lifestyle and culture

As the scorching summer heat is fast approaching, you’ll be finding us poolside every chance we get from now on.With a whole host of venues to choose from in Dubai, finding the best pool day offers can prove to be challenging sometimes. However, we’ve rounded up the best luxury pool days Dubai has to offer, with the added bonus of the cost being fully redeemable on food and beverage.Jumeirah Zabeel SarayFor a full-day escape to one of the most remarkable family resorts on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, make the most of your summer days at this luxurious hotel which has a daily splash pass priced at Dhs200, from Sunday to Thursday and Dhs250 on weekends, with the entire amount redeemable on food and drinks. For kids from four to 12 the entrance fee is Dhs125 on weekends and Dhs100 during the week.For more information visit Jumeirah.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. 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.For more information visit dubai-palm.anantara.comCove BeachWith the perfect Mediterranean vibe set in the heart of the city on Bluewaters Island, locals and tourists can revel in great food and an ambience at the beach club with their own private sunbed starting at Dhs200 which is fully redeemable on food and beverages. On weekends, Dhs100 is redeemable on F&B.For more information visit covebeach.comHilton Dubai JumeirahLocated in the heart of Dubai Marina, enjoy a pool day with access to the beach for Dhs129 on weekdays, being fully redeemable on any of the F&B venues located at the hotel which includes Wavebreaker Beach and Grill, Mango Tree Thai and McGettigan’s JBR. Meanwhile, on weekends, it’s Dhs99 for pool and beach access only.For more information visit hilton.comWaldorf Astoria Palm JumeirahIf you’re looking for a dip in the pool with a relaxing retreat, you can avail of this pool and beach pass, priced at Dhs250 per person every day of the week which is also redeemable on food and beverages. Kids from six to 12, pay Dhs125 which is fully redeemable as well making it the perfect retreat for families.For more information visit waldorfastoria3.hilton.comFour Seasons DIFCIf you’re looking for a relaxing day out at the Four Seasons, this sophisticated boutique-style hotel is perfect for an urban getaway and is set within the heart of DIFC, with a host of unrivalled wellness facilities and Dubai’s most talked dining scene. For Dhs300, you get to enjoy the hotel’s rooftop glass-walled pool, with the entire amount that’s spendable on the poolside menu.For more information visit fourseasons.comLe Royal Meridien Resort & SpaPerched on the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, you can enjoy this hotel which has a beachfront promenade and relaxing pool. The weekday pass for the pool at this haven costs Dhs250 for adults and Dhs75 for children, as it’s fully redeemable on food and drinks with Dhs300 for adults and Dhs75 for children fully redeemable on weekends.For more information visit Marriott.comCoco Lounge at Media One HotelWithout breaking the bank, you can enjoy this pool pass at Coco Lounge in Media One Hotel, located at Dubai Media City for just Dhs80, which is fully redeemable on food and drinks as you lay back in style and dine in a relaxed environment, making it your one-stop lifestyle destination.For more information visit mediaonehotel.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @covebeachdubai More

As the world continues to slowly but surely recover and deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has shared some positive words.On Sunday, May 16, Dubai hosted the Arabian Travel Market, a significant event to mark how the tourism industry was recovering amidst the pandemic.With 62 countries partaking, His Highness stated that it was the first “international mega tourism event since the COVID-19 outbreak”.He also highlighted that there was positivity in sight for the travel industry.
62 countries participated today in the Arabian Travel Market, an international mega tourism event since the COVID-19 outbreak. Dubai welcomes the world as global tourism begins to recover, representing the light at the end of the tunnel.
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) May 16, 2021“Dubai welcomes the world as global tourism begins to recover, representing the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.While things are slowly improving, particularly with increasing vaccine rates, the Chief Executive of Dubai Airport, Paul Griffiths, has stated that vaccine passports will be “inevitable” for international travel.However, the proposed system of a vaccine passport has sparked some concern and criticism with some arguing it would discriminate against those who cannot get the vaccination, but Griffiths explained that there isn’t a feasible alternative.In a recent interview with the BBC, Griffiths said, “I don’t think there is an alternative.”“I think the problem is not the vaccine passport and its discrimination,” he added. “It’s the need to roll things out and have a proper globally equitable vaccine programme.”– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Sheikh Mohammed Twitter  More

Over the last year, the travel and aviation industry has taken a huge dip due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.While things are slowly improving, particularly with increasing vaccine rates, the Chief Executive of Dubai Airport, Paul Griffiths, has stated that vaccine passports will be “inevitable” for international travel.However, the proposed system of a vaccine passport has sparked some concern and criticism with some arguing it would discriminate against those who cannot get the vaccination, but Griffiths explained that there isn’t a feasible alternative.In a recent interview with the BBC, Griffiths said, “I don’t think there is an alternative.”“I think the problem is not the vaccine passport and its discrimination,” he added. “It’s the need to roll things out and have a proper globally equitable vaccine programme.”Dubai-based airline Emirates announced back in February it would be partnering up with the Dubai Health Authority to launch digital verification of passengers’ medical records.A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Emirates Chairman and Chief Executive His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Dubai Health Authority’s His Excellency Awadh Al Ketbi, Director General, in order to have records of those who have had the vaccine and COVID-19 tests when travelling.Emirates Airline is one of the first in the world to implement such a system, which will launch immediately. According to Sheikh Ahmed, it’s a “natural step” in the right direction for the airline.“Dubai is a leading global air transport hub, as well as one of the world’s most progressive cities in the area of e-government services,” he said. “It’s a natural step to combine our capabilities to implement digital verification of Covid-19 medical records, which will also enable contactless document verification at Dubai Airport.“Dubai will continue to lead the way in implementing effective and balanced approaches to contagion control while facilitating travel and air transport which are crucial to communities and economies.”– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: RIMOWA  More

May’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download NowImmerse yourself in an aromatic, sensory experience at these luxurious resorts.Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge, TanzaniaThis resort is hidden amongst one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations. Comprising of 30 Plantation Houses that radiate out into the evergreen coffee fields, Arusha Coffee Lodge has been designed around the original landowner’s home that dates back to the early 1900s.Ceylon Tea Trails, Sri LankaFormer residences of British tea estate managers, this Sri Lankan Resort has now been converted into opulent bungalows which make the Ceylon Tea Trails perched at an altitude of 1250 meters in the Ceylon tea region. When visiting, guests can replace their usual morning coffee routine and immerse themselves in the delicious teas of the region. The central Sri Lankan Ceylon Tea Trails sit on a working tea estate and use the nearby resource to offer quality brews and tea-infused cuisine.Fuchun Resort, Hangzhou, ChinaSet in the Chinese countryside, two hours from Shanghai, Fuchun Resort is a tea resort that embodies the true meaning of tranquility, peace and refinement. The Hangzhou region is famous for its tea, which the resort regularly pays homage to, and guests can even take part in the harvesting of the tea, but only in April and May when it takes place. However, regular tea appreciation sessions take place at the resort all year round and guests can relish in the resort’s luxury spa, enjoy the walking trails and take part in Chinese calligraphy and painting workshops.Mayfair Tea Resort, Siliguri, IndiaThis resort is India’s first Boutique Tea Resort which welcomes everyone to “an experience of luxury that is unlike no other”. The structure was built in the 16th century with Tudor-style architecture and features vintage furnishings, classic centuries-old collectables, chequered black and white flooring carved with Italian marble. Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the history of tea in the region with many different activities available.Blanket Hotel & Spa, Munnar, IndiaOn a leafy hill station surrounded by tea plantations in Munnar, India, this resort immerses its guests in the lush greenery of the region. With 42 rooms, the hotel encourages its guests to truly switch off and enjoy all that nature has to offer in the region.May’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image by Sebastian Posingis & Images: Supplied  More

Finally, it’s happening. After 17 years, the entire cast of Friends is coming back together for a reunion special entitled ‘The One Where They Get Back Together’.Here’s everything we know so far.The entire cast is returningJennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer are all returning for the special. The cast of six all made the announcement in tandem over the weekend sharing the first teaser for the reunion showcasing all of them walking side-by-side on what appeared to be the Friends set. Co-creators David Crane and Marta Kauffman are also set to appear.When will it air?Friends: The Reunion will air on WarnerMedia’s streaming service HBO Max on May 27, so there’s not long to wait.Where will it be available?At present, HBO Max is only available in the USA and Puerto Rico so there’s no confirmation on how those outside of those areas will be able to access it.There’s a star-studded guest listThere’s a huge amount of A-list guests set to appear on the show including David Beckham, Justin Bieber, BTS, James Corden, Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Lady Gaga, Kit Harington, Larry Hankin, Mindy Kaling, Thomas Lennon, Christina Pickles, Tom Selleck, Reese Witherspoon, Malala Yousafzai and more.What will the reunion consist of?There’s no specific details been released about this per se, but the episode is set to unscripted meaning the reunion episode is likely to be a sit-down conversation between the cast. Regardless, it will be the first time the six main actors who played Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler and Joey will have reunited on screen since the show ended in 2004.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages & Media: Getty / Warner Bros. More

May’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download NowWith out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI Dubai’s executive chef Howard Ko discusses why this sky-high restaurant is the culinary hotspot everyone needs to visit.Can you talk us through your career history?I have worked in hospitality my whole life and have never done anything else. I began at 15-years-old washing dishes and making sandwiches and then went to Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, California for baking and pastry. I worked as a pastry chef for a year and then went to The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York City. From then on, I only worked at Michelin Star restaurants for about 14 years. Restaurant Daniel **, Picholine **, DB Bistro Moderne, because I wanted to experience high volume, Melisse Restaurant **, French Laundry *** and Restaurant at Meadowood ***. I always believed I was never good enough, I think that’s why I always worked on my craft and worked at great restaurants, rather than looking at a paycheck. On my vacations, if I had any free time, I would stage at restaurants as well, these include; Saison ***, Benu***, Atelier Crenn***, Alinea*** and Dabous*. Until this day, I still feel I don’t know enough and push to get better and will always have this need to get better at my craft.Where does your love for food and cooking come from?I love how food can make you feel. When you get to a certain point in your craft you can make a dish that can invoke emotion. By making something that can bring a person back to their childhood, and intrigue by the way the dish is presented with tableside service. When you have the perfect bite that makes you just want one more during a tasting menu, is when you know you nailed that dish for the guest.What do you love about what you do? I love mentoring young chef. It’s our responsibility to pass on knowledge and share your philosophy with your cooks to make a lasting impression and to have that legacy, so when it’s their turn to become chefs, they will remember lessons and take that with them forever. I love seeing how they improve and grow as chefs with confidence. I always tell my team that I hope to read about them one day in an article, it would make me very proud because I know they have it in them. I also tell the women in my kitchen the harsh reality that it is a male-dominated profession and I encourage and empower them every day. I want to be there for them to let them know they have what it takes to be good as anyone if you put in the work.What brought you to Dubai? Chef Joseph, CÉ LA VI Group Executive Chef, was my friend and roommate when we worked at Restaurant Daniel in 2006 – I was 20-years-old at the time. We were so young back then but always kept in touch. I was an Executive Chef for a Hotel and opening restaurants in San Francisco and one day I get a call from Chef Joey and he offered me the position to open CÉ LA VI Dubai. It was a scary thought, literally being on the opposite side of the world but I am so grateful I took the opportunity. I also have a great supporting cast at CÉ LA VI from my GM David Lescarret, Marketing Manager Hoda Ghavidel, Guest Relations Manager Ettiene Du Plessis, Assistant GM Will Leekulcharoen who are all great teammates that support me.How does the food and beverage industry here differ from other places around the world? I think the F&B industry here in Dubai is amazing. It is still a young culinary city, but people are evolving in taste and are more open to a wide range of flavour combinations. So, chefs here are being more and more adventurous with their cuisines and flavours.What are the hero dishes, in your opinion, at CÉ LA VI?I think it’s the black truffle sushi rice risotto with butternut squash, beech mushrooms and parmesan foam. It has been a hit and seems to be the fan favourite.The menu you’ve created fuses a lot of fragrant ingredients together – how do you curate them together?  I read a lot, not only cookbooks but also about the history of food. I think you need to understand traditional gastronomy before you can really evolve something new. Understanding how people eat in different cultures to different flavour profiles of each culture, makes you understand food on another level to develop dishes that makes sense. For you, is the process that goes into curating new menus and new dish ideas?I am very collaborative with my menu, with every chef in my kitchen. I always ask what they think when they try new dishes. I also encourage them to come up with ideas that we can work on together, so they can get better. During my time at the French Laundry with 3 Michelin stars, the menu would change every day. I think of looking at different cultures, traditions, and then flavour components. My 14 years of experience gives me a broader perspective and makes me look at food in several different scopes. It’s not only the flavour combinations but also how you treat an ingredient.For example, smoking and drying out a leg of lamb for 3 years so you can shave it like bonito flakes, or serving a guest a dish of heirloom beans and braised seaweeds in a roasted turnip broth. Or, serving the piece of lamb that you have spent 3 years perfecting shaved tableside into your beans to give you an intensified lamb essence, these are the details that create one-of-a-kind dishes. Who would you say your Chef inspiration is?All the chefs I have worked for, I have a little part of them inside me. Sal Marino was my first chef who is still my mentor. Josiah Citrin from Melisse, Timothy Hollingsworth who people know from winning Final Table, and Christopher Kostow from The Restaurant at Meadowood, who showed me how to really think of ingredients and dining experience in a different way.What are the hurdles you’ve experienced during your career?When you’re really passionate about something, you have to make that your main concern in life. I’ve missed out on so much with friends and family, but it was essential at the time to grow into the chef I am today. On the opposite end of the spectrum, what are the milestones? The knowledge I have gained from all the work I put in. Friends I have made throughout the years, being in the position I am in now coming from a really bad neighbourhood in Los Angeles. I am grateful that my sacrifices to always strive to do better is paying off.What do you see next for CÉ LA VI Dubai?CÉ LA VI Dubai to be one of the best culinary destinations in Dubai! We’re recognised for being at the top of our game after such a short time, which is so great to be a part of. I want to make an impact in the city, that can’t go unnoticed.The Hero DishesCrispy Kale SaladRocket arugula, petite carrots, beetroot, peanuts, Thai lime vinaigretteRoasted Black CodSweet corn pudding, grilled spring onions, miso beurre blancBlack Truffle “Sushi Rice” RisottoButternut squash, Shimeji mushrooms, Parmesan mousseRoasted Chilean Sea BassYuzu kosho seaweed brown butter, girolles, rock shrimp, grilled savoy cabbage and bonito creamGrilled Spanish OctopusConfit potato, demi-sec tomato, smoked pimentón, squid ink vinaigretteMay’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

With many families living in different countries across the GCC, the UAE and Bahrain have opened a travel corridor between the two nations.In line with the first day of Eid Al Fitr, a “strategic partnership” between the two countries was announced to allow those vaccinated against COVID-19 quarantine-free travel.“The strategic partnership between the UAE and Bahrain is important, in light of the significant challenges facing the world caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting their efforts to address and overcome the crisis,” a joint statement said.Proof of vaccine must be provided by travellers between the UAE and Bahrain and approved via the dedicated apps – Al Hosn in the UAE and BeAware in Bahrain.While no quarantine is required for vaccinated passengers, everyone must adhere to the COVID-19 restrictions in place in both destinations and adhere to all health and safety precautions.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

To mark Mother’s Day this year, Mohamed Hadid shared a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, HRH Princess Khairiah Daher Hadid.Sharing a photo of his late parents on Instagram, the property tycoon highlighted his mother’s Palestinian royal lineage as she was a descendent from Daher Al Omer, Prince of Nazareth and the Sheikh of Galilee.In the caption, he noted the photo was taken in 1941 in Safad, Palestine.“This is my parents that invited a Jewish family into their home 1946 or so. And they took their home away furnished .. and we became refugees in 1948,” he saidIn another tribute posted to social media, Hadid, the father of supermodels Gigi and Bella Hadid, mentioned that he was just a month old when the family was forced to flee from Palestine, while his mum ensured the safety and protection of keeping the family together during these trying times.“We were forced out of our beloved Palestine .. of course I was just a month old and into the refugee camps you kept the family together .. my Momma my queen my Angel great-granddaughter of A king. Daher Al Omer .. he left is legacy in you … you are blessed and thank you for the unconditional love you had for all us kids,” he said.The Hadid family regularly share their pride about their Middle Eastern and Palestinian heritage and the property tycoon ensured to instil this in his children.During a recent trip to Turkey, per Turkey-based newspaper the Daily Sabah, Hadid had been on a visit to Istanbul and prayed in the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and the Blue Mosque.Talking about his four daughters, Hadid elaborated on their Arabic names.“Marielle’s name is Zayn, Alana’s name is Amal,” Hadid said. “Gigi’s name is Noura and Bella’s name is Khairiah.” Meanwhile, his son Anwar is named after his father, Mohamed Anwar.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @mohamedhadid More