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    30 brunches to try in Dubai this weekend

    It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go as there is so much on offer.
    To help you whittle it down, EW has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

    Of course, be mindful of the precautionary COVID-19 measures in place including social distancing, limits to how many people you can have on your table and all buffets are still suspended, so it’s table service all the way.
    With that, here is the ultimate guide to brunch in Dubai, with 30 choices to pick from.
    Alici

    With unbeatable views of Dubai, Alici’s brunch is a must-try. This must-try seafood restaurant has an array of Italian dishes on its menu (including plenty of seafood, of course) and a lengthy cocktail list inspired by the flavours of the Amalfi coast. Their brunch package is available on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm – Dhs395 for soft drinks, Dhs495 for house drinks and Dhs595 for sparkling.
    Jumeirah Al Naseem

    At Jumeriah Al Naseem’s three restaurants – Kayto, Summersalt and Rockfish – brunch is back on the cards. Soft drink packages are available for Dhs395 and for alcoholic beverage packages it’s Dhs495, available Fridays from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. You can be rest assured this resort is sterilising everything to the highest of standards as it just became the first hotel in the world to become officially certified for its hygiene practices.
    Zuma

    If you’re feeling a spot of Japanese, then the return of Zuma’s brunch is the one for you. Running every Friday and Saturday between 12pm and 4pm with packages including Dhs395 for soft drinks, Dhs495 for wine, beer and prosecco and Dhs595 with champagne.
    La Cantine

    Craving breakfast foods? If so, La Cantine is the brunch you should be heading to. With their menu crammed full of breakfast dishes (of course, there are other options), head to this eatery on Saturdays between 12pm and 4pm. Packages are priced at Dhs265 for soft drinks, Dhs400 with wine and beer and Dhs650 for premium.
    Cafe Belge

    This brunch is definitely an extravaganza, Great Gatsby style. Run by Secret Parties (who definitely know how to throw a good brunch or two…), the new ‘Secret Brunch at The Ritz’ is certainly one to put on your brunch bucket list. Located at Cafe Belge at The Ritz-Carlton in DIFC, brunchgoers will be treated to some fine French cuisine from the popular restaurant along with some tantalising cocktails.
    Running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm, packages start at Dhs295 for soft drinks, Dhs395 for house drinks and Dhs495 for bubbles.
    Tortuga

    Looking to enjoy a true Mexican fiesta along with picturesque views? Look no further than Tortuga, where you can enjoy some irresistible cuisine along with views of the lagoon at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam. Running every Friday from 12.30 until 4pm, packages start at Dhs270 for soft drinks and Dhs370 for house drinks.
    Tasca, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira

    Indulge in the flavourful delights of Portugal at Dubai hotspot Tasca. With a variety of grilled meats and seafood marinated to perfection, as well as an array of desserts, surrounded by breathtaking views of Dubai and the Arabian Gulf, this is the place to be on weekends. Running every Friday from 12:30pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs350 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for house beverages.
    La Mezcaleria

    Those looking for a lively brunch and a good time with friends, this Latin American pop-up in DIFC is the place for you. Enjoy sharing-style starters with your friends, followed by your own main course and then a sharing platter of desserts. Running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm packages start from Dhs190 for soft drinks, Dhs290 for grape, Dhs360 for house beverages and mixed drinks and Dhs460 for bubbly.
    OPA

    A Mediterranean feast awaits you at OPA every Friday, bringing Mykonos to Dubai. Let your hair down with your friends feasting on the iconic flavours of Greece, along with some plate-smashing entertainment. Running from 12pm until 4pm, packages for this four-course brunch begin at Dhs245 for soft drinks, Dhs350 for house drinks and Dhs395 for bubbles.
    We Brunch, Intercontinental Dubai Marina

    For those seeking an evening brunch We Brunch: After Dark is the perfect spot. Located at Accent Restaurant in the Intercontinental Dubai Marina, We Brunch has a new a la carte menu on offer which will be served right to your table.
    Running every Friday from 7pm to 10pm,  packages start from Dhs299 for soft drinks and Dhs349 for house drinks.
    Jazz@Pizza Express, JLT

    If it’s a lively time (with social distancing in place) that you’re looking for, this is the place to go. Running every Friday from 12pm to 4pm, you get free-flowing house drinks and food for Dhs225.
    Hidden Brunch, Treehouse and Tesoro

    The famous Hidden Brunch which takes place across two venues at two venues, Treehouse and Tesoro located in the Taj Hotel in Business Bay, relaunched earlier this month. Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs325 for soft drinks and Dhs375 for sparkling.
    Seven Sisters

    The Seven Sisters brunch is now operating from 1pm to 5pm every Friday. Enjoy music, food and drinks with packages starting at Dhs199 for soft drinks, Dhs349 for house drinks and Dhs449 for the premium package.
    Distillery Dubai

    If you’re keen for classic gastropub food, then The Distillery’s brunch is for you. Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, packages start at Djs 149 for soft drinks and Dhs279 for house beverages.
    The Penthouse

    If you fancy a Thursday evening get-together with your friends, this new brunch launching this week is one to check out. With a three-course Japanese set menu available, along with a selection of cocktails and amazing views, you’re bound to have a great time. Available every Thursday from 7pm to 9pm. Prices are Dhs250 for ladies and Dhs350 for gents.
    Lucky Voice, Brunch In Loud
    For unlimited food and beverages, hit up Lucky Voice’s Brunch In Loud. Available on Fridays from 2pm to 5pm, packages start from Dhs195 for soft drinks, Dhs250 for house drinks and Dhs350 for sparkling.
    Solo Gusto Brunch, Raffles Hotel

    Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, enjoy some flavourful delicacies at this family-friendly brunch, Solo Gusto Brunch. On the menu are sharing portions of absolutely everything from Italy’s diverse regions – antipasti, carpaccio, pasta, pizza and fritto misto to name just a few.
    Packages begin from Dhs199 per person. Children between ages 12 and 15 dine at half price while kids below 12 dine free.
    El Secreto, La Carnita

    If you’re feeling like a Mexican feast this weekend then this brunch is for you. Available on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs275 for soft drinks, Dhs375 for house drinks, Dhs475 for sparkling and Dhs599 for champagne.
    COYA

    While the famous COYA buffet is not on offer due to the current restrictions, appetizers, main plates, side dishes and a dessert platter will be served directly to your table. Running every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, prices start from Dhs390 for a standard non-alcoholic package, to Dhs490 for the house package and Dhs59o for the exclusive premium package, which now includes Perrier-Jouét Grand Brut and Pisco Sour.
    CÉ LA VI

    Having only just opened at the beginning of this year, then having to temporarily close due to the pandemic there’s a high chance you haven’t tried out this gem yet. Luckily, brunch has returned to CÉ LA VI filled with plenty of Asian dishes. You also can’t beat the views of the Burj Khalifa it has.
    Their brunch runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm with prices starting from Dhs290 for soft drinks, Dhs490 for house beverages and Dhs690 with champagne.
    ROKA

    Fancy some yakitori-negima yaki, robata grilled chicken skewers with spring onion or the Kankoku fu kohitsuji, flavoursome lamb cutlets with Korean spices and sesame cucumber? If so, then this is the brunch for you. Having just launched prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, this is the perfect time to try out ROKA.
    Brunch at ROKA runs every Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Packages start from Dhs295 for soft beverages, Dhs395 for house beverages and Dhs495 for premium beverages.
    WHITE Beach

    For an all-round beach and pool (if the pool is open this weekend) experience, this brunch at WHITE Beach at Atlantis, The Palm is a must-try.
    Brunch is available every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm. Packages start from Dhs249 for soft drinks, Dhs299 for house drinks for ladies and Dhs349 for house drinks for men.
    Mama Zonia, Pier 7

    This staple brunch location is officially back on with the Secret Parties team. With some adjustments due to current restrictions, there will still be live music, fabulous food and drinks at this Secret Jungle Party.
    Available every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, brunch packages start from Dhs255 for soft drinks, Dhs355 for house beverages, Dhs455 for sparkling and Dhs599 for champagne.
    Hell’s Kitchen, Caesars Palace Bluewaters
    While Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen brunch is known for its huge buffet, this is currently on hold in line with government guidelines. However, an a la carte brunch menu is on offer with prices starting from Dhs295 for soft drinks, Dhs395 for house beverages and Dhs445 for sparkling. Available on Fridays from 12.30pm until 3.30pm at Caesars Palace Bluewaters.

    Lah Lah, The Greens
    If you fancy a pan-Asian twist on brunch then head to LAH LAH at Zabeel House by Jumeriah, The Greens. Their brunch offers are available every Friday from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 10pm. Prices start at Dhs295 for soft beverages, Dhs375 for house beverages and Dhs450 for sparkling.

    Nobu, Atlantis The Palm
    With brunch on offer every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 3pm, how could you pass up a good Japanese feast at Nobu Dubai?
    In the available offers, guests will be treated to a selection of a la carte dishes – including chicken and avocado tacos, assorted Nobu sushi and rolls and black cod yuzu miso – along with drinks which are served to guests’ tables. Prices start from Dhs345 for soft drinks and Dhs435 for house beverages.

    STK, Dubai JBR
    If you’re looking for a bit of an upmarket party – albeit with social distancing rules in place – then ‘Dare to Brunch’ at STK is one to visit, and it’s now back every Friday from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 10pm. Offers start from Dhs400 for soft beverages, Dhs600 for house beverages and Dhs650 for sparkling.

    Zero Gravity
    Available every Friday and Saturday from 3pm to 6pm, Zero Gravity’s ‘late-late lunch’ is great value for money.
    Fancy unlimited fresh burrata and perhaps some sushi, topped off with some truffled mushroom tagliatelle and teriyaki wings? Then this is a must-visit for you. Prices start from Dhs199 for ladies and Dhs249 for gents.

    French Riviera , Jumeirah Al Qasr

    Jumeriah Group has just launched a brand new dining experience on the stunning oceanfront at Jumeirah Al Qasr, French Riviera – perfect timing for post-quarantine. With French-Mediterranean food on offer, this new eatery’s ‘Bleu, Blanc, Rouge’ brunch hosted every Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 3pm is a must-visit. Packages start at Dhs350 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for house drinks and cocktails.
    Roberto’s

    For a truly stylish brunch on Saturday, head down to the elegant Italian dining spot in DIFC – Roberto’s. Having just launched ‘The Bacchus Brunch’ – which is a nod to Bacchus the ancient Roman God of wine, the elegant setting transports you to a luxurious Roman restaurant, where you can indulge in an array of beautifully put together Italian dishes including ricotta served with sundried tomato; homemade gnocchi with pecorino and black peppercorn; and grilled seabass and stuffed artichoke and grilled ribeye with roasted cauliflower.
    Running every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm, prices start at Dhs295 for soft drinks and Dhs445 for house beverages.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

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    Kim Kardashian is ‘furious’ with Kanye West but also ‘desperate to help him’

    While Kanye West is currently on a quest for the US presidency, it seems he’s been airing some very private family matters about his wife Kim Kardashian and their children.
    In fact, according to People, the makeup mogul is “furious” at the rapper for sharing their private matters in such a public way at a rally in South Carolina.

    “Things have broken down significantly between the two of them, and it’s happened pretty suddenly,” a source told the magazine.
    Following the rally, Kanye seemed to go on a Twitter rant airing more personal matters to the public.

    As a result, the Kardashian-Jenners have become increasingly worried for his mental health.
    The 44-year-old was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2016, and while Kim has been left “mortified” by his behaviour, she’s still desperate to help him.
    “She has desperately been trying to help Kanye, keep him calm, and prevent him from having any public meltdowns,” a source told Page Six. “The family believe he is having a bipolar episode.
    “He won’t take medications because he feels they make him less creative.”
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: Getty, Feature Image: Kim Kardashian Instagram More

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    Heartwarming way this Dubai salon is giving back to COVID-19 frontline workers

    In one way or another everyone across the globe has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s those on the frontlines that have experienced the most of it while helping to treat patients and provide essential services to the public.
    To thank frontline workers there’s been many deeds of gratitude that have been done including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum granting doctors 10-year golden residency visas; bonuses have also been granted to vital workers by the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE; and a new office has been established in the UAE dedicated to supporting those who have been frontline workers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

    Similarly, designer bridal brand Esposa – a bridal boutique which has stores in Beirut, Dbayeh and Ramleh El Bayda in Lebanon and two stores in Dubai – is giving back to Lebanese and Emirati doctors and nurses brides-to-be serving COVID-19 patients by offering free wedding gowns.
    Now, Dubai-based salon Pastels is also giving back to frontline healthcare workers.

    The salon has two offers available exclusively for those who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic.
    The first is a Dhs100 gift voucher which can be redeemed with any service at any Pastels salons across Dubai.
    The second is the frontline feel-good facial which is only available at the Pastels Salon Jumeirah. Frontline workers will be able to enjoy a 60-minute facial bespoke to their skin type, which will leave the skin with a healthy glow.
    To redeem the offer, which is available until August 31, all you need to do is provide a valid ID card and professional identification
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    ‘Historical’ court ruling in Saudi Arabia will benefit equality for women

    In recent years, many things have changed for the better for women in Saudi Arabia.
    Now, in a recent court ruling in the Kingdom, it has been stated: “an adult, rational woman living independently is not a crime”.

    Prior to this ruling, the parents of a woman who had disappeared or was living along without gaining permission from their guardians would be able to file a report with the police, according to Gulf News. It was known as the ‘absenteeism’ law.
    However, the latest ruling that women can live independently could drastically improve gender equality in Saudi Arabia, has been hailed has “historical” by lawyer Abdul Rahman Al Lahim.

    “A historic ruling was issued on Wednesday, affirming that independence of a sane, adult woman in a separate house is not a crime worthy of punishment,” the lawyer said on Twitter. “I am very happy with this ruling that ends tragic stories for women.”
    Many things have changed for women in the last few years in the Kingdom, since Mohammed bin Salman was appointed Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in 2017.
    Under his Vision 2030 initiative, an ambitious post-oil economic plan, there has been a major focus on women’s rights in the Kingdom.
    Just three months after he stepped into the role in 2017, the Crown Prince revealed in a royal decree, women would be able to secure driving licenses from June 2018.
    Then, in March 2018, it was announced by the Ministry of Justice that women who are divorced in the country would be able to instantly retain custody of their children.
    Under his plans, women are now also able to attend sports events in stadiums in three cities, female students in the Kingdom are now allowed to carry their phones while on campus and as of August 2019, women aged over 21 are now allowed to travel independently.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Getty More

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    Here’s when Eid Al Adha is likely to fall

    Another public holiday is right around the corner in the UAE with Eid Al Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice) set to fall next weekend.
    While there has been no confirmation in the UAE as to what the exact date of Eid Al Adha will be, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court recently announced it would fall on Friday, July 31.

    Previously, as reported by Gulf News, top UAE astronomer Ibrahim Al Jarwan also predicted the Muslim holiday would likely fall on July 31.
    “The crescent of the lunar month of Dhu Al Hijjah 1441 is to be spotted on Monday, July 20, 2020 at 9.33pm UAE time,” he told the outlet back in May.

    “July 22 will mark the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah month and Friday, July 31, shall be the first day of Eid Al Adha, according to astronomical calculations.”
    While there has been no official announcement as of yet, a public holiday on Sunday, August 2 could be on the cards.
    The rest of the UAE public holidays for 2020:
    Islamic New Year
    A couple of weeks later it’s the Hijri New Year. Falling on Muharram 1, it’s expected to take place on Wednesday, August 19 or Thursday, August 20.
    The Prophet’s Birthday
    The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday will fall on the 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal, which will coincide with Wednesday, October 28, or Thursday, October 29.
    Commemoration Day and National Day
    To close out 2020, those in the UAE will have another three-day break to look forward to with Commemoration Day, Tuesday, December 1, and National Day, Wednesday, December 2, with a day off also on Thursday, December 3.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Unsplash More

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    Stuck in a Work Rut? Here’s How to Get Out

    Every single day feels exactly the same. And it’s not just quarantine that’s causing the monotony—it’s your job. Yep, you’re in a total work rut, and it’s compounded by the fact that you’re still working from home. Every morning you sign on wearing the same pajama pants you’ve had on for two (OK, at least three) days and churn through your task list on autopilot. Rinse and repeat. You do that same thing every single weekday.You’re eager to snap out of it but, unfortunately, so much of the advice you’ve read doesn’t seem realistic in the era of COVID-19. You know things are tight at your company, so now isn’t the time to ask for a promotion or a raise. Travel is still a nightmare, so you can’t recharge with a vacation.
    So… now what? How are you supposed to claw your way out of the mundane hole you’ve found yourself stuck in? Have no fear, because we have some advice to help get you out.

    1. Give yourself a fresh view
    If you’re sick and tired of looking at the same four walls of your home or apartment (umm… aren’t we all?), allow me to remind you how much a change of scenery can boost your focus and your spirits. That’s because our brains love novelty. Working in a new environment can give you a much-needed dose of motivation.
    I know what you’re going to say, “But, I can’t really go anywhere! How could I possibly switch up my surroundings?”
    Here’s the good news: you don’t have to go far. Try rearranging the furniture in your home or office space. Or, work from your kitchen table for the day rather than your couch. Set up shop on your patio or your balcony. Even adding some new art or a plant to your desktop can help you spruce up your scenery. These seemingly small changes can have a remarkably large impact on your attitude.

    2. Switch up your tried and true routine
    Similarly, if you’re feeling like you’re stuck in a rut, I’m willing to bet that your work routine is pretty stale. You’ve been hitting the “repeat” button every single workday day for the past several months. It’s time to shake things up a little bit. Now that you’re working from home, you have more flexibility than ever—so, why aren’t you taking advantage of it?
    Try getting your workout in over your lunch break. Block off Wednesday as your meeting-free day when you can focus on your larger projects. Or, test out a time management method like the Pomodoro Technique to see if it makes you feel more productive and enthusiastic about your work responsibilities.
    Your rut is only going to get deeper if you keep doing the exact same thing day in and day out. Regularly test out some changes to your routine to help make your days feel a little fresher.

    3. Go beyond your immediate work team
    You talk to the same people at your company Monday through Friday. You see their Slack usernames in your sleep, and you have their voicemail greetings committed to memory. It’s time to widen your circle with some networking. It’s going to look a little different than it used to—you won’t be slapping on a nametag, shaking hands, and bonding over cheap wine and rubbery chicken skewers. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t still make meaningful connections.
    Want to know the best place to start? Within your own company. Especially if you work for a larger organization, I’m willing to bet there are plenty of fellow employees you know almost nothing about. Go beyond your immediate team and connect with that person in finance or schedule a virtual coffee date with someone from the sales team. Not only will you make a valuable connection with someone new, but you’ll also likely learn about your company on a different level—which can give you a renewed outlook and appreciation for your own work and how it contributes to the bigger picture.

    4. Take control of your professional development
    If you know that your company is just gritting its teeth and trying to get by right now, it’s likely not the best time to ask for a raise or try to secure a promotion. But, while those things might not be on the table, you can (and should!) still have a candid conversation with your boss about some of your other career ambitions.
    Maybe you want to get more exposure to other areas of the company and would like to participate in a cross-functional project that’s just getting started. Or perhaps you’re eager to beef up your SEO skills and want to see if you can get paired up with someone in your company who’s an expert. Those are things your manager could support you in doing—but only if you make your desires known.
    Remember, professional development is also something you can spearhead yourself. Whether you want to finally launch your personal website or take an online course on Photoshop, go ahead and chase some of those ambitions on your own. They might not directly impact your day-to-day at work (at least not right away), but they can help reignite some passion and enthusiasm for your qualifications and career future.

    Let’s face it: most of us have already lost all concept of time. And, being stuck in a rut at work only makes every day feel like even more of the same old, same old. You may have less career options available to you than you usually do (raises and promotions aren’t easy to come by as many companies have tightened their belts), but that doesn’t mean you need to be content with every workday feeling like a carbon copy of the one before it.
    Use these four tips to pull yourself out of your work rut and reignite some passion and excitement for your job. Trust me—you deserve that much.

    Do you have any tips for pulling yourself out of a work rut? Let us know! More

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    Popular Syrian singer Assala Nasri’s daughter announces engagement

    Popular Syrian singer Assala Nasri’s daughter has announced the happy news that she is engaged.
    Taking to Instagram, Sham Al Zahabi shared two sweet photos to announce her engagement to now-fiancé Dr. Moataz Nosseir.

    The first photo was a family photo featuring Al Zahabi’s mother, Assala, and other extended family members.

    The second was of the newly engaged couple cosied up together in celebration of their happy news.
    “Family getting bigger,” Al Zahabi wrote. “Thank you for being true, being you.. and showing me a different side to life… forever yours.”
    Congratulations to the happy couple!
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Sham Al Zahabi Instagram More

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    Supporting local: The $1 million advertising support scheme for UAE SMEs

    Weathering the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been an easy one, particularly for SMEs in the UAE.
    However, in order to support and help combat the difficulties many small and local businesses have faced, EW‘s parent company, Motivate Media Group, has established an initiative to support UAE SMEs with $1 million in free advertising and marketing.

    Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) approved the initiative, which will give up to 20 SMEs the opportunity to receive $50,000 worth of free advertising across Motivate’s key brands including Emirates Woman, What’s On, Identity and Gulf Business in both print and digital.
    Businesses across an array of different industries will be able to nominate themselves for consideration to take part in the scheme.

    As part of the process, an expert panel will be appointed by Motivate not only to help local businesses get through these trying times, but also help them thrive beyond the pandemic into 2021.
    A shortlist will be created by the expert panel, based on the proposals put forward by the SMEs in order to survive the pandemic and beyond and how they will continue to contribute to the UAE.
    Discussing the new initiative, Motivate Media Group’s managing partner, Ian Fairservice, said, “We are celebrating the UAE’s success by helping others achieve their business goals. This is an incredibly hard time for all businesses, especially SMEs, and we have one of the largest media portfolios to help businesses across the UAE.”
    In order to apply to receive support digital marketing, reaching campaign targets, targeting relevant audiences and help in promotional plans with Motivate’s experts visit: motivatemedia.com/smerevival.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Unsplash More