lifestyle and culture

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

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

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

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

Feel like a sun-worshipping VIP at Andreea’s Beach club, nestled on a sandy patch of the Habtoor Grand Resort.
The seaside destination has curated some tempting deals that you and your girlfriends can take advantage of during the week and the weekend.

Every Thursday they host a Ladies Day where you can sip on unlimited drinks and tuck into a delicious food platter for just Dhs128. This same unmissable offer for female guests is also available on Saturdays, making your weekend that little bit more special.
If you want to continue partying into the evening on Thursday, you’ll be treated to unlimited selected beverages for Dhs95 or premium selected drinks for Dhs135 – available from 8pm to 11 pm as part of their Ladies Night.
If you want to pop by any other day during the week or on a Friday you will pay Dhs250, but the full amount can be used on food and drinks so you’re getting a prime beach spot and plenty of snacks and beverages to keep you full and hydrated. Choose from the revamped menu that includes oysters, yellowfin tuna tartar, sushi, pizzas and grilled meats.

Andreea’s Beach club has been a hotspot for beachgoers since it reopened last summer following a series of improvements including a larger swimming pool that is lined with chic shaded cabanas and features a swim-up bar in the middle. How can we resist?
Andreea’s Beach Club, Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, open daily from 9am to late. Call (058) 693 5778 for bookings.
– For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Instagram, More

Take your culinary experience to new heights as the tallest restaurant is set to open in the UAE next month.
Overlooking Jais Adventure Park and located in the Jebel Jais Welcome Center in Ras al Khaimah, the new dining extravaganza is positioned 1,484 metres above sea level and is aptly named 1484 by Puro.

Due to open on October 1, it will sit up to 76 people who will enjoy impressive views of the dramatic Hajar mountains through floor to ceiling windows which can also be opened. The interior is clean and modern and there is also a terrace to take advantage of during the cooler months.

“With the opening of 1484 by Puro at the Jebel Jais Welcome Center, visitors can now enjoy an all-encompassing experience at the standalone destination that is the Jais Adventure Peak, home to thrilling adventure attractions such as the Jebel Jais Flight, Jais Sky Maze, and the Jais Sky Tour,” Alison Grinnell, CEO of RAK Hospitality Holding, told Gulf News. 
If you’re familiar with Puro’s other restaurants, Al Marjan Island and Puro Express at the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park, then you know that the dining concept will focus on locally sourced ingredients to deliver fresh Mediterranean dishes. You can also look forward to a varied drink menu of non and alcoholic beverages.
Whether you’re hiking, cycling, daring the zip line, or opting for a relaxing yoga class dining at 1484 by Puro sounds like a good treat.
– For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Instagram, main image instagram.com/nailah_aljasmi More