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      Your fabulous guide to this weekend in Dubai: September 17-19

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      This weekend we are getting into the Christmas spirit (only 100 days to go!) indulging in a daycation and heading out to the desert for a picnic.
      Christmas came early

      Have you started counting down to the most magical time of the year? The Duck Hook and Hillhouse Brasserie are adding a second seating to their special ‘Christmas Countdown’ edition of Brunch in The Hills to get you in the festive spirit. Available from 1-4pm and then again between 6-9pm, elves will be busy preparing a family-style feast of all your favourites including free-flowing seasonal beverages. Dig into duck liver pâté with sourdough toast; The Duck Hook scotch egg; roast turkey with stuffing and sausages wrapped in veal bacon; prime rib beef with gravy; Christmas pudding; and mince pies – of course. Match those with a themes drinks menu which includes Mulled Wine and Gingerbread Martini. Prices start at Dhs195 for soft drinks and Dhs325 for a free-flowing package with house beverages and a variety of festive cocktails. Children can join for Dhs95, with children under four dining for free.
      The ultimate daycation

      For those looking for a daytime getaway, Park Hyatt Dubai is offering a dreamy daycation package for two with access to its lagoon pool for Dhs850 inclusive of lagoon beach room from 10am-7pm, Dhs200 credit towards food and drinks, and complimentary Park Hyatt beach bag and refreshing water melon. Those looking to extend their day can stay overnight for an additional Dhs300.
      Taste the difference

      tasha’s is bringing back the ‘Inspired By’ menu across all of its venues this month. Serves alongside the classic menu, ‘Inspire By’ reflect on the theme of the venue, for example tashas Galleria takes inspiration from Dubai and pays homage to the luxurious expectations of diners, serving indulgent signatures such as the beef carpaccio and truffle Mayoand mushroom and truffle burger. If you visit tashas Al Jalila with your little ones, you can all indulge in both the ‘Inspired By’ menu and the tashas kids menu. The family-friendly selection includes healthy options from vegetarian tostadasas as well as the spaghetti and chicken meatballs, and battered fish goujons.  tashas Al Barsha, will launch its own take on the ‘Inspired By’ menu on October 1.
      Food fight

      Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen Dubai will be putting on a performance every Thursday evening from 6pm with a night of Battle of the Menus. All you have to do is pick a side, red or blue, make your way through the three course menu -priced at Dhs295 per person or Dhs395 with three drinks – and then see which side wins depending on how many orders each menu receives. Those who opt for the red team will enjoy the likes of wagyu meatballs, HK hot wings or the signature beef wellington, plus a selection of desserts like honeycomb cheesecake or apple crumble. Support the blues and try a menu of dishes including pan-seared scallops, crispy skin salmon and saffron risotto, ending with a choice of dessert from salted pecan molten chocolate square or strawberries and cream Eton Mess. You will also get an entry card to be in with a chance to win a signed chef jacket from Chef Gordon Ramsay. At the end of the month, the winning card will be chosen at random and shared on @hellskitchendubai. You can increase your chances of winning with an extra two competition entries by posting your best Hell’s Kitchen picture on Instagram and tagging the restaurant.
      Picnic in the dunes

      Taking place from 1-4pm every Friday and Saturday, the Picnic Brunch at Bab Al Shams resort offers plenty of appetisers, BBQ treats, gourmet pasta and more from multiple live cooking stations. Set in the lush Al Forsan Garden, you can also look forward to live entertainment while the little ones can enjoy pony rides. The menu is priced at Dhs255 per person inclusive of soft beverages, while kids aged six to 12 years get 50 per cent off and children under five years dine for free.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, supplied More

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      Dubai’s top restauranteur Joey Ghazal and the power of perseverance

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      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      “It’s easy to give up, it’s much harder to persevere,” restaurateur Joey Ghazal says. If there’s something the founder of The MAINE Group knows a lot about, it’s the power of perseverance.
      If we’d have said to Joey Ghazal 20 years ago that he would be one of the most successful restaurateurs in the Middle East and founder of the ever-popular The MAINE Group, there’s a high chance he would not have believed us given that his chosen career path was “purely accidental”. After his father “forced” him to get a part-time job while he was at university, which happened to be working in a steakhouse in Montreal, the rest – as the age-old saying goes – is history.
      While his choice of career path wasn’t a planned one, it’s safe to say it was the right choice for Ghazal who has become widely known across the region and beyond, particularly in Dubai. But in an incredibly competitive industry, the climb to the top hasn’t always been easy. A philosophy Ghazal lives by, he tells Emirates Woman, is you have one of two choices: “let hardships and failures define you and keep you down or let them embolden you to rise, aim higher and be better than before”. “It’s easy to give up, it’s much harder to persevere,” he says. “I always choose to move forward out of respect for all of the hard work that I and countless others have put into projects.”

      Ghazal has worked his way from the ground-up in the restaurant business. Beginning as a waiter in Montreal, he counts those five years as some of the “happiest and most fulfilling” of his life. However, just over 10 years ago Ghazal lost his father, which he describes as a “turning point” in his life. He left a well-paid job in Montreal, where he had spent many years, and moved to Lebanon where he opened five restaurants in two years. After spending close to three years in the country, Ghazal decided it was time to leave and relocate back to Dubai. “I just wanted to give Dubai a try before deciding to give up on the Middle East all together and move back to North America,” he explains.

      It’s evident that “try” paid off, as just two years after returning to Dubai Ghazal opened his first restaurant in the emirate – The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill. Discussing the opening of his premiering establishment in Dubai, Ghazal explains the whole process took one-and-a-half years, which officially opened its doors on November 23, 2015. “People don’t realise how long it can take to develop, construct and open a restaurant,” Ghazal reveals. “It can take years and can be a very agonising experience.” Five years on, The MAINE Group has two more establishments under its belt with The MAINE Street Eatery opening in Studio City last year and the stunning The MAINE Land Brasserie, which opened in June 2020 complete with cut glass chandeliers and a New York feel. A project that was two-and-a-half years in the making, launching a new restaurant in the middle of a pandemic is something Ghazal – nor anyone – foresaw.
      “Opening a restaurant is challenging at the best of times. Opening during a pandemic was like doing it with one arm tied behind your back,” is how Ghazal describes the experience. It’s a hurdle like nothing he’s ever experienced in his two decades in the restaurant industry. “It’s no secret that there is a huge barrier to entry in Dubai, so there have been countless hurdles in opening the MAINE and scaling up the business to three outlets, but none quite as big as COVID-19,” Ghazal admits. “This pandemic truly is unimaginable and it very nearly broke us.”
      However, in-keeping with his impressive mantra of letting challenges help him aim higher, Ghazal and his team has persevered and powered through this unbelievable obstacle. While June 2020 marked the opening of The MAINE Land Brasserie, it also marked the reopening of the two other locations, which had been shut down due to COVID-19. It’s a process that has left the MAINE Group founder in “awe” of his team. “Working all day in a mask and gloves in a high-pressure environment would drive anyone insane, but they have been so patient and understanding,” he says. “I’m just happy that we were able to get everyone back to work.” In fact, there are plans in place to expand The MAINE beyond Dubai. “We are quite advanced in our plans to open The MAINE in London, but obviously it all depends now on COVID-19,” Ghazal reveals. “We are actively considering the Far East and Saudi as well. We should have a clearer picture towards the end of the year, hopefully by then we will be able to look back at this year with humility for what it has taught us.”

      Indeed, but it’s clear despite any obstacles he has faced throughout his career, Ghazal strives to continue on and not let challenges stifle his creative process. As for where his motivation comes from, it’s from a multitude of places, he states. “Some of my motivation comes from those rare moments of inspiration, which ignites my creative process. Some of my motivation actually comes from discipline and routine, but most of my motivation comes from seeing the joy in people’s faces when they step into the world I’ve created for them,” he admits.
      And for those looking to follow in Ghazal’s footsteps, he advises; have “a very clear intention and a clear point of differentiation”. “Surround yourself with and listen to professionals,” he adds. “Trust your instinct and don’t be swayed or allow anyone to dilute your vision. Be agile, practical and exacting in your decisions. Be steadfast, but also ready to change and start again if things don’t work out exactly as planned.” Sound advice coming from an incredibly driven gentleman, and something we can all live by.
      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Social distancing rules to know when dining out in Dubai

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      Some rumours were circling online that there might be new social distancing rules implemented for those dining out in Dubai.
      However, The Food Safety Department of Dubai Municipality took to Twitter to confirm that the previous precautions remain unchanged.

      All restaurants should continue to follow the previous guidelines as stated by Circular 45. The tables must be spaced at two meters apart, venues should run at a reduced capacity and follow strict sterilisation advice. All staff must also go through regular health checks and wear masks and gloves throughout.

      #DubaiMunicipality asks you to follow public safety measures at food establishments and informs everyone that there are no updates on the provisions of Circular 45 on precautionary measures to be followed in food establishments, issued on June 18, 2020. For more visit our website pic.twitter.com/l0wCkVEsAN
      — بلدية دبي | Dubai Municipality (@DMunicipality) September 15, 2020

      If you are dining out, make sure to wear a mask, only removing it when eating and avoid paying by cash.
      Valet service is available at some venues, as long as they follow strict guidelines and there are additional safety rules for Shisha cafes and smoking areas.
      Dubai Municipality said that between May and August, 107 food establishments had to be shut down for not following COVID-19 guidelines.
      “The most prominent violations that were detected were failure to adhere to social distancing, not wearing personal safety equipment such as masks and gloves during food preparation, as well as not using approved sterilization and disinfection materials,” they said in a statement.
      The inspection teams in the Municipality conduct routine inspection visits as well as visits based on consumer complaints.
      Stay safe!
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Twitter, Instagram More

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      A plant-based lunch experience in Dubai you need to try

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      Business lunches are our new favourite deals to take advantage of in Dubai – and there’s plenty on offer at some of our favourite restaurants right now.
      However, there’s very few which cater to plant-based eaters. Luckily, one of the most sought after lunch spots in the emirate is here to help as they now have a fully vegan menu.

      Peruvian eatery Coya Dubai launched its fully vegan menu for customers last month and it brings some of its signature plant-based dishes to the forefront with some fabulous flavours of Latin America.

      Mouthwatering mains include Papa Seca Coliflor (Peruvian dried potato, cauliflower, celeriac, aji amarillo), Esparragos a la Brasa (grilled asparagus, tomato dressing) and Broccoli (sprouting broccoli, sesame seeds).
      The lunch deal costs Dhs270 and includes one starter and one main, there’s also separate packages offered for drinks.
      According to Coya Middle East’s general manager Stefano Pizzini the launch of the new menu was due to so many requests for vegan dishes.
      “Since many of our guests increasingly seek out plant-based dining treats, we have devised a unique menu to meet their needs at COYA Dubai,” he said. “Whether they are looking for healthier eating or wish to comply with cultural dietary guidelines, there is something for everyone as part of a COYA Dubai dinner.”
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Images: Supplied More

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      ‘Two buns in the oven’: Bella Hadid shares photo with pregnant sister Gigi

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      As her big sister Gigi prepares to give birth any day now, Bella Hadid has joked there’s “two buns in the oven” in the Hadid family.
      Sharing a photo to Instagram, the 23-year-old posed with Gigi both showing off their “baby bumps” – although, Bella’s was from a burger.

      “Two buns in the oven except mine is from my burger and Gigi’s is from Zayn,” the model joked. “I love you both so freaking much -can’t stop crying.”
      Bella also noted in the caption the photo was taken back in June, when the pair were both self-isolating in Pennsylvania on their farm with their mother, Yolanda Hadid and Gigi’s boyfriend Zayn Malik.

      Late last month, the couple were photographed in New York City, which is where it’s been reported the supermodel will give birth.
      It’s fair to assume the pair are staying in Gigi’s new $5.8 million (Dhs21.3 million) Manhattan apartment, which she gave fans a glimpse of last month.
      According to a recent report from E! News, the pregnancy has been good for Gigi and Zayn’s relationship after the couple reunited at the end of last year.
      “Zayn and Gigi are really excited and have been loving this experience together,” a source told E!. “They both are reading parenting books, have had fun planning the nursery and picking out items together. Things are going really smoothly, and they are closer as a couple more than ever.”
      It’s been reported the couple are expecting a girl, but neither of them has officially confirmed the gender.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Feature Image: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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      The most Instagrammable rooftop pool has arrived in Dubai

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      If you’ve been dreaming of Bali’s colourful café’s, exotic vibe of Tulum and pastel hues of Miami, then you’re in luck as the newest rooftop pool destination in Dubai combines the best of all three.
      With it Marshmellow pink umbrellas, plush daybeds and several floating flamingos (no Instagrammable pool is complete without a blowup flamingo) Missippi’s Pool Bar & Social Hub is going to become your weekly hangout.

      Masterminded by CANDYPANTS and LIVIT Hospitality Management group – the ones that brought you Dubai’s household name Cove Beach – the new sunseekers destination promises a sweet escape from the mundane with its bold décor that has taken over the rooftop of Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai.
      Designed by Arcadia Design Studio, Missippi’s is going to decorate your social media feed with earthy-wooden cabanas, lush green flora, inviting lounge interiors, and splashes of sugary pastels.

      “To create this truly unique social concept, and we are confident that the fun-filled atmosphere, accessible prices, exciting food and beverage options, and stunning visual appeal of this social hub are the perfect ingredients to set Missippi’s apart as a home away from home on Dubai’s social scene,” says Ray Chan, Owner of CANDYPANTS.

      Expect a selection of vibrant drinks overseen by Head Mixologist Enrik Luzi and his team, while Missippi’s Head Chef Basha has curated a menu that evolves throughout the day. From hunger-busting breakfasts and tasty lunchtime treats, to outstanding dinner options – Missippi’s brings colour, flavour and a whole lot of personality to every plate.
      “More and more people are looking for standout options on this side of Dubai, and the city’s social scene is screaming out for a fun and accessible venue that excites people,” explains Charlie Weaving, Managing Partner of LIVIT Hospitality Management. “That is why we believe the all-new Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai, just a 5-minute drive from popular communities like the Marina, JLT and Jumeirah Park, is the perfect location for Missippi’s.”
      Opening on October 9, the all-day venue can be accessed from 6am till late. There is valet parking at the entrance of Avani hotel or you can leave your car at adjoining Ibn Battuta Mall. Additionally, taxis and Dubai Metro are easily accessible.
      Whether its breakfast with friends, chilling with your other half on a cabana or sun-soaked sips with your besties by the pool – this new-age urban oasis is going to leave you stress-free and even more excited for the weekend.
      For reservations and enquiries call +971 55 269 7351, or email reservations@missippisdxb.com
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      New agreement signed to protect rights of Saudi women and children

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      A new agreement has been signed to protect the rights of women and children in Saudi Arabia.
      The new deal was signed by representatives for the Human Rights Commission (HRC) and Alwaleed Philanthropies – a charitable organisation which aims to alleviate the suffering of those less fortunate with a focus on women and youth.

      Representing Alwaleed Philanthropies was the organisation’s Secretary-General, HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud, and representing the HRC was HE Dr Awwad bin Saleh Al-Awwad, President of the HRC.
      In a statement from Alwaleed Philanthropies, the organisation said: “Today we signed a MOU with HRC Saudi to protect and safeguard the rights of women and children living with disabilities across KSA. Together, we strive to raise awareness of legal rights, empower women who have suffered abuse and uphold human rights for all.”

      وقَّعت مؤسستنا مُذكَّرة تفاهم مع @HRCSaudi بهدف تعزيز ذوي الإعاقة والمرأة والطفل وفقاً للاتفاقيات الدولية، في ضوء نشر الوعي وضمان حماية حقوق الإنسان، ودعم وتمكين المعَنَّفات في المملكة، وتدريب المحامين والمحاميات#الإنسان_أولا pic.twitter.com/LKv8IpyMIa
      — الوليد للإنسانية (@alwaleed_philan) September 9, 2020

      The new partnership will see the Saudi HRC support the philanthropic organisation in their initiative to promote legal awareness in women by training and supporting female lawyers. Furthermore, the partnership will overall aid in the wellbeing of women who have been victims of violence and will improve the overall quality of life to women in the Kingdom.
      Upon the announcement of the new partnership, Princess Lamia said, “We must continue to advocate for the protection of human rights across all of our communities. At Alwaleed Philanthropies we believe that empowerment and education is vital to creating a more equal and tolerant world.
      “We are pleased to collaborate with the Human Rights Commission, who share our vision of supporting women and youth and safeguarding the rights of each and every person.”

      In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, Princess Lamia shared she believes it is her duty to help those who are less fortunate due to the position she has been granted in life.
      “If you are fortunate enough to have access to resources or a raised platform, it is your responsibility to support and empower those who are not as fortunate,” Her Royal Highness said.
      To read the full interview click here or download EW’s September – ‘The Power Issue’. 
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied/Twitter More

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      Amy Roko: The Saudi woman breaking down stereotypes in the GCC

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      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      If there’s a mantra that we should all live by it’s Amy Roko’s: “My life, my rules.”
      Amy Roko isn’t here to be judged by anyone. Having garnered a huge social media following since first emerging on Instagram in 2015, the Saudi Arabian native has become a beacon for many women as she continues to break down stereotypes surrounding females from the GCC region and the niqab. What exactly inspired her to resist stereotypes put upon her for being a niqabi is ironically the exact reason she did it. “Society’s initial resistance towards me inspired that,” she tells Emirates Woman. “I couldn’t imagine that just being myself and who I am would garner pushback. I don’t like being dictated to. I really do what I want, so I started showing people how I live my life to the fullest and based on my rules.”
      It’s safe to say Roko – who chooses to keep her identity secret using this pseudonym instead – is a force to be reckoned with, sharing her comedic sketches which challenge the status quo with her 1.4 million followers on Instagram. Five years into her social media career, Roko has worked on some huge campaigns with notable brands like Benefit Cosmetics, Destination KSA, Levi’s and more. It’s evident the only way is up for this social media sensation. EW recently caught up with the 28-year-old to discuss everything from her sudden social media growth, what misconceptions there are surrounding the niqab and the burqa and what 2020 has been like for her in lockdown. Roko also revealed what it’s like living, as she describes it as a “double life”, and what exactly power means to her.
      On her social media growth… 

      I gained a very loyal following the moment I joined Instagram. It was unusual to be a niqabi on social media when I first started. All I remember is I gained around 100,000 followers within the first two days and then every time I posted followers jumped around 10,000.
      On female empowerment…
      It means women having spaces, energy and resources to do what they want. Letting women do what they want. It means equality. It applies in many different contexts, but simply put, I define it as gender equality.

      On feeling the pressure…
      Every now and then [I feel the pressure]. Now it’s not as scary. When you have the right team and support system around you, you’re encouraged to embrace yourself.
      On misconception…
      There’s a huge misconception surrounding the niqab. This comes with two main stereotypes: firstly being deeply religious, and secondly being wildly silly (i.e. clownery). I just want to show you can still wear a niqab and be comedic, love fashion and sports if that floats your boat. Niqabis are regular people that just choose to dress differently.
      On her hopes for change…
      I would love to see continued efforts towards equality. There’s a lot of growth within the GCC towards this vision. More women in leading positions means a more thorough outcome for members of society. That’s what we’re working towards.
      On 2020…
      It’s been an okay year for me. I’m still creating and posting content, and I guess that’s the beauty of social media – my work happens, for the most part, on my phone. Personal life is good – I have a little bit more time to talk to the people I’m closest to now.
      On advice for success…
      “Do you know that gut feeling that you have, that tells you to do things and not to do things? Trust it. Also, don’t hesitate to post, you’re funny. At least you crack your family up, and hey that’s what matters!”
      On overcoming hurdles…
      Keeping my identity a secret. I basically live a double life (cue Hannah Montana theme song). Getting used to the negative comments in the beginning. You can be Nelson Mandela and they’ll still find reasons to hate on you. Getting over the fear of people recognizing me in public and approaching me initially. I love when they do now – they’re always respectful and really sweet!
      On career milestones…
      My YouTube channel. Proud to have gotten it off the ground and running! Rapping professionally. I couldn’t have imagined I’d ever take that step, but I did it with Benefit – the ‘Girl Gang’ music video is my absolute favourite collaboration so far! Acting – super excited about doing a lot more in the coming year.
      On the future…
      There will be more music. I’ll be heading to acting. Fire brand collaborations And finally launching my own online store – I’ve got that niqab hook up!
      On power…
      The freedom to live life according to the rules that you set for yourself – not society’s rules, not the culture and tradition’s rules, not people’s rules and definitely not men’s rules. My life, my rules.
      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Photographer – Abdulaziz Salem More