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      Uber offering discounts on rides for COVID-19 vaccinations in the UAE

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      As the UAE COVID-19 vaccination drive is well underway, big companies are throwing their support behind the initiative.
      In line with this, ride-sharing giant Uber has just announced it will be offering discounts on rides to those who are seeking to be vaccinated.

      Those intending to be vaccinated and use Uber to get to public vaccination centres across the UAE, they will receive 25 per cent off two rides up to Dhs20 each. This offer begins on January 25, 2020.
      The move, according to Uber’s General Manager for the UAE, Rifad Mahasneh, is to do their part to support the government’s efforts to have 50 per cent of the population vaccinated by March.

      “Since the onset of the pandemic, we’ve been looking at how we can support our communities, prioritise their health and safety, and ultimately keep cities moving at a time when mobility has been severely impacted,” he said. “The vaccination drive is part of the effort to leverage our technology to positively impact communities and support the government’s successful efforts in protecting the population against the virus.”
      Residents across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah can now book trips to and from 43 centres in the Uber app. Here’s how you can do it.
      Tap the menu in the top left of the Uber app and select ‘Wallet’.
      Select ‘Add Promo Code’ at the bottom.
      Add the promo code SI2021UAE and get 25% off 2 Uber rides to/from vaccination centres up to 20AED each, valid until February 8th, 2021.
      Navigate to the rides home screen and enter the pick-up/drop-off location for yourself or the person you are booking for. Remember, the trip must start or end at the vaccination centres listed below.
      Confirm your trip.

      Sinophram vaccine
      There are currently two vaccines available in the UAE, the first being the Sinopharm vaccine.
      The vaccine underwent clinical trials in Abu Dhabi during summer last year and it was confirmed by health authorities saying that the “analysis [from the trial of 31,000 people] shows no serious safety concerns”.
      High-up government officials including His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaab, the Minister of Culture and Youth and more have received the Sinopharm vaccine.
      Pfizer vaccine
      Then, at the end of December, the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was approved to be administered in Dubai.
      After undergoing numerous clinical trials, the vaccine has been found to have 95 per cent efficacy. Recently, the DHA outlined exactly who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine.
      The vaccine has already started to be rolled out, with some government ministers already receiving their first doses. As of today, this now includes Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) Her Excellency Mona Al Marri.
      However, doses for the Pfizer vaccine are currently on hold due to the shortage of the vaccine globally.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The most eligible royals around the world

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      While some royals might have bid their goodbyes to the single life, there’s still many out there who are yet to find ‘The One’.
      Prince Abdul Mateen Of Brunei

      Having trained as a pilot, Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei, 29,  has amassed a large social media following creating a massive fan base. This prince keeps his follower up-to-date as he enjoys life to the fullest with an interest in activities such as polo and horseback riding. He also holds the rank of second lieutenant and has walked up seven mountains within 24 hours during a challenge he participated. The royal even represented Brunei at the Southeast Asian games held in Malaysia in 2017.
      Crown Prince Hussein Of Jordan

      Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah of Jordan is committed to building a bright future for Jordan’s youth, under the leadership of his father, King Abdullah II. The 26-year-old has a loyal following on social media and is an alumnus of Georgetown University. After his university studies, he went on to further graduate from the prestigious royal military academy, Sandhurst.
      Prince Constantine-Alexios of Greece and Denmark

      The son of Marie-Chantal, the Crown Princess of Greece and Pavlos, the Crown Prince of Greece, Constantine-Alexios, who is now 22, was raised in the UK and later on attended the exclusive Wellington College in Berkshire, where he later on went to one of the most-recognised universities – Georgetown University in Washington, US.
      Also read: 6 of the most eligible royals in the Middle East
      Prince Achileas-Andreas of Greece

      The younger brother of Princess Maria-Olympia and Prince Constantine-Alexios, Prince Achileas, 20, completed his schooling in the UK at Wellington College. He’s now enrolled at New York University and by sources claim he’s reportedly set to make a television debut soon.
      Lady Amelia Sophia Theodora Mary Margaret Windsor

      The granddaughter of Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, who is first cousins with the Queen, Lady Amelia Windsor has graced the runway for luxury fashion houses such as Dolce & Gabbana and later on also began contributing to an environmental platform.
      Arthur Chatto

      The son of Lady Sarah Chatto (who is the daughter of the Queen’s late sister Princess Margaret) and Daniel Chatto, Aruthur Chatto is one of Britain’s most eligible royals. He’s an avid sportsman who also dabbles in mountaineering, boxing, scuba diving and other outdoor activities and through this, he’s built a loyal following on his social media. Chatto is also an avid rower and his team were the youngest ever to complete the GB row challenge, which was held to support the British Red Cross amid the coronavirus pandemic.
      Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana of Thailand

      From poetry to badminton to fashion designing, Princess Sirivannavari has numerous talents. She has her own fashion line and was invited by Pierre Balmain in 2007 to present her debut collection in 2007 at Paris Fashion Week. When she’s not designing, she keeps herself busy with her equestrian pursuits.
      Princess Elisabeth Von Thurn und Taxis

      Known as a journalist, author and a socialite by profession, she’s not only contributed to note-worthy columns on art and fashion. She is a member of the German princely house of Thurn and Taxis.
      Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg

      Princess Alexandra graduated from Lycée Vauban in Luxembourg and later on went to receive a master’s in interfaith studies from the Irish School of Ecumenics. She’s also fluent in four different languages and her passions include literature and travelling.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad is ensuring safe travel for all in 2021

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      January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
      We spoke to Terry Daly, Etihad’s Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand Marketing to find out more about how they are ensuring safe travel through the Etihad Wellness programme
      ‘Etihad Wellness’ is the airline’s expanded and comprehensive health and hygiene programme and customer guide. This builds on the stringent measures already put in place by Etihad to deal with COVID-19. The programme is championed by specially trained Wellness Ambassadors, a first in the industry, who provide essential travel health information and care so guests can fly with greater peace of mind.
      How do you set yourself and your team up for a positive day?

      I wake up earlier than I need to, so I can take my time in the mornings. I like to start my day sitting out on the balcony with a cup of coffee and catching up on the day’s news – both world news and from friends and family overseas. I get to work around 7:45 ready for the day ahead.
      I’m a generally a positive person and spend time walking around the office to connect whenever I can. I would certainly say that positivity is contagious and it’s good to keep that spirit within the team. For our communications team, we start the day with a quick Microsoft Teams call to touch base, update each other on the latest news, and make sure we’re all feeling informed and connected.
      This year has been a challenge, what positives have come to light this year either for you personally or Etihad?

      I can certainly agree, it’s been a challenging year. I joined Etihad on 1st March. Three weeks later the airline was grounded, the country was in lockdown and we were all working from home. We very quickly took advantage of the technology solutions available to us, and I’m amazed at how well we worked together as a team in planning the restart of the airline. We quickly adapted to working online, and I have no doubt that the use of technology and new style of teamwork is something that will last.

      What is at the heart of Etihad’s DNA as a brand?
      Emirati hospitality is at the heart of our brand. That’s why every Etihad experience is an embodiment of a warm Abu Dhabi welcome — thoughtful, exceptional, and open to all.
      We bring the world to Abu Dhabi by helping guests choose experiences that are meaningful to them and promote greater wellness and sustainability for our global community.
      With Emirati hospitality at our core, Etihad makes sure guests always feel embraced and at home with us, no matter where they’re headed.
      Tell us about the ‘Etihad Wellness’ programme and who you chose as Wellness Ambassadors
      Wellbeing on board has always been important to us, but in these extreme times, we took extra care to listen to our guests and our frequent flyers to hear their concerns about flying in the post-pandemic era.
      It became clear that of course, everyone needs to know about all the procedures a company is putting in place, like social distancing, staff training, regular cleaning and sanitisation to name a few. However, it also became clear that there was a need to be able to ask questions and seek reassurance. The design and launch of the Etihad Wellness programme was the result. It’s there to reassure travellers that it is safe to fly with Etihad. For added reassurance and care, we introduced Wellness Ambassadors who are there to provide guidance and wellness advice at every stage of the journey. Our Ambassadors can be contacted through live webchat before travel, at the airport or onboard.
      We have a dedicated Wellness Ambassador on every flight, and they are supported by the entire crew. Initially, we asked our Cabin Crew to volunteer to become Wellness Ambassadors, but then we quickly trained every member of the crew to make sure that everyone would deliver the same, exceptional standards. You will however always find a dedicated Wellness Ambassador on every flight.
      You’re laser-focused on wellness at every level from culinary hygiene to cabin deep cleaning. Why was implementing this so important to the brand?
      Laser-focused is a great way to put it. We talk about wellness every day, and we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to make our guest experience even smarter.
      We’ve always prided ourselves on our reputation in the industry, and we quickly understood that getting wellness ‘right’, would be important to our brand. We owe it to our customers to ensure that an Etihad aircraft is as safe as it can be. This is why we’re the only airline in the world currently making sure that 100% of our guests show a negative COVID-19 test before boarding, and retest again on arrival in Abu Dhabi.
      We want our guests to think of Etihad and feel confident that they are in safe hands.
      What effect have you seen from launching this to date and what do you expect to see throughout 2021?
      The response has been overwhelmingly positive, both from the industry who have recognised our efforts and from our guests.
      In the regular surveys we do, 93 per cent of our guests have given us a positive rating on our wellness initiatives. This is something that we’re really proud of.

      As a brand, how do you approach client retention?
      It’s fair to say that our guests are at the heart of the decisions we make and everything we do.
      We operate the Etihad Guest loyalty programme as a way of recognising and rewarding our loyal customers. Throughout the pandemic, we’ve focused on making sure these Etihad Guest members are really well looked after.
      One of the most attractive parts of an airline’s loyalty programme is the ability to use miles to buy flights or to upgrade an existing booking. That’s not so easy when there is a lockdown, a much smaller schedule, and travel restrictions across the globe.
      This issue is ‘The Positivity Issue’ – how do you stay positive as a brand?
      There is a saying, ‘never waste a good crisis’, and we’ve heard this mentioned a few times this year at Etihad. The pandemic has been really hard on the industry and it goes without saying that we are deeply saddened by the effect it has had. However, in the spirit of positivity, we have looked for an opportunity.
      When most of our fleet was grounded earlier in the year, we used the opportunity to completely refresh our entire fleet, so that when you next step onboard an Etihad aircraft it should look and feel brand new.
      Innovation is also in our DNA, and instead of waiting to follow the industry, we stay positive by taking the lead. We’re really confident about the Etihad experience and the Etihad Wellness proposition and feel this is something we can deliver with pride and positivity.
      January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The important reason why Bella Hadid took time away to ‘reflect and learn’

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      Bella Hadid recently returned to social media after a subtle hiatus and she’s shared an important message about mental health and wellbeing.
      The model returned to Instagram last week, sharing a series of photos of crystals, self-help books and personal photos of herself presumably at her mother Yolanda Hadid’s Pennsylvania ranch.

      However, it was the caption of the post that aimed to leave a crucial message about mental wellbeing to her followers.
      “I took some time away to reflect and learn about myself in a way that would be too much to explain at the moment, but with time I will express,” the 24-year-old said.

      The model went on to say she’s been renewed with a new “sense of self-love [she’s] always lacked”.

      “The memories and fortune I came back with are pure wisdom, a closer relationship with myself & my spirituality, a sense of self-love that I have always lacked, a few great friends, and these books that saw me through. I found myself, my strength and my light again,” Hadid said.
      Most importantly, Hadid highlighted that taking care of your mental health is “worth it to get to your full potential”.
      “I am only here to be an instrument of peace & love to help people that suffer and hopefully the world, in time,” she said. “Thank you to my angels who have supported and have continued to love me, for me. You saved me.
      “Take time to get help for your mental health. It’s worth it to get to your full potential.”
      Receiving well over one million likes on the post, it’s clear the message resonated with many people.
      Many flooded to the comments section of the post, including Hadid’s father, Mohamed Hadid, who said, “I love you Bella. You are a shining light in the darkest night.”
      Given the current global situation, it’s more important than ever to focus on self-love and being kind to yourself, just as Hadid said.
      – 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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      Everything you need to know about Mercury retrograde in 2021

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      While we’ve only just gotten into a routine of things for 2021, the first period of Mercury in retrograde will soon be upon us.
      What is Mercury retrograde?
      So, what exactly is Mercury retrograde? Scientifically it’s described as an “apparent retrograde motion” of Mercury, which gives the illusion the planet is travelling backwards in relation to the zodiac.

      Periods of retrograde can lead to delays, confusion, irritation, anger and more. Communication can be thwarted, creating high tensions. So, ensure you double-check texts, emails, messages and more that you send and try to ensure you exercise patience during these periods throughout 2021, even though it could prove to be difficult.
      Now, let’s take a look at which specific periods do we need to be cautious about.

      While the first retrograde happening in the astrological world is the sign of Aquarius due to the new Age of Aquarius. the other two retrogrades include Gemini and Libra which means these could be good times to reflect.
      When is Mercury retrograde in 2021?
      The apparent retrograde motion during the following dates:
      January 30 to February 21
      May 29 to June 22
      September 27 to October 23
      While others around might blame Mercury retrograde for all the chaos that happens in their lives, it’s a great time to review the energy around, take a moment to reflect as you can reanalyse and take a step back from the situation before you make any drastic changes until the retrograde has ended.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sara Shakeel Instagram More

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      This luxe destination was the most popular getaway for UAE nationals in 2020

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      As sandy beaches and crystal blue waters are of uttermost delight to the eye, the Maldives has become the utopian dreamland for many, and it’s been particularly popular with Emiratis in 2020.
      According to Rehlaty by dnata Travel, it was found that the Maldives was the most popular travel destination for UAE nationals last year.

      From adrenaline-pumping sports to top-notch pampering services, this easily reachable location has become the go-to destinations, especially for UAE citizens last year. While opening its borders to international tourists back in July 2020, around 6,000 Emirati visitors have been recorded by the Maldives immigration between July 15 to December 31, making it a popular tourist hotspot, especially for its luxe resorts.
      Per Relahty’s booking information, the four luxury hotels were the most popular for bookings – LUX* Resorts & Hotels, Sun Siyam Resorts, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas and Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
      According to the general manager of Rehlaty, Rehab Mansoor, it’s the convenience of the Maldives being so close and with some of the most luxury properties on offer which made it such a popular destination with Emiratis.
      “For our Emirati community, choosing the Maldives as the ‘go-to’ travel destination for 2020 was an easy call –  its luscious blue waters and pristine beaches, world-renowned resorts, adventure-filled water activities, and most importantly, hassle-free travel experience, definitely powered our choice,” he said.

      With regard to travel to the Maldives, all visitors must present a negative PCR test carried out 96 hours prior to departure. Travellers also need to fill out a health declaration form and submit it online with the negative COVID-19-test results 24 hours prior to arrival.
      Health checks are in place at the airport with PCR tests being conducted for anyone displaying symptoms, at the cost of travellers along with submission of a confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of their stay.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @waldorfastoriamaldives More

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      Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah amongst the top 10 safest cities in the world

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      Abu Dhabi is officially the safest city in the world, according to new data.
      Per research conducted by crowd-sourcing website Numbeo, out of 431 cities which were included in the data, the UAE’s capital had the lowest crime index and the quality of life score was 88.46 per cent.

      This marks the fifth year in a row Abu Dhabi has now taken the top spot on this list.
      Two other UAE cities, Dubai and Sharjah, were also amongst the top 10 – Sharjah ranked 6th amongst the top 10 and Dubai ranked number seven.

      #AbuDhabi is the world’s safest city for the fifth consecutive year in Numbeo’s Quality of Life index. Topping 431 cities is a testament to the security and stability Abu Dhabi enjoys, confirmed Major General Staff Pilot Faris Al Mazrouei, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police. pic.twitter.com/1vO9w3rikp
      — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) January 24, 2021

      Similarly, two other major GCC cities also made the top 10 – Doha, Qatar and Muscat, Oman. Cities which also ranked in the top 10 included Taipei, Quebec City, Zurich, Munich and Cluj-Napoca.
      The UAE Capital has been ranked the world’s safest city for the fifth year in a row, with Sharjah and Dubai among the top 10, according to a survey conducted by data crowd-sourcing website Numbeo.
      Discussing the incredible result for Abu Dhabi, the commander-in-chief of the Abu Dhabi Police, Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, explained the ranking cemented the UAE capital as a “desirable destination to live, invest, work in and visit”.
      “This result is credited to our continuous accomplishments and progress, thanks to the directives that are extended by our visionary leaders who built a comprehensive strategy to enhance security performance and establish stability across the country,” he added.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Visit Abu Dhabi, Visit Dubai, Visit Sharjah Instagram More

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      How I got my job as… founder of a top Dubai fitness studio

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      Welcome to EW‘s 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 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 the founder and creative director of Dubai-based fitness studio Barre Effect, Nora Hameidani. Originally hailing from the US, Hameidani relocated to Dubai in 2013 after living in New York City where she trained and instructed with Physique57.

      With a wealth of experience in the fitness space, Hameidani decided to open her own studio Barre Effect, which officially opens this week on January 27, 2021.EW sat down with Hameidani to find out more about her impressive career history and what made her want to enter the realm of fitness.
       What was your favourite subject at school?
      I really enjoyed maths growing up and it was a subject I felt like I really excelled at however when it came to university my true passion was in the arts and dance. Looking back now it shows that I like it when things make sense and are logical which is where my need for the organisation must come in.
      What was your first job?

      I worked at Starbucks throughout high school and college, which ended up kicking off my love and addiction for coffee. I liked being busy and having tasks, plus the added bonus of drinking coffee all day and talking to people. Making someone’s day with such a simple pleasure like coffee and exchanging a few words was really satisfying.

      Talk us through your career history.
      I moved to NYC directly following college graduation and was training alongside performing with several contemporary dance companies. I auditioned and was chosen to train and instruct with Physique57, which is where my fitness and teaching experience started. When I was asked to move to Dubai to teach fitness I made the choice to give up the “starving artist” lifestyle and further my career while exploring the world. Since moving I have taught throughout various boutique studio, using various methods, however, Barre is where my heart is and starting my own brand and studio is truly a dream come true for me and a challenge that has been really rewarding.
      What inspired you to go into fitness?
      Growing up as a ballet dancer and continuing dance into my early twenties, fitness was a natural progression. I had always cross-trained and learned from a young age the benefits of keeping your body strong and limber. Dance and fitness really go hand in hand as they challenge both your strength and endurance. Being inspired by music and the buzzing off the energy of the people around you… doesn’t get much better than that.

      Talk us through the Barre Effect method and opening up your own studio.
      The Barre Effect Method is a reflection of my experience in Barre and other methods as to what I find the most effective and fun! Continuously moving, and flowing from one muscle group to the next, it is impossible to get bored or plateau. Fast-paced with clear explanation, the instructor will be able to challenge the strongest client while also having the class be accessible for a newer, less experienced client. It is all about the instructor and that is why I have hand-picked and worked with the best of the best, and am excited for Barre Effect to be a fun place to work. I am a huge music fan, and at Barre Effect we plan to bring all the tunes and keep them loud.
      What eventually brought you to Dubai?
      I moved to Dubai for a one-year contract with all intentions of moving back to NYC. However, I met my now-husband (through a client) and the rest is history! We have two boys, Zayd (3.5) and Dylan (1.5) and a dog Koda, so the real fitness is keeping up with them.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      I plan to continue instructing as that is my passion and where it all began, however, I am excited to take on the role of Founder and Creative Director for the studio. I’ll be focusing on ensuring that the Barre Effect Brand and technique is the top in Dubai and that the clients and staff are happy and motivated. Every brand and studio are unique, so I am excited to learn and evolve with the needs of the women of Dubai. I am all about collaborations, and particularly in supporting other Dubai-grown small business so looking forward to future partnerships and relationships.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      As any mom of young children knows, my day starts pretty early with coffee and getting ready for school. Once we are eventually out the door and have given our drop-off hugs, every day is different and scheduled tightly to get the most out of my time. I’m either on meetings/emails, teaching a class, or at a workout class for myself. I try to work out at least 5 days a week, as it is my “me” time and the best reset button. Afternoons are more meetings, errands and emails, in between Lego, bikes, and dinosaurs! Once the boys are asleep, my husband and I are at a dinner, catching up with friends but most likely on the couch binging on Netflix.

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Do you, follow your gut, and don’t let anyone rain on your parade. If it is something you are truly passionate about and have the best intentions then it will all work out. There is nothing in life without honesty.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Everything always works out in the end and if it doesn’t then it becomes a great learning for the future. I try to remember this when I am stressed or anxious about something.
      And what is the worst?
      Honestly, I can’t think of anything but I feel that you can learn from bad advice. If someone is giving you advice, they probably want to help you and have good intentions, so you can always learn from their experiences.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I tend to overthink things, so I am working on trusting myself and instincts more and not sweating the small stuff. I’m a bit of a perfectionist so I’m learning to let go and know there is only so much you can control. Having kids has actually helped me with this; they help me to put things in perspective and realize what really is important.
      What are your goals for 2021?
      I’m hoping for a healthier, brighter future post-pandemic. Barre Effect is an example of optimism and hope for things to return to a bit of normalcy and for us to come back to the life that we previously knew and loved. A strong launch of the brand, with a happy team and happy clients… that would be my biggest goal.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More