lifestyle and culture

The UAE has been honouring some of the worlds most outstanding talents with the coveted golden visa. The programme, which first appeared in 2019, allows the recipient to live in the UAE for up to 10 years, which is renewable every decade.The aim of the programme is to encourage the worlds most innovative and brilliant talents across all fields to become residents in the UAE.Here is a list of some of the celebrities who have been granted the golden visa.Ola FarahatEntrepreneur, content creator and former Emirates Woman cover star Ola Farahat has been granted a golden visa by the UAE. Announcing the news on Instagram, Farhat shared her “honour” at being granted the highly-coveted visa saying “living here has opened up doors to opportunities and dreams”.Chef IzuOne of the most well-known chefs in Dubai’s culinary scene, Chef Izu Ani, was awarded his residency in April this year. The profound chef’s restaurants GAIA and Carine are incredibly popular spots for royals, celebrities and locals. The golden visa means Chef Izu and his exquisite culinary creations will be gracing our palates for years to come.Shah Rukh KhanFrequent visitor and Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan who is also a property owner in Jumeirah has been awarded the golden visa. When he’s not filming in India, the star spends plenty of time in the UAE and is a household name due to his on-screen presence.Cristiano RonaldoThe world-famous footballer, who plays for Juventus, is a regular visitor to the UAE. As one of the most recognizable people on the planet, it’s not surprising that the star boasts 299 million followers on Instagram, making him the most followed person on the social media platform. Ronaldo also shares a close friendship with Dubai’s Crown Prince HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He received his golden visa back in February 2020.Mohamed RamadanIn September last year, Egyptian megastar Mohamed Ramadan received the 10-year residency. His most recent music video for his single ‘Versace Baby’ was filmed in Dubai.Najwa KaramNajwa Karam was the highest-selling Middle Eastern artist in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003 and 2008 which played a part in the Lebanese singer being awarded a golden visa.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Instagram @cristiano, @chefizu More

As the sweltering heat has engulfed the UAE once again, diners can enjoy the benefits of an alfresco with still feeling like they’re sitting outdoors.From Instagram-worthy venues to a luxe ambience, Emirates Woman has curated a list of covered terraces that are all set to host guests throughout the summer months.Lah LahThis edgy Pan-Asian kitchen and bar is great for after-work drinks, nights out and lazy lunches with a family-friendly dining area that now has a covered rooftop. Located at Zabeel House by Jumeirah, it’s open daily from 11am to 1am with an ambience that’s beyond unmissable.For more information visit Jumeirah.comNiniveWith a home of a hundred stories and Arab cuisines born from the Middle East, North Africa and Gulf, Ninive is designed as a contemporary urban majlis with an authentic theme resonating through the restaurant. Located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, it’s open from 6pm to 2am with the convergence of local culinary traditions that revisit the past as guests visit to feel good.For more information visit ninive.aeCarineWith a mouth-watering selection of French Mediterranean inspired dishes curated by Dubai’s famous, Chef Izu, you can now enjoy an expansive indoor terrace area during the summer months as you relax and unwind with friends and family in a charming atmosphere with hero dishes such as fragrant harissa prawns, creamy burrata and other handcrafted cocktails. Open from 9am on weekends and 12pm on weekdays, Carine is located at the gorgeous Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills 2 with an unpretentious French charm that we just can’t get enough of.For more information visit dubaigolf.comLPM Restaurant & BarThe French restaurant influenced by Mediterranean cuisine offers a place of crackling energy that exudes an unexpected charm with a menu that is no exception to Dubai’s standard. Featuring elements of Niçoise food, fresh produce and other enticing elements, that promote a new take on the general perception of French cuisine, with white clothed tables and breezy white shutters that make you feel like your dining in an enchanting location. Located at Gate Village 8 in DIFC, it’s open from 12pm daily.For more information visit lpmrestaurants.comShanghai MeWhile offering a contemporary take on Cantonese cuisine from the 1930s, Shanghai Me is the epitome of Art Deco elegance, located in Dubai’s International Financial Centre. With a fusion of intricate flavours and textures, the menu showcases signature dishes from across Asia with a. contemporary touch as it’s inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia. The verdant terrace offers an enclosed space as it embodies the region’s rich heritage throughout the area with a playful twist incorporated in every element.For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.comSeven SistersBeing one of the most popular venues in Dubai, this gorgeous open air space of alluring luxury now has a covered area as you witness the stunning view of the Dubai Canal that perfectly celebrates the space to unwind in with an unmissable upscale setting as you enjoy live music and entertainment in this exotic destination. Located at the JW Marriott Marquis, it’s open every day from 6pm to 2am and from 3pm to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.For more information visit sevensistersdubai.comGarden on 8While being one of the coolest terraces in the city, Garden on 8 offers the stable bar classics with twist accompanied by sports from around the world on one of the big screens as its outdoor area is completely covered for the summer for one to enjoy the best of both worlds. With a daily of entertainment ranging from a quiz night to Friday brunches, there’s plenty of activity offered at this lush spot in Dubai.For more information visit mediaonehotel.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @ninivedubai More

With Father’s Day fast approaching, we thought it was only fitting to take a look at some of the most doting dads out there.Sheikh HamdanWhile he’s only just recently become a dad, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, will be celebrating his first Father’s Day as a dad this year. The arrival of royal twins was announced back in mid-May, with Sheikh Hamdan sharing a photo of himself with the newborns. The newborn baby boy is named Rashid and the baby girl’s name is Sheikha.Khalid Al AmeriKnown as an avid storyteller, Emirati content creator Khalid Al Ameri regularly shares tidbits into his life, particularly about his two children Khalifa and Abdullah.Al Ameri has previously opened up about his youngest son Abdullah’s autism, revealing it changed him for the better in a heartfelt video, which was originally posted to his YouTube channel in 2019.“He looks at the world differently — the focus he has and the way he cares about things he loves has changed me,” Al Ameri says in the video. “It has changed me as a father and it has changed me as a human being.”Mohamed HadidMohamed Hadid is famous for his real estate, where he builds luxury hotels and mansions in Bel Air and Beverly Hills. However, he is perhaps better known as father to Anwar, Gigi, Bella, Marielle and Alana. This celebrity dad is constantly posting about his children, making it very clear how proud he is of their achievements on his Instagram.Ali F. MostafaBritish-Emirati filmmaker Ali F. Mostafa has had great success within the movie industry, with his most recent film The Worthy available to watch on Netflix. In a recent post on Instagram Mostafa posed with his three children Ayah, Faisal and Zayed, captioning the snap, “The beats to my heart – My universe!”John LegendFather to Luna and Miles, John Legend is one of the most doting dads out there. Raising his two children with his wife Chrissy Teigan, Legend is frequently captured wearing matching outfits with his son Miles and treating his daughter to a birthday at Disneyland.David BeckhamFormer professional footballer David Beckham adores his four children; Brooklyn, Romeo, Harper-Seven and Cruz. The famous family are renowned across the world for their close family dynamics, regularly sharing snippets into their family life on Instagram.Elias BakhaziHusband to Karen Wazen and father to George, Karile and Kay, Elias Bakhazi always puts his children first. On Instagram, his bio reads “Father, Husband, Food Lover” showing just how important his three children and family are to him.Will SmithFather to Trey, Jaden and Willow, Will Smith is very close with his children as they frequently accompany him to movie premieres to show support for their father.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Instagram @eliasbakhazi More

With the six-month long-awaited Expo 2020 taking place from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, Dubai has unveiled a one-of-a-kind women’s pavilion in collaboration with Cartier to recognize all the notable contributions made by incredible females around the world.This is yet another leap dedicated to women as the world focuses on establishing an equitable one, through the exhibition entitled ‘New Perspectives’ for changemakers in their own communities.Cyrille Vigneron, President and CEO of Cartier International said, “At Cartier, we believe that empowering women has a multiplier effect, it helps drive economic growth and development, and benefits societies and humanity at larger.“We are honoured to take our long-standing support to women change-makers further by collaborating with Expo 2020 Dubai and present the Women’s Pavilion to a truly global audience.”Based on the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this venture is all set to raise awareness by inspiring the audience on how they can become change-makers within their own communities, as the light will be shed upon the achievements of women from around the world with an insight into how to quicken what needs to be achieved in the next 50 years, as quoted by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai.A meaningful set of participants will be highlighted upon including French architect Laura Gonzalez, Dubai-born artist Kholoud Sharafi, French light designer Pauline David, International multidisciplinary artist El Seed, Lebanese actress and the first female Arab director to be nominated for an Oscar Nadine Labaki and many others will share their stories to inspire a generation of strong women.Complemented by Cartier’s strength to foster this impactful initiative, the Pavilion will showcase works from renowned artists for its design and curation, while focusing on the theme, when women thrive, all of humanity thrives, as this luxury brand is synonymous with open-mindedness and curiosity.Spanning across the six months, a plethora of meaningful events including dialogues, enhancing knowledge of gender equality and women’s empowerment, and other collaborative action will be shared with the world, along with the Expo 2020 and Cartier celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, 2022.For more information regarding the pavilion visit expo2020dubai.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Supplied More

One of Dubai’s much-loved restaurants, Society, has just reopened its doors after a major revamp.Featuring a striking fresh interior and mouthwatering new dishes on the menu to complement the classics, Society is back and ready to serve.Located on the busy Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, the bustling all-day dining concept was founded by Sheikha Al Mheiri in 2015 and was built on the foundations of culture and adversity similar to that of her home city, Dubai.A combination of culture in the UAE and her love for travel, Al Mehiri described the cuisine at the eclectic and lively venue as “Nomadic”.Breakfast staples, such as the flakey croissant that holds the delicious Eggs Benedict, can be enjoyed for Dhs62 and the creamy Khachapuri is Dhs65.As part of its renovation, Society is now home to some delicious dinner options too including a nutritious and colourful Quinoa Bowl, a creamy Truffle Mac & Cheese and a juicy Chipotle Octopus.All the new additions to the menu can be enjoyed in the minimalistic and cosy interiors which boasts comfy sofas and a sleek coffee bar. Tones of green and brown create a homely atmosphere, engaging you in the holistic space.This award-winning, hybrid café is ideal for a unique dining experience. Attention to detail paired with an extensive and impressive menu gives an experience unmatched in Dubai.Society is open on weekdays 8am-11pm and on weekends 8am-12am, breakfast is served between 8am-3pm.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

As one of the most iconic and elegant hotels in Dubai, the Palace Hotel Downtown is leading the way in the hotel industry by enriching the lives of its guests with luxury and style.The Palace’s HistoryConstructed in 2007, the Palace Hotel downtown is a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern heritage and contemporary Dubai. The Palace is a striking symbol of modernity at the heart of a traditional Arabian village, with a backdrop of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building – that provides round-the-clock eye-catching views.An overnight stayTo enjoy spectacular views, the Palace Hotel’s Deluxe Fountain View Room King, is the perfect spot to view the iconic Dubai Fountains, which shoot water up to 500 feet in the air. Shades of pastel blue coat the walls reflecting the warmth and heritage found in traditional Arabian décor. This room comes with complimentary access to At The Top Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium and VR park, giving you plenty of options to explore during your stay.Outstanding facilities and indulgent amenitiesSoak up the sun at the palm-fringed pool, opting for a plush chaise lounge or seek refuge from the heat in a traditional Arabian tent. Easily book leisure and recreational appointments or order hotel services with the tap of a finger using the iGenie service.Indulge in Thai cuisine at Thiptara restaurantAn intimate and elegant space, Thiptara restaurant. Which translates in English to ‘Magic on the Water,’ is the ultimate venue for fountain-side dining. Immerse yourself in the mystery and intrigue of Thailand like never before, where traditional Royal Thai cuisine takes the forefront with an emphasis on Bangkok-style seafood. Enjoy the delights in the Chef’s Specials Menu to get an all-around experience of the gastronomy.A luxury spaNo staycation is complete without a luxury spa experience and The Spa at the Palace Downtwon delivers in every aspect. With expert therapists on-hand to ensure guests reach the utmost relaxation and rejuvenation, it’s the ideal way to close your stay at the Palace. The hero treatment has to be the ‘One Desert Journey’ which is a 90-minute treatment that includes a sand and salt scrub, and a massage which uses the ‘oussada’ cushion with coriander, and an energising ‘khemoussa’ pouch featuring three Moroccan mint varieties.To book a stay at the Palace Hotel Downtown visit addresshotels.com or email stay@addresshotels.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

If you’re looking for a little escape this week, Bvlgari’s latest summer daycation is definitely something to avail of this season for all the unwinding you need.Launching exclusively this summer, Bvlgari Resort & Hotel Dubai has a new daycation package on weekdays, priced at Dhs750 per couple, inclusive of a classic Italian breakfast with fresh juices, croissants, fresh pastries and coffees with pool and beach access at Bvlgari Yacht Club.In addition, couples who avail of this offer can also relish a three-course Italian seafood menu with a selection of starters, main courses and desserts at the Italian Yacht club, which is open from 12:30pm to 3pm.Overlooking a 46-boat harbour, there are an array of amenities onboard such as a members lounger, an outdoor pool and bar and its first-ever branded kids’ club known as the Little Gems Club, making it an exclusive destination in the UAE.On weekends, guests enjoy the Bvlgari cabana experience for Dhs1,000 with a sea view and pool access only at the top deck area, including 50 per cent of the amount redeemable on food and beverages, with a maximum of three people allowed.To avail a cabana poolside it’s Dhs1,500 with full beach and pool access with 50 per cent redeemable on F&B.With a Mediterranean charm recreated through the atmosphere in Dubai at Bvlgari’s first-ever Yacht Club in the region, this nautical atmosphere is all you need for some rest and relaxation with your loved ones making it the perfect spot for a luxe getaway.For more information visit Bulgarihotels.com or to make a reservation call +97147775433– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Suppled by Bulgari Hotels More

In a city awash with restaurants offering impeccable cuisine, Shanghai Me doesn’t only provide unbeatable fine dining, it provides an experience like no other.Shanghai Me, located in DIFC, is doused in royal and celebrity approval – it’s one of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s favourite hotspots.This 1930s-inspired Asian restaurant is famed for its culinary classics of East Asia, all presented in an art deco-style space, guaranteed to leave you speechless.AmbienceWalls adorned with carved wood panelling, reflective of traditional Asian style, and never-ending artworks and photographs give a different view with every turn of the head.Low, yellow lighting creates a warm ambience which is contrasted with an abundance of plants, including bamboo and banana trees, transporting you from the terrace to the jungle.CuisineDescribed as “a contemporary approach to fine Asian cuisine”, the extensive menu, curated by Head Chef Shane Macneill at Shanghai Me, leaves your mouth simply igniting with flavour after every bite.Starting with yellowtail carpaccio served with sliced black truffle and sesame prawn toast, we were certainly impressed by the exquisite quality and presentation of the dishes. However, the hero starter has to be the crispy duck salad with pine nuts and cress was tossed and served at the table by our attentive waiter, Kimmy, providing Instagram-worthy moments.Our hero dishes of the evening came from Shanghai Me’s Dim Sum Library, braised wild mushroom dumplings and chicken with scallop and coriander dumplings were presented piping hot to the table, releasing tempting aromas and bursting with flavour.Finishing the evening with the Shanghai Me giant fortune cookie, filled with chocolate and matcha moose, complete with traditional readings is the perfect pudding for the avid Instagrammer. Crumbled at the table, the waiter divides the cookie into portions, allowing you to embrace your fortune.To accompany, the new Shanghai Me cocktail menu is inspired by the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac.The Bund LoungeTo continue on a fabulous night, head to Shanghai Me’s underground hotspot – The Bund Lounge.Hidden behind mirrored panelling, Shanghai Me’s Bund Lounge provides a luxury, private experience, accompanied by an enticing cocktail list, the lounge is unrivalled in Dubai.Shanghai Me Gate Village 11, Podium Level, DIFC. For information and reservations, please contact +971 4 564 0505, reservation@shanghaime-restaurant.com.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied  More