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    Soft Power – An exclusive interview with Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

    April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Greg AdamskiProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska at MMG ArtistsHer Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, founder of Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery, talks to Emirates Woman exclusively about gratitude, determination and the inspiration behind her debut collection.Born and raised in the UAE to a mother with a love for the arts and a caring and supportive father, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum has a lot to be grateful for, especially her family, which is at the heart of her eponymous jewellery brand, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery.The down-to-earth Sheikha recently debuted the brand with the ‘My Treasure’ collection, using butterflies, a tribute and a symbol of her gratitude to her late grandmother, after whom she was named. Each piece honours the memory of the elder Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, one of Dubai’s most remarkable women, as it encourages women to embark on a journey to find their inner strength and purpose.“Butterflies are symbols of transformation and beauty and my grandmother grew up at a time when options were limited for women, but she didn’t let that stop her,” Sheikha Sana says. “She found a way to shine and to help others shine which is why I consider her a treasure.”Taking inspiration from her grandmother has taken the young Sana on her path to entrepreneurship and womanhood. Her Highness’ warm and gentle nature belies her fierce determination to stand on her own two feet and her keen awareness of the world around her. Understanding that her position in life awards her privilege, she aims to utilise her position to partner with education-related charities, with a focus on women and children.“I was blessed to be born in the UAE, a safe haven to people from various backgrounds, where women are respected and treated equally, but I know that there are many who are not as blessed,” she explains. “I hope to help change this by partnering with charities supporting the education of young children and women’s empowerment.”Being from the UAE is a blessing Sheikha Sana never forgets, particularly in challenging circumstances. “2020 was a difficult time for the world as a whole, but through it all, thanks to the leadership’s focus on putting people’s safety first, and the many frontline workers who worked diligently to ensure that we were cared for every step of the way, we have been edging closer to the light at the end of the tunnel,” Her Highness says, sharing her gratitude. “We all came together as a society and didn’t give up on our hopes and dreams as a nation – we even made it to Mars!”The UAE is a place with endless possibilities. Having grown up in Dubai, Sheikha Sana has always been inspired by the energy of the city and the infinite opportunities the emirate has. It’s something she attributes to the leadership of Dubai “The persistence to always move forward and improve in Dubai trickles down from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and flows through the veins of every resident of the city,” she says. “That mindset is infectious and helps me strive to do better every day.”It’s this mindset and determination that has led the young entrepreneur to create an already hugely successful fine jewellery brand, alongside an incredible team that she’s hugely thankful for, who have been working with her to build her brand and to deliver an end product that is not only beautiful but also reflects the ideals that have been carefully crafted into every piece. As a true believer in women’s empowerment, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery focuses on working with those who value kindness, gratitude, spirituality and honesty.For more on Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery visit sanaalmaktoum.com and follow @sanaalmaktoumofficial on InstagramApril’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    8 fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands based in the UAE to support

    From talented fashion designers to luxe dining concepts, there are numerous homegrown concepts in the UAE catered to providing something for everyone.With handcrafted elements and high street confectionaries, these brands have built themselves over the years as they continue to establish themselves as much-loved local brands in the UAE.Emirates Woman has curated a list of UAE-based brands to extend your support to as they are an ode to the region’s rich heritage.Al MraiknCombining an elegantly featured soiree edit, these expertly crafted pieces offer luxurious silhouettes with chic necklines to redefine modest wear this season.For more information on the pieces or to make a purchase visit ounass.ae The Giving MovementThis sustainable athleisure brand manufactured in the UAE is chic and uses recycled nylon along with certified organic bamboo while also supporting various charities such as Harmony House and Dubai Cares through each sale.To purchase or find out more information visit thegivingmovement.comBouguessaThis contemporary ready-to-wear label was founded in Dubai by Faiza Bouguessa in 2014. It offers a minimalist wardrobe focused on clean cuts and impeccable details to strong sophisticated women with highly modern cuts, bold lines, and geometric precision.To purchase or to find out more visit bouguessa.comL’AfsharDescribed as equal parts architecture and art, Lilian Afshar’s name exploded onto the scene in 2014 with her unique box bags. Mixing eclectic contemporary textures perspex and acrylic with exotic leathers, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner are already cult followers of the Dubai-based brand.To purchase or for more information visit lafshar.comShiffaFounded by Dr. Lamees Hamdan, this luxury skincare line from Dubai is firmly rooted in Arabic traditions using a powerful combination of active ingredients in therapeutic concentrations – to heal the skin from within and reveal its beautiful potential.For more information or to purchase visit shiffa.comMirzam Chocolate FactoryThis homegrown bean-to-bar concept and chocolate factory is the first of its kind in the emirate with an experience for everyone to relish on their visit. From roasting cocoa beans to hand wrapping each bar, the concept is inspired by the spice root as an ode to its rich heritage to create incredibly smooth chocolate with no additional additives.For more information visit mirzam.comBambahInspired by the retro era, founder and designer Maha Abdul Rasheed wanted to inject fun into women’s wardrobes with generous ruffles, bare shoulders, oversized bows and colourful floral prints. Thanks to its feminine silhouettes and bold attitude, Bambah has won itself a local and global following, and has even caught the attention of the A-list crowd, including Priyanka Chopra and Amal Clooney.For more information visit bambah.com3FILSThis homegrown concept was founded in late November 2016 to elevate your dining experience with a sense of comfort, discovery and sharing, serving premium Asian dishes with a Japanese twist as its focus while promoting harbour-side community-style dining.For more information visit 3fils.comThe Lime Tree CaféFueled with the vision of being the neighbourhood familiar store, each dish is made with quality ingredients aimed with the intention to bring delicious delicacies in a vibrant yet relaxing haven to you. Using fair-trade and organic means, the team shares a passion for creating a vibrant environment and providing delicious food.For more information visit thelimetreecafe.comFine BloomsStriving beyond the unconventional boundaries of floristry, Fine Blooms creates unique arrangements with beautifully sourced flowers to completely change any environment while creating bespoke bouquets for any occasion. This Valentine’s Day, express your love with a token of your love from this exclusive boutique, keeping quality at the heart of their designs.For more information visit fineblooms.ae– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @bambah More

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    Prince Harry arrives in the UK for Prince Philip’s funeral without Meghan

    Prince Harry has arrived back in the UK for the first time in over a year as he is set to attend the funeral of his late grandfather, Prince Philip, who passed away over the weekend.The Duke of Sussex touched down in the UK on Sunday, while his wife, Meghan Markle, and their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, stayed at their home in Montecito, California.The Duchess of Sussex was advised by her physician not to fly, which is understandable given that she is currently pregnant and the ongoing pandemic.Prince Harry will attend the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh which will take place on April 17 along with other members of the British royal family including the Queen, Prince Charles, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Prince William, Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge and more.
    The Sussexes’ office has also confirmed that the Duchess will not be coming to the UK with her husband. Meghan, we have been told, did not receive “medical clearance” from her doctor because of her pregnancy despite making “every effort” to travel with Harry pic.twitter.com/uejnVnW68M
    — Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) April 10, 2021As for the current COVID-19 restrictions and protocols in the UK. Prince Harry will have been required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result to travel and then have to fill out a passenger declaration form, to give details where he will be staying.A 10-day quarantine is currently required for those arriving in the UK with passengers being required to take further COVID-19 tests on day two and day eight. However, those who are travelling to attend a funeral are allowed to leave their place of quarantine “in limited circumstances, including on compassionate grounds”. This will likely be the case for the Duke of Sussex.Prince Philip passes away aged 99Over the weekend, it was announced by Buckingham Palace that Queen Elizabeth II’s husband of 73 years, Prince Philip had passed away.“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” the statement read.Following the announcement, tributes have flooded in for the Duke of Edinburgh and condolences have been sent to the Queen, including from members of the UAE royal family.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Chris Ship Twitter More

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    Dubai’s Chef Izu Ani awarded UAE’s 10-year golden visa

    Beloved Dubai Chef Izu Ani has been granted the UAE’s 10-year golden visa for his dedication and contribution to the restaurant industry in the UAE.The golden visa was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai in 2019.Chef Izu is the brains behind some of Dubai’s most popular restaurants including GAIA in partnership with Evgeny Kuzin, Carine, The Lighthouse, Izu Brasserie & Bakery and more.Upon the announcement of his golden visa, Chef Izu said, “I feel honoured and proud to have been recognised with the UAE Gold Card Visa. To me, Dubai is not a transient place, it is somewhere that we can call home, rather than just pass through. It is a destination that allows us to grow.”He added, “With hard work comes reward and recognition, and it is so inspiring to live in a place where we can achieve our goals. Dubai enables us to see the world with the eyes of a child, to explore and build our dreams into our realities, and for that, I will always be grateful.”Originally coming to Dubai to help launch LPM Restaurant & Bar – previously known as La Petit Maison – Chef Izu has gone on to curate his very own restaurant portfolio in Dubai, which are now staples amongst the F&B crowd.The standout establishments are his Emirates Golf Club restaurant Carine – named after his wife – and GAIA – a crowning jewel in the DIFC food scene – both of which have been visited by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.In a recent interview with Emirates Man, Chef Izu spoke of the honour it is to welcome the royals into his restaurants.“It is always so humbling and exciting to welcome members of the Royal Family of the UAE to our restaurants,” he said. “I am so thankful for their support and endorsement; it is inspiring and motivating for myself and the whole team.”

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    This Ramadan Dubai restaurants can serve food without curtains or screens

    As the Holy Month of Ramadan begins, restaurants in Dubai will be able to serve food without the need for curtains or screens.While in previous years curtains and screens were required, Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (Dubai Economy) announced that this would no longer be the case.“Restaurants will be allowed to serve customers without putting in place curtains, dividers or facades as has been the mandatory practice previously,” the authority’s announcement stated.In addition, a permit is no longer required for restaurants to serve food during fasting hours during Ramadan.“The new circular replaces circulars issued in previous years that have required restaurants to block dining areas from the sight of those who are fasting,” the statement concluded.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Visit Dubai Instagram More

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    This Sharjah retreat is the perfect place to reflect and unwind during Ramadan

    “Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves,” says Nezha Aanou Interim Hotel Manager of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and we couldn’t agree more.With a rich history, Sharjah has much to offer to those who live here in the UAE and around the globe when it comes to exploring new landscapes and immersing themselves in the emirate’s culture.Echoing the unique culture and history of the emirate, The Chedi Al Bait brings the history of the UAE to life, as Aanou says.Emirates Woman sat down with Aanou to discover what sets The Chedi Al Bait apart and why it’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect this Ramadan.Can you talk us through the history of the property?The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is situated in one of the UAE’s most ambitious historical restoration project managed by Shurooq (Sharjah Development and Investment Authority) known as the “Heart of Sharjah”. The hotel was built upon the foundations of centuries-old houses that once belonged to the Al Midfa family, they made an impact culturally, intellectually and politically on Sharjah’s history with innovative achievements in publishing, government and business. Under the guidance of GHM (General Hotel Management), these carefully preserved historic structures along with new buildings have been transformed into 53 elegant guest rooms and suites where Arabic influences meet the brand’s legendary Asian design elements.What sets The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah apart from others in the emirate?The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is a unique development that brings the history of the United Arab Emirates to life. It is a restoration project of old Emirati houses which makes it one of a kind in the whole region. The whole concept is to create a destination by combining luxury hospitality and heritage in one. We want our guests to experience true Emirati living and immerse them into the perfect blend of old and new, plus we make sure to give heartfelt hospitality and care to all our guests.With clients visiting from the globe over, how do you ensure a bespoke experience for each stay?We are continuously conceptualising unique offers and experiences to highlight the best of what the property can offer. The interiors are traditional, yet they offer modern touches through technology, and not to mention luxurious amenities and services.From where around the world do you get guests visiting from?The majority of our guests are from the region, predominantly locals or UAE and GCC residents. The hotel also attracts a fair share of Asian, European market from Germany, France and Scandinavia.Sharjah as a whole has so much to offer in terms of culture and heritage. To you, what makes the emirate special?Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves. We are located in the Heart of Sharjah, where all the history, heritage, culture and art is available in great abundance. UAE residents who come to Sharjah for the first time are often surprised at what It has to offer and how much they have been missing out on. Especially if you choose to stay at The Chedi Al Bait! Heart of Sharjah and Shurooq are transforming Sharjah’s landscape and cultural scene, to everyone who is still doubting whether to visit Sharjah or not, I’d say it’s a must.What elements of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah stand out to you?It is the hotel’s iconic structures and unique design. The heritage houses which once belonged to the Al Midfa family. The only remaining round wind tower (barjeel) in the UAE, which is nearly a century old, it’s a true icon of Emirati history. Another is the Elephant Door which leads into the Bait Ibrahim Al Midfa where The Library and The Museum are located.With Ramadan fast approaching, what are you offering to guests to have a reflective and relaxing stay?The hotel is the perfect escape this season of reflection, an ideal place for the whole family to experience complete relaxation. We have room packages and promotions which guests can enjoy. Moreover, our in-house guests on fasting can opt to have our Suhoor Tray as a breakfast replacement served in the comfort of their own rooms.Our culinary team has crafted a flavourful six-course Iftar and Suhoor menus. A generous mix of traditional delicacies and Middle Eastern favourites served at The Arabic Restaurant. It is a feast designed for the entire family to enjoy. Our Iftar and Suhoor for adults are priced at AED 195 per person, and kids from 6 to 11 y/o will get 50% discount (inclusive of 10% service charge and 5% VAT).*Iftar from sunset to 8:00pm*Suhoor from 11:00pm to 1:00am*Suhoor tray (breakfast replacement) from 11:00pm to 3:00amHow do you approach client engagement and client retention?The hotel is a home away from home, where everyone feels special and cared for, every attention to detail, surprising food and beverage offerings are what makes us different from the rest and what makes our guests come back. The moment guests arrive, we greet them with ‘Welcome Home’ and that is not only in words but it’s an experience that we offer to our guests and colleagues. The reviews that we get from our valued guests are a testament to that.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    11 unmissable dine-in Iftar deals in Dubai this Ramadan

    With Dubai being the reigning food haven, there’s a wide variety of delectable food offers in the emirate that can be enjoyed when you dine-in with your friends and family.As we approach Ramadan, Emirates Woman has curated an exceptional edit of the best Iftar deals at the very best restaurants in Dubai.Shanghai MECurated by Shanghai ME’s Head Chef Shane Macneill, enjoy Iftar at this DIFC hotspot this Ramadan with your family and loved ones. Hero dishes on the Iftar menu include Roast Chicken and Black Cod, Prawn Toast, Vegetable Spring Rolls, Cucumber and Avocado Salad, Dim Sum, Rice and Broccoli. Priced at Dhs245 per person, this Ramadan menu is available daily from 6.30pm until 8.30pm at Shanghai ME in DIFC.ScaliniIndulge in Scalini’s Iftar and enjoy a whole host of the restaurant’s signature dishes including Gameroni Fra Diavola, prawns flambeed with chili, garlic and served with steamed rice, Piccatina Limone, veal escalope with a signature lemon sauce, Lasagne, Chicken Milanese, Penne Arrabiata, Ravioli with Spinach and Ricotta, classic Spaghetti Bolognese and more. Priced at Dhs345 per person, this Ramadan menu at Scalini is available daily from sunset until 8.30pm at the Four Seasons Jumeirah.Bella Restaurant & LoungeWith a delicious spread of Antipasta’s, Piatto Unico and Dolce’s, Bella is offering the perfect amalgamation of Middle Eastern flavours presented in an exotic manner, such as Baba Gunush served with pilaf, hummus with chickpea, camel milk ice cream and much more. Priced at Dhs250 per person, this Ramadan menu at Bella is available daily from sunset until 1am at Grand Millennium Hotel in Business Bay.For more information visit belladxb.comCÉ LA VIBreak your fast in style with picturesque views of Dubai’s skyline including mouth-watering starters, a selection of beautifully prepared mains and a healthy spread of fruits. Relish a three-course meal for Dhs250 per person or three-course accompanied with shisha for Dhs350 per person at the pool deck, with both packages inclusive of dates, water, tea and coffee as you celebrate with friends and families, from Iftar until 8pm.For more information visit celavi.comBounty Beets at Le Meridien Mina SeyahiIf you’re thinking of opting for a healthier option this Ramadan, you can nourish your body and soul with a selection of light options that are both delicious and nutritious. Featuring a special Ramadan four-course menu, it includes a choice of soup, sharing appetizers, main course, a dessert accompanied by a set of detox beverages from April 1 to May 15 from sunset to 10pm for Dhs129 per person.For more information visit mariott.comEat & Meat at The H DubaiGather with friends and family as you enjoy an exceptional Iftar at Eat & Meat with a sumptuous set of sharing dishes including traditional bites featuring both Hot and Cold Mezze and flavoursome Arabic sweets in a traditional environment with guests also receiving a special early-bird offer of 20 per cent off when booking before April 12, 2021. Available throughout Ramadan from sunset to 10:30pm, prices for the package start at Dhs159 per person with a selection of juices. For more information visit hhoteldubai.comMarea, DIFCThis luxe hotspot in DIFC filled with Italian favourites is fused with authentic Arabic flavours, with Marea’s best-selling dishes including melt in your mouth Italian Burrata, Rigatoni pasta’s and an explosion of chocolate delicacies. Located at Gate Village 7 in DIFC, the Iftar set menu is priced at Dhs249 per person and will be available from 6:30pm.For more information visit marearestaurant.comBallarò restaurant at Conrad HotelEnjoy a selection of lavish Arabic favourites and international delicacies in the beautiful outdoor terrace which overlooks the lush green hidden oasis. Priced at Dhs175 per person from sunset till 9:30pm, guests can avail a 20 per cent discount when bookings are made before April 12, 2021 to enjoy this beautiful spread for Iftar.For more information visit conraddubaihotel.com LPM Restaurant & BarOffering guests a French-Mediterranean style Iftar, the menu includes a Ramadan welcome drink, soup, dates, two starters, one main course and a dessert, all of which is priced at Dhs240 per person. Guests can indulge in a host of fusion signature dishes along with the seasonal special dessert. Located at DIFC, Gate Village 8, the menu is available during the holy month of Ramadan from 6pm to 8pm with a minimum booking of two people.For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com/dubaiAlso read: We’ve found the most luxe and extravagant UAE Iftar package everHutong, DIFCThis contemporary Northern Chinese restaurant embraces the spirit of Ramadan with an elevated selection of fiery dishes that are ideal for sharing with friends and family as it draws inspiration from the heritage of the Silk Road, presenting a memorable immersive Iftar experience this season. From an abundant selection of delicious starts such as Wild Mushroom & Truffle Bao to Yu Xiang Crispy Eggplant with sweet exclusive desserts to top up your palette, guests can enjoy the entire bespoke experience for Dhs198 per person for a minimum of two people available from sunset to 8pm.For more information visit hutong-dubai.comRamadan Majlis at Ritz-Carlton, DIFCFor an impressive experience delve into the spirit of this special occasion in the luxurious Ramadan Majlis, which offers a lavish Iftar served in a family-style at your table. With delicious cold mezze Lebanese options accompanied by a traditional Arabic sweet station, from sunset to 8:30pm starting at Dhs219 for an adult and Dhs110 per child.For more information or to make a booking visit ritzcarlton.comAll the necessary health and safety measures have been implemented to ensure customers have a safe experience when they enjoy their meals.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    Unwind with this exceptional edit of luxury candles

    April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now Pace yourself for positivity and peace.Ambre CandleDhs258 for 190g DiptyqueLa Casa Sul Lago CandleDhs295 for 200g Acqua Di ParmaApocalyptic scented candleDhs381 Byredo available at NET-A-PORTERSolis Rex scented candleDhs897 for 800g Cire TrudonEau d’Égée No.3 scented candleDhs359 for 350g L’OBJETMineral of Essence Rectangle Marble CandleDhs400 LAVAElements Scent Water Candle Tom DixonDhs764 Tom DixonAmbre Cognac CandleDhs403 for 300g DiptyqueApril’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @diptyque  More