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      Abu Dhabi dining outlets can now increase their capacity

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      If you’ve struggled to get a table at one of your favourite eateries in Abu Dhabi, we have some good news.
      Dining outlets in the capital are now allowed to operate at 80 per cent capacity. Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has circulated a notice informing that restaurants, coffee shops, cafes and other licensed food outlets (including those inside malls) can increase their capacity.

      This news is a positive indication of how the emirate has been dealing with the ongoing global pandemic, and is helpful step for businesses as they slowly get closer to normal operations.

      .@AbuDhabiDED has issued a circular instructing restaurants, coffee shops, cafes and other licensed food outlets inside and outside malls to operate at 80% capacity. This follows measures implemented by Abu Dhabi Emergency Crisis & Disaster Committee for COVID-19 Pandemic. pic.twitter.com/39AK50XSIl
      — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) July 29, 2020

      However, all of the outlets must meet the required measures set in place by the Abu Dhabi Emergency Crisis & Disaster Committee for the Covid-19 Pandemic.
      They have to make sure that all the staff undergo laser-based DPI screening for coronavirus every two weeks and maximum of four people per table rule is still in place. Clear social distancing markings remain, as does contactless payment method.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: instagram.com/mysamsonite More

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      Dubai Airport is going to be extremely busy this weekend, warns Emirates

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      Travelling somewhere special this Eid al Adha? You’re not the only one.
      Emirates warns that this weekend is going to be a busy one for holidaymakers and advises everyone to arrive at the airport three hours before departure (regardless of class of travel). Be warned, that if you rock up less less than 60 minutes prior to your scheduled flight departure, you will be turned away.

      Peak travel is expected to start this evening, with Thursday July 30, marking the busiest time for departures in Terminal 3. Passengers are encouraged to build in extra time to avoid any delays with expected traffic congestion.
      Remember that you can check in online on both their desktops and mobile devices from 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure, but you have to stop by the Emirates check-in counters at the airport to collect boarding passes and to verify travel documents.

      After checking in, keep an eye out for the information boards as all gates are timed to open 90 minutes in advance, with boarding commencing 45 minutes before each flight with gates closing 20 minutes before departure.
      Travelling during these times can be confusing, so make sure to check out the airlines website for the latest requirements.

      Travelling back to Dubai
      Note that from August 1, COVID-19 PCR tests taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure will be mandatory for all travellers arriving to Dubai or transiting in Dubai. This includes UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from. In addition, travellers heading to the UK and Europe on Emirates will also be required to hold a negative PCR test certificate.
      Peace of mind
      Earlier it was announced that Emirates has committed to cover COVID-19 related medical expenses, free of cost, should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travels abroad. The airline will cover medical expenses of up to Euro 150,000 and quarantine costs of Euro 100 per day for 14 days. This cover is immediately effective for customers flying on Emirates until 31 October 2020 (first flight to be completed on or before 31 October 2020), and is valid for 31 days from the moment they fly the first sector of their journey.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Images: instagram.com/mysamsonite More

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      Farfetch: How to grow a global brand with Stephanie Phair

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      Strategy and style
      Stephanie Phair is what you’d call incredible. Leading, developing and articulating the long-term vision for Farfetch, we spoke to Phair about supporting boutiques in the time of a pandemic and beyond.
      What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
      I’ve stopped checking emails first thing in the morning, or you go down a rabbit hole, and I end up with a clearer head! If there is anything urgent I would have missed calls. I get myself ready and it’s all hands on deck to get 3 children and us out of the house on time.
      Tell us about your role as Chief Customer Officer at Farfetch?

      My role encompasses the broader customer strategy at Farfetch, the world of Private Client and our customer innovation efforts with Store of the Future. Our customers are at the core of our business and one of our key brand pillars is “amaze customers”. José [Neves, founder of Farfetch] always had in mind that he wanted to build a community and our customers are at the heart of that.
      How did your previous roles at the likes of Net-A-Porter set you up for such a role and what do you think the key thing is to remember if you strive to build a customer-centric brand?
      Net-A-Porter was such a customer centric business and I learnt a lot there. Making sure you constantly look at things not from a functional point of view but from a customer lens is a discipline. The customer doesn’t care that your average answering time is x minutes, they care about what it was for them.
      The recent months have been a challenge – how did Farfetch stay ahead of the curve in terms of inventory and strategy?

      Farfetch was founded at the beginning of the 2008 recession, and born out of a need for brick and mortar boutiques to survive and reach customers worldwide. Today our partners are facing an equally difficult time for trade now as we did then, but our capabilities as a global platform enable us to offer them solutions during this time, because they can still ship from their stores even if their footfall has dropped. Farfetch has hundreds of boutique partners who make our business model so unique and our first instinct was to go back to our DNA and highlight what an important part of our community they represent by launching our Support Boutiques campaign.  When our customers shop on Farfetch, the items arrive from one of 700+ boutiques in one of 50 countries around the world, or from the stores of our many brand partners, altogether representing over 3000 designers – mostly small and unique creators of fashion. The vast majority of these are small businesses (often family-run) many of whom cannot welcome customers into their physical stores at the moment. We wanted to ensure these partners have our full support to be able to continue servicing their dedicated customer base and continue to trade. Now as we see the market begin to come out of the strict lockdowns we saw implemented around the world, we remain steadfast in supporting our partners.
      Which attributes do you find appeal most to customers when it comes to products?
      What customers really want lends to our DNA and what really is authentic to Farfetch -which is curation, aiding in discovery but also the human stories we tell via our community. With Farfetch Communities we spotlight individual points of view across the world which shows how varied and unique the world of fashion can be. Whether it’s our boutique partners, our network of influencers or our own teams, our brand has a lot of heart and I believe that is something our consumers appreciate and connect with.
      How does Farfetch intend to continue to support boutiques globally going forward?
      We will continue to support our boutiques through strong editorial and the ability to let them tell their unique stories but we are also working to integrate technology that better connects the online and offline experiences. If our marketplace can help drive people in to our partner boutiques’ stores for example then it is a win-win.

      Do you have particular brands yourself that you buy into?
      I have always loved more classic, clean lines. The Row, Toteme, Frame – I’m happy to go hi-lo and sometimes throw in something crazy and colourful. Farfetch is such a great place to discover brands.
      How do you manage to succeed in both roles (Farfetch & British Fashion Council) and do you have any mindfulness practices that help when the challenges come from every angle?
      I prioritise in order of urgency, work as hard as I can, but recognise that there are only 12 hours (or 16) in the day! I am lucky to work in an industry that is about selling nice clothes and storytelling and so perspective is really important too.
      What is luxury today?
      It is health and quality time. I think this coronavirus pandemic has taught everyone how to appreciate the small things.
      Do you see any buying patterns in terms of global sales and if so what?
      We are certainly seeing demand change according to where on the path to easing lockdown a region finds itself in. We are also seeing an increase in homewares, active wear and comfortable fashion as you might expect.
      How do you approach client engagement and retention?
      We have a number of different avenues when it comes to engagement and retention. We are focused on always innovating our online customer experience and user journey, by being able to offer our customers an unrivalled assortment from the best brands and boutiques around the globe. We do look for opportunities where we can bring the offline experience to life by immersing our customers into the world of the many boutiques that sit on the platform and through consumer facing events where we can connect with the Farfetch community.  Our loyalty programme, Farfetch Access, allows us to cater to and personalise our offerings to each of our customers as their buying profile develops from one tier to the next. Once our customer reaches the Private Client tier, one of the very personalized services we offer them is a personal stylist and access to the Fashion Concierge service where you can buy unique one-of-a-kind pieces from brands that we don’t stock on our platform.
      How crucial do you see tech and innovation in luxury versus the personal touch or is it the two combined?
      When it comes to the online shopping experience, we know that customers are more hyper connected than ever. They have their pulse to newness and emerging trends so it’s very important for us as a brand to create inspiration and aid customers in that discovery. Furthermore, when it comes to the offline versus online journey, the digital aspect of the consumer journey is so important. Due to the current climate, consumers’ habits have certainly shifted towards online shopping. I believe that customers today expect a far more seamless, effortless and efficient experience when they shop online. Additionally, customers are incredibly knowledgeable and do their research before purchasing an item, so they want to know that they are being offered the highest quality products at the most competitive prices.
      Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration?
      I follow a lot of interior Instagram accounts. I believe that fashion is not just about clothes anymore but fits into wider culture and this helps frame the broader perspective. The World of Interiors, The Modern House, Great Women Artists are some.

      Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals?
      I do check my phone, which is not great!
      What effect has social media played in the growth of Farfetch?
      Social media has been a great platform through which we have seen the extensive growth and extension of Farfetch Communities – it’s limitless. It has also been a platform through which we were able to remain connected to our customers throughout this pandemic. We were able to bring our customers into our boutiques and were able to give our boutiques the chance to talk to the customers and tell them of their experiences throughout these unprecedented times.
      What advice would you give to your younger self starting out?
      Don’t be so impatient. It will all come in time.
      Did you have a mentor and if so what was the most valuable piece of advice they gave you?
      I have worked with many wonderful women (and men) who have all been mentors in some aspect, from Anna Wintour to Natalie Massenet and Mark Sebba, the CEO of the Net-A-Porter Group I am very lucky that I have worked with some of the best in the business.
      If you were not Chief Customer Officer at Farfetch, which other role would you choose career-wise?
      I love my role – so much to do and I get to work with smart kind people all over the world.
      This issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would you like to escape to?
      I am actually really looking forward to visiting Dubai again when it’s safe to do so. My last few trips have been very quick so I would really like to spend some proper time in the city and connect with the community out there.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Images: Supplied, Instagram, main image from the Emirates Woman  ‘The Summer Escape Issue’ cover shoot. More

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      20 inspiring women share lockdown lessons and dream travel destinations

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      Freedom is not something we take for granted. We asked some of the most incredible women we know where they’d like to escape to this summer and what they’ve learned during the time in lockdown.
      H.E. Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali Al Sabah 
      Co-founder of Prismologie, @intisaralsabah
      Where would you like to escape to and why?

      I love escaping to a small boutique hotel in a different city or town every time. I am really fond of exploring new places, people watching, discovering new tastes in food.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I always pack the Prismologie Citrine and Bergamot shower gel and the Ruby and Cedarwood dry body oils. I love using body oil just after the shower. I always pack my walking shoes, and I make sure all my clothes are on a hanger and in a suit carrier so when I arrive it’s super easy to unpack and everything is wrinkle-free. I am very picky with my packing, everything is in the right place and I always make sure I pack something for the evening no matter where I am going so that I am fully prepared for any occasion.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?

      I have learnt many positive things during the lockdown but I think the most important one is that I don’t need a lot. So, my needs have drastically reduced. I have also learnt to unwind and take time off and one of the biggest things I have realised is not to continue running around and keeping myself constantly busy because when I stop, I realise that I can actually do more with less effort. So, I’ve started focusing on the big picture and everything else falls into place.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      My most treasured travel memory was in Yemen. The people are so nice, so generous, so kind and with no rules. I particularly loved the fact that the local people showed so much trust in us which is extraordinary in today’s day and age.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I love reading about marketing and books about the psychology of people and how to get the most out of the people around you. One of my favourite books is Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath about why some ideas stick and others fail to succeed.

      HRH Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan
      Founder of MKS Jewellery, @mksjewellery
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      There are so many places I am yet to discover and I’m feeling really open to escaping. I think that what matters most is what comes with the escape; the travelling, the experience, the new cultures – these things are what I love regardless of where it may be and that’s what I look forward to the most.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      Other than the usual necessities, I make sure my comfiest walking shoes are with me. There’s nothing worse than the soreness from a new pair of shoes after a full day of exploration!
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      The importance of taking time for yourself. This pandemic gave me the time to reflect and work on myself more than I have ever been able to. Confronting questions and actually sitting down with myself has been extremely rewarding personally. Everyone has gone through different forms of self-reflection during lockdown, it really has been a time of growth and evolution and for that I am grateful.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      The most recent treasured memory is my first ever trip to Morocco with my family. The sense of togetherness and the dynamics of spending time with each other in a natural habitat, combined with the excitement of the adventure and learning something new surrounded by a new culture was something that will stay in my heart forever.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I’m currently reading The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak. The book has been on my bookshelf for a very long time and I finally got around to reading it! I’m loving it so far.
      Alanoud Badr
      Fashion Designer and TV Anchor, @fozaza
      Where would you like to escape to and why? 
      South of France, it’s just my second home. 
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      My face creams and hair care products. I also always pack my favourite snacks.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      To be extremely grateful, to be patient and most of all to live every day to its fullest.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      Exploring Greece from island to island.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell.

      Ola Farahat
      Influencer and entrepreneur, @olafarahat
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      The Maldives – I want to be on an island.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      The best pair of jeans I own. A black blazer and mostly neutrals.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      To slow down and appreciate moments more.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      My honeymoon in the Seychelles.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      Personally, I prefer to unwind by playing music.
      Latifa Al Gurg
      Founder of Twisted Roots, @twisted_roots
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      We spent some time last summer in Carmel in California, and I’ve been wanting to go back. The nature is breathtaking and there are so many things to do and see.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I always pack at least one pair of jeans, a white shirt, lots of scarves and a steamer.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      It has really given me the gift of time to reflect, try new things and most importantly spend special moments with my family.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      It’s hard to choose just one, there are so many! My most recent was visiting my grandfather in Denmark just before the flights stopped.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      My latest read was The Dutch House by Ann Patchett. It’s a family drama that spans five decades and I couldn’t put it down.

      Nada Baeshen
      Entrepreneur and owner of The Huntress, @nadabaeshen
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I wish I could be in Greece right now, I love the sea the people the food and culture. It makes me happy.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I pack almost all my wardrobe since I simply love dressing up in the summer my dresses, sunglasses and hats mainly.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      I slowed down, spent time with my son and started meditating. I discovered that I love the interview process of lives on Instagram and sharing knowledge and insightful topics on my platform.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      My first trip to Italy with my husband.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      To be honest, I am too busy dancing on the beach to read.

      Emon Shakoor, Founder & CEO
      Blossom Accelerator Nursery, @emonshakoor
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would love to escape to a tropical island with clear blue waters, beautiful sunshine, enjoy the waterfalls around me and the glory of nature.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      Portable speakers, portable charger, noise-cancelling headset, hand sanitiser, sunglasses, workout gear, books, laptop and business cards because even on vacation there is always room for networking.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      Sometimes in life things do not happen exactly how you foresaw them and accepting that while still being happy takes a beautiful level of bravery, courage, strength and resilience.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      My senior year of college I completed a study abroad program in Granada, Spain to learn and explore the heritage of the Moorish empire. The south of Spain is enchanting and marvellous.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz.
      Ingie Chalhoub
      The President & Managing Director of the Etoile Group and Creative Director of INGIE Paris, @ingieparis
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      The first country I would think to go to is France. The sudden lockdown left us all separated from family members and friends and I’m very eager to see them again. I’m looking forward as well to reconnecting with my INGIE Paris team and work in my atelier in Paris. Following all that I would like to visit south of France for a much-needed vacation.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I always pack full looks to take me from day to evening. Casualwear, cocktail dresses, gowns, shoes and matching bags in addition to my toiletry kit. Of course, the main new items to pack nowadays would be the masks, sanitisation gels and gloves for safety during travel and daily protection. 
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      One of the most positive things I have learned is how important it is to make time for connecting with friends and loved ones. Sometimes we are too busy with our lives, jobs, professional and social life, that we miss on reconnecting and spending quality time with them. I definitely communicated more with people via phone calls, asked them about their health and wellbeing and it filled me with happiness.
      What is your most treasured travel memory?
      The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil two years ago. Brazilians know how to enjoy their lives and it was amazing to experience their positive energy with people from all backgrounds, walks of life sharing love, joy and fun while dancing. There is nothing like it.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      111 Places on the French Riviera That You Must Not Miss by Ralph Nestmeyer.

      Parvané Barret
      Creative consultant and DJ, @parvbar
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would honestly love to go to London right now, to be with my friends who I miss a lot! What I love about London is that you can really be whoever you want, dress however way you want, and you will still be accepted no matter what. Other than that, I would love to escape to somewhere in the Caribbean, like Cuba, Jamaica, or Trinidad. I have never visited any of these places and it is a real dream of mine.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I always love packing a lot of clothes that I can shoot with and create content. I love shooting in another country, especially when the architecture is a lot different than in Dubai.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      I’ve learnt that even with some limitations around you, you can still be super creative and express yourself through what you create. I have been shooting a lot more at home, collaborating with some brands that have sent me things to shoot. I made a few orders of equipment and background to build my own mini studio and I feel super great to have found the time to do what I love the most. I’ve also been doing a lot of live DJ sets for a few brands as well for myself on my page, also recording sets and posting them on my Soundcloud page for people to have a listen while at home.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      I would say my first trip to Hong Kong, with Kenzo for the Kenzo Tali bag campaign. Nobody from the Middle East team was on the trip so I was pretty much on my own and it was honestly one of the best experiences ever. I met some amazing people from the brand, and some really cool local creatives with whom I shot videos and pictures with. I was only there for a day as well.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      In all honesty, I am not much of a reader, but I do love listening to some podcasts here and there. I don’t have a specific one in mind, but I always manage to stumble across ones that are really interesting, like The Joe Rogan Experience.
      Hjayceelyn M. Quintana
      Ambassador of the Philippines to the UAE, @philippine_ambassador_to_uae
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      My concept of a getaway is a nice spa resort.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      My adaptor and phone charger since my work requires me to be accessible 24/7.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      We only need love to be happy.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      Spending a birthday in two cities and countries – Ljubljana, Slovenia and Split, Croatia on the way to the final destination of Dubrovnik in the Adriatic Coast.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      Captivating: Unveiling The Mystery Of A Woman’s Soul by John and Stasi Eldredge.

      Zeynab El-Helw
      Model and Influencer, @fashion_pirate
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would love to teleport to a dreamy deserted island with my husband and baby Luca.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I always pack my coconut oil, swimsuit and shorts if I’m heading to a warm climate. If it involved a lot of walking then I’d always have my sneakers to hand. The coconut oil I use is now more than a hair ointment and is useful for sunburns and pre-bath massages for Luca.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      Slowing down during this lockdown has really allowed me to appreciate real time for family, friends and even work, allowing me to create and think rather than always rushing to reach deadlines. Even though I live away from my family, we’re now communicating on a daily basis via video cameras which has given us more freedom with time. It gives us that patience to remain positive and cherish these moments, looking ahead for better days when we will be reunited and spend quality time together more than ever. 
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      The moment I found out I was pregnant in Thailand on January 1, hands down that was the most treasured moments.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      Authors such as Charles Dickens, Paul Coelho are a few of my favourites as I grew up reading them. To Kill A Mockingbird and Great Expectations are my top picks. As for podcasts, I really enjoy listening to BoF – Business of Fashion.
      Tamara Al Gabbani
      Influencer, @tamaraalgabbani
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      Sardinia – every year I plan to go but then get sidetracked. on other destinations. 
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      A pair of sandals, right now Dior are my favourite, I also love Fendi sunglasses. As for beauty, I always have with me the Heliocare sunblock, Zauria 24 karat face oil (from my Boutiqaat store) as well as La Mer moisturising lotion, Too Faced Born This Way Concealer and Fenty Beauty shine lipstick.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? 
      Family is everything. Be gentle with yourself.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      I have a few. Family vacations in Marbella; girls summer holidays on Greek islands; Amalfi coast; South of France; and skiing in Courchevel with my dearest friends.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      The podcast I’d recommend is GaryVee Audio Experience with Gary Vaynerchuk.

      Zahra Lyla Khalil
      Founder of The Other Agency, @zahralyla
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      Right before COVID-19 hit, I had plans to finally go to the Maldives as it has been high on my bucket list. I am lucky to have travelled around the world for work but I wanted to keep the Maldives for a special occasion. Once we have the all-clear, that is definitely where I will be heading.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I wish I was a light traveller but I am not. I always make sure I have all my equipment to produce content (work never stops) and my own little first aid kit that includes everything from medicine and sanitisers to hairpins and a sewing kit (that’s the stylist in me). 
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      I have learned to slow down and to spend my time on things that really matter like family and real friends. I have also learned that I need to take care of my mind just as much as I need to with my body. I have crippling anxiety so this has been a good time to work on controlling it as much as I can.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      Every trip I have been on has been an amazing experience in its own way. London is like my second home as I moved there for my Master’s degree but one of the trips to London is extra special as that was when I met my husband.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      When it comes to podcasts, I tend to listen to self-empowering and business topics and I prefer autobiographers for books. If I am by the beach, I prefer listening to music or reading a magazine, like Emirates Woman!
      Lana AlBeik
      Model and Creative, @lana_.jpg
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would love to take a sailboat for a few days with friends in the Philippines, Palawan is beautiful.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      Skincare and perfume are the most important to me.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      I learned to appreciate my privilege even more and I learned to not spare a moment, to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      When I went to Rome in summer two years ago, after visiting Gallery Borghese, we took a walk in the gallery garden and it was magical. Living in the city can make you forget about how breathtaking it is to be surrounded by greenery and to just walk.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I would recommend The Fall by Albert Camus.
      Noha Nabil
      Social Media influencer and style editor, @nohastyleicon
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      Although I was there just three months ago, I can’t wait to go back to Paris!
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I usually travel with three cameras to create content and share on social media along with enough outfits since I change my looks three times a day.
      What have you positive thing have learned during this time of lockdown?
      I’ve learned to appreciate the little details of my daily routine. I enjoyed time to meditate and think about my life and decisions in a positive way. I can’t complain to be honest as I made the most out of this time.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      Every family vacation. It has become a part of our yearly routine to travel with the kids on summer vacation.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I’m a huge fan of women’s poet Nizar Qabani. The best way to relax for me is to enjoy reading some of his work like This Is How I Write Women’s History.

      Sara Sabry
      Content creator, @sarasabry
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would take the first flight out to Bali or the Maldives. My body needs a beach and good food.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      I’m very efficient when it comes to packing, but I always do three main checks: phone, wallet, passport. And if I’ve got these three, everything else is replaceable.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      I’ve learned to slow down and that always being on the go isn’t necessarily a good thing. When you’re always busy and always jumping from one place to the other, you don’t really get to sit and check in with yourself often. You also tend to take a lot of things for granted. So, this lockdown taught me to be grateful for the smallest blessings and to really dig deep into myself, learn to love myself and life unconditionally, regardless of the circumstances.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      One of my most treasured memories is travelling with my brother to California and driving down the coast in Malibu with the top down blasting Miley Cyrus’ Malibu song and watching the sunset.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      This is a book that I passed down to my friends is called The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F***: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson.
      Wadima AlYafei
      Jiu-Jitsu player – part of UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, @4wadimaa
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would love to escape to somewhere like Hawaii or the Maldives where the beaches, palm trees and spas make for a relaxing escape.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      Aside from essentials such as clothes and travel documents, I also try and carry my jiu-jitsu gear and belt with me as I love to train in any place that I can.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      During lockdown I got to know myself better and realised that nothing is impossible. I learned how to give my body and mind a chance to be creative but also gained a greater understanding of the importance of taking a break. Another major positive of lockdown is that it has given me the chance to spend more time with my loved ones.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      As a member of the UAE national team, every win on the international stage is special and something to treasure. It makes me so proud to raise the UAE flag and hear the national anthem after a success in every international competition and is a reward for the trust placed in us by the UAEJJF to represent our country.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I like to read books and listen to podcasts that focus around the themes of self-development, and motivational speeches. I am currently reading The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes.

      Tania Lodi
      Founder of Tania’s Teahouse, @tanialodi
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      I would love to be in Bali. I went last year for my honeymoon and I fell in love with the dreamy beaches and endless coconuts.
      What do you always pack when travelling? 
      I’m very particular with packing, and I always make a packing list, in which I check off each thing after packing. I always bring a facial roller with me and a face mask for the plane if the flight is long.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      Lockdown and COVID-19, in general, has really given me the appreciation of financially support myself, to indulge in the little things, and to appreciate family, friends and the ability to travel. To sit back and enjoy the little things in life, to put back the background noise and enjoy what’s in front of me.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      My favourite memory lately has been back when my husband and I went to Bali, we decided to rent a motorbike and go everywhere ourselves. I remember biking through rice fields on the way to a hidden waterfall, balancing my cup of green bubble tea with grass jelly and my phone.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I love books and I always travel with one to three books. I recommend the book Modesty: A Fashion Paradox by my sister Hafsa Lodi, which discusses the paradoxical concept of modest fashion, and this emerging movement.
      Haifa Beseisso
      YouTuber, Content Creator, TV host, @flywithhaifa
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      Bali, because I go into a deep world of mediation and beautiful Nature. I eat healthy vegan food, meditate and dance with friends and breathe deeply. There’s something about the energy of this place that’s so transformative. Bali is very lush and also has beautiful beaches and islands. I also love going to retreats there, silent retreats.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      My monkey teddy bear, face creams, chargers and cameras, my favourite outfits that make me feel good, a good book, prayer clothes.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      My life changed during lockdown, it was a complete detox and a zoom out of my life where I got the chance to see what I want to keep in my life and what to eliminate, a real chance to slow down.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      Talking to strangers and kids in Zanzibar and literately jumping in the ocean from a boat to swim with dolphins.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I love all of Oprah’s books. So real and insightful. Also Heal Your Life by Louis Hay is amazing.

      Saira Farhat
      Content Creator, @fashky
      Where would you like to escape to and why?
      My next dream destination is Cuba. The culture, the landscape, the colourful buildings, the classic cars and the music is all so enchanting.
      What do you always pack when travelling?
      A major must when travelling is a good, versatile, comfortable pair of shoes. The Chanel gate sandals are my go-to when travelling. Equally, a good pair of sneakers is important for spontaneous exploring.
      What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?
      One of the biggest positives for me in lockdown has been the ability to slow down, to look at things more deeply and to appreciate more profoundly.
      What’s your most treasured travel memory?
      I have two amazing memories of travelling, the first has to be my journey to Hajj (a religious visit to Saudi Arabia) this spiritually changed me. The second most memorable place goes to Thailand, Koh Sumui. My husband and I hired a scooter to get around since it was the most convenient and fun way to explore.
      Can you recommend a beachside read/podcast?
      I love hearing personal stories or podcasts, and my most recent read was by Reni Eddo-Lodge. She shared her experiences and the history of black people.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash, Instagram More

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      12 fabulous things to do in Dubai this Eid Al Adha weekend

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      The long weekend is finally here and to make the most of your days off, we have put together a diverse list of activities to keep you busy from tonight till Monday morning.
      Get the party started

      Head down to the newest brunch in the city at the super hip dine, drink and chill venue at Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens. Running from 7.30pm on Thursday (just after the dry period finishes) The Social Brunch will be serving up mushroom risotto, slow-roasted chicken and grilled salmon, all against a backdrop of live acoustic music. Prices start at Dhs258 for free-flowing house drinks.
      Jungle Fever

      Stock up on the hottest print of the summer at the Dolce & Gabbana pop up store at the Fashion Catwalk area in The Dubai Mall. The Sicilian Jungle space is filled with tropical print that has been spotted all over the SS20 runways. The pop up houses the women’s and men’s ready-to-wear as well as striking accessories.
      Foodie staycation

      The Hyatt hotels in Dubai have introduced ‘Stay and Dine’ package across five of it’s locations: Park Hyatt Dubai; Hyatt Regency Dubai; Grand Hyatt Dubai; Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights: and Andaz Dubai The Palm. The deal is applied to those booking on full-board or half-board basis and includes a comfortable stay in a fabulous room and a culinary experience at one of the participating venues. What’s more, two children up to the age of 10 years dine for free when accompanied by full paying adults. The Hyatt hotels in Dubai ‘Stay and Dine’ package is available until October 31, 2020 with room stay and dining rates for 2 adults and 2 children starting at Dhs399. For bookings call +971 4 553 1290or visit bit.ly/HyattDubaiStayDine.
      Mexican fiesta

      Maya Mexican Kitchen + Bar, the contemporary Mexican dining hotspot at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, has brought back its epic Mas Mas Maya Brunch. Taking place every Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4:30pm, the feast includes traditional guacamole, mango dressing and salmon ceviche, lobster with roasted corn and chipotle butter and sumptuous chicken and beef striploin fajitas. Prices start from Dhs350 with selected soft beverages, Dhs450 with house drinks including the traditional Mexican Margarita and Spanish Sangria, and Dhs170 for kids aged 12 to 17 years old, with kids 11 years and under enjoying the fun for free.
      Splurge for less

      For those looking for a wardrobe upgrade this Eid, The Outlet Village will have up to 90 per cent off a wide range of brands. Parents can shop whilst the kids visit the Safe Kids Summer Camp Square and enjoy virtual reality games and dance classes. Upon spending Dhs350, you get to spin the wheel and be in with a chance to win instant prizes including gift vouchers, staycations at ROVE and passes to Dubai Parks and Resorts.
       Social star

      Want to become TikTok famous? Head to the Mall of the Emirates and the larger than life boom box on display in Central Galleria, where you will be challenged to create a TikTok performance and post it online, using the MOE New Beginning Song on Anghami, for the chance to win daily prizes. The TikTok Challenge will run from 30 July to 15 August.
      The dim sum experience

      Dim Sum and Pan Asian Restaurant Zhen Wei is reopening this weekend at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai with an unmissable Dim Sum Friday and Saturday brunch. Held from 12.00pm to 3.30pm, Zhen Wei’s master chef has created an authentic Dim Sum experience where you can indulge in unlimited handmade Dim Sum alongside a main course. Grab your chopsticks and sample endless creations, including Scallop & Lobster Siew Mai, Beef Spice Dumpling, Rose Prawn Har Gao, Pan Fried Shrimp Corn Cake and more.When it comes to the main course, foodies can choose from the Sweet and Sour Crispy Chicken, Barbecued Salmon or the tender Moo Shu Beef.  Make sure to leave some room for a Coconut Ice Cream with Brown Cake. Soft beverages package is priced at Dhs228 per person, or you can opt for house beverages package priced at Dhs328.
      Modern Art

      From July 30 to August 31, Dubai Canvas @City Walk will showcase international street artist Juandres Vera who will create his 3D artworks on the floor of City Walk’s indoor courtyard. You are already familiar with his work from the Dubai Canvas 2016 event on JBR, including a giraffe that literally emerges from a wall. Alongside Vera, UAE-based artist @artkal3 will perform a live display of Pendulum Painting each weekend, with audiences able to watch as @artkal3 swings paint from a pendulum device to produce wonderfully unique creations. Also appearing at City Walk will be the talented artist Yaroslava Deeb, who will dazzle with sand, glitter and a projector to produce frames of live art that appears animated.
      New bohemia

      Chloé flagship store has just been upgraded to Fashion Avenue Extension of the Dubai Mall and it’s arguably one of the chicest spaces to explore. Minimal and modern, it is a type of boutique that you’ll feel like escaping out of the heat to. While there, why not explore the latest pieces from the brand, including the new must-have handbag Darryl.
      Ready meals with a difference

      If you want to take a break from the kitchen but desire something a little bit more special than the usual takeaway, The Fresh Express Online has you covered. A popular distributor for premium food and beverage in the region, it will help you create the fanciest meal with minimum fuss. Right now they are offering  25 per cent off on all the full range of the ready meals and as it’s Lasagna Day tomorrow (July 30) we suggest giving their premium lasagna a try.
      Three-day brunch

      There is a certain pressure to pick the perfect brunch to spend your Friday at, but this weekend you can ease your mind knowing you have three days to enjoy Dubai’s favourite past time. Distillery Gastropub has announced its plans to host three-days of brunches on Friday July 31, Saturday August 1, and Sunday August 2. Brunch at the Downtown Dubai venue will run from 1pm – 4pm on each of the days where you can enjoy three-hours of hearty food and beverage, all served to the table in a laid-back, casual setting. Friday’s brunch is priced at Dhs149 with soft drinks, and Dhs279 with house beverages, including spirits, wines, draft beer, and a range of cocktails, while brunch on Saturday and Sunday is priced at Dhs149 with soft drinks, and Dhs229 with house beverages.
      Zone out

      The Away Spa at W Dubai – The Palm is set to reopen today, just in time to welcome the tired Dubai crowd in need of a relaxing escape over the long weekend. The modern destination of zen is offering 50 per cent off selected massages for Dubai residents including ‘Detox’, ‘De-stress’, ‘Go Deep’ and ‘Reset’. You also have a choice of just how many minutes you need to feel completely at ease with 30, 60 or 90-minute options to pick from.
      New indulgence

      Sometimes you just want a really good burger, but if you’re bored of the regular patty in a bun combination, then the newly launched Ugly Burger is about to spice up your taste buds. With Fast Eastern inspiration at the heart, the menu is made up of Wagyu beef, shrimp katsu and crispy fried chicken burgers, spicy chicken nuggets and shrimp balls. The restaurant’s variety of fries from truffle, kimchi and seasoned reign supreme alongside Ugly Burger’s hot sauce collection. Order now on Chatfood, the online delivery platform with a mission to support local businesses.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Images: Instagram, supplied, main image instagram.com/matchesfashion More

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      4 Essential Tips for Starting a New Job During COVID-19

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      Starting a new job can be an exciting time, as you prepare to walk into the office on your first day to meet your new team, set up your office, and hit the ground running. But starting a new job remotely sometimes can lack that same luster, especially when working from home is the “new normal” across the company. As many companies are now adjusting to new or modified schedules that allow their employees to work from home, and as the future of offices shift, as a new employee, it can be intimidating to begin a job with a new company without the formalities of orientation and meeting your new colleagues in person. Adapting to a new job remotely poses its own set of challenges: How do you get acquainted with colleagues who are not on your immediate team? How will your new coworkers know about your hire? How will you establish rapport with your team?  
      Being patient and flexible seems to be the name of the game when adjusting to a new job from home. Make your adjustment to your new company a smooth one, even from your own home, with a few tips on starting a new job remotely.

      1. Make your manager the middle man 
      There’s no bigger advocate to have when starting a new job with a new company than your manager, especially when meeting colleagues in person on your first day is no longer an option. Your manager will be your guide and biggest cheerleader, announcing your arrival as a new hire while everyone is working from home and pre-occupied with adjusting to a new type of work-life balance. 
      See if your manager would consider sending out an announcement of your hire, and open your calendar up for e-introductions from your new coworkers. An announcement is a great way for others in your company to get to know you and your role and how you might be working with them. Your manager can also include you in on various video conferences and meetings to introduce you to a variety of coworkers to get acquainted with. Ask about meetings that could help you not only introduce yourself and your role, but also help you become familiar with the moving parts of the business and current projects to get you up to speed. 
      Build a rapport with your manager by suggesting one-on-one meetings frequently during the start of your role to gain more understanding of your team, their preferred communication style, and short-term and long-term goals you should adhere to. When working from home, it is easy to be out of sight, out of mind when it comes to connecting with your manager, so proactively scheduling regular check-ins helps keep the communication flowing, making work more effective and your transition even smoother. 
      Your manager is in charge of making sure you get your foot in the door with all of the right people while working from home; make sure to use their influence to ensure a graceful start to your new job. 

      2. Use human resources as a resource after onboarding
      When starting a new job, onboarding can be one of the most helpful ways to introduce yourself to your new company. Whether you are in the office or working from home, the onboarding process is a great tool to learn more about the structure of the company, your new role and responsibilities, and what to expect when you do eventually come back into the office.
      Navigating a new company after onboarding without the proper connections or guidance in person can seem daunting. Your human resources team is the perfect team to help guide you through a new company, even past the initial onboarding, having access to everything you need to make your transition to a new company and role from home a smooth one. Keep in touch with your human resources team after onboarding to get key information that will help you past your first days with the company, including company directories, work-from-home polices and procedures, and employee resource groups to get involved with to acclimate yourself to your new company. Your human resources professional should be on top of the latest company news and any changes, especially during major shifts in the company with work-from-home schedules. They can be your introduction to the full company and help you explore your new job without having to leave home. 

      Source: cottonbro | Pexels

      3. Discover your team’s communication style 
      One of the major setbacks of working from home is establishing and maintaining effective communication with colleagues, your manager, and other coworkers, especially as a new employee who is just learning the ropes. For some of your colleagues, this might be their first time working from home for an extended period of time, adjusting to new forms of communication online and by phone vs. the standard in-person boardroom meeting many workers have been accustomed to. 
      Discover your immediate team’s preferred communication style, whether it be by phone, email, instant messaging, or via video conference. Some colleagues may rather not be inundated with emails and respond better using other forms of communication, which will help you be more effective at reaching them when starting your new role.
      How your team communicates, along with when your team best connects and is productive, is also crucial to starting off on the right foot from day one. Does your team have frequent check-ins, or should you put time on each calendar to have one-on-ones? Is your manager available during normal business hours or likes to catch up before or after the workday? These are all important preferences to note when working with your new team, especially when face-to-face time is limited or nonexistent and many are juggling family and work during the workday. 

      4. Connect with new team members offline 
      If you’re starting a new job remotely, it can be difficult connecting with your new team outside of work-related tasks and duties. Whether you’re working from home or going into the office occasionally, make time to get to know your colleagues, and give them the opportunity to get to know you. 
      Video conferencing is a great way to connect with your new team face-to-face if you haven’t already done so in person. Put some time on your team’s calendar to meet virtually either during or after work to get to know them informally. If video conferencing isn’t an option, a good old-fashioned phone call works just as well. Get to know them by connecting on a more personal level: How did they get started at the company and what has their experience been? What would they like to know about you? Who else should you try to meet within the company?
      Giving your new team the opportunity to get to know you outside of your new role within the company helps bridge the gap between being the new employee no one has met yet to someone they know and can trust professionally. It also helps build relationships with other team members who can help advocate for you as a new hire. Look at connecting with your new team as networking in a different way, connecting with your colleagues on a different level to establish trust and build morale professionally. 

      Starting a new job working from home doesn’t have to be intimidating or daunting; make your presence known across your company so that you can hit the ground running and make the biggest impact. 

      What’s your advice on starting a new job from home?  More

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      Dubai-based author makes the Booker Prize longlist

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      Dubai-based author Avni Doshi has been selected for the 2020 Booker Prize.
      The promising writer has made the longlist for her first ever novel “Burnt Sugar”. The striking story of a fraught mother-daughter relationship was first released in India in 2019 under the title “Girl in White Cotton”,  and now it’s in the running for a prestigious title alongside literally greats such as Hilary Mantel.

      Born in New Jersey to Indian parents, Doshi’s unsettling and bitter portrayal of a mother-daughter dynamic is something that caught the attention of Booker prize judges who described it as “utterly compelling … sometimes emotionally wrenching but also cathartic”. It took eight drafts to complete, but it will finally be released to the public under the new title this week.

      Inspired by Doshi’s mother’s family’s connection to the Osho ashram in Pune, founded in 1976 by the controversial guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, the novel is also set in Pune and depicts and resentful relationship between Antara and her mother Tara.
      As a young girl, Antara felt neglected as her rebellious mother escaped her middle class life to join an ashram. That experience caused a ripple effect in her own personal relationships and motherhood. The duo can barely be in the same room, yet something keeps bringing them back together.
      “Burnt Sugar” is out on July 30 and the Booker Prize shortlist will be unveiled on September 15.
      See the full list below
      Diane Cook, “The New Wilderness”
      Tsitsi Dangarembga, “This Mournable Body”
      Avni Doshi, “Burnt Sugar”
      Gabriel Krauze, “Who They Was”
      Hilary Mantel, “The Mirror and the Light”
      Colum McCann, “Apeirogon”
      Maaza Mengiste, “The Shadow King”
      Kiley Reid, “Such a Fun Age”
      Brandon Taylor, “Real Life”
      Anne Tyler, “Redhead by the Side of the Road”
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More

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      Expert tips on how to make traditional Arabic sweets healthier

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      No one can blame you for indulging during Eid Al Adha, it is a celebration after all. But, there are certain steps you can take make sure that you’re sweet tooth habit is on the healthy side.
      Ghada Makarem, founder of The Healthy Treats, knows a thing or two about creating the most indulgent treats, minus the guilt. She launched the first online concept to offer healthy Arabic sweets including Dates Maamoul, Basbousa and Sfouf, using unprocessed components. Her approach is simple, focus on the best ingredients, cut out unnecessary steps and focus on big flavours.

      Trust us, with her approach to baking you’ll barely notice a difference from the original Arabic sweets. Take it away Makarem…
      Quit non-processed
      Stay away from non-processed ingredients by substituting refined sugar with healthier options like honey or maple syrup. These substitutes do not only add a silky sweet quality to any treat, they also induce a gooey consistency, making each cookie or cake soft rather than hard and crumbly.
      Switch it up

      Avoid processed white flour and use natural almond flour or oats instead. Too much processed flour can increase your risk factor for high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, inflammation and obesity thanks to the high dose of carbs you take in and lack of nutrition. Therefore, it’s vital that you take into account what you can do to modify your baking recipes in order to help ensure that you are doing all that you can to eat great and stay healthy. Whilst almond flour is much higher in total fat content than most other flours are, you’ll get a great dose of unsaturated fat, so not something to shy away from completely. Meanwhile oats and oat flour offers a much slower and nutrient dense source of carbohydrates, giving you more energy that burns slower throughout the day.

      Keep it natural
      Swap unnecessary fats for ingredients that are natural and nutritious. Not every cake and cookie need heaps of butter, refined sugar or heavy cream – in fact, some of the best cakes remove these completely! Apple sauce or mashed banana can make a great substitute for anything sweet whilst yogurt is a great option to replace cream. Are you a vegan? Then swap your eggs with flax seeds. Whether you sneak in a few spoons of ground flaxseed into your batters or craft a flaxseed egg in place of real eggs, incorporating this superfood into your baking will turn a regular cookie into a super healthy treat. Flaxseeds promote healthy digestion, help lower cholesterol, and also cut your risk for diabetes.
      Traditional touch
      Retain the flavour by using Arabic favourites like pistachio and dates. Dates give everything a delicious caramel taste and texture whilst pistachios offer a sweet and nutty consistency. They also offer great source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, antioxidants, and various nutrients, including vitamin B6 and thiamine.
      Add cardamom to your Dates Maamoul – this will only make the recipe more nutritious but will also give the cookies a special taste that goes brilliantly with coffee or karak.
      For more information and sweet inspiration, visit The Healthy Treats Instagram page 
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More