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    Meet the first Miss Lebanon crowned since 2018

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    The first Miss Lebanon has been crowned since 2018.
    The spectacle was held at the Forum de Beyrouth in Lebanon’s capital of Beirut where Yasmina Zaytoun took home the crown of Miss Lebanon 2022.
    It was the first time in nearly four years the pageant had taken place. Maya Reaidy, who was crowned Miss Lebanon in 2018, passed on the title to journalism student Zaytoun at the showcase.

    Seventeen contestants including Zaytoun were competing for the coveted prize to be crowned Miss Lebanon 2022 which included prize money of $100,000 and the opportunity to go on to represent Lebanon at the global Miss Universe and Miss World pageants.
    The newly crowned Miss Lebanon wore a stunning bright pink gown by Lebanese couturier Georges Hobeika, which was recently showcased at Paris Haute Couture Week.
    The dazzling showcase was aptly renamed ‘We Miss Lebanon 2022’ as a tribute to the country as a whole following the trials and tribulations the nation has been through over the last few years including the devastating Beirut Blast and the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Despite being on hold for four years, the event delivered in glamour and pageantry with performances from pop star Nancy Ajram and a star-studded judging panel which included Dubai-based entrepreneur Karen Wazen; Miss World 2022 Karolina Bielawska; Miss Lebanon 1993, Samaya Chedrawi; TV host Hilda Khalife; and more.
    Zaytoun, who is from the village of Kfarchouba in southern Lebanon, is currently a student at Notre Dame University — Louaize.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Miss Lebanon Instagram More

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    In pics: Oman’s Sultan and wife attend Crown Prince’s military graduation

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    The Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, and his wife Sayyida Ahad bint Abdulla bin Hamad Al Busaidiyah proudly watched on as their son, Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, the Crown Prince of Oman, graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK over the weekend.
    As a guest of honour at the ceremony, Sultan Haitham inspected the line of graduates, which included his son and also his nephew.

    In official photographs shared on the Oman Royal Family Instagram account, the Crown Prince had a huge smile on his face as his father passed by him in the line-up.
    Other portraits were also shared of Sultan Haitham, Sayyida Ahad bint Abdulla, Crown Prince Theyazin and his brother, Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said who was also in attendance.
    For the ceremony, Sayyida Ahad bint Abdulla wore a stunning blue abaya and shayla set by Omani designer Amal Al Raisi.

    The Crown Prince of Oman was one of 103 graduates from Sandhurst and was one of nine international cadets who underwent the rigorous eight-week training course.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Oman Royal Family Instagram  More

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    This UAE airline has just ranked in the top five world’s best

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    While all airlines around the globe have the same goal, to get passengers from destination A to destination B, some give travellers a far more exceptional experience than many can offer.
    To keep travellers informed, AirlineRatings.com has unveiled its top airlines for 2022 and one UAE airline has ranked in the top five.
    Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad Airways ranked number three on the list, with fellow GCC airline Qatar Airways being named Airline of the Year 2022.
    Per the airline website, in order to be named a top airline, they “must achieve a seven-star safety rating and demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort”.
    According to AirlineRatings.com, Qatar Airways was awarded the prestigious top spot due to “its cabin innovation, passenger service, and its commitment to continue to operate throughout the COVID pandemic”.
    Dubai-based airline Emirates also ranked in the top 20 in position 16.
    See the full list of the top 20 airlines below:

    Qatar Airways
    Air New Zealand
    Etihad Airways
    Korean Air
    Singapore Airlines
    Qantas
    Virgin Australia
    EVA Air
    Turkish Airlines
    All Nippon Airways
    Cathay Pacific Airways
    Virgin Atlantic
    Japan Air Lines
    JetBlue
    Finnair
    Emirates
    Hawaiian
    Air France/KLM
    Alaska Airlines
    British Airways

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Kylie Jenner Instagram More

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    13 of the best luxury pool days in Dubai

    As we continue to power through the scorching summer in the UAE, cooling off is always a top priority.
    What better way to do that than a luxe pool day? And, let’s face it, there is no shortage of venues to relax and unwind in Dubai.
    To ensure you know where to book ASAP, take a look at the Emirates Woman editor-approved guide to all the must-visit pool days in Dubai.
    SĀN Beach Club

    For a bohemian beachside getaway, Dubai’s newly opened SĀN Beach is all set to offer a new culinary experience, a retreat getaway and a luxe menu from breakfast to sundowners. With minimalistic interiors, guests can lay back and witness the pristine backdrop of Dubai’s skyline. Immersed in nature, this soul retreat is also home to a culinary new experience that caters to all with a delectable menu. To keep guests entertained throughout, weekend performances by the venue’s own resident band and DJs will also take place.
    SAN at The Club, Palm West Beach, Monday to Thursday 9am to 12am, Friday to Sunday 9am to 1am. sanbeachdubai.com. 
    Nikki Beach

    Take a break from the city, this refined beach club with refined aesthetics is inviting guests to experience the cabana-style beds and sun loungers. With a sophisticated blue and white theme, visitors are transported to the heart of Greece. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, prices start from Dhs200 with Dhs100 redeemable on F&B and the rest of the week is priced at Dhs300 with Dhs200 redeemable on F&B for the single sun loungers. The opium beds start at a Dhs1,000 minimum spend on weekdays and Dhs2,000 on weekends.
    Nikki Beach Dubai, Pearl Jumeira, open daily 11am to 8pm. dubai.nikkibeach.com
    W Dubai, The Palm

    Wet Deck at W The Palm is a playful pool day where you’re bound to have the best time with your friends. Guests have access to the private beach with signature cocktails to soak up the sun. For the ultimate escape, this relaxing pool day comes with a DJ spinning to some of your favourite tunes. The weekday daycation packages are priced are Dhs584 for two with Dhs200 redeemable on F&B and Dhs784 on weekends.
    Wet Deck, W The Palm, open daily 10am to 9pm. wetdeckdubai.com. 
    Summersalt Beach Club

    With a mix of fusion cuisine and the pristine beach, guests can unwind throughout the day at Summersalt Beach Club. The weekday pass is priced at Dhs390 per person and Dhs490 per person on weekends. To upgrade, guests can opt for the in-house option for Dhs200 per adult with beach and pool access, including water, sunbeds and shower amenities.
    Summersalt Beach Club, Jumeirah Al Naseem, open daily 12:30pm to 10pm. jumeirah.com. 
    Bulgari Yacht Club

    Escape for the weekend at Bulgari’s first-ever yacht club, where you’ll overlook a private 46-boat harbour. Priced at Dhs800 on weekdays and Dhs1500 on weekends for a pool cabana, guests will get 50 per cent back on F&B.
    Bulgari Yacht Club, Jumeirah Bay, open 9am to sunset. bulgarihotels.com. 
    AURA Sky Pool

    This world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool provides a one-of-a-kind relaxing experience. The morning session starts at Dhs225; the afternoon starts from Dhs250; and the evening experience starts from Dhs200. For those Instagram-worthy moments, this chic venue offers a new backdrop with every swim. The evening experience is complemented by entertainment acts and a live DJ.
    AURA Sky Pool, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, 50th Floor, open Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 12am. auraskypool.com.
    Cove Beach

    This luxe spot offers an all-day menu with day beds, single beds and cabanas featuring their own jacuzzi. All guests are provided with complimentary towels and access to the beach until sunset. Weekdays are priced at Dhs200 per person with Dhs100 redeemable on F&B and Dhs300 per person on weekends and Dhs150 redeemable on F&B.
    Cove Beach, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Island, open 10am to sunset. covebeach.com. 
    Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa

    This expansive property ensures 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.
    Sofitel The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, open 8am to 8pm. sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com
    Drift Beach

    This sophisticated escape has its very own beach club with sun loungers, VIP beds, Island beds and beach cabanas. Guests can enjoy this award-winning beachfront destination known for its understated elegance and overall aesthetics. During the pool day, visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes and a cocktail menu at the Restaurant and Bar. The sun loungers start at Dhs200 on weekdays for a locker and a still bottle of water and Dhs250 on weekends.
    DRIFT Beach, One & Only Royal Mirage, open 10am to 7pm. driftbeachdubai.com
    Anantara The Palm

    This Thai-inspired getaway offers a lazy pool day with unending views of the Arabian Gulf. Priced at Dhs270, the amount is fully redeemable on F&B at all of the restaurants within the resort, with beach lovers having the opportunity to pull up a shaded lounger. The deal is valid from Sunday to Thursday.
    Anantara The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, open 10:30am to 8pm. dubai-palm.anantara.com
    SAL at Burj Al Arab

    Situated at one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, this sophisticated pool and beach experience includes two pools which are the freshwater pool and the infinity pool. This adult-only escape sets the tone for relaxing and unwinding right above the sea. The pool day is priced at Dhs800 with Dhs400 redeemable on F&B.
    SAL, Burj Al Arab, 10am to 7pm. jumeirah.com
    Dip Pool Bar

    For a rejuvenating day by the pool, UAE residents and tourists can lay back at Dip Pool Bar in The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm with a selection of pool-side bites. With remarkable views of the Dubai skyline and the Arabian Gulf, this day package is certainly not one to miss out on. The weekend packages are priced at Dhs350 per person with Dhs150 redeemable on F&B and the weekday packages are for Dhs250 with Dhs100 redeemable on F&B.
    Dip Pool Bar, St Regis Dubai, The Palm, open 8am to 7pm. mariott.com. 
    Twiggy by La Cantine

    Exuding opulence and luxury, Twiggy by La Cantine instantly transports you to the Côte d’Azur in the heart of the Mediterranean all day, every day. With Provence-inspired decor with pastel and cream hues and touches of rattan, soak up the sun in style on one of the beach club’s many loungers or for those who prefer more privacy, opt for one of the three cabanas at Twiggy. Perfect for bigger groups, the cabanas – Coco Cabana, Bardot Cabana and Grace Cabana – comfortably seat six to 12 people, where you can enjoy the day, lounging, swimming, chatting and indulging in the finest cuisine all day, until the sun sets. Prices for loungers start from Dhs250.
    Twiggy by La Cantine, Park Hyatt Dubai Creek Harbour, open 11am to sunset. twiggy.ae. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @sal_burjalarab More

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    This latest release from Technogym is every cyclist’s dream

    Lifestyle

    by Hermione Edwards
    1 minute ago

    Technogym’s latest release is one that all keen cyclists need to know about.
    From a 22-inch screen that instantly transports you to the middle of the South of France to all your favoured cycling apps in one place, Technogym Ride is a groundbreaking piece of workout equipment.
    The screen
    If your dream cycling locations range from Alpe D’Huez or the Icelandic highlands, you’re in for a treat. Designed to simulate an outdoor cycling experience and replicate real-world routes and inclines, the 22-inch screen transports the modern-day cyclist into an immersive experience through a single log-in, no installation or setup hassles.
    The apps
    Technogym Ride is the first of its kind to offer direct access to cyclists’ most-loved apps, ranging from Zwift, Strava, ROUVY, TrainingPeaks, Kinomap and Bkool or for a change of pace delve into the entertainment apps such as Netflix or Eurosport.
    Technogym is also offering a complete range of training programs and experiences that are designed to improve your performance whether that is indoors or outdoors, as well as challenging you to reach proper power zones.
    Explore the exclusive Technogym Neuromuscular Training programs developed by the Technogym Research Centre that strive to improve metabolic and neuromuscular qualities.
    The bike
    Equipped with a real gearbox the bike itself gives you an incredibly realistic cycling feeling compared to your outdoor bike, with a reaction time: from 0 to 1000 watts in half a second. Ideal for at-home training thanks to the V-shaped design, suiting sizes from 50 to 58+. The pedals, which are adjustable and can be set into three positions allow the user to easily access the various training modes (constant power, incline, FTP percentages) and positions of use.
    For more information visit technogym..com.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    #Dubai on TikTok garners the most views globally, new study finds

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    Those who reside in Dubai know it’s a remarkable city, but it appears the whole world knows it, too.
    According to a new TikTok study, videos using the hashtag ‘Dubai’ will garner the most views on the popular social media app.
    In research conducted by Bounce, a luggage storage company, it found that Dubai topped the list of the most sought-after destinations on TikTok beating the likes of global hubs including New York City and London.
    Overall, it was found that #Dubai accumulated 81.8 billion views on the video sharing app, meanwhile, New York City had 59.5 billion views and London 36.8 billion views.
    Bounce said in a statement that “Dubai has become one of the most sought-after destinations for holidaymakers who want to soak up the sun in style”.
    “This ultra-modern city is home to some of the world’s most astounding architecture, such as the tallest building on Earth, the Burj Khalifa,” they added.
    While for the last two years the travel and tourism industry has been turned on its head, the UAE and Dubai has weathered the storm well, with tourist statistics returning to pre-pandemic numbers this year.
    From January to May 2022, Dubai welcomed over 6.17 million overnight visitors and this is surely only set to grow as we head into the cooler months in the latter of 2022.
    So, if you’re thinking about booking a trip to Dubai or you already reside here, make sure you hashtag Dubai when documenting your trip on TikTok.
    See some of Emirates Woman‘s top TikTok videos from around Dubai.
    Museum of the Future

    @emirateswoman Throwback to September 2021’s cover shoot for ‘The Icon Issue’ with @fendi. #emirateswoman #uae #museumofthefuture ♬ original sound – Emirates Woman

    URLA restaurant, Downtown Dubai

    @emirateswoman Views, vibe & amazing food – URLA at the Address Downtown is a must-visit. #emirateswoman #dubai #mydubai #dubaitiktok ♬ original sound – Sara Karrit

    Shanghai Me, DIFC

    @emirateswoman You need to have Shanghai Me DIFC on your must-try Dubai restaurant list. #emirateswoman #uae #dubai #dubaitiktok ♬ original sound – Princess Corpuz – cess

    SAN Beach Club, Palm West Beach

    @emirateswoman Inside the @Valentino takeover of San beach club in #Dubai. #emirateswoman ♬ original sound – 🖤

    AURA Sky Pool

    @emirateswoman We visited the gorgeous AURA skypool lounge, the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool. #fyp #dubai #skypool #views #infinitypool ♬ original sound – Rayna Tours

    Address Beach Resort

    @emirateswoman This #Dubai ♬ original sound – Adam

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images/Media: Supplied, Feature Image: @noufaltamiimi Instagram More

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    The UAE retains its highest-ever ranking on world’s most powerful passport list

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    The UAE has retained its highest-ever ranking on the world’s most powerful passport list.
    The Henley Passport Index recently published its 2022 findings, outlining the strongest passports worldwide. The findings are based on the number of destinations the passport holder can travel to visa-free.
    In the report, the UAE was declared a “pandemic winner” with the nation continuing to go from strength to strength despite the “turmoil” COVID-19 had caused globally. The nation’s passport received the number 15 ranking last year and has managed to retain its spot in 2022.
    “Throughout the turmoil of the past two years, one thing has remained constant: the growing strength of the UAE passport, which now sits at 15th place on the ranking, with a visa-free or visa-on-arrival score of 176,” the report states.
    “Over the past decade, the country has made unparalleled gains as the biggest climber on the index — in 2012, it sat at 64th place on the rankings, with a score of just 106.”
    The report has also concluded the UAE has the strongest passport in the GCC and the entire Arab region.
    Just 10 years ago, the UAE’s passport ranked number 64 overall and has now jumped 49 places.
    The top 15 most powerful passports in the world

    Japan
    Singapore, South Korea
    Germany, Spain
    Finland, Italy, Luxembourg
    Denmark, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden
    France, Ireland, Portugal, UK
    Belgium, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, US
    Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Greece, Malta
    Hungary
    Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia
    Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia
    Iceland
    Malaysia
    Lichtenstein
    UAE, Cyprus

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Getty More

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    The Real Housewives of Dubai: Stars respond to criticism surrounding the show

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    After months of anticipation, The Real Housewives of Dubai officially premiered back in June.
    Starring six Dubai-based women – Caroline Stanbury; beauty entrepreneur Caroline Brooks; lifestyle content creator Nina Ali; Dubai’s first black supermodel Chanel Ayan; fashion designer Lesa Milan; and Emirati-Bahraini entrepreneur Sara Al Madani – the reality show explores their lives in the emirate, growing businesses, romantic lives and catty drama.
    While there were many fans eagerly awaiting the first international rendition of the franchise produced by Bravo, the show has sparked a slew of controversy, with many criticising it saying it “does not represent Dubai”.
    However, now the show has been on the air for over six weeks, two of the show’s main protagonists, Sara Al Madani and Nina Ali, responded to the backlash in an exclusive interview with Emirates Woman, clarifying exactly what The Real Housewives of Dubai is meant to represent.

    Al Madani believes a lot of the initial criticism came from many not understanding the show’s roots. “A lot of people didn’t understand that this is a franchise name, while another group of people thought how this is a representation of how women are a housewife in Dubai,” she said, adding that’s she’s never claimed to be representing anyone else but herself.
    “There are numerous shades of the rainbow and similarly different types of Emirati women, hence, I cannot represent them or my country, I am simply representing myself,” she continued.
    However, despite the controversy, Al Madani does hope she can empower other women to “break the mould”.
    “I want women not to be controlled of what others would think of them, or seek validation or meet their expectation from others,” she said. “I want to break the mould for a woman to be anything and everything she wants.”

    Meanwhile, Ali echoed a similar sentiment as her co-star when it came to the show’s critics, highlighting some may have simply taken the name the ‘Real Housewives’ too literally. Ali socially known as Lipstick Mommy on Instagram, referred to herself as a ‘Bravo-holic’ as she first started watching the franchise in 2006, thereby starring on the show.
    “This title simply comes from a franchise that has been around for over 18 years,” she said. “It’s not a show portraying the typical housewife that sits at home and cooks, it’s about women that run their own businesses.”
    After being on the air for a few weeks now, Ali believes people are now beginning to “understand” what the show is actually about.
    “It represents Dubai being a melting pot of cultures,” she said. “Overall, it’s a fun reality entertainment show, it’s now a documentary.”
    The Real Housewives of Dubai is currently streaming on OSN. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More