lifestyle and culture

March’s – ‘The Wellness Issue’ – Download Now 
The best yoga and Pilates to keep you toned from head to toe
Reform Athletica

A boutique fitness studio offering signature classes which include The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form in an environment that is plastic-free. With a holistic approach to life, the instructors modify the classes to ensure every class member receives the best experience, every time.
Focus: Yoga & Pilates

For more information visit reformathletica.com 
Studio Republik

With a space designed to nurture inner growth whilst bringing discipline to every part of your life, StudioRepublik is an immersive, state-of-the-art environment where you can lose yourself in the best way possible. Reformer equipment develops strength, movement and fluidity, fast.
Focus: Pilates
For more information visit studio-republik.com
Sol Pilates Studio

This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow.
Focus: Pilates
For more information visit solpilates.ae 
Shimis

Introducing a completely new yoga concept to get the maximum benefit, the team also deliver peace of mind with calming meditation sessions that challenge both your flexibility and mental well-being.
Focus: Yoga
For more information visit shimis.com 
The Hundred Wellness Centre

From Ashtanga and Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, numerous disciplines are offered at this wellness retreat that is a real haven in the city. A strong focus on balance, power, fluidity, flexibility and alignment make for improved posture, flexibility and overall wellbeing.
Focus: Yoga & Pilates
For more information visit thehundred.ae 
Barre Effect

With a focus on full-body movements to sculpt, tone and keep your mind alert, the Barre Effect method is a contemporary version on traditional barre, designed to sculpt your body, boost your metabolism and challenge your mind as it empowers a community of strong women.
Focus: Yoga
For more information visit barreeffectdxb.com 
March’s – ‘The Wellness Issue’ – Download Now
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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March’s – ‘The Wellness Issue’ – Download Now 
Mysk Al Faya Retreat is unique in beauty and design. Mr. Shafik Alaaeddine, General Manager of Sharjah collection on what it takes to create a haven this special.
What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
I am an early bird and reach the office by 7am after completing my morning workout. I start by looking into the previous day’s reports, online reviews received through the various channels, going through the arrivals of the three properties of Sharjah collection as well as getting an insight into any event that is taking place. I make a tour of the property I am present in, whether it is Kingfisher, Al Faya or Al Badayer Retreat, and then brief the team on the day ahead.

What inspired the creation of this property?
When Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) decided to create Al Faya Retreat – history and heritage were two main points of consideration. The property is a complex of historical buildings, sitting on the red sands at the foot of Mount Alvaah in the Emirate of Sharjah, while it is also located in proximity of the Mleiha archeological center which displays the rich history of the region by being first inhabited by humans since around 130,000 years. The pair of stone buildings originally built half a century ago, which once housed a clinic and a grocery shop, has been renovated into a contemporary boutique retreat and restaurant, and on-premises of the property there is one of the UAE’s first petroleum pumps.
With your clients visiting from around the globe, how do you ensure a bespoke experience for each stay?

Guests can embark on a wellness journey as they venture through the herbal and Himalayan salt rooms, before heading to the tropical walk where a range of different shower pressures, lights and noises allow for a completely immersive experience. Promoting both physical and mental health, the rooms help in reducing inflammations, helping those with respiratory issues, and assists the improvement of overall well-being.
Al Faya also offers a variety of activities such as archery, trekking, cycling as well as cultural activities arranged by a visit to Mleiha Archeological Center, Jebel Buhais Archeological center and the 4×4 museum nearby.
How has the hospitality industry evolved in the last 12 months?
Although 2020 was a challenging year for everyone, it marked a significant shift in the behaviour of domestic and international tourists, who primarily focus on properties that offer social distancing, a smaller number of guest and sanitisation measures alongside unique experiences that allows them to try something new.
What are the design elements that allow the property to stand out?
With just five rooms, Al Faya Retreat’s contemporary feel masterfully combines aspects of originality, blended together with luxe modernity. Bedrooms feature a skylight for stargazing at night with a fire pit primed for recapping the day’s many adventures. Surrounded by the commanding presence of the desert and the nature that calls it home, Al Faya Retreat celebrates its location ensuring that its practices are eco-friendly and that its guests fully love this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Mlieha region was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, tell us about this?
Mleiha is home to a number of significant sites, including Bronze Age tombs, historical caves and pre-Islamic forts. A wealth of fascinating artefacts, from camel skeletons to pottery and iron tools have been discovered here, with many on display in the outstanding Mleiha Archaeological Centre.  The surrounding area is a beautiful location for a desert camp on soft dunes and the perfect haven to spend a night under the glittering stars.
You have a spa on location – how do you approach wellness?
Privately. The spa is a private sanctuary only available to in-house guests, the spa at Al Faya Retreat offers a distinct experience. Inspired by the landscape that surrounds it, its tranquil atmosphere allows for complete relaxation. Located in its own building, privacy is key with views gazing towards the desert while being unique to the region, the spa is based on the element of salt.

How do you approach client retention and client engagement?
Our aim is to always offer our guests a personalised service that starts from the reservation process, through the pre-arrival to stay and post departure. We do our best to capture all the preferences and details of our guests to provide them with a tailormade experience that makes their stay memorable and distinguished.
This is ‘The Wellness Issue’, what is wellness to you and how do you support achieving this personally?
From my perspective, wellness is being well from all aspects which mainly include the mind and body. I do encourage people to eat with balance and focus on activities that enhance their body and mind performance, which I constantly apply myself.
March’s – ‘The Wellness Issue’ – Download Now
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With March being a special month for celebration with both International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, ladies, you deserve to treat yourselves with these exciting deals across Dubai.
Refresh at AWAY Spa

With two special celebrations taking place this month, the luxurious Away Spa throughout the month of March allows women to choose two 45-minute treatments for Dhs550, with options including the beauty boost facial, knead more massage and Glow body scrub. Located at W Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, get ready to detox in style this month.
For more information visit mariott.com
Ladies Day at Aprons & Hammer

While sipping on frosé with a selected range of salads, whether a solo retreat or getaway with the ladies, while overlooking the picturesque skyline, this deal is definitely a steal. Located at Palm West Beach, every Monday from 12pm to 6pm, you can escape the office environment as you unwind out on sun loungers for just Dhs95 every Monday.
For more information visit apronsandhammers.com
Miami Beats at Bla Bla Dubai

The newest hotspot is town has launched a ladies day between 12pm to 4pm for just Dhs150 as you relax on a sun lounger with unlimited glasses of grape, mocktails, soft drinks along with bar snacks from the pool menu including sliders, fries, nachos and a selection of sushi with relaxing tunes and a picturesque venue. In addition, ladies also receive 25 per cent off just in case they’re in the mood for shopping at Capri Lifestyle at The Beach opposite JBR every Tuesday.
For more information visit blabladubai.ae
Ladies day at Cove Beach

With the tranquil Arabian sea backdrop for this contemporary setting, ladies can indulge in unlimited rosé all day from 12pm to 5pm for just Dhs149, as they can also enjoy a food platter, cabana and the magnificent beach to refresh at every Wednesday located at Caesar’s Palace, Bluewaters Island.
For more information visit covebeach.ae
Relish an afternoon tea at Peacock Alley in Waldorf Astoria

Serving an indulgent selection of delectable delights from scones to sandwiches, women can enjoy an afternoon tea at the luxe Peacock Alley accompanied by a complimentary 30-minute massage of your choice available throughout the month of March, in celebration of International Women’s Day from 2pm to 7pm at Waldorf Astoria, DIFC.
For more information visit Hilton.com
Also read: Dubai ladies’ nights in 2021: The ultimate round-up
Treat yourselves with a massage at Sofitel The Palm

During the entire month of March, experience a full-body massage for simply Dhs299 with complimentary spa facilities, pool and beach access along with an addition of a 30 per cent discount on food and drinks. The offer is valid on weekdays from 10am to 6pm giving you the perfect opportunity to pamper yourselves.
For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com
Pamper yourself at Guerlain Spa at One & Only The Palm

While honouring Arabian traditions and massage techniques, this haven is offering the Gift of Beauty package up until March 31, 2021 where for Dhs1,320 you are treated to a one-hour Beauty Life facial along with a one-hour Body Life massage or even a 75-minute mothers and daughters in the spa’s signature suite, depending on your preference.
For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
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Both Gigi and Bella Hadid have walked down the runway for some of the biggest fashion designers in the industry including Chanel, Givenchy, Versace, Dior, Gucci, Saint Laurent and more. They’ve also graced covers of high fashion magazines all over the world.
So, you’d think that would warrant them being given supermodel titles, right? However, Janice Dickinson, who has previously referred to herself as the “world’s first supermodel” thinks differently.

Appearing on the Behind The Velvet Rope podcast, Dickinson explained why the Hadid sisters aren’t real supermodels.

“The Instagram models that get famous, and they (get) put into Vogue, the Kylie Jenners and the Gigi Hadids and the Bella Hadids,” she said. “I mean they are very pretty women, but they are not supermodels.”
In her opinion, they are only used by big brands and by big publications such as Vogue because of their large followings on social media.
“Vogue uses them because they have millions and millions and millions of followers,” she said.
“They have one look. They don’t really diversify their movements. They just stand there and get paid millions of dollars.”
Despite Dickinson’s comments, both Hadid sisters have put on stunning shows throughout Milan’s recent fashion week.

Bella graced the runways of Versace and Givenchy and Gigi made her return to the catwalk five months after giving birth to her first child – daughter Khai.
Taking to Instagram to share her delight at returning to the runway, the 25-year-old mum said it was an “honour” to open and close the Versace show, referring it to being the “best comeback”.
“Mostly just lucky to be healthy, working, and in a safe/tested environment to hug so many I’ve missed like family this past year,” she added. “Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially my Italian Taurus queen Donatella Versace.”
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Images: Gigi Hadid Instagram More