lifestyle and culture

As the hotter weather has well and truly arrived in the UAE, opting for indoor activities during the hotter months is always wise.This is where your Netflix subscription will come in handy. With many new binge-worthy series and documentaries launching in the month of June, it’s the ideal time to make a date with your couch and television.Breaking Boundaries – The Science of Our Planet, June 4[embedded content]Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, this 75-minute film follows the scientific journey of Professor Johan Rockström, a world-renowned scientist. The programme focuses on humanity surpassing the boundaries that have kept earth stable for over 10,000 years, since the dawn of humanity. By telling the story of the most significant scientific discovery of our time, award-winning filmmakers Silverback Films, the team behind the landmark Our Planet series, and David Attenborough attempt to take the audience on a journey of how to keep the planet alive by introducing sustainable solutions, not just for the stability of the planet but also for the future of humanity.Tragic Jungle, June 9[embedded content]Set in 1920, on the border between Mexico and Belize immersed in the Mayan jungle, a lawless territory where myths abound, a group of Mexican gum workers cross paths with Agnes, a mysterious young Belizean woman. Her presence incites tension among the men, arousing their fantasies and desires. Filled with new vigour, they face their destiny without knowing that they have woken up Xtabay, a legendary being that lurks in the heart of the jungle.Fresh, fried & crispy, June 9[embedded content]Daym Drops, one of the most prominent food reviewers on YouTube, is travelling the USA to find the best undiscovered fried food dishes from street food and home kitchens to fancy restaurants. With more than 250 million views on YouTube, Daym Drops takes viewers to San Diego following his experience trying deep-fried Oreos alongside many other dishes whilst he’s on the hunt for the crispest bite in the States.Black Summer Season 2, June 17[embedded content]Following on from the first season, winter approaches carrying new challenges during the zombie apocalypse leaving scavengers frantic and militias more violent than ever.Fatherhood, June 18[embedded content]Kevin Hart stars as a widower in this heartwarming, humorous and moving true story which focuses on how his character takes on the role of fatherhood.Good on Paper, June 23[embedded content]Andrea Singer is a comedian who always put her career first, that is until she meets Dennis whos captivating charm disrupts her guard. Margot, Andrea’s best friend isn’t convinced and makes it her mission to uncover Dennis’ reality.Somos, June 30[embedded content]An explosive investigative article by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ginger Thompson inspired Somos. Following the stories of people within the small town of Allende in the days leading up to a shocking massacre, Somos tells the stories of drug wars from the victim’s perspective after their lives were changed forever, without forewarning, when their town was struck by a DEA operation that went tragically wrong.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages / Media: Netflix, Feature Image: Unsplash More

Bella Hadid is never one to shy away to share her pride in her Arab heritage, which she inherited from her father’s side of the family who hails from Palestine.Once again praising her Arab roots, Hadid shared a video of her father, Mohamed Hadid, speaking Arabic which she said was like “music to her ears”.“My baba,” she began. “Him speaking Arabic is like music to my ears… I could listen on a loop all day.”The video the supermodel shared was from the Craving Palestine Instagram account, which is a “global fundraising movement and a not-for-profit cookbook, showcasing over 100 beautifully curated recipes, graciously donated by inspirational Palestinians from all walks of life”.One such person which contributed to the book was Hadid’s father.Back in October 2020, the property tycoon had revealed he had contributed to the book, which was co-authored by Farrah Abuasad and Lama Bazzari, by sharing two recipes that have been passed down from his mother.“Two of my recipes in this book I learned from My mother that she learned from her mother Princess Khairya (khair) DAHER Al Omer Hadid she was married in 1941 to my father Anwar Mohamed Hadid,” he said at the time.“I learned a lot from my mother and father how to eat and what to eat and most important is to host and feed people from all Gods all religions, from the Plentiful well-cultivated earth of Palestine.”In the video which was reposted by his daughter, the 72-year-old talks through, in Arabic, his contribution to the book which includes a Bamyeh recipe.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram, Feature Image: Getty More

As a surprise to her fans, Nancy Ajram’s first single was up online this week from her highly anticipated soon-to-be-released album, Nancy10.By exploring the narrative of adventure, the song entitled ‘Hobbak Bi Ye’wa’ was released on Friday, May 28, where the video received over one million views on YouTube all within 24 hours, while the hashtag Nancy 10 went viral on Twitter, generating quite a bit of publicity for the singer.With a short promotional video, also released earlier this month, Ajram is seen strolling through the beach amidst nature, with empty rooftops, depicting how music is her escape in this fast-paced world.
We are just getting started 😉 #Nancy10 #حبك_بيقوى pic.twitter.com/4sPuW7NXGE
— Nancy Ajram (@NancyAjram) May 28, 2021The song welcomed a fresh perspective to Nancy’s hit single, as it was composed by Walid Saad, with lyrics provided by Khaled Tajeldine, the song is a perfect combination of Egyptian pop and folk.In an interview with the local broadcaster LBC, she said, “There is nothing more difficult than not knowing what is to come.“It is difficult to really express this tiredness we feel as Lebanese. And this is not because of the home quarantine, rather it is thinking about the unknown fate that awaits us.”With the exact date of the album still up in the air, sources from Ajram’s camp have revealed that it’s most likely to be out within the first ten days of June, as the singer might have faced a delay for the release due to the current ongoing pandemic.To watch the latest release the below:[embedded content]As her fans eagerly wait for the album to be out, stay tuned for any further updates regarding the same, as this talented singer slowly makes a comeback, as the world slowly turns to some level of normalcy.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @nancyajram More

Many fans of Netflix’s Bridgerton were disappointed to hear that Regé-Jean Page would not feature in season two of the hit show.However, in a recent interview with The Wrap, Phoebe Dynevor, who plays the role of Daphne Bridgerton, gave an insight into the on-screen couple’s future within the series.Avid Bridgerton enthusiasts will be aware that the second series will focus on Daphne’s brother, Anthony Bridgerton, who is played by Jonathan Bailey.The focal point of the period drama will switch from Daphne and Simon’s love story, explaining why Page has departed from the cast. Instead, fans will follow Anthony Bridgerton in his quest to find love and a family.In relation to the appearance of the Duke of Hastings, Dynevor teased, “I think he’ll definitely be referred to a lot. I think we’ll see the baby.” This suggests that the Duke will still play an active role in the second series, even if he doesn’t grace our screens.“And we’ll just focus more on her relationship with the Bridgerton family,” Dynevor added, when discussing Daphne’s role in the upcoming series.Netflix has confirmed that Bridgerton has been renewed for another four seasons, with a focus on a different Bridgerton sibling in each season. This is assumed because Julia Quinn, the author of the novels that inspired Bridgerton, used this course when writing them.Alongside this, Netflix has also confirmed a spin-off focusing on Queen Charlotte, so there’s plenty nineteenth-century watching to come in the future.Can’t wait until the new series to be released? Take a look below at a few things we know so far about the trajectory of the next few seasons.Season two will focus on Antony Bridgerton finding loveTaking inspiration from Julia Quinn’s novel The Viscount Who Loved Me, Anthony is set to find the perfect wife but becomes distracted by her older sister, Kate. Quinn had one request for the season, a scene where Anthony and Kate play Pall Mall (essentially croquet) which is featured in the novel.When asked about his character, Bailey said, “Hopefully, Anthony is someone who’s gonna make people realize that some men just don’t have what it takes.”He continued, “He means so well and he’s got such a good heart and he loves his family and once I fell in love with him and realized that he meant well, that means that you can really push the boundaries as to how unfair and toxic he can be to his lovers and to his sisters and to his mother.”The second series will also introduce Kate Sharma to Bridgerton. Played by Simone Ashley, who is well known for her role in Sex Education, Kate will play the leading lady in the new series alongside Anthony.When asked about her role in the upcoming series, Ashley said, “Kate is equal parts headstrong and whip-smart. Her sharp wit and independent nature make her a singular force on the 1814 marriage mart, where she hopes to secure a love match for her younger sister, Edwina.”There will also be an introduction of a new character not known from the books. Calam Lynch is set to play Theo Sharpe who is “a hardworking printer’s assistant” and “an intellectual who fights for the rights of all.”If the trajectory continues, season three will focus on Benedict BridgertonThe third season of Bridgerton is likely to follow the storyline of Julia Quinn’s An Offer From a Gentleman, where it is Benedict Bridgerton’s – played by Luke Thompson – time to find the love of his life. Benedict, played by Luke Thompson,Colin Bridgerton is set to be the focal point of season 4Unsurprisingly, Penelope Featherington, played by Nicola Coughlan, becomes more than just a friend to Collin Bridgerton, played by Luke Newton, in season 4.Although we already know that Penelope is Lady Whistledown, Claudia Jessie, who plays Eloise, Penelope’s best friend, is “gonna find out it’s her best mate… carnage.”Will there be a season 5?Quinn wrote a total of eight novels, one for each of the Bridgerton children. Netflix has only renewed Bridgerton until season 4, so we’ll just have to wait and see on this one.Watch Bridgerton on Netflix – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram @Bridgertonnetflix More

From luxury private island escapes with views over the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf to a stay admiring views of the shining cityscape, get your bags packed and enjoy all that Abu Dhabi staycations have to offer.There are plenty of ongoing offers available from partnerships with fitness studios to meditation and relaxation surrounded by the ocean, perfect for a weekend away or a mid-week break.The Abu Dhabi EDITIONEmbracing Global Wellness Month, The Abu Dhabi EDITION has partnered with CRANK, a trendy boutique fitness studio, to introduce CRANK Weekends, an exclusive experience available for one weekend, every month starting from 11 to 12 June 2021. For Dhs1500 guests can enjoy an overnight stay in a Deluxe Double Marina Room, a CRANK ride class in ANNEX Club along with an Amapiano Brunch and 20% off EDITION spa treatments during the stay, including their 60-minute KNESKO Diamond Radiance mask. That’s not all, early check-in and late check out allow for flexibility during your stay. This contemporary staycation is the perfect spot for the regeneration of both the mind and body.For more information visit editionhotels.comZaya Nurai Island Detox staycationJust a short 15-minute boat journey off the shores of Abu Dhabi, Zaya Nurai a luxury private island, offers picturesque views reminiscent of the Maldives. From June to September the island is offering a 2-day detox program to reset your mind, body and soul over two nights, starting from Dhs8500. This offer includes a signature detox bath and spa amenities for 2 people as well as a 1-hour yoga session. The breathtaking environment including looking onto the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf gives guests time to enjoy the benefits of the half-board package.For more information visit zayanuraiisland.comRosewood Abu DhabiThis urban staycation offers the luxury and serenity of a beach resort with a cityscape as the horizon. Rates for Rosewood’s Reconnect Urban Staycation start from Dhs779 per night for two adults. The waterfront based staycation includes a complimentary 15-minute massage and breakfast alongside a further 20% discount on any additional treatments and food and beverages to enjoy beside the pool or after dinner.For more information visit rosewoodhotels.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Instagram @zayanuraiisland More

Your ultimate guide to spending the weekend in Dubai – June 3 to June 5, 2021.A luxe staycation packageEscape from the hustle and bustle of Dubai to the Park Hyatt Dubai Creek. With a combination of elegance and drama showcased in the architecture, this Creekside hotspot consists of 223 luxury rooms with 34 suites and a stunning 25-metre adults-only swimming pool, with in-set palm trees and four whirlpools for a tranquil oasis as you recharge your batteries.Emirates Woman, in partnership with Park Hyatt, is offering our readers an exclusive special one-night stay deal for two on June 4, 2021, for Dhs899++. The package includes breakfast, dinner at Casa de Tapas with a complimentary drink, plus an additional 20 per cent off on F&B at selected restaurants for the duration of the day. There’s only limited rooms available, so we suggest you book now.For more information or to make a reservation visit parkhyattdubai.com.com.One for the ladiesEnjoy a night out with your best girlfriends at Vida Emirates Hills ladies night – Sips & Puffs at Junipers. Lounge in the most comfortable atmosphere and enjoy three house beverages plus hubbly bubbly for Dhs120. This offer is available every night from 7pm to 9pm until September 30.Buddha Bar’s first-ever brunchStarting this Friday, June 4, Buddha Bar at the Grosvenor House Dubai will be hosting an all-new Friday Brunch, the Buddha-Bar 7th Heaven Brunch. Enjoy the restaurant’s Pan-Asian cuisine alongside some drinks, in the company of friends and the venue’s in-house DJ. Hero dishes include Oyster with aji Amarillo vinaigrette, Lobster Dumplings with a creamy chilli crab sauce, Wok-Fried Australian Beef Tenderloin with Szechuan sauce and more. Taking place from 1pm to 4pm every Friday, packages start at Dhs450 for soft drinks and Dhs525 for the house package.An evening brunchIf you’re looking for a covetable evening brunch deal, Secret Parties have got you covered with their newly-launched ‘The Secret Dinner Party’. Dine at 3BK in the Burj Khalifa and enjoy unlimited drinks, five-star food and a special touch of Secret Parties entertainment. The Secret Dinner Party at the Burj Khalifa runs from 8pm until 11pm with an afterparty until late. Packages start from just Dhs299. Guests at this spectacular evening soiree will be treated to a lavish four-course brunch with premium food options catering to every taste bud. Dishes include; Mixed seafood tagliatelle, green pea risotto and beef striploin.A luxe meal inRelish in a luxurious meal at home via the new innovative food technology platform developed by Evgeny Kuzin, Chef Izu Ani and Accor, Kitch-In. Dubai residents and tourists can enjoy exquisite cuisine from four unique digital restaurant brands, including Japanese street food from Jimoto, Korean cuisine from Seoul Sister, Italian delicacies from Gigi and Greek favourites from Ap’ola, delivered to their door, or Accor hotel room.Developed by Chef Izu Ani and his culinary team, the virtual brands were designed to portray the essence of the cultures that they take inspiration from, serving the traditions of cuisine through a modern, technological platform.A luxe pool dayLooking for one of the best value-for-money daycation deals around this weekend? Enjoy a luxe pool day at the Fairmont the Palm pool and beach for Dhs250 this weekend with Dhs150 redeemable on F&B. During the week it’s Dhs150 for the daycation deal.An in-demand brunch dealBy popular demand, new hotspot Mimi Kakushi has launched an in-demand brunch which will be served every Friday and Saturday, with three-hour slots available from noon until 4pm. Blending Far East cuisine with Western influences, you’ll see playful, flavourful tweaks to well-known Japanese favourites, served up in a stunning space that transports you to the swinging jazz age in 1920s Osaka. All the while you’ll also be able to sip exquisitely curated, perfectly balanced cocktails and mocktails magicked up by master mixologists. Packages start from Dhs350 for soft drinks, Dhs490 for house beverages and Dhs695 for champagne.Pick up a copy of Emirates WomanWhether you’re relaxing poolside or chilling at home this weekend, pick up a copy of Emirates Woman‘s latest issue or read it online.  In this issue, we look at beauty in all forms, not simply skin-deep. The overarching theme when we asked a wealth of incredible women we know what beauty means to them was feeling comfortable in your own skin – no matter what shade or size that is. One word that also arose was integrity, a word that is vital in both how you operate and those you surround yourself or partner with. For our cover shoot, we partnered with global beauty powerhouse Hourglass in A Brave New Beauty. Our cover star is Minwa Al Hamed – muse to Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum and her namesake fine jewellery brand which is going from strength to strength.June’s – ‘The Beauty Issue’ – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied  More

Saudi Arabia has lifted the travel ban imposed to halt the spread of coronavirus meaning travellers from 11 countries can now enter the Kingdom.According to Reuters who cited the Saudi state news agency, travellers from the United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Italy, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland and France can now enter the country.The lifting of the travel ban took place on May 30, however, quarantine procedures are still mandatory and all travellers will be tested for COVID-19.Earlier this month on May 17, after vaccinating 11.5 million people with at least one jab, Saudi Arabia eased the travel ban which has been in place for over a year, allowing vaccinated citizens to leave the kingdom.People who recently recuperated from the virus alongside minors under the age of 18 could also travel, providing they had active travel insurance.Formerly, Saudi citizens had been banned from travelling abroad for 14 months due to apprehensions that international travel would jeopardize the population of over 30 million people.Travel to Saudi Arabia remains restricted from a number of locations deemed high risk, including Turkey, Yemen, India, Iran and Lebanon.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: RIMOWA Instagram More

The Dubai Mall is iconic for its fashion, entertainment, attractions and more. But sometimes what is overlooked is the exquisite art it houses.One such structure which is the most striking of all is the Dubai Mall Waterfall. While it’s frequently used as a meeting point in the world’s biggest mall, the landmark also has some exquisite artistry and craft behind it.While frequent visitors to the Dubai Mall are familiar with such a spectacle, here are a few facts we found captivating about the indoor art installation.It’s 24 metres tallThe mammoth landmark is a whopping 24 metres tall – scaling the entire four floors of the mall. The man-made cascade also spans 30 metres wide, allowing for every step to have a different view and focal point.Photo by Dovi on UnsplashHuman figures sculpted using fibreglass plunge headfirst, arms splayed down the vertical face of the waterfall creating a continuous moment of undeniable artistry.It represents the deep-rooted history and identity of the UAEThe Dubai Mall Waterfall represents pearl diving, one of the main sources of livelihood for Emiratis prior to the oil boom, as well as the beauty and importance of water in the UAE.Dating back to antiquity, pearl diving is still one of the UAE’s most treasured traditions. Archaeologists have found evidence of pearl diving from over 7000 years ago allowing numerous Emirati families to trace their prosperities back to the historic pearl diving of their ancestors.Photo by Ayko Neil Kehl on UnsplashThe waterfall has two namesThe waterfall is best known as the Dubai Mall Waterfall, however, it is also referred to as ‘Pearl Divers’.This name comes from the deep-rooted history of pearl diving in Dubai. Numerous figures face downwards towards the shallow pool of water adjoining the 24-metre cascade, evocative of the deep dives prior to the oil boom.It was designed by a Singapore-based architectToh Sze Chong was the mastermind behind the Dubai Mall Waterfall. After winning the commission for the Dubai Mall in 2008 Chong installed the Pearl divers in 2009.When asked about his stylistic approach to design and architecture, Chong said, “As living patterns evolve, it is important to keep up to speed with prevailing trends and be innovative.”The falling water creates an illusionAn overhead reservoir consistently feeds recycled water to a pair of cylindrical structures, creating an endless, smooth downpour of water over the cascade’s façade.This rhythmic waterflow gives the illusion that the human figures are moving rather than the water, deceiving the eye by creating an animated visual spectrum.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeatured Image: Photo by Suzi Kim on Unsplash More