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    This luxury destination to reopen its borders to the world at the end of March

    As vaccine rates around the world continue to increase, there’s hope for the tourism and travel industry to return to a resemblance of normality.

    In light of this, the Seychelles has announced its intent to reopen its borders to all countries at the end of March.
    The island getaway’s government announced that borders would reopen on March 25 to visitors. In line with safety protocols, a negative COVID-19 PCR test will be required to be taken within 72 hours of departure to the Seychelles.
    Similarly, social distancing measures must be followed, masks must be worn when required and regular sanitisation is needed.
    Discussing the decision to fully reopen borders, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde said it was the “next step to allow for our economy to recover”.
    “The measures being announced reflect broadly the recommendation of our tourism partners and have been done in full consultation with and the endorsement of our health authorities,” he added.
    Prior to this, if you wanted to travel to the Seychelles and avoid quarantine, visitors were required to have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Hilton Seychelles More

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    Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Mansoor are featured in this Grammy winner’s latest hit

    It seems rapper Drake is dreaming of Dubai as he’s praised and shown love for two key members of the ruling family of the emirate in his latest hit.
    Throughout the years, Drake has been known to visit Dubai regularly and has developed friendships with His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Chairman of Dubai Sports Council.

    Giving recognition to his close friendships with the royal brothers, Drake mentioned both of the sheikhs in his new son Lemon Pepper Freestyle, which was released over the weekend as part of his new EP, Scary Hours 2.
    “And that’s facts, Hamdan Mohammed like my third cousin (Facts)/Mansoor Mohammed like my real brother (Facts)/Dubai embrace me like an Emirati (Facts),” Drake raps in the song.

    In a visit to the travel hub back in 2015, Drake even joked that Sheikh Mansoor looked like his “long lost brother”.

    It’s not the first time Drake has paid tribute to Dubai in his songs. Back in 2017 in his song Free Smoke, the rapper vocalised how he wanted to relocate to the emirate.
    “I want to move to Dubai, so I don’t never have to kick it with none of you guys,” he raps in the track.
    Perhaps after the pandemic dies down we could expect a visit in Dubai from Drake. Who knows?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Sheikh Mansoor Instagram/Drake Instagram More

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    Gigi Hadid makes an incredible runway comeback at Versace show with sister Bella

    Gigi Hadid has made her comeback on the runway after giving birth to her first child six months ago.
    The supermodel, alongside her younger sister Bella Hadid, took part in the Versace Fall 2021 show which took place at the Milan Congress Centre.

    To mark the incredible return, Hadid both opened and closed the show, showcasing the fashion house’s latest collection.

    Showcasing a series of bold looks, a standout for Hadid was her all-black ensemble where she wore a tight mesh embellished long-sleeved top paired with a mesh skirt and a pair of platform boots, with an electric blue makeup look to complete it.
    Taking to Instagram to share her delight at returning to the runway, the 25-year-old mum said it was an “honour” to open and close the Versace show, referring it to being the “best comeback”.

    “Mostly just lucky to be healthy, working, and in a safe/tested environment to hug so many I’ve missed like family this past year,” she added. “Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially my Italian Taurus queen Donatella Versace.”
    Welcoming their new baby girl
    Hadid and Zayn Malik announced the birth of their first-born baby, Khai, via social media back in September.
    The new mum took to Instagram to announce the news shortly sharing a sweet photo of her daughter’s hand.

    “Our girl joined us earth-side this weekend and she’s already changed our world,” she captioned the photo. “So in love.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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    This blogger bears an uncanny resemblance to Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai

    Aishwarya Rai is a global icon known for her elegance after being crowned Miss World in 1994. She’s become well-known for her stunning features especially when she was a part of the big screen.
    Recently, many of Rai’s fans uncovered a US-based beauty blogger who bears an uncanny resemblance to the Bollywood star.

    So much so, the blogger, Aamna Imran, jumped fro 2,000 followers on Instagram to 18,000 in one weekend, with many fans in disbelief over the lookalike.
    While being compared to renowned Bollywood celebrities, Imran shared her excitement at the compliments she has received on the internet. She admitted that she was a fan of this Bollywood actor’s films and has watched most of them to date.

    As per Hindustan Times, the Pakistani medical professional also revealed more information about her roots saying, “My father is Pakistani, whereas his parents are Indian. My mother and her parents are from Afghanistan. I speak English and Urdu (fluent), basic Persian and comprehend Punjabi.”
    From her blue-eyed posts to side-angle selfies, it’s nearly impossible to differentiate between the two women.
    Perhaps they’re long lost sisters?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @aishwaryaraibachchan_arb More

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    Could this new influencer-led app replace Instagram?

    With TikTok’s popularity skyrocketing, Instagram has found it hard to keep-up with the platform’s ever-evolving algorithm.
    And now there’s a new player on the block which could further see Instagram’s popularity decline.

    You can now snap a vintage disposable app Dispo, which has been created by YouTube star David Dobrik.
    As going back to the basics exudes its own charm, this app is the perfect mechanism to keep these unpolished images as memories, as their reminiscent of early days with one able to experience real-life through this natural lens.

    With social networking and nostalgia combined, the app creates an experience like no other, as you remember the moments you were truly present in.

    The app has already seen vast popularity since its launch, becoming the fourth most downloaded app in the US for iOS.
    Without the additional hassle of editing pictures, emojis, text or filters, Dispo keeps it simple with its natural photo sharing experience. After being the fourth most downloaded app on the AppStore, the app has its unique feature of revealing images by 9am next morning, deeming it as an anti-Instagram social network platform.
    The spontaneous images help capture the moment without putting much thought into it as founder Dobrik created the app with that intention, giving you the same disposable camera feel as you take a trip back to the ’90s.

    Much like the popular Clubhouse app taking the social media world by storm, this too is an invite-only app for a select few to maintain its exclusivity.
    Live in the moment with this disposable app is now available on iOS
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image Instagram @silkgigi More

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    Priyanka Chopra reveals she receives the most negativity from her own community

    Priyanka Chopra has taken both Hollywood and Bollywood by storm. However, when you reach such a huge level of fame, negativity and undue criticism always manages to manifest.
    Chopra recently opened up about the difficult side of fame, revealing she receives the most negativity from her own community.

    “I do notice a sense of protectiveness from a lot of people but also a sense of cynicism from a lot of people and a sense of negativity from a lot of people. Picking on me for no reason,” she admitted on BBC Asian Network’s Beyond Bollywood podcast.
    The 37-year-old recalled she was discussing her situation with fellow actress Mindy Kaling, where she was asked exactly why she receives so much backlash.

    “I was talking about this to Mindy [Kaling] a couple of months ago,” Chopra said. “We were talking about, ‘why is it that you get so much negativity from your own community’?”
    The actress recently opened up about her life in her new biography Unfinished.
    Chopra, who is married to Nick Jonas, took the opportunity to apologise for previously promoting skin-lightening creams.
    In particular in an advert for Pond’s, the plotline centred around Chopra playing a darker-skinned woman who lost her partner to a lighter-skinned woman. The storyline saw Chopra use the Pond’s skin-lightening product to eventually win the man back.
    The controversy surrounding the advert re-emerged in 2020 when Chopra shared her public support for the Black Lives Matter movement last year, with people pointing out she had previously been paid to promote skin-lighteners.

    List of Indian actors who are speaking on BLM and their fairness cream ads, a thread : pic.twitter.com/yUeRNLch6U
    — anti pigeon (@aluminiummaiden) May 31, 2020

    The 38-year-old reflected upon her childhood, admitting her darker skin had made her feel “unattractive”, leaving her self-worth diminished.
    “I thought about how pained I’d felt when I was called kaali [a derogatory term meaning dark-skinned] as a child,” she said in her memoir. “I was now promoting the destructive messages that had so eaten away at my sense of self-worth when I was growing up, and I knew the only person I could blame was myself.”
    She went on to say that appearing in those campaigns are one of her “most profound regrets”.
    She also added she was “deeply sorry” for her actions.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Priyanka Chopra Instagram More

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    9 of the best all-inclusive staycation deals in the UAE

    We all deserve to treat ourselves once in a while, especially since travelling to distant locations might seem off the radar for now.
    These UAE staycation deals are sure to help you unwind with its all-inclusive packages, for the perfect overall experience.
    Abu Dhabi
    Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi

    This unique mangrove setting located on the edge of the UAE capital is where tranquility resides. Located minutes away from the Abu Dhabi International Airport, there are a host of popular activities onboard such as kayaking, swimming and pleasant views of the ocean along with spectacular city backdrops. Starting at Dhs895 for 2 people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information or to make a reservation visit Anantara.com
    Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort

    The Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort offers luxurious guest rooms. Each room has a marble bathroom and a private balcony with views over the city or the Gulf. Guests can relax at the outdoor pools, which are surrounded by palm trees. There is also a sauna, a steam room and a hot tub for relaxation with an alfresco overlooking the ocean. Starting at Dhs721 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit mariott.com
    Dubai
    Amwaj Rotana

    Feel like a celebrity at this relaxing haven located in the heart of Jumeirah Beach Residence with luxurious rooms offering wide access to leisure and entertainment. Starting at Dhs1,120 for three people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit Rotana.com
    Ras Al Khaimah
    DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island

    Located near Al Hamra, guests can enjoy glorious views of the Arabian Sea with a host of all-day dining venues with a private sandy beach and an outdoor playground for the children. In order to entice thrill-seekers to experience the ultimate water playground, the resort has a host of water sports for the perfect adrenaline-fueled staycation. Starting at Dhs925 for 2 people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

    This luxurious resort is located on the northern tip of the Arabian Peninsula with a vast expanse of private white sandy beaches offering a pool beach bar accompanied with 11 international dining options and a variety of treatments on board. Starting at Dhs850 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    BM Beach Resort

    With state-of-the-art modern wood furnishings, the BM beach resort is located 3km from Al Hamrah Golf Club with a variety of dining options and thrilling adventure sports to enjoy on the private beach with recreational activities too. Starting at Dhs629 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit binmajid.com
    Rixos Bab Al Bahr

    Featuring picturesque panoramic sea views from the property, it is located on the pristine beaches of Al Marjan Island with guests having the opportunity to soak up the sun in the outdoor pull with diverse offerings on the property. Starting at Dhs999 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information or to make a reservation visit rixos.com
    Ajman
    Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel

    This heritage hotel retreat offers both views of the Arabian Gulf and the city featuring luxurious accommodations with a French balcony, as all rooms are equipped with a spacious living area while being a sanctuary in the heart of Ajman. Starting at Dhs803 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit hmhhotelgroup.com
    Fujairah
    Radisson Blu Resort

    Situated near the Hajjar Mountains in Dibba, this modern facility offers an all-day dining experience with outdoor swimming pools and panoramic ocean views with relaxing beauty treatments offered at the spa for guests to relax for their own retreat getaway. Starting at Dhs580 for two people per night without tax, the all-inclusive package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and beverages.
    For more information visit radissonhotels.com
    All social distancing measures have been adhered to at the properties with reservations that can also be made on booking.com all of which are subject to availability and validity on offers.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @radissonblu.fujairah More

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    Want to know what’s going on in Saudi Arabia? Here’s your ultimate guide

    Known for its well-curated travel guides for everyone from around the world to discover, the UAE’s favourite go-to guide What’s On has now expanded into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for yet another immersive experience on all the latest trends in the country.
    From lifestyle, food, information on culture, travel and news, the digital experience will ensure you stay abreast with all the meaningful content offering inspiring stories at What’s On Saudi Arabia.

    Ian Fairservice, Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group, said: “This move is part of What’s On’s plans to expand its brand portfolio and recognises the tremendous growth potential of online content specifically created for Saudi residents and expats. Saudi is driving investment and tourism more than ever before and we feel we can bring valuable and engaging content to this market.”

    As you explore the ancient heritage of Saudi Arabia along with its upcoming modern developments, from stores galore to traditional souks, What’s On is all set to inspire its audience with a world of hidden treasures that you might not even know about, currently in English with plans to introduce this in Arabic too.
    Laura Coughlin, the head of content at What’s On, added “We have been working hard over the last year to build an editorially-strong website that honours Saudi Arabia. We want to help our audience discover fresh and exciting ways to immerse themselves in their respective cities and inspire them to explore even more.”
    The website is now live, with an opportunity to sign up for its newsletter featuring the most recent news in Riyadh and Jeddah which is updated weekly. To keep on top of all the latest news in Saudi Arabia visit whatsonsaudiarabia.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @visitsaudi More