the early hours. The resident DJ Cimeo will spin electrifying beats while the mixologists shake up signature Halloween cocktails that will tantalise your senses. This is not just a party; it’s a clandestine experience where every sip and sound invites you deeper into the mystery. Located at Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, this experience is not one to be missed out on.
      For more information visit amelialounge.com
      RASPOUTINE for Halloween

      Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of RASPOUTINE Dubai at the Geisha soirée. DJ Djulco directly from Raspoutine Paris, this Halloween event guarantees an unforgettable night. A captivating Geisha and Samurai will greet Dubai’s most discerning guests, where the venue is fully reimagined to captivate the evening’s theme. As the night awakens, a welcome Halloween cocktail sets the tone for a night of freakishly exquisite dining. The theme focuses on Geisha & Samurai-inspired attire The set menu is priced at Dhs650 per person and includes starters, mains, sides and dessert and a halloween welcome cocktail. Exclusively open on Thursday October 31, RASPOUTINE serves dinner at 9 pm, continuing on the with party until 3am.
      For more information visit raspoutine.com
      La Niña for Halloween

      Vampires of the Opera will draw you into a night where dark elegance blends with the mysterious allure. Haunting live performances accompany a gourmet dinner, while a special DJ set curates an irresistible atmosphere. Expect an evening of wickedly refined beauty, where every shadow tempts you to surrender to the night. Located in the heart of DIFC
      For more information visit laninarstaurant.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kendalljenner More

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      Unforgettable experiences await at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      9 seconds ago

      In PARTNERSHIP: Nestled amidst the golden dunes of Dubai lies Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa – your gateway to a transformative escape. This haven of tranquility boasts 42 exquisite villas, each a private sanctuary with breathtaking desert views and a refreshing plunge pool. Indulge in unparalleled luxury as you redefine relaxation in this elegant setting.

      Embrace the Authentic Arabian Spirit

      Al Maha goes beyond luxurious accommodations. Here, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of Arabian culture. Expertly guided activities like camel treks, falconry displays, and nature walks unveil the secrets of the desert. Explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, a haven for indigenous wildlife, and reconnect with nature’s majesty.

      Tailored Indulgence: Daycation Packages for Every Desire

      For a taste of paradise, consider Al Maha’s exclusive daycation packages. The Pool Package allows you to unwind in the resort’s breathtaking infinity pool, a picture-perfect oasis amidst the desert landscape. This package includes full-day access to the pool, entry to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, use of the Timeless Spa facilities, and a delectable three-course à la carte lunch paired with refreshing beverages. (Pool package for Dhs575 per person).

      Craving a touch of pampering? The Spa Indulgence Package elevates your experience. In addition to all the benefits of the Pool Package, you’ll be treated to a rejuvenating 60-minute therapeutic massage at the serene Timeless Spa. Let go of your worries and embrace complete relaxation in this peaceful desert sanctuary. (Spa Indulgence for Dhs900 per person).

      UAE Residents: A Special Invitation to Paradise

      Al Maha extends a special welcome to UAE residents with an irresistible offer. Enjoy a luxurious stay complete with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all complemented by a rejuvenating 30-minute spa treatment. Enhance your getaway with early check-in and late check-out privileges, along with a delightful 15% discount on your stay.

      Plan Your Transformative Escape Today

      Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, offers more than just a stay; it’s a transformative experience. Whether you seek adventure in the desert, relaxation by the pool, or pampering at the spa, Al Maha caters to every desire.
      For more information, visit Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa More

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      How I got my job as… Director of Private Lifestyle at this Travel Management Platform

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      This week, we speak to Daisy Merchant, Director of Private Lifestyle at Quintessentially Middle East. It’s a premier luxury lifestyle management service renowned for its personalised approach and extensive global network.
      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
      With nearly two decades of experience, Merchant has been instrumental in delivering bespoke experiences and exceptional service to the -high-net-worth and Ultra High Net-worth Community.
      As the Director of Private Lifestyle, Daisy oversees a team of over 30 lifestyle managers and travel specialists. Her role involves initial engagement with prospective members, identifying their unique lifestyle needs, and recommending the most suitable membership tiers
      Known for her meticulous approach, Emirates Woman sat down to speak with her on how it all began.

      What was your favourite subject at school?
      I always gravitated towards literature. Reading allowed me to explore different perspectives, inspiring my passion for experiences that transport and enrich, which is core to what I do today.
      What was your first job?
      My first role was with Silverjet, a British business-class airline. Moving up to the role of Ambassador there gave me early exposure to luxury service and networking, which shaped my career path and commitment to excellence.”
      What brought you to Dubai?
      Dubai’s energy is unlike anywhere else. It’s a place where luxury and innovation flourish, making it ideal for the kind of work I do. I was excited to bring my expertise to this vibrant market and expand our lifestyle offerings in the region.

      What inspired you to enter the travel industry and work as Director of Private Lifestyle?
      I’ve always felt drawn to experiences that add depth and joy to daily life. Working here, I can bring that vision to life every day by offering women in the region a uniquely tailored approach to luxury lifestyle management.
      Talk us through the concept.
      Our company focuses on offering a truly bespoke service that’s both discreet and enriching. From exclusive travel arrangements to wellness and educational consultancy, we aim to craft life-enhancing experiences that meet each member’s unique needs.
      What are the key elements of your role as the Director of Private Lifestyle ?
      As Director of Private Lifestyle, I oversee a team of 30+ lifestyle managers who work tirelessly to provide exceptional service, whether arranging private events, managing travel plans, or assisting with real estate. We’re committed to ensuring every interaction feels effortless yet impactful. I oversee the onboarding of new members. Having to understand their requirements and ensure they join on the right tier and are matched with the perfect Lifestyle Manager for them. Networking is a big part of my role which involves a lot of client meetings and and introductions
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      My day revolves around member “and prospective member” engagement and coordinating with our lifestyle managers, “marketing and benefit team”.Whether it’s a high-stakes last-minute request or a finely curated travel itinerary, each day is different but always focused on exceeding expectations.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Have a true passion for helping others and be highly attuned to people’s needs. Building relationships and a trusted network are essential for succeeding in a luxury lifestyle career.
      Tell us more about the services offered.
      We provide a full spectrum of services, from personal concierge support and event management to arranging private, bespoke travel experiences. Our team prides itself on anticipating needs, simplifying the complexities of daily life, and delivering transformative moments.
      What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
      Put your client’s needs first, always. It may sound straightforward, but that focus builds lasting relationships and ensures each member’s experience is consistently exceptional.
      And what is the worst?
      That luxury service should be predictable. Real luxury is about personalisation, so for us, there’s no ‘formula.’ Every member deserves a distinct experience.
      What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome Director of Private Lifestyle?
      During the pandemic, it was a challenge to adapt our services to new limitations while maintaining our standards. However, it led to creative solutions that strengthened our resilience and innovation.

      What’s your future aspiration for the brand?
      My goal is to expand our footprint across the Middle East and enhance our offerings by continually adapting to what women value most in luxury today: privacy, personalisation, and elevated experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More