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    The restaurant that brings the best of Italy to you right here in the UAE

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Are you on the lookout for some impeccable Italian cuisine?
    As an ode to true traditional Italian food, Il Forno prepares meals with recipes handed down from generations.

    Whether a family lunch or celebrations for a special occasion, Il Forno’s chefs provide an artistic creative concept throughout the cooking process from start to finish as they embrace a combination of classic with modern flavours while following the highest standard of Italian cuisine in the industry.

    From freshly baked pizzas to traditional pasta dishes, this Italian haven has an array of delicious options to offer as it brings the charming Amalfi Coast to the UAE with everything prepared with love.
    Served in a cosy atmosphere, the meals are well-balanced while bringing simple-sounding Italian favourites to the region in generous portions as you devour this mouthwatering traditional feast.
    Using the finest ingredients and spices, the restaurants now offer a new menu using local inspiration from its roots, with an explosion of flavours served with the utmost love by all its staff members who bring a little bit of Italy to you all at an affordable price.

    You can also avail of their latest discount offers with 25 per cent off on online orders, with swift delivery for piping hot food to your doorstep by using the code 25ILFORNO at checkout. You can also dine in at any of their 16 locations located across the UAE in Abu Dhabi, RAK and Dubai with opening timing of 10am until 1am.
    For more information on their latest menu offerings visit ilforno.me or you can place an order through Deliveroo, Zomato and Talabat.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Bella Hadid opens up about her battle with chronic autoimmune diseases

    When it comes to spreading an important message, Bella Hadid never shies away.
    In doing so, Hadid recently opened up about her battles with the autoimmune disorders she suffers from.

    The supermodel candidly shared a series of photos to Instagram of herself hooked up to an IV.
    “Living with a few chronic autoimmune diseases = always finding time for my IVs,” she said.

    One of the autoimmune diseases Hadid suffers from is Lyme disease, which she has previously referred to as an “invisible” condition.
    Last year, the supermodel took to Instagram to give an insight to her fans about the illness she has struggled with throughout her teenage years and young adulthood.
    “Every day I feel at least 10 of these attributes without fail … since I was probably 14, but more aggressively when I turned 18,” she said, also sharing an infographic of the many symptoms that Lyme disease sufferers go through.
    The Palestinian-Dutch model was diagnosed with the disease in 2012, which is contracted through a tick bite. Her younger brother Anwar Hadid and mother Yolanda Hadid also suffer from the condition.
    Per the Mayo Clinic, initial symptoms of Lyme disease include a rash “forming a bull’s-eye pattern” as well as fever, chills, fatigue and headaches, but with the right antibiotics and early diagnosis, most people make a full recovery. However, for some, they suffer long-term effects of Lyme disease.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Bella Hadid Instagram More

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    Here’s how you can get more space on your next Emirates flight for just Dhs200

    With many opting not to travel amidst the pandemic, more space has opened up on planes.
    For those who are currently travelling internationally, Emirates Airline has just introduced a new policy where passengers can opt for more comfort and space on their next flight.

    Those travelling are now being given the option to purchase up to three seats for extra comfort and privacy with the airline’s increased option for comfort.
    “Empty seats will only be offered for purchase at the airport check-in counter prior to flight departure, and costs range from Dhs200 to Dhs600 (US$ 55 to US$ 165) per empty seat, plus applicable taxes depending on flight sector,” the Dubai-based airline announced.

    Just recently, Emirates also announced their partnership with the Dubai Health Authority to launch digital verification of travellers’ medical records, to implement a structured system making it a natural step in the right direction for the airline.
    Also read: Emirates to launch digital verification of passenger COVID-19 records with DHA
    While also introducing a contactless travelling experience earlier this year for all passengers flying Emirates, this facial biometric technology is sure to make your airport journey as seamless as possible while keeping all the necessary COVID-19 protocols in place.
    For more information regarding the latest travel updates visit emirates.com 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Twitter @emirates More

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    Sheikh Hamdan just put this homegrown Dubai restaurant on our radars

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, is well-known for supporting homegrown restaurants around Dubai.
    The Crown Prince of Dubai was recently spotted out in one of his favourite areas in Dubai to dine in, DIFC, putting this restaurant, known for its modern Afghan cuisine, on our radars.

    Having opened in 2015, Gudee Pizza & Cafe in DIFC is hugely popular for its traditional Middle Eastern dishes, this family-owned restaurant has an array of scrumptious meals infusing Afghani flavours in each dish.
    From the indulgent pizza combinations to its Afghani specialities with steamed lamb dumplings and the mouth-watering potato samosas, the culinary expertise at this restaurant is sure to take you by surprise.

    From a diverse set of ingredients to be used as toppings on Gudee’s pizzas, customers can get as creative as possible with a huge burst of flavours.
    Also read: The Dubai royal-approved guide to DIFC restaurants
    Sheikh Hamdan isn’t the only royal who is a fan of the DIFC restaurant. The Crown Prince’s uncle, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, also known as Uncle Saeed on Instagram, is a regular at Gudee’s.
    Sheikh Hamdan and Uncle Saeed regularly frequent many Dubai restaurants together, showing love to the incredible cuisine and establishments the emirate has to offer.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @gudeepizzacafe More

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    Dubai has been ranked as one of the friendliest cities in the world

    From glistening skylines to beautiful sandy beaches along with a melting hotpot of cultures, Dubai has been named one of the friendliest cities in the world.
    In the complete list of 15 cities, Dubai attained the 8th position in the list of top 15 cities where Glasgow in Scotland was first and Dublin ranked second, per UK travel guide publisher Rough Guides, as voted by its readers.

    Other cities on the list also included Montreal in Canada, Tokyo, Copenhagen, Vancouver and Atlanta, Georgia USA.

    It’s no surprise that Dubai has been rated #8 in the top 10 friendliest cities in the world! With the sun shining everyday, a beach always a stone throw away and always a palm tree in sight, what’s not to smile about?! Source: Travel Publisher, Rough Guides Ltd pic.twitter.com/FQlp8sQ8qh
    — Middlesex University Dubai (@MiddlesexDubai) February 28, 2021

    Also read: Dubai ranks amongst the top 10 most Instagrammable cities in the world for 2021
    While providing the perfect blend of beach life with strong work culture, Dubai is a hub for many A-listers to visit including Will Smith and Cristiano Ronaldo. Many celebrities even own homes in Dubai, including David and Victoria Beckham.
    With Dubai to soon host the Expo 2020, there will be an amalgamation of technological advancements with culture, as people from around the world are all set to visit the most awaited exhibition hosted.
    Earlier this year, Dubai also ranked as the top 10 most Instagrammable cities in the world by Big 7 Travel, as it continues to be a hub for the best restaurants and venues, all designed in an aesthetic manner.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Instagram @dubai More

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    2021: When is Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr in the UAE?

    It was recently announced in Dubai that COVID-19 restrictions which begun in February were being extended until the start of Ramadan.
    So, when exactly is the Holy Month set to begin?

    The predicted dates for Ramadan an Eid Al Fitr were announced back in January, per UAE Barq. Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, who is a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, estimated when the crescent will appear to mark the beginning of Ramadan.
    Al-Jarwan expects the Ramadan crescent to be born on Monday, April 12, 2021 at 06:31pm UAE time. The holy month of Ramadan would then begin the next day on Tuesday, April 13.
    ALSO READ: All the UAE public holidays coming up in 2021

    However, these dates are only predictions at present and the firm dates will be announced by the UAE government.

    Eid Al Fitr then falls on the last day of the Islamic month of Ramadan to Shawwal 3. It’s been predicted that Eid al Fitr could fall on May 13, a Thursday, which would mean a potential three-day weekend.
    Public holidays for 2021
    At the end of last year, public holidays for 2021 and 2022 were announced by the UAE cabinet following a meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai.
    His Highness approved the holidays for the following two years for both public and private sector employees.
    This decision, according to Sheikh Mohammed, is to streamline the work in both sectors, as well as being able to give UAE citizens and residents a longer lead time to plan holidays.

    مجلس الوزراء برئاسة صاحب السمو الشيخ محمد بن راشد آل مكتوم يعتمد أجندة العطلات الرسمية للعاملين في القطاع الحكومي والخاص لعامي 2021 و 2022، وذلك في إطار تنظيم سير العمل في القطاعين وضمان استمراريته مع مختلف القطاعات. #حكومة_الإمارات pic.twitter.com/UaU7tOdL9v
    — UAEGov (@uaegov) December 19, 2020

    The holiday dates for 2021 and 2022 are as follows.
    2021
    January 1: New Year
    29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal: Eid Al Fitr
    9 Zul Hijjah: Arafah Day
    10 to 12 Zul Hijjah: Eid Al Adha
    August 12: Islamic New Year
    October 21: Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) birthday
    December 1: Commemoration Day
    December 2 and 3: National Day
    2022
    January 1: New Year
    Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3: Eid Al Fitr
    Zul Hijjah 9: Arafah Day
    Zul Hijjah 10 to 12: Eid Al Adha
    July 30: Islamic New Year
    October 8: Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday
    December 1: Commemoration Day
    December 2 and 3: UAE National Day
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Abu Dhabi Tourism More

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    7 unique staycations in the UAE you need to book

    When you plan a staycation, it’s all about an escape from the mundane routine for something fascinating with experiences that offer a respite from the ordinary.
    While your calendars might be devoid of any travel plans currently, Emirates Woman has gathered a unique list of escapades that include everything from caravans to glamping grounds for a truly memorable experience.
    Long Beach Campground, RAK

    This is the perfect getaway to get close to nature with various recreational facilities such as beach yoga, sea view aerobics, kite flying and exhilarating water sports. If you’re looking for a fun-filled camp, kids will be far from bored with all the host of onboard activities for them to try out during the stay. There’s also a pleasant site of farm animals for kids to interact with at the petting zoo. Starting at Dhs249 for the authentic deluxe tent with a comfortable setting, this will make the perfect home for your next camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah.

    For more information visit binmajid.com
    Mysk Kingfisher Retreat, Sharjah

    Offering a unique getaway to a world of conservation, this natural retreat is the perfect haven to slow down and relaxes it’s set on the east coast of Sharjah with a pristine beach with a private boat to take you to an island with amazing views of the Indian Ocean. It will allow you to reconnect with yourself as you embrace the true Arabian heritage with a world-class luxurious experience starting at Dhs1690 for a one-bedroom tent with a sea view.
    For more information visit myskhotels.com
    Also read: Inside the UAE’s luxury new ‘Moon Retreat’
    Al Seef Heritage Hotel

    You can witness the charm of Dubai’s ancient culture at this hotel which emulates a rustic charm as you witness the breezy winds from the Dubai creek. With a haven of detailed architecture added to each corner, this retreat is the perfect getaway while still being located in the city. There’s also an array of restaurants available closely, you’re sure to swoon over the Middle Eastern dishes served at the hotel. Prices for a room start at Dhs299 without service tax.
    For more information or to make a reservation visit hilton.com
    Hatta Sedr Trailers

    While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
    Bedouin Oasis, RAK

    You can live like a bedouin for a day with luxury in the middle of nowhere with thrilling desert experiences, traditional hospitality at its best all set in the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah with a traditional style setting offering a host of exciting activities as you witness a touch of the Arabian culture with beautiful landscapes on the trip starting at Dhs750 for three adults.
    For more information visit bedouinoasis.org
    Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel-Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi

    You can lose yourself to nature’s beauty as you embark on this wonderful journey in a wildlife sanctuary as you explore this distinct escape from the world inspired by the sights of Africa. Seclude yourself in the utmost privacy in the resort with one-of-a-kind facilities and you also dine in a secluded villa beneath the stars on your terrace starting at Dhs1,840 depending on availability.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    JA The Resort, Dubai

    Offering activities for those of all ages, this leading luxury family resort is an all-inclusive hotel with lush gardens, an equestrian centre, a golf course, a shooting club and a range of other rejuvenating activities to help you unwind, while being located at this picturesque area in Jebel Ali.
    For more information or to make a reservation visit jaresortshotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @myskkingfisherretreat More

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    First look: ‘Shocking things’ said in Meghan and Harry’s tell-all interview

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have sat down with Oprah Winfrey to give a tell-all interview about their lives post-leaving the royal family and moving to the USA.
    The first trailer for the interview was released on Sunday, with the Duchess of Sussex first appearing with Winfrey solo.

    “I just want to make it clear to everybody there is no subject that’s off-limits,” the famous talk show host says in the preview. She later directly asks Meghan, “Were you silent or were you silenced?”
    Prince Harry then joins his pregnant wife for the interview. He candidly says, “My biggest concern was history repeating itself.”

    [embedded content]
    It’s set to be an explosive 90-minute interview with the couple at their new home in Montecito, California.
    Winfrey even says at the end of the first 30-second preview, “You’ve said some pretty shocking things here.”
    A second preview was also released, with Prince Harry discussing his mother, Princess Diana and comparing how they were treated to her.
    “You know, for me, I’m just really relieved and happy to be sitting here, talking to you with my wife by my side,” he admits. “Because I can’t begin to imagine what it must’ve been like for her going through this process by herself all those years ago.”
    The Duke of Sussex also added that while it had been “unbelievably tough” for the pair, “at least we have each other”.
    [embedded content]
    During both previews, quotes from Meghan aren’t played, but the mum-of-one, who is currently expecting her second child, looks visibly upset at some points.
    The CBS interview is set to air on Sunday, March 7 and will be an “intimate conversation” with the legendary talk show host.
    “Winfrey will speak with Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, in a wide-ranging interview, covering everything from stepping into life as a royal, marriage, motherhood, philanthropic work to how she is handling life under intense public pressure,” the network said in a statement officially announcing the interview.
    “Later, the two are joined by Prince Harry as they speak about their move to the United States and their future hopes and dreams for their expanding family.”

    Just a couple of weeks ago,  the couple announced the joyous news they are expecting their second child together.
    The news was announced via a spokesperson for the couple, alongside a sweet black and white photo of the pair sitting in the sun together whilst Meghan cradled her small bump.
    “We can confirm that Archie is going to be a big brother,” the spokesperson for the Sussexes said. “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are overjoyed to be expecting their second child.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images/Media: CBS More