lifestyle and culture

“Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves,” says Nezha Aanou Interim Hotel Manager of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and we couldn’t agree more.With a rich history, Sharjah has much to offer to those who live here in the UAE and around the globe when it comes to exploring new landscapes and immersing themselves in the emirate’s culture.Echoing the unique culture and history of the emirate, The Chedi Al Bait brings the history of the UAE to life, as Aanou says.Emirates Woman sat down with Aanou to discover what sets The Chedi Al Bait apart and why it’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect this Ramadan.Can you talk us through the history of the property?The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is situated in one of the UAE’s most ambitious historical restoration project managed by Shurooq (Sharjah Development and Investment Authority) known as the “Heart of Sharjah”. The hotel was built upon the foundations of centuries-old houses that once belonged to the Al Midfa family, they made an impact culturally, intellectually and politically on Sharjah’s history with innovative achievements in publishing, government and business. Under the guidance of GHM (General Hotel Management), these carefully preserved historic structures along with new buildings have been transformed into 53 elegant guest rooms and suites where Arabic influences meet the brand’s legendary Asian design elements.What sets The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah apart from others in the emirate?The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is a unique development that brings the history of the United Arab Emirates to life. It is a restoration project of old Emirati houses which makes it one of a kind in the whole region. The whole concept is to create a destination by combining luxury hospitality and heritage in one. We want our guests to experience true Emirati living and immerse them into the perfect blend of old and new, plus we make sure to give heartfelt hospitality and care to all our guests.With clients visiting from the globe over, how do you ensure a bespoke experience for each stay?We are continuously conceptualising unique offers and experiences to highlight the best of what the property can offer. The interiors are traditional, yet they offer modern touches through technology, and not to mention luxurious amenities and services.From where around the world do you get guests visiting from?The majority of our guests are from the region, predominantly locals or UAE and GCC residents. The hotel also attracts a fair share of Asian, European market from Germany, France and Scandinavia.Sharjah as a whole has so much to offer in terms of culture and heritage. To you, what makes the emirate special?Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves. We are located in the Heart of Sharjah, where all the history, heritage, culture and art is available in great abundance. UAE residents who come to Sharjah for the first time are often surprised at what It has to offer and how much they have been missing out on. Especially if you choose to stay at The Chedi Al Bait! Heart of Sharjah and Shurooq are transforming Sharjah’s landscape and cultural scene, to everyone who is still doubting whether to visit Sharjah or not, I’d say it’s a must.What elements of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah stand out to you?It is the hotel’s iconic structures and unique design. The heritage houses which once belonged to the Al Midfa family. The only remaining round wind tower (barjeel) in the UAE, which is nearly a century old, it’s a true icon of Emirati history. Another is the Elephant Door which leads into the Bait Ibrahim Al Midfa where The Library and The Museum are located.With Ramadan fast approaching, what are you offering to guests to have a reflective and relaxing stay?The hotel is the perfect escape this season of reflection, an ideal place for the whole family to experience complete relaxation. We have room packages and promotions which guests can enjoy. Moreover, our in-house guests on fasting can opt to have our Suhoor Tray as a breakfast replacement served in the comfort of their own rooms.Our culinary team has crafted a flavourful six-course Iftar and Suhoor menus. A generous mix of traditional delicacies and Middle Eastern favourites served at The Arabic Restaurant. It is a feast designed for the entire family to enjoy. Our Iftar and Suhoor for adults are priced at AED 195 per person, and kids from 6 to 11 y/o will get 50% discount (inclusive of 10% service charge and 5% VAT).*Iftar from sunset to 8:00pm*Suhoor from 11:00pm to 1:00am*Suhoor tray (breakfast replacement) from 11:00pm to 3:00amHow do you approach client engagement and client retention?The hotel is a home away from home, where everyone feels special and cared for, every attention to detail, surprising food and beverage offerings are what makes us different from the rest and what makes our guests come back. The moment guests arrive, we greet them with ‘Welcome Home’ and that is not only in words but it’s an experience that we offer to our guests and colleagues. The reviews that we get from our valued guests are a testament to that.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

With Dubai being the reigning food haven, there’s a wide variety of delectable food offers in the emirate that can be enjoyed when you dine-in with your friends and family.As we approach Ramadan, Emirates Woman has curated an exceptional edit of the best Iftar deals at the very best restaurants in Dubai.Shanghai MECurated by Shanghai ME’s Head Chef Shane Macneill, enjoy Iftar at this DIFC hotspot this Ramadan with your family and loved ones. Hero dishes on the Iftar menu include Roast Chicken and Black Cod, Prawn Toast, Vegetable Spring Rolls, Cucumber and Avocado Salad, Dim Sum, Rice and Broccoli. Priced at Dhs245 per person, this Ramadan menu is available daily from 6.30pm until 8.30pm at Shanghai ME in DIFC.ScaliniIndulge in Scalini’s Iftar and enjoy a whole host of the restaurant’s signature dishes including Gameroni Fra Diavola, prawns flambeed with chili, garlic and served with steamed rice, Piccatina Limone, veal escalope with a signature lemon sauce, Lasagne, Chicken Milanese, Penne Arrabiata, Ravioli with Spinach and Ricotta, classic Spaghetti Bolognese and more. Priced at Dhs345 per person, this Ramadan menu at Scalini is available daily from sunset until 8.30pm at the Four Seasons Jumeirah.Bella Restaurant & LoungeWith a delicious spread of Antipasta’s, Piatto Unico and Dolce’s, Bella is offering the perfect amalgamation of Middle Eastern flavours presented in an exotic manner, such as Baba Gunush served with pilaf, hummus with chickpea, camel milk ice cream and much more. Priced at Dhs250 per person, this Ramadan menu at Bella is available daily from sunset until 1am at Grand Millennium Hotel in Business Bay.For more information visit belladxb.comCÉ LA VIBreak your fast in style with picturesque views of Dubai’s skyline including mouth-watering starters, a selection of beautifully prepared mains and a healthy spread of fruits. Relish a three-course meal for Dhs250 per person or three-course accompanied with shisha for Dhs350 per person at the pool deck, with both packages inclusive of dates, water, tea and coffee as you celebrate with friends and families, from Iftar until 8pm.For more information visit celavi.comBounty Beets at Le Meridien Mina SeyahiIf you’re thinking of opting for a healthier option this Ramadan, you can nourish your body and soul with a selection of light options that are both delicious and nutritious. Featuring a special Ramadan four-course menu, it includes a choice of soup, sharing appetizers, main course, a dessert accompanied by a set of detox beverages from April 1 to May 15 from sunset to 10pm for Dhs129 per person.For more information visit mariott.comEat & Meat at The H DubaiGather with friends and family as you enjoy an exceptional Iftar at Eat & Meat with a sumptuous set of sharing dishes including traditional bites featuring both Hot and Cold Mezze and flavoursome Arabic sweets in a traditional environment with guests also receiving a special early-bird offer of 20 per cent off when booking before April 12, 2021. Available throughout Ramadan from sunset to 10:30pm, prices for the package start at Dhs159 per person with a selection of juices. For more information visit hhoteldubai.comMarea, DIFCThis luxe hotspot in DIFC filled with Italian favourites is fused with authentic Arabic flavours, with Marea’s best-selling dishes including melt in your mouth Italian Burrata, Rigatoni pasta’s and an explosion of chocolate delicacies. Located at Gate Village 7 in DIFC, the Iftar set menu is priced at Dhs249 per person and will be available from 6:30pm.For more information visit marearestaurant.comBallarò restaurant at Conrad HotelEnjoy a selection of lavish Arabic favourites and international delicacies in the beautiful outdoor terrace which overlooks the lush green hidden oasis. Priced at Dhs175 per person from sunset till 9:30pm, guests can avail a 20 per cent discount when bookings are made before April 12, 2021 to enjoy this beautiful spread for Iftar.For more information visit conraddubaihotel.com LPM Restaurant & BarOffering guests a French-Mediterranean style Iftar, the menu includes a Ramadan welcome drink, soup, dates, two starters, one main course and a dessert, all of which is priced at Dhs240 per person. Guests can indulge in a host of fusion signature dishes along with the seasonal special dessert. Located at DIFC, Gate Village 8, the menu is available during the holy month of Ramadan from 6pm to 8pm with a minimum booking of two people.For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com/dubaiAlso read: We’ve found the most luxe and extravagant UAE Iftar package everHutong, DIFCThis contemporary Northern Chinese restaurant embraces the spirit of Ramadan with an elevated selection of fiery dishes that are ideal for sharing with friends and family as it draws inspiration from the heritage of the Silk Road, presenting a memorable immersive Iftar experience this season. From an abundant selection of delicious starts such as Wild Mushroom & Truffle Bao to Yu Xiang Crispy Eggplant with sweet exclusive desserts to top up your palette, guests can enjoy the entire bespoke experience for Dhs198 per person for a minimum of two people available from sunset to 8pm.For more information visit hutong-dubai.comRamadan Majlis at Ritz-Carlton, DIFCFor an impressive experience delve into the spirit of this special occasion in the luxurious Ramadan Majlis, which offers a lavish Iftar served in a family-style at your table. With delicious cold mezze Lebanese options accompanied by a traditional Arabic sweet station, from sunset to 8:30pm starting at Dhs219 for an adult and Dhs110 per child.For more information or to make a booking visit ritzcarlton.comAll the necessary health and safety measures have been implemented to ensure customers have a safe experience when they enjoy their meals.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now Pace yourself for positivity and peace.Ambre CandleDhs258 for 190g DiptyqueLa Casa Sul Lago CandleDhs295 for 200g Acqua Di ParmaApocalyptic scented candleDhs381 Byredo available at NET-A-PORTERSolis Rex scented candleDhs897 for 800g Cire TrudonEau d’Égée No.3 scented candleDhs359 for 350g L’OBJETMineral of Essence Rectangle Marble CandleDhs400 LAVAElements Scent Water Candle Tom DixonDhs764 Tom DixonAmbre Cognac CandleDhs403 for 300g DiptyqueApril’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @diptyque  More

Over the weekend, it was announced by Buckingham Palace that Queen Elizabeth II’s husband of 73 years, Prince Philip had passed away.“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” the statement read.Following the announcement, tributes have flooded in for the Duke of Edinburgh and condolences have been sent to the Queen, including from members of the UAE royal family.The British palace has also been looking back on Prince Philip’s time as consort to the Queen and shared a moving speech Her Majesty made at the celebration of their golden wedding anniversary in 1997.
“He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.”
-Her Majesty The Queen, 1997. pic.twitter.com/wbSldSavNA
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 10, 2021In the heartfelt tribute to her husband on their 50th wedding anniversary, she said, “He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.”“The Duke of Edinburgh swore to be Her Majesty’s ‘liege man of life and limb’,” the post stated.“The Duke was a devoted consort (companion to the Sovereign) for almost 70 years, from Her Majesty’s Accession in 1952 until his death.”
At The Queen’s Coronation in 1953, The Duke of Edinburgh swore to be Her Majesty’s ‘liege man of life and limb.’
The Duke was a devoted consort (companion to the Sovereign) for almost 70 years, from Her Majesty’s Accession in 1952 until his death: https://t.co/GCMvYfu4SD pic.twitter.com/smGpiIMbDe
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 10, 2021Prince Philip, who was born in Greece in 1921, was due to turn 100 in June.He wed the Queen – then Princess Elizabeth – on 10 July 1947. The pair celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary last year.Just four years after they wed, Princess Elizabeth became Queen after her father King George VI passed away aged 56.The couple had four children together – Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: The Royal Family Twitter More