lifestyle and culture

With summer slowly dawning upon us, there’s nothing like a relaxing day by the pool or the beach to unwind with friends, family, or even alone.From redeemable food and beverages vouchers to the picturesque views of Dubai’s skyline, Emirates Woman has gathered an edit of the most stylish venues with their pool offerings in Dubai.Fairmont The PalmThis luxury haven located on Palm Jumeirah is the perfect luxurious family resort with daycations catering to everyone. This season, the daycation is priced at Dhs150 per person on weekdays and Dhs250 per person on weekends, with Dhs150 redeemable on food and beverages and discounts for the kids. You can choose from one of the eight temperature-controlled pools or soak in some sun on the private white sandy beach. Open from 8am to 7pm daily, you can brace yourselves for some excitement this season.For more information visit Fairmont.comAddress DowntownAll you need to unwind is a refreshing dip in the pool at Address Downtown with exciting deals from April 1 until September 30, 2021. From Sunday to Thursday, for Dhs150 per person on weekdays and for Dhs200 per person on weekends with Dhs150 redeemable on weekends and Dhs100 redeemable on weekdays for anything F&B at The Pool Lounge.For more information visit addresshotels.comSofitel Dubai The ObeliskKnown for the hotel’s timeless elegance and Egyptian heritage, this iconic building showcases picturesque views of Dubai’s beautiful skyline, guests can lay back and unwind at Soleil Pool & Lounge which offers an array of tantalizing flavours and signature cocktails for guests to dive right in. Packages start at Dhs175 per adult on weekdays with Dhs75 redeemable on food and beverages and Dhs200 on weekends with an advanced booking requires. During Ramadan, the timings are from 10am to 1pm.For more information visit sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.comLa Ville Hotel & SuitesWhile taking in the serenity that the property has to offer, guests can visit for the day and enjoy the rooftop infinity pool at La Villa Hotel & Suites in City Walk, where they can relax while lounging at the LookUp Rooftop Bar. Open from 7am to 6pm, the entrance is priced from Dhs100 and includes an F&B credit for Dhs50 with the weekend entrance from Dhs150 with F&B credit of Dhs100 with a 50 per cent discount for children aged 6 to 12 years.For more information visit livelaville.comCaesars PalaceWith this luxurious property offering an incredible daycation package, guests can relax in the pristine surrounding of Neptune Pool & Bar and soak up the rays of the beautiful Dubai, sun while indulging in some refreshing poolside beverages. To cater to your tastebuds you can relish a delicious two-course lunch menu at the internationally acclaimed Gordan Ramsay’s Hells Kitchen restaurant which features signature dishes. It takes place every week from Sunday to Wednesdays, with lunch from 12pm to 3pm including pool access from 10am to 7pm, priced at Dhs280 per adult and Dhs150 per child, as it’s located at Bluewaters Dubai.For more information visit caesars.comConrad DubaiIf you’re looking for something relaxing with the ladies, Conrad Dubai has the ultimate daycation package every Wednesday, where ladies can unwind at Bliss 6 with a natural environment of greenery. In addition, a complimentary spa offers a 60-minute facial with a 30-minute back and shoulder massage every Wednesday from 8am to midnight at Dhs375 per person, located on Sheikh Zayed Road, this deal is not one to miss.For more information visit Hilton.comAtlantis, The PalmDiscover a world away from the usual with entertainment-fueled activities and thrilling attractions, being the ultimate holiday destination for thrill-seekers and foodies, sun lovers have a chance to lounge at the pools at this daycation venue as they enjoy unending views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina skyline. From delectable bites to a relaxed ambience, guests pay Dhs150 on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday from 10am to 7pm which is redeemable on F&B and on Fridays and public holidays from 10am to 7pm for Dhs300 with Dhs200 redeemable on F&B at White Beach.For more information visit atlantis.comVida Emirates HillsWhile taking in the spectacular views of Dubai, you witness the contemporary and stylish details of this venue with every detail thoughtfully taken care of. From a glistening infinity pool to a fully redeemable F&B voucher received from the entrance fee, you’re bound to have a good time here. Priced at Dhs120, it’s open from 7am to 7pm and is located at The Hills, Emirates Hills.For more information visit vidahotels.comRadisson RED Dubai Silicon OasisWith a chic rooftop bar and pool, space is packed with personality and style to have a relaxing lunch. If you spend Dhs100 on food and beverages anywhere in the hotel and you get access to the rooftop pool at Red Roof free of charge with a pet-friendly area at the OUIBar & Terrace or you can tuck into snacks as you lounge. Open from 9am to midnight, at Silicon Oasis Dubai to lounge in style.For more information visit Radisson.comAnantara The Palm Dubai ResortWith Thai-inspired architecture at this cosmopolitan resort, you can float on water and unwind with the views of the Arabian Gulf, as you float on water with this venue located just off the coast of Dubai. Priced at Dhs270, the amount is fully redeemable at this Asian delight, with beach lovers having the opportunity to pull up a shaded lounger.For more information visit dubai-palm.anantara.comAzure BeachLocated by the pristine waters at Rixos Premium Dubai in JBR, entrance is priced at Dhs300 from Sunday to Thursday with Dhs100 redeemable on F&B and Dhs400 on weekends with Dhs150 redeemable on F&B making it the perfect city escape to good times with shimmering blue waters and heavenly white sands.For more information visit azure-beach.comBvlgari Yacht ClubBeing the first every yacht club with the charm of a Mediterranean atmosphere, this exclusive destination overlooks a 46-boat harbour where guests can enjoy white loungers and relaxing waters for Dhs200 on weekdays and Dhs500 on weekends while they also lie by the outdoor pool and bar and feast on an array of authentic Italian delights.For more information visit bulgarihotels.comSofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & SpaAt the luxury five star resort located on the palm, guests can enjoy a rejuvenating escape amongst the lush greenery on the idyllic shores with a touch of French elegance. Priced at Dhs150 on weekdays and Dhs200 on weekends, it’s the perfect spot to spend with your loved ones with a variety of pool options available.For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-thepalm.comDRIFT BeachLocated at the regal One&Only Royal Mirage, this picturesque venue offers an array of luxury cabanas to make you feel like a VIP on the venue which is set on a kilometre of private beach. The entrance fee starts at Dhs150 on weekdays and Dhs200 on weekends, as you relish on delicious dishes and indulge in an array of exquisite drinks from the Provençal restaurant.For more information visit driftbeachdubai.comRiva BeachIf you’re looking for a sun-kissed day for the whole family to enjoy, this iconic venue located at the Palm Jumeirah offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf with a vibrant place to unwind, featuring temperature-controlled swimming pools and a contemporary haven with the relaxing beach starting at Dhs55 on weekedays and Dhs90 on weekends.For more information visit riva-beach.comAll the social distance measures have been followed at the above-mentioned locations. However, timings for each venue might vary due to the Holy month of Ramadan. Please note these pool day packages might not be available during public holidays and must be checked with the venue prior to booking.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram: Feature Image: @fairmontthepalm Instagram More

From handmade hampers to pre-designed luxury Eid boxes, gifting your loved ones with a set of deliciously wrapped goodies is sure to make the occasion even more special.Jones The GrocerIf you’re looking for a luxe gourmet hamper for the entire family to enjoy, this extraordinary ‘Never-Ending Pleasures’ package is the ideal foodie gift box that includes an array of delicious assortments including camembert le fin normand, Meredith marinated goat cheese, gracious tahibi, jones truffle dijonaisse and much more at Dhs999 available on their website.For more information visit jonesthegrocer.comSugargram With a wonderful selection of bitesize cupcakes, this limited edition Eid box has an array of delicious treats curated especially for the occasion and is priced at Dhs125. Between May 11 to 15, 2021, this collectable art can be inhaled as treats and is perfect whether you are hosting, attending a gathering or simply looking to deliver a memorable package that can simply be placed through Deliveroo.BateelThis impressive colourful and contemporary gift set features a lunar design on the box and is a truly unique gift to share with friends, family and colleagues. Filled with Bateel organic gourmet dates, the Luna collection can make a healthy gift this Ramadan as it provides an instant push of energy to instantly provide that boost. The medium gift packaging is priced at Dhs170 with assorted dates.For more information visit bateel.com Feel Good Tea Co.If you’re on the hunt for an unconventional package, this online tea company has launched a special Eid gift box collection for gifting your loved ones. The ‘Discovery Box’ priced at Dhs129 has a unique set of 15 flavours included from Tumeric Glow to Moroccan Mint and The ‘Magic Box’ has 18 different sets of high-grade teas such as Ocean Blue with bags made from biodegradable corn fibre.For more information visit thefeelgoodtea.co/LOTSA! Lazy Cake Known for making an array of delectable lazy cakes, this year for Eid Al Fitr, reminiscent of old traditions in the UAE, this box of goodness can bring joy to any gathering. With 36 slices of delicious lazy cakes, there’s a selection of bite-sized chocolate fudge flavours like Lotus Fudge, Nutella and Hazelnut Crunch priced at Dhs150 along with Dhs39 for a mini box, with orders which can be placed through any of the Cloud restaurants or platforms such as Deliveroo, Zomato, Talabat and Careem.NRTC Fresh If you’re looking for sumptuous and healthy, treat you and your loved ones to a selection of elegantly plated juicy fruits from NRTC Fresh, which is one of the UAE’s leading delivery platforms of fresh fruits and vegetables. From gardened fruits such as kiwis, dragon fruit, blueberries, mango and more, you can serve up to 15 family members during the Eid celebrations. This enchanted Eid platter from NRTC Fresh is priced at Dhs347. For more information visit nrtcfresh.com LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW There’s nothing like a box filled with delicious liquorice confectionary giving your loved ones a one-of-a-kind experience. Presented in a meaningful heart-shaped package, a host of exquisite flavours are produced by this Danish confectionary with a winning combination of taste sensations. From salty liquorice in caramelised white chocolate to popular coated additions, this box makes a wonderful addition when celebrating Eid. The love Selection Box priced at Dhs180 and the Selection Box priced at Dhs170 is available at the flagship store in The Dubai Mall and online on Deliveroo.For more information visit lakridsbybulow.comGodiva Celebrate this special occasion with Godiva, as you gift this wide assortment of chocolates enclosed within the luscious 40 pieces ultimate box wrapped in a gold package featuring an array of biscuits and their best chocolates for Dhs375. From hazelnut bars to crispy biscuits topped with the finest bits from Godiva, the brand is an ode to fine Belgian craftsmanship.For more information visit godivauae.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Unsplash, Image by @evangelinas_photography More

With increasing COVID-19 vaccine rates around the world, many countries are beginning to open up with minimal requirements to enter.As the UAE authorities have advised that it’s best to travel with both shots of the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s always better to ensure the destination requirements before hopping on a flight to your chosen place of visit.For the upcoming Eid Al Fitr long weekend, as travelling restrictions might have eased worldwide, taking a break to a not so far away haven might just be the perfect way to unwind this year.Emirates Woman has curated a guide of places to keep close on your travel radar as they have less than six hours of travel time.ArmeniaWith lost-cost airline tickets from flydubai, you can visit Armenia with a short three-hour flight from Dubai to Yerevan. It’s the ideal time to visit as public attractions including shops and cafes have recently opened. Travellers will be required to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test issue no more than 72 hours prior to arrival, making it a budget-friendly destination with museums and memories that delve into the country’s history.CyprusPassengers from the UAE can now travel to Cyprus while being quarantine-free under the latest rules. As part of the green countries list, the mentioned ones are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test, while the orange countries must secure one 72 hours before travel, with UAE being on the red list to present once both 72 hours before departure and undergo an additional one upon arrival to the island on their expense. In addition, the Cyprus Flight Pass must be completed 24 hours prior to departure.GreeceFrom coastal side resorts to bespoke havens, this island of wonders offers an array of delightful experiences including culinary delights. However, a COVID-19 PCR test will be required at least 24 hours before departing the UAE, with plans to further ease restrictions from Friday, May 14 with visitors to follow all the necessary rulesCroatiaWhile being one of the few European countries permitting entry for travel, Croatia is now welcoming visitors to travel to the county as long as COVID-19 negative certificates have been presented not more than 48 hours old with proof of accommodation to be presented for travel.GeorgiaWith natural scenic beauty being the country’s forte, the ancient city and mountainous views are perfect to visit, as it has opened its doors for tourists flights starting as low as Dhs1,695. Being only three-and-a-half hours away from the UAE, a COVID-19 negative PCR required 72 hours prior to arrival in Georgia or a certificate displaying details of both doses being completed. Note that there’s a current nationwide curfew from 9pm to 5am.MaldivesBeing one of the major must-visit tourist hot spots over the last year, this destination has been opened for passengers since mid-last year. A negative COVID-19 PCR test is required within 96 hours along with a health declaration form within 24 hours of departure.Also read: Travelling abroad? Here’s how to stay up-to-date with global restrictionsSeychellesAs per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, visitors are required to present a negative PCR test taken 72 prior to travel along with a compulsory health declaration form needed before arrival. As per the requirements, quarantine restrictions are not needed upon entry, however, all the necessary rules imposed in the country must be followed amid the pandemic. Besides South Africa, all international tourists are allowed within the country.Sri LankaWith the country reopening for tourism, visitors can travel to Sri Lanka for tourism provided they follow the necessary rules imposed amid the pandemic. Vaccinated visitors and non-vaccinated visitors staying less than five days should pre-purchase one COVID-19 test, while non-vaccinated visitors staying more than five days should pre-purchase two COVID-19 tests. COVID-19 tests are priced at $40 (Dhs147) with a mandatory COVID-19 insurance cover priced at Dhs44 for 30 days. A health declaration form must also be submitted at check-in with compulsory, COVID-19 tests upon arrival with testing not required for vaccinated passengers staying less than five days. However, those staying between five and 10 days should undergo their second test between 24 and 48 hours prior to leaving, and those staying longer than 10 days should undergo a second test somewhere between days 11 and 14.TanzaniaWith relaxed entry measures for tourists since last summer, passengers are required to complete a Traveller Surveillance Form, without requirements to produce a negative COVID-19 test unless required by the airline or country of origin. However, travellers from Tanzania to Dubai must present a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours upon return.TurkeyAs the country has remained opened for international passengers, visitors will be allowed to travel once a negative COVID-19 PCR test has been presented within 72 hours of travel accompanied with a Turkey Entrance Form which can be filled out on the website here. However, exceptions are still there for arrivals from South African and Brazil and all tourists are required to adhere to the country’s restriction measures.To stay up to date, for any of the rules, restrictions and updated quarantined measures for each country, it’s advised to visit the tourism websites for each destination before departure.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @visitgreecegr More

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex marked their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor’s second birthday by sharing a never-before-seen photo of the toddler.On their website for their foundation, Archewell, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shared a black and white photo of their son holding a birthday balloon in what appears to be their garden.Alongside the photo, the couple sent a message encouraging “vaccine equity”.“We have been deeply touched over the past two years to feel the warmth and support for our family in honor of Archie’s birthday,” they said. “Many of you donate to charities on his behalf, and mark the occasion by giving back or doing an act of service—all through the goodness of your hearts.
The Sussexes have also just shared a new photo on the post for Archie’s birthday over at https://t.co/w77h3sYI8I👇🏻 pic.twitter.com/Gt3e8WdOdC
— Omid Scobie (@scobie) May 6, 2021“You raise funds for those who need it most and continue to do so organically and selflessly. We remain incredibly grateful.”The couple encouraged their community to donate $5 which would, in turn, cover the cost of someone in need’s vaccination.“We cannot think of a more resonant way to honor our son’s birthday,” they said. “If we all show up, with compassion for those we both know and don’t know, we can have a profound impact. Even a small contribution can have a ripple effect.”British royal family members also shared past photos of Archie to mark his birthday including the Queen and Prince Charles.The Queen shared a photo of Harry and Meghan with a newborn Archie upon the announcement of his birth in May 2019.Meanwhile, Prince Charles shared a photo of himself, Harry and baby Archie at his christening.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

Are you now fully vaccinated against COVID-19? Well, you can now get free access to a series of gyms in Dubai for a limited time.The Dubai Sports Council launched an initiative earlier this week, which allows those vaccinated with two doses against the COVID-19 virus to train for free in 55 gyms from May 3 to May 13, 2021.The top gyms included on the list are The Warehouse, Fitness 360, The Sevens, Zabeel Ladies Club, Just Play and many more, which is launched under the hashtag #EveryoneResponsibleForEveryone as made in an announcement by the Dubai Sports Council via their social media platforms including Instagram and Twitter.The Dubai Sports Council said, “The pioneering initiative has been launched to encourage members of the community to embrace a physically active lifestyle, through proper guidance from some of the fitness industry’s biggest names.”A COVID-19 vaccination certificate approved by the Ministry of Health and Prevention or the Dubai Health Authority is essential for those to be granted permission to work out for free at any of the partnered gyms and fitness centres.With health and wellness being of utmost priority on everyone’s list especially after the pandemic caused a stir worldwide, staying active has become essential while keeping all the safety guidelines in mind.Overall, the UAE is currently at 10.6 million doses of vaccinated citizens so far with around 54.4 per cent of the population vaccinated, according to the Reuters COVID-19 tracker.So, ensure all the necessary social distancing and sanitization measures are followed as usual to curb the spread of COVID-19.For more information on the initiative visit dubaisc.ae– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Pexels by Andrea Piacquadio More

If you’re looking for your next photo opp for your Instagram feed, we may have just found the place for you.Abu Dhabi’s salt lake located at the Al Wathba reserve which previously had salt flats or ‘sabkha’, has now flourished into natural and man-made lakes, also allowing for wildlife species to thrive.While becoming a major tourist spot, this trending location has been blowing up on Instagram.  It’s also home to an array of interesting places with diverse natural elements such as flamingos and an array of aquatic life.Making it a natural hub to visit, it’s an ideal spot for families and children to be one with nature, with this dreamy spot making it on our list of places to visit in the UAE, while also making it a favourite for BBQs, camping or even just a fascinating selfie spot.With this venue giving us that ultimate wanderlust feel, don’t forget to grab your cameras as this unique sight is definitely one to capture on your trip to this natural alchemy created by nature. This relaxing haven has also been placed on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas making it the first site in the region to receive this recognition, with majestic mountains and natural reserves in its surroundings.In case you’re visiting, do ensure to keep the area clean by avoiding any litter in the vicinity along with removing any chunks of salt from the lake for memories. In addition, a four-wheeler is highly recommended on your visit to this natural wonder for a safe and smooth journey.Located in the Al Wathba region of Abu Dhabi, in the southern area of the city, you can find the exact location on Google Maps here. For more information on the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve you can head to visitabudhabi.ae– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @izzycalera More

Meghan Markle can now officially call herself an author as she has written her first book.Entitled The Bench, the Duchess of Sussex’s first published works is a children’s book and is about the relationship between a father and son. The book was actually inspired by the former Suits actress seeing her husband, Prince Harry, and son, Archie Mountbatten-Windsor together.In an official statement from Meghan herself, the Duchess of Sussex explained that the book stemmed from a poem she wrote Harry on Father’s Day just after Archie was born in May 2019.
Duchess Meghan has written her first children’s book, The Bench, about the special bond between father and son—as seen through a mother’s eyes. It’s out June 8 and is inspired by Prince Harry and Archie’s close relationship. The book is illustrated by Christian Robinson. pic.twitter.com/E2633kGCAA
— Omid Scobie (@scobie) May 4, 2021“That poem became this story,” she said. “Christian [the illustrator] layered in beautiful and ethereal watercolor illustrations that capture the warmth, joy, and comfort of the relationship between fathers and sons from all walks of life; this representation was particularly important to me, and Christian and I worked closely to depict this special bond through an inclusive lens.“My hope is that The Bench resonates with every family, no matter the makeup, as much as it does with mine.”The book is set to be released next month on June 8 and the audiobook version will also be narrated by Meghan.The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to welcome their second child this summer.The news was announced back in February via a spokesperson for the couple, alongside a sweet black and white photo of the pair sitting in the sun together whilst Meghan cradled her small bump.“We can confirm that Archie is going to be a big brother,” the spokesperson for the Sussexes said. “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are overjoyed to be expecting their second child.”In their recent tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey, the couple revealed they are expecting a baby girl.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram / Getty More