lifestyle and culture

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 Managing Director of JES Media, Claire Ferris-Lay, on how she has forged a successful career in media and public relations.Having been in Dubai for 14 years, she’s seen the industry continue to grow. Originally working as a journalist in the region, Ferris-Lay opted to go to the other side of the fence entering the world of PR. EW sat down with her to discuss her career, the media industry and what it was like moving to a new agency in the middle of a pandemic.What was your favourite subject at school?I always loved English literature and English language at school. I knew when I was at school, I wanted to write and tell stories. My school yearbook actually said I wanted to become the editor of Vogue – I think I had just watched a documentary on Anna Wintour and was fascinated about how the media industry worked.What was your first job?I got a job as soon as I able to – working in retail at the weekends and also for my family’s confectionary business. My summer holidays were spent working on the packing line in a factory. Standing on my feet all day and doing the same thing every few minutes really taught me the importance of finding a job that would fulfil me. My first job after university was working for the local newspaper. It was a small, 20-page weekly newspaper and for three days a week, I worked on reception and two days as a journalist. My editor was a real old school “hack” who was really tough on me but I learned so much. I really felt I had accomplished something when he left me in charge of editorial while he went on holiday for the first time.What inspired you to go into the media/PR industry?My mum says I was obsessed with carrying newspapers and fashion magazines as a child so I guess it stemmed from an early age. I decided to study journalism at London College of Printing as I wanted to study something a bit different. The course was a mix of theory (history, ideas and politics) and practical such as court reporting and editing the weekly newspaper, which really suited me.What eventually brought you to Dubai?I wanted sunshine and an adventure. Looking back, I was quite naive as I arrived with no job, very little money and knew even little about what I was doing. Fourteen years ago, it was pretty easy to walk into a job. The real estate sector was booming and journalism jobs were aplenty so I landed my first job within a few weeks.JES launched last year. What was it like setting up and moving to a new agency during the pandemic?I have been really fortunate to have worked with some amazing mentors and as such, my career has been quite organic, particularly after I made the decision to leave journalism and go into PR. Each mentor gave me a new opportunity, which I seized. After several years with FIVE Holdings, helping to set up their in-house marketing agency, I was offered the Managing Director at JES Media, a brand new agency. I believe in trusting your instinct and while I knew setting up an agency would be challenging, I also knew it was the right thing for my career and personal development.What are the key elements of your role?My work day is really varied as we have a mix of corporate and consumer clients across a range of disciplines from PR to media buying and social media. Networking and maintaining relationships remain really critical to my role, whether that’s managing our internal teams and regularly meeting our existing clients, to meeting with potential new clients.I also recently invested in a new Dubai-based swimwear brand called Filly and I am in the process of establishing a DJ school called DJ Like A Pro, which builds on my love of music. They are very much in their infancy but in both cases, I am fortunate to have great partners who manage the day to day operations while I chip in regularly with my ideas.Talk us through your daily routine.My life is busy and I find when I have the basics such as sleep, good food and exercise in place, I’m generally a happier, more balanced person! Most days, I start the day with a 10-minute daily meditation on the Calm app, which I usually combine with an LED Light Mask. Exercise is also really critical to me feeling good so I work out with a trainer a few times a week and also attend a morning class with my girlfriends. I then get ready for work listening to the BBC World Service podcast and then it’s whatever the day throws at me!What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?It might sound simple but learn to trust your gut. I have ignored my inner voice on so many occasions over the years and I think it’s fair to say if something feels wrong, it probably isn’t right for you.What is the best piece of advice you ever received?Get comfortable with the uncomfortable. There will always be aspects of life that you really don’t like doing but if you learn to face them head-on, they don’t seem quite so daunting.And what is the worst?I believe in owning up to your mistakes and learning from them in the hope you don’t repeat them so even the worst advice counts for something.What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?I’ve had lots over the years but if we don’t face challenges, you don’t grow.What are your goals for 2021?I set my intentions at the beginning of every year loosely based on the wheel of life. I was given a copy of it years ago and it essentially breaks down the key elements of your life. My annual goals are always based on; romance and intimacy, family and friends, money, health, physical environment, fun and recreation, career and life purpose, and spiritual alignment. I think it’s important to appreciate that having time for yourself as well as family and friends is just as important as money in the bank and fulfilment at work. For me, 2021 is very much about business growth as well as maintaining consistency in my personal wellbeing.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

Dubai has announced a series of updated COVID-19 precautionary measures, with the easing of some restrictions.In an announcement from Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management shared by the Dubai Media Office, the series of changes would take effect from May 17, 2021.The latest update from authorities states that live entertainment and activities will be permitted in restaurants, cafes and shopping malls for a trial period of one month, which could be extended.Meanwhile, the public must continue to observe social distancing measures of two meters and the wearing of face masks is also still mandatory.
Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management announces updated precautionary measures for events and activities. pic.twitter.com/XcUu0OpJbT
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 17, 2021RestaurantsRestaurants are now allowed to increase their seating capacity to 10 people per table. In coffee shops, six people per table is permitted. Bars are also permitted to reopen, with it being mandatory that all staff have the COVID-19 vaccine as well as customers.WeddingsWedding events are now permitted with a capacity of 100 people at venues and hotels. Attendees and staff must have been vaccinated.Meanwhile, weddings at home are to be capped at 30 people and social distancing measures must be observed.Hotels and entertainment venuesHotels are now allowed to run at 100 per cent capacity, while entertainment venues are able to increase their capacity to 70 per cent.As for concerts and spectator events, special permits will be granted and all staff, participants and attendees need to have been vaccinated.The maximum attendance for such events is 1,500 for indoor events and 2,500 for outdoor entertainment venues.Again, it should be noted that everyone should continue to follow social distancing measures and the mandatory wearing of masks.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Aleksandar Pasaric from Pexels More

From an uncanny resemblance to an undeniable touch of familiarity, the offsprings of these celebrities are a spitting image of their parents.So much so, some of them could even be twins.Emirates Woman has rounded up a list of A-listers and their lookalike kids, some of which you’ll have to do a double-take.Chrissy Teigen and LunaLuna, daughter of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, is regularly seen with her A-list mum. Luna is regularly seen on her mother’s Instagram, from pool selfies to celebrating occasions, they look absolutely chic, every time they pose for the camera.Catherine Zeta-Jones and Carys DouglasWhen the actress shared a breathtaking snapshot of her daughter by the beach, fans were stunned to see the resplendent features of her little one.Reese Witherspoon and Ava PhillippeWith a photo shared on the actresses’ Instagram page, her fans found it hard to believe the age difference and mother-daughter relationship. With this holiday-themed image breaking the internet, the duo almost look like twin sisters.Gwyneth Paltrow and Apple MartinThe founder of Goop and her daughter have been seen on social media numerous times, with her little one also promoting the beauty brand’s new eCommerce line while she also embarks on a career of her own. From bonding during at-home workouts to lounging under the sun, the two get along really well while we can’t get over how alike they look.Elizabeth Hurley and Damian HurleyBy inheriting his mother Elizabeth Hurley’s striking looks, Damien has followed in his mother’s footsteps starting a career in modelling and acting.  By taking after his mum, as shown in different campaigns, this model is also known for his long tresses and soft features.Cindy Crawford and Kaia GerberWhile taking after her supermodel mother, Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford could easily be mistaken for sisters. Just like her mother, Gerber has gone on to make a name for herself in the fashion industry working with big brands including Versace, Marc Jacobs and Chanel.Zoë Kravitz and Lisa BonetWhile turning heads as they walked the red carpet together to sweet snapshots shared on social media, Lisa Bonet and Zoë Kravitz share a striking resemblance, taking twinning to a whole other level.Yolanda and Bella HadidWith Yolanda passing down her Dutch genes to her famous daughters of the moment, there’s no doubt that Bella Hadid has received her mother’s strong features and grit when it comes to pursuing her dreams in the modelling industry.Kate Moss and Lila GraceWith near-identical model looks inherited from her mother, Lila Grace quickly entered the industry by already becoming the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty at a very young age as she embraces her mother’s flawless features.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram, Getty More

As the scorching summer heat is fast approaching, you’ll be finding us poolside every chance we get from now on.With a whole host of venues to choose from in Dubai, finding the best pool day offers can prove to be challenging sometimes. However, we’ve rounded up the best luxury pool days Dubai has to offer, with the added bonus of the cost being fully redeemable on food and beverage.Jumeirah Zabeel SarayFor a full-day escape to one of the most remarkable family resorts on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, make the most of your summer days at this luxurious hotel which has a daily splash pass priced at Dhs200, from Sunday to Thursday and Dhs250 on weekends, with the entire amount redeemable on food and drinks. For kids from four to 12 the entrance fee is Dhs125 on weekends and Dhs100 during the week.For more information visit Jumeirah.comAnantara The Palm Dubai ResortWith Thai-inspired architecture at this cosmopolitan resort, you can float on water and unwind with the views of the Arabian Gulf. Priced at Dhs270, the amount is fully redeemable on F&B at all of the restaurants within the resort, with beach lovers having the opportunity to pull up a shaded lounger. The deal is valid from Sunday to Thursday.For more information visit dubai-palm.anantara.comCove BeachWith the perfect Mediterranean vibe set in the heart of the city on Bluewaters Island, locals and tourists can revel in great food and an ambience at the beach club with their own private sunbed starting at Dhs200 which is fully redeemable on food and beverages. On weekends, Dhs100 is redeemable on F&B.For more information visit covebeach.comHilton Dubai JumeirahLocated in the heart of Dubai Marina, enjoy a pool day with access to the beach for Dhs129 on weekdays, being fully redeemable on any of the F&B venues located at the hotel which includes Wavebreaker Beach and Grill, Mango Tree Thai and McGettigan’s JBR. Meanwhile, on weekends, it’s Dhs99 for pool and beach access only.For more information visit hilton.comWaldorf Astoria Palm JumeirahIf you’re looking for a dip in the pool with a relaxing retreat, you can avail of this pool and beach pass, priced at Dhs250 per person every day of the week which is also redeemable on food and beverages. Kids from six to 12, pay Dhs125 which is fully redeemable as well making it the perfect retreat for families.For more information visit waldorfastoria3.hilton.comFour Seasons DIFCIf you’re looking for a relaxing day out at the Four Seasons, this sophisticated boutique-style hotel is perfect for an urban getaway and is set within the heart of DIFC, with a host of unrivalled wellness facilities and Dubai’s most talked dining scene. For Dhs300, you get to enjoy the hotel’s rooftop glass-walled pool, with the entire amount that’s spendable on the poolside menu.For more information visit fourseasons.comLe Royal Meridien Resort & SpaPerched on the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, you can enjoy this hotel which has a beachfront promenade and relaxing pool. The weekday pass for the pool at this haven costs Dhs250 for adults and Dhs75 for children, as it’s fully redeemable on food and drinks with Dhs300 for adults and Dhs75 for children fully redeemable on weekends.For more information visit Marriott.comCoco Lounge at Media One HotelWithout breaking the bank, you can enjoy this pool pass at Coco Lounge in Media One Hotel, located at Dubai Media City for just Dhs80, which is fully redeemable on food and drinks as you lay back in style and dine in a relaxed environment, making it your one-stop lifestyle destination.For more information visit mediaonehotel.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @covebeachdubai More

As the world continues to slowly but surely recover and deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has shared some positive words.On Sunday, May 16, Dubai hosted the Arabian Travel Market, a significant event to mark how the tourism industry was recovering amidst the pandemic.With 62 countries partaking, His Highness stated that it was the first “international mega tourism event since the COVID-19 outbreak”.He also highlighted that there was positivity in sight for the travel industry.
62 countries participated today in the Arabian Travel Market, an international mega tourism event since the COVID-19 outbreak. Dubai welcomes the world as global tourism begins to recover, representing the light at the end of the tunnel.
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) May 16, 2021“Dubai welcomes the world as global tourism begins to recover, representing the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.While things are slowly improving, particularly with increasing vaccine rates, the Chief Executive of Dubai Airport, Paul Griffiths, has stated that vaccine passports will be “inevitable” for international travel.However, the proposed system of a vaccine passport has sparked some concern and criticism with some arguing it would discriminate against those who cannot get the vaccination, but Griffiths explained that there isn’t a feasible alternative.In a recent interview with the BBC, Griffiths said, “I don’t think there is an alternative.”“I think the problem is not the vaccine passport and its discrimination,” he added. “It’s the need to roll things out and have a proper globally equitable vaccine programme.”– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: Sheikh Mohammed Twitter  More

Over the last year, the travel and aviation industry has taken a huge dip due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.While things are slowly improving, particularly with increasing vaccine rates, the Chief Executive of Dubai Airport, Paul Griffiths, has stated that vaccine passports will be “inevitable” for international travel.However, the proposed system of a vaccine passport has sparked some concern and criticism with some arguing it would discriminate against those who cannot get the vaccination, but Griffiths explained that there isn’t a feasible alternative.In a recent interview with the BBC, Griffiths said, “I don’t think there is an alternative.”“I think the problem is not the vaccine passport and its discrimination,” he added. “It’s the need to roll things out and have a proper globally equitable vaccine programme.”Dubai-based airline Emirates announced back in February it would be partnering up with the Dubai Health Authority to launch digital verification of passengers’ medical records.A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Emirates Chairman and Chief Executive His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Dubai Health Authority’s His Excellency Awadh Al Ketbi, Director General, in order to have records of those who have had the vaccine and COVID-19 tests when travelling.Emirates Airline is one of the first in the world to implement such a system, which will launch immediately. According to Sheikh Ahmed, it’s a “natural step” in the right direction for the airline.“Dubai is a leading global air transport hub, as well as one of the world’s most progressive cities in the area of e-government services,” he said. “It’s a natural step to combine our capabilities to implement digital verification of Covid-19 medical records, which will also enable contactless document verification at Dubai Airport.“Dubai will continue to lead the way in implementing effective and balanced approaches to contagion control while facilitating travel and air transport which are crucial to communities and economies.”– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature Image: RIMOWA  More

May’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download NowImmerse yourself in an aromatic, sensory experience at these luxurious resorts.Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge, TanzaniaThis resort is hidden amongst one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations. Comprising of 30 Plantation Houses that radiate out into the evergreen coffee fields, Arusha Coffee Lodge has been designed around the original landowner’s home that dates back to the early 1900s.Ceylon Tea Trails, Sri LankaFormer residences of British tea estate managers, this Sri Lankan Resort has now been converted into opulent bungalows which make the Ceylon Tea Trails perched at an altitude of 1250 meters in the Ceylon tea region. When visiting, guests can replace their usual morning coffee routine and immerse themselves in the delicious teas of the region. The central Sri Lankan Ceylon Tea Trails sit on a working tea estate and use the nearby resource to offer quality brews and tea-infused cuisine.Fuchun Resort, Hangzhou, ChinaSet in the Chinese countryside, two hours from Shanghai, Fuchun Resort is a tea resort that embodies the true meaning of tranquility, peace and refinement. The Hangzhou region is famous for its tea, which the resort regularly pays homage to, and guests can even take part in the harvesting of the tea, but only in April and May when it takes place. However, regular tea appreciation sessions take place at the resort all year round and guests can relish in the resort’s luxury spa, enjoy the walking trails and take part in Chinese calligraphy and painting workshops.Mayfair Tea Resort, Siliguri, IndiaThis resort is India’s first Boutique Tea Resort which welcomes everyone to “an experience of luxury that is unlike no other”. The structure was built in the 16th century with Tudor-style architecture and features vintage furnishings, classic centuries-old collectables, chequered black and white flooring carved with Italian marble. Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the history of tea in the region with many different activities available.Blanket Hotel & Spa, Munnar, IndiaOn a leafy hill station surrounded by tea plantations in Munnar, India, this resort immerses its guests in the lush greenery of the region. With 42 rooms, the hotel encourages its guests to truly switch off and enjoy all that nature has to offer in the region.May’s – ‘The Fragrance Issue’ – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image by Sebastian Posingis & Images: Supplied  More

Finally, it’s happening. After 17 years, the entire cast of Friends is coming back together for a reunion special entitled ‘The One Where They Get Back Together’.Here’s everything we know so far.The entire cast is returningJennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer are all returning for the special. The cast of six all made the announcement in tandem over the weekend sharing the first teaser for the reunion showcasing all of them walking side-by-side on what appeared to be the Friends set. Co-creators David Crane and Marta Kauffman are also set to appear.When will it air?Friends: The Reunion will air on WarnerMedia’s streaming service HBO Max on May 27, so there’s not long to wait.Where will it be available?At present, HBO Max is only available in the USA and Puerto Rico so there’s no confirmation on how those outside of those areas will be able to access it.There’s a star-studded guest listThere’s a huge amount of A-list guests set to appear on the show including David Beckham, Justin Bieber, BTS, James Corden, Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Lady Gaga, Kit Harington, Larry Hankin, Mindy Kaling, Thomas Lennon, Christina Pickles, Tom Selleck, Reese Witherspoon, Malala Yousafzai and more.What will the reunion consist of?There’s no specific details been released about this per se, but the episode is set to unscripted meaning the reunion episode is likely to be a sit-down conversation between the cast. Regardless, it will be the first time the six main actors who played Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler and Joey will have reunited on screen since the show ended in 2004.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages & Media: Getty / Warner Bros. More