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    Photographer releases unseen portraits of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    11 mins ago

    New portraits of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been unveiled by one of the couple’s go-to photographers.
    The photographs, which were taken prior to the Queen’s death, were captured by Misan Harriman when the couple attended One Young World summit in Manchester in the UK.
    Two portraits were released by the photographer the first of which shows the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in powerful stances looking directly to the camera, also holding hands.
    The second photograph, which is in black and white, show the couple with more sombre expressions, still holding hands, as they presumably prepare to take to the stage where the duchess gave the keynote address.

    The former senior royals were set to undertake a number of engagements around the United Kingdom during their trip together, but due to Queen Elizabeth II’s passing the appearances were cancelled during the mourning period.
    Instead, the couple, alongside other members of the royal family including King Charles II and Queen Consort Camilla and the new Prince and Princess of Wales, were involved in many engagements during the official mourning period for the Queen.

    These engagements included a walkabout Windsor Castle with Prince William and Princess Kate, attending the vigil of the Queen’s grandchildren and the official state funeral.
    Harry and Meghan have now returned to the USA, where the now reside in Montecito, California, after they stepped down from official royal duties at the beginning of 2020.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
    Images: Misan Harriman More

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    Sheikha Mahra spreads joy spending time with children of determination

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    25 mins ago

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is regularly seen giving back to the local community.
    With a desire to make a difference, Sheikha Mahra, the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is known for her philanthropic efforts in the region.
    Her latest efforts to spread joy in society were seen in a video shared on her Instagram feed, where she spent an afternoon with children of determination at a Khatoon International event.
    Held on October 2, 2022, Sheikha Mahra was welcomed as the chief guest for the grand finale event, where an exhibition, red carpet and a pageant and awards ceremony took place. After each child made an appearance on stage, they all received a heartfelt applause and affection from the royal herself who made each little member present there feel special.
    In the video shared on her Instagram feed, the caption said, “It was a great honour to meet with my special friends.”

    At the event, Sheikha Mahra also shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child, with all smiles in a heartwarming portrait.
    This royal didn’t shy away from her tiny admirer as she welcomed affection with open arms. Her Highness later shared the heartwarming portrait on her Instagram page.

    With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, Sheikha Mahra’s kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images/ Media: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    How I got my job as… Founder of a leading online luxury destination platform

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Martha Waslen, founder of DayAway, a leading online destination platform for guests to discover and book curated luxury daytime experiences in the UAE. Designed for both travellers and residents, the unique platform offers a variety of restorative daytime escapes including wellness and dining experiences.
    As a leading technology and lifestyle leader, Waslen has collaborated with luxurious hotels in the region to give users the ultimate rejuvenating package.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to find out more about her career and how she found inspiration to create this enticing luxury destination platform in the region.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    Any class that involved debate. I think my mind must be physiologically wired to play Devil’s Advocate because I always love to consider different perspectives of the same debate, which is why I should have maybe been a lawyer.
    What was your first job?
    My very first job was working as a lifeguard at a country club in high school. Hardly anyone ever went in the pool, and I spent most days just lounging poolside. It was the best job ever.

    What brought you to Dubai?
    Dubai is such a beautiful and vibrant city, and we are very excited about the opportunity for our business to grow throughout the UAE and to meet with our incredible hotel and lifestyle partners who have helped make the hospitality scene in Dubai what it is today.
    What inspired you to launch DayAway? Talk us through the concept.
    We launched DayAway as a platform to connect luxury 5-star hotels to the growing experience economy through revolutionary software that allows hotels to maximise revenue from their underutilized facility spaces. Since our launch in May 2021, we’ve expanded to five countries and will soon offer a wide range of experiences curated by private yacht companies, helicopter operators, luxury retail boutiques, and award-winning cocktail bars and restaurants as well. We’re on our way to being the leading online destination for booking luxury experiences worldwide. We will be announcing a range of B2B software solutions to a global network of hospitality & travel brands in the coming months, and an innovative Web3 framework for our partners to expand their brand presence using blockchain, NFTs and metaverse technology.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    As the CEO of a tech startup, I wear many hats. My role includes everything from strategizing about how we will scale our tech globally across multiple travel and hospitality verticals, to spell-checking copy on our website and responding to customer service emails. Fortunately, I have an incredible team of rockstar developers, marketers and business development managers that allow me to focus most of my time on planning for the future of our business.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I have two young toddlers, so my mornings start very early and are usually filled with a mix of getting the kids ready for school while simultaneously preparing for early morning calls with partners and investors based in the US (which is the evening their time). The rest of my days are filled with exciting meetings, calls, coffees, and lunches with decision-makers from a wide range of industries – from travel and hospitality to Web3 and venture capital. As much as I’m able, I still love to pick up my kids from school in the late afternoons and be home to tuck them into bed before starting calls again with partners in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    The path for entrepreneurs is a rocky one, filled with all kinds of challenges, but I always keep the Tony Robbins quote in mind that “success is 80 percent psychological and 20 percent skill.” If you stay positive, and mentally tough, incredible things are possible.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    I’ve received so many great pieces of advice and have been fortunate to have incredible role models and mentors. Some of the best advice I’ve received was to read a book called The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. Lessons from that book are a daily reminder not to be intimidated by big goals, but to break them down into smaller, more achievable goals. Everything is possible if you work towards your dreams, bit by bit, day by day. Don’t let your highs get too high or your lows get too low – just stay on course, don’t get discouraged and keep accumulating small wins along the way. One day you’ll wake up, look back, and be amazed by everything you’ve achieved.
    And what is the worst?
    In the early days of DayAway, I was advised by a few prospective investors to just focus on the Web2 side of our business, and not distract myself with Web3 integrations. They thought our Web2 business was “good and profitable enough” and that we didn’t need to complicate the platform by integrating blockchain technology. What I don’t think they realise is that any tech company they’re investing in that isn’t considering how blockchain can help their business grow community, and ease unnecessary operational frictions, is already out of date.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    The biggest challenge has been overcoming my own self-doubt, and my own illusions about what I was – and more importantly, what I was not capable of achieving. You really don’t know what you’re capable of until you try, and when you push yourself to what you believe is your absolute limit, I think many people realise that those limits they thought they had don’t really exist. There are no limits.
    What are the future plans for your brand?
    We are so excited about the future of DayAway and the innovative tech solutions we’ll be announcing in the coming months, including white label solutions that allow our partners to sell experiences directly to their customers on a global level, software that for the first time ever will allow travel agents to make commissions on booking experiences for their clients, and of course building a bridge to bring millions of people into the world of Web3. anyway has recently announced the launch of our Founder’s Key NFT. Commemorating our transition into Web3, the Founder’s Key is the first blockchain-enabled membership and loyalty program of its kind that unlocks exclusive access and benefits to luxury experiences worldwide. The Founder’s Key, along with future DayAway NFT collections and metaverse experiences, will build the foundation for what we hope will be the wider tokenisation of memberships and loyalty programs in hospitality and travel.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Visa changes in the UAE: 6 new options available from today

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    As the UAE continues to bring in new changes post the COVID-19 pandemic, visas are a major topic of discussion.
    Back in April, the UAE Cabinet approved a number of new visas, as the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe.
    “The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” the cabinet said via a statement from the media office.
    With a host of new visas being granted from today, October 3, 2022, below is everything you need to know.
    Visitor visa
    Tourist visas were previously limited to 30 days, but as of today visitors are now able to stay for a total of 60 days.
    Visitors can apply for a new entry permit that allows them to enter without a sponsor or host if they are a relative or friend of a UAE citizen or resident.
    Tourists who wish to visit for a longer period of time can also apply for a five-year multi-entry tourist visa, which lets visitors stay for up to 90 days in one go in the UAE, without exceeding 180 days in one year. A bank balance of $4,000 (Dhs14,692) in the last six months will be required, as proof of sufficient funds.
    Business visa
    For those who wish to start their own company or invest in other companies, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor.
    Temporary work visa
    For any project-based work or temporary work assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa after submitting a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer and a valid health certificate, per the government website.
    Visa for studying/training
    This visa is required for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes. The requirements for such a visa include the details of the study or the internship and its overall duration. It can be sponsored by public and private sector educational and research institutes.
    Family visa
    Families now have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously 18 years old only. Sponsorship can also be granted to disabled children and unmarried daughters for an indefinite time.

    The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR
    — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

    Job visa
    After graduating from the best 500 universities, job-seekers can avail of this latest visa that will be given to bachelor’s degree holders or its equivalent to exploring more job opportunities in the UAE. This visa can be granted to those who fall under the first, second or third skill levels category as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
    Already available in the UAE
    Multi-entry tourist visa
    If tourists wish to visit the UAE and stay for a longer time frame, that’s now possible for up to 90 days and it can be extended for another 90 days without a sponsor with this five-year multi-entry tourist visa. The requirements include a minimum bank balance of $4000 (Dhs14,700) or its equivalent in the last six months before applying.
    Green visa
    If residents wish to bring their families without a sponsor or employer, this five-year visa is granted to skilled workers, self-employers and freelancers who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of Dhs15,000.
    Golden visa
    Launched as part of a programme in 2019, however, effective in full force since 2021. The Golden visa is now offered to a host of professionals that have changed over the course of time. Golden visa holders can now sponsor their families including their wife and kids without any age limit along with domestic workers.
    For entrepreneurs
    With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
    For real estate owners
    The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
    For ‘exceptional talents’
    The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
    For scientists & researchers
    Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
    For outstanding students
    Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
    For skilled workers
    Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
    For more information visit the UAE government website. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kasialukaszczuk More

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    Sheikha Mahra’s Princess Diana moment at Dubai women empowerment event

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Even on official engagements, royals are able to relate to those who they meet on a personal level.
    Over the weekend, UAE-based company Khatoon International held a forum to recognise women in their respective fields and welcomed Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as the official chief guest.
    At the event, Sheikha Mahra shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child, with all smiles in this heartwarming portrait. The moment is perhaps reminiscent of the late Princess Diana, mother of Prince William and Prince Harry of the UK, as she was known for always embracing the people she met.
    As actions speak louder than words, this royal didn’t shy away from her tiny admirer as she welcomed affection with open arms. Her Highness later shared the heartwarming portrait on her Instagram page.

    During the event, this royal also received an award from Rashid AlAmeri, CEO of Mai Aldhafra and Twenty2 Group, who is also known for creating new investment opportunities in various sectors globally.
    Captured in an ombre yellow abaya Sheikha Mahra looked stunning as always and even released a series of post-event images on her Instagram feed. Often complimented for her sartorial choices, this look was among the latest addition to her pastel hues.
    Known for visiting several openings and attending new launches in the UAE, including the Icons exhibitions, Sheikha Mahra plays a pivotal role in uplifting women in the region including upcoming entrepreneurs, fashion designers and leading philanthropists.
    Swipe through the gallery of new portraits shared of the event.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    Everything to know about the new 60-day visitor visa in the UAE

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 hours ago

    Some major changes have been made to visas in the UAE in 2022, and this includes the visa granted on arrival for many tourists coming to the country.
    Previously the visa on arrival granted was for 30 days only, but this has been extended to 60 days. This change will be implemented from today, October 3, 2022.
    Per the UAE Government Media Office, “Major improvements include facilitating the entry requirements for all visa types, offering flexible visa durations that meet the needs of the visitors and the purpose of the visit.”
    The reason for the visa revamp
    So, why exactly has the UAE’s original 30-day entry visa been extended to 60 days?
    Per the announcement outlining the details of the new visa, it’s to allow visitors to explore the job markets in the UAE and understand various aspects including quality of life and experience an extended vacation in the country.
    For those making a move to Dubai, this visa will allow them a longer time frame to arrange for their work or residency visa.
    What are the requirements?

    The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR
    — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

    There are no pre-requisite requirements for the 60-day visa. However, not all countries are able to avail the visa on arrival, in which case it must be applied for in advance via a travel agency.
    There is also the new five-year multi-entry tourist visa which was recently launched. For visitors who wish to apply, proof of funds of $4,000 (Dhs14,692) during the last six months is required prior to submitting the application form.
    Penalties
    Just like the 30-day entry visa, there will be a nine-day grace period for the new entry visa. Penalties will begin after this with a fine of Dhs200 on the first day of overstay and Dhs100 per day for every day of the overstay.
    Is an extension possible?
    All the entry visas are available for single or multiple entries and can be renewed for another 60 days from their first date of issuance.
    Implementation
    All of these changes will come into effect from September 2022.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Instagram @who.sane More

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    3 Rules This Entrepreneur Swears Will Help Set You Up for Success

    Like many of you, I was told at a young age that the recipe for success requires three ingredients: education, hard work, and a good-paying job. And while that advice isn’t totally wrong, there is one problem with it: It just scratches the surface. The truth is, at the end of the day, success looks different to everyone. So, it only makes sense that everyone’s journey to finding it will vary.
    This is something I recently had the privilege of discussing with former actress Kelsey Formost. You may have seen her in shows such as Modern Family or High Expectations. Or maybe you saw her in the 2015 movie We Are Your Friends, which starred Zac Efron. Nowadays, though, Kelsey Formost has moved on from acting to writing. And as an ex-actress turned copywriting and marketing expert, business owner, and host of the podcast, Find Your Magic, she isn’t shy about discussing mental health.
    Throughout my interview with Formost, we talked about all things mental health and success. There were three key takeaways she kept coming back to that have helped set herself and others up for success. Regardless of what your goals are, she swears that turning to these three rules for guidance will help you manifest success in your life, however that may look to you. Read on to learn all about the three tips for success Kelsey Formost swears by:

    Meet the expert
    Kelsey Formost

    Kelsey Formost is an actress turned copywriting and marketing expert. Through her business, Magic Words, Formost teaches other entrepreneurs how to use words to make their businesses and products stand out. She is also the host of the “Find Your Magic” podcast, which covers everything from business advice to creativity to social justice and beyond.

    1. Strive for harmony instead of balance
    We’ve all heard the term “work-life balance,” but Formost isn’t a fan. She believes the term can inadvertently shame you into thinking that you’re doing life “wrong” if something requires a large dose of your attention. In addition, she also believes the word “balance” implies that everything is equal in your life, which is impossible. After all, there will be times when certain areas of your life require more focus than others.
    What Formost strives for instead is harmony. “I think of all areas of my life—like work, friends and family, romantic relationships, and so on and so forth—as voices in a choir that make up my life,” she told me. “Sometimes one voice will be very loud and require my focus, but if I’ve invested in the other areas and taken care of them well, those voices will work in harmony to support the area that needs my attention.” She went on to add that during times of discord she’ll essentially “stop the music” and see which area of her life needs a “tune-up” so she can get her choir working in harmony again. The key to having harmony in life is listening to the voices from all areas of it and taking care of what’s needed in any given moment—AKA the loudest voice.

    2. Taking care of your mental health is vital
    Formost also firmly believes that taking care of your mental health is the only way to ensure you’re showing up to work as your fullest, most authentic, and creative self. When your mental health isn’t in check, your work inevitably suffers. The energy that lives within you will be reflected outwardly into the world. “Sure, you can ‘hustle’ your way to a big payday, but that won’t be sustainable,” she said. Living with a frenetic and anxious mind will make you more liable to forget important tasks, miss deadlines, and eventually burn out—all of which will block you from reaching your fullest potential. Taking the time to ground yourself will leave you feeling calm and confident. In turn, this will help you manifest success.

    3. Stop “should-ing” all over yourself
    When it comes to attaining success, there is no one-size-fits-all. Everyone’s different, which means their journey will be, too. Instead of thinking about everything you “should” do, focus on doing what works best for you. To make sure you’re prioritizing yourself and your needs, Formost recommends taking one small step each day that incorporates more of what nourishes your soul. This can be anything from meditating to taking a bath to calling a loved one and anything in between.
    She also added that mental health isn’t a quick fix. “It’s the result of the compound interest of many small investments you make in yourself over time,” she told me. Essentially, doing little things that better yourself and your mind each day will add up over time. This will help you embody the highest, best, and most authentic version of yourself. And that’s a guaranteed recipe for success.

    A Financial Advisor’s Top 4 Tips for Securing Your Future More

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    October’s – The Pioneer Issue with Nora, Sarah & Dana Al Ramadhan

    Fashion

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    Creative Direction: Daniel Robinson & Amy SessionsPhotographer: Žiga MihelčičProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska & Karolina Kurovicka by MMGCover Stars: Sarah, Nora and Dana Al RamadhanLocation with special thanks to Nikki Beach Resort & SpaAll Fashion Ounass & Bouguessa
    Welcome to The Pioneer Issue.
    For our cover, we are very proud to have three incredible women, not only sisters but business partners who are changing the landscape of commerce in the beauty space.
    Nora, Sarah and Dana Al Ramadhan, Co-Founders of Apotheca Beauty tell us what it takes to rethink how you approach an industry and build a brand that pioneers a new direction allwhile upholding a quality over quantity mentality in The Pioneering Beauty Empire.

    Thinking outside the box is something those we feature in this issue have in common from Mary Alice Malone, founder and creative director of Malone Souliers in A Distinctive Aesthetic, founder of Aubade, Duha Al Ramadhan in Careful Curation and Caterina Ercoli, Head of Buying at Level Shoes in Delivering Growth.
    Beauty-wise, we look at the dramatic effects NAD can have on anti-ageing in The Fountain of Youth, we speak to Lucy Goff, Co-Founder of LYMA on the first medical-grade laser to launch to market in The Game Changer and we compile the latest tech you can harness in terms of pioneering light therapy to elevate your skin in The Edit.
    In The Wanderlust on page 142, we unveil the most unusual places to visit for the pioneers at heart. Go on – take the leap!
    October’s – The Pioneer Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More