lifestyle and culture

Subterms

    More stories

    • 88 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      20 sophisticated gifts for any interior lover

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      13 mins ago

      Home ornaments, such as vases and clocks, are sure to go down an interior treat, as are weighty, glossy tomes for the coffee table.
      To narrow it down, here are some editor-approved suggestions to either gift a host for any gathering, a birthday token, or even an element of appreciation for someone precious in your life.
      As we know, your home is your refuge, where you can feel safe and relaxed when life gets overwhelming. Soothing decor ideas help foster an interior space that sense of peace and significantly impact how you feel after a long day at work.
      Candles and Diffusers
      Scented candles or reed diffusers can add a pleasant aroma and ambiance to any room.
      Throw Blankets
      Cozy and stylish throw blankets are perfect for adding warmth and texture to a interior space.
      Decorative Pillows
      Fun and colorful pillows can easily change the look of a couch or bed. Whether you’re looking to add volume and design to your bed or give your living room sofa and accent chairs an extra touch of curated comfort, pillows are the best way to do so.
      Wall Art
      Prints, paintings, or even framed photos can add personality and style to empty walls.
      House Plants
      Indoor plants can bring life and a touch of nature indoors. So, whether you’re into zen wabi-sabi interiors, or splashy design with wall-to-wall color, there are so many ways to integrate indoor plants to uplift (or calm down) a space.
      Vases and Decorative Bowls
      These can be used for fresh flowers, potpourri, or as standalone decorative pieces.
      Books and Magazines
      Coffee table books or a subscription to a favorite magazine can be both decorative and enjoyable.
      Rugs
      A stylish rug can tie a room together and add comfort underfoot. An artistic statement piece can add a joyful and dynamic touch to any space.
      Kitchen Accessories
      High-quality kitchen gadgets, stylish cutting boards, or a set of beautiful dish towels. Overall, these suggestions can make any living space more inviting and personalised.
      So, next time you need to pick up a few delicately crafted pieces for someone you love, swipe through our gallery to see our handpicked suggestions.

      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @at_the_friends More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      17 apps for women in the UAE to download

      by

      With our lives condensed into the palm of our hands on our phones nowadays, it’s essential to have all the necessary apps you need.
      From getting quick grocery deliveries to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, to ensuring you can get the best deals to experience life in Dubai, here’s 17 apps every woman living in the UAE needs to have on their phone.
      Ounass

      As the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best local and international brands on the Ounass app. In Dubai there’s two-hour delivery available, meaning you can get that new outfit for a weekend brunch in the blink of an eye.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Bloomingdale’s

      Bloomingdale’s Middle East recently launched a new iOS app for the region, meaning you can shop right on your phone for all the latest new buys. Not only will shoppers have access to the most sought-after brands at their fingertips, but the delivery time for pieces will be minimal. For those based in the UAE, same-day delivery will be available and for Kuwait and Saudi, express shipping is available.
      You can download the app on the iOS store.
      Careem

      This hassle-free app is your one-stop-shop solution for all provides all your needs as you ride, order food and more around the UAE.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Microsoft Teams

      With the world adapting to the new work-from-home measures, the best way to stay connected to your team is through this all-encompassing app where members can chat, collaborate, share documents professionally and video call. Designed for hybrid working, this app lets company members connect from any part of the world making it easier to coordinate any upcoming project or assignment.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Level Shoes

      If you’re a shoe lover, this app is for you. This one-stop-shop haven gives you access to all the latest accessories all from the comfort of your home or even if you’re on the go, In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, this month Level Shoes will release a host of exclusive pieces from your favorite designer brands to get your hands on.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Talabat

      This online food ordering company ensures prompt service for all your needs, From restaurant deals to medicine delivered to your doorstep, this app connects customers to hundreds of restaurants and shops nearby making each service accessible without any added hassle. With the T-mart service on the app, customers are guaranteed fresh grocery deliveries in under 20 minutes without the need to physically visit any grocery store.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      RTA

      This award-winning app allows residents to top up their metro Nol card, renew their license, top up for parking and renew any car service. This smart app is designed to allow users to chat with RTA agents for any questions pertaining to safe driving measures. Users can also calculate their Green points according to the public transportation services used to keep an eye on the money, time and carbon dioxide emissions saved.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Deliveroo

      After paving its way in Dubai, the British food delivery company seamlessly delivers groceries, takeaways and event floral arrangements right to your doorstep. With an integrated delivery network, meets all your food needs with a plethora of restaurants including fine-dining options.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Viya

      To enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer you need to ensure you download the UAE rewards app Viya. Think of the platform as your VIP access to around 100 city’s top restaurants and bars as well as sporting experiences, exclusive spa days and rounds of golf on Dubai’s leading courses. Sunseekers will love exclusive access to hotel pools and beaches by booking day pass via the app. The format is simple and works on a two-way loyalty system. For every Dhs10 you spend at a Viya partner, the app will reward you with Dhs1 that can eventually add up and go towards an unforgettable experience. In addition, you will enjoy savings on every purchase via the app. Your five-star access awaits from only Dhs1,375 for three months.
      InstaShop

      Get your groceries from your trusted local supermarkets on InstaShop at the same in-store prices with a 45 minute average delivery depending on your location. You need to simply download the app, sit back and the experts on this platform will handle the rest.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Entertainer

      This money-saving app is packed with numerous one for two offers along with 25 per cent off at some major outlets, be it restaurants, spas, shops, hotels or even activities as you experience more and pay less.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Namshi

      As the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest pieces at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Spotify

      What better way to listen to all the songs and podcasts you love than on one consolidated app, giving you access on any gadget whether a phone, computer or tablet. Always ready at your fingertips, you can even let Spotify surprise you with their personalised playlists which are curated especially according to your taste as you sit back and relax with the premium subscription also available for uninterrupted learning.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Dubai Mall

      As the largest shopping centre in the world, getting around The Dubai Mall can prove to be difficult if you’re new to the UAE. However, the app is your ultimate guide to helping you get around the mall to find the best shops and restaurants Dubai Mall has to offer.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Zoom

      With strict worldwide travelling measures, keeping in touch with your friends can be quite the task. The Zoom app has made staying up-to-date with your loved ones easy, as with a click of a button you can all connect as frequently catch up with each other.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Washmen

      For those on a busy schedule or just want an app that can take care of your washing, Washmen will be a godsend. Washmen is a simple app that takes care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services. The usual turnaround time for garments is 48 to 72 hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      6thStreet

      The elevated fashion and lifestyle e-commerce brand is committed to providing round the clock service for bags, shoes and outfits. Delivered right to your doorstep, the platforms give users the best of global brands at the most accessible prices. From activewear to an exclusive selection of fragrances, shoppers can scroll to their heart’s content.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: @veneti.a More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Exclusive: An interview the co-founder of Dubai’s The Matcha Tokyo

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      19 mins ago

      Co-founder, Masahiro Nagata of The Matcha Tokyo on bringing a niche matcha concept to the city.
      What inspired you to The Matcha Tokyo?
      I have been familiar with Japanese tea since I was a child, but I became interested in it particularly after spending many years abroad; with my great appreciation of Japanese cuisine, I became interested in learning more about it it. I visited Japan’s tea producing regions to learn more and was especially captivated with the profundityof organic cultivation, which begins with the preparation of clean water, clear air and fertile soil. This experience inspired me to want to spread the deliciousness and magnificence of Japanese cuisine to the world.
      Talk us through the concept.
      We are a lifestyle brand that offers high-quality matcha, which has great benefits for health and beauty, in a modern manner.

      What are some of the key dishes and beverage to try at The Matcha Tokyo?
      We would like you to try all our wide variety of matcha drinks and food, but our signature menu items are straight matcha and matcha latte. Each cup of straight matcha is prepared in a ceremonial performance, which you can enjoy watching in-store. Matcha Latte is our most popular item, made with rich matcha and high-quality Japanese brown sugar. We take pride in producing an authentic matcha taste in our Matcha Latte, fitting for a matcha specialty store.
      Matcha has an array of health benefits for your skin – name a few.
      Matcha contains a lot of catechin, which has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making it excellent for anti-aging and beauty. It is also rich in vitamins, which are excellent for beautifying the skin, as well as rich in dietary fiber, which is good for intestinal health. With rich nutrients, matcha makes you beautiful from the inside out.
      What are some of the health benefits of The Matcha in the long run?
      Matcha also contains theanine, an amino acid that has a relaxing effect on the brain, thus making it good for daily “mental health” as well as “brain health”, as the theanine activates the brain, improving cognitive function and lessening tension; these are very important and welcome benefits.
      Tell us about some unique offerings at The Matcha Tokyo?
      Our drinks are unique, combining matcha with different ingredients, such as matcha and coffee, matcha and fruit, matcha and protein. Each menu item is made with the concept of enjoying matcha beautifully and healthily, so we hope you can enjoy them while keeping that in mind.

      Tell us where your matcha is sourced from?
      The Matcha Tokyo creates its own unique blends of matcha from carefully selected tea leaves grown in Kagoshima Prefecture, Uji City in Kyoto Prefecture, and Shizuoka Prefecture. The tea leaves are carefully prepared with delicate craftsmanship in an isolatednatural setting.
      Can you expand on how the traditional Japanese tea ceremony relates (or doesn’t) to matcha?
      The ‘Tea Ceremony’ is performed in a formalised room with specialised tools, selected artwork, and ritualised flow. The host and guest(s) respect each other and the space during tea ceremony, upholding this ritual and completing the space. Japanese food and sweets are served, but the main character is “matcha”. The ceremony itself is called tea ceremony, whereas learning about this ritual is called “Sado”. Sado incorporates Japanese spirituality and is a unique traditional Japanese art, so it has attracted attention from overseas.

      How has the love for Matcha in new regions developed in recent years?
      Matcha is recognised as a healthy drink primarily due to its green colour, but aside from its appearance is great for beauty and health. In Dubai, it is spreading its influence as a superfood. Matcha is delicious, nutritious, and comes in a powder form that is easy for processing, so it has the potential to be used in many different ways: as a food, a supplement, and more. Furthermore, because matcha is excellent for brain and mental health, we believe that the future of matcha is for it to be consumed as a part of daily routine: at home with family and friends, not just at cafes.
      This is The Summer Escape Issue – where do you plan on travelling to this Summer?
      I plan on going to the great outdoors for a digital detox.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      14 luxe new restaurants opened in Dubai this year

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      42 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 14 IMAGES
      As the world embraces a new year, so is Dubai with all its new restaurants that have opened its doors for tourists and residents.
      From sophisticated ambiences to dishes prepared with an innate attention to detail, be prepared to be astounded with the best served on a plate. Be it the finest caviar or the most indulgent tiramisu, these restaurants have it all.
      Be it fine-dining or creative culinary gems, these are some of the tastiest new spots in town. These are the places that we consider to be the all-time greats, from Michelin-starred dining rooms to impressive new openings from this list. Hence, we decided that each haven deserves a spot on the ultimate list of the best restaurants in Dubai.
      If there’s one thing that rings true it’s that there are plenty of new restaurants in Dubai bursting onto the scene.
      Every month we see brand new spots launch in this vibrant city and we couldn’t be happier that the F&B scene just keeps growing (and growing and growing).
      No matter what the cuisine of preference is, this emirate is never short of culinary havens. So if you’re looking to make a booking and try something new, swipe through our guide of editor-approved restaurants to experience in Dubai.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @nadinemerabi More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Salama Mohamed opens up about divorce in an emotional interview

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 min ago

      In a revealing interview with NourAldin Alyousuf, Emirati influencer Salama Mohamed has confirmed her divorce from Khalid Al Ameri.
      Putting the rumours to rest
      The couple, known for their comedic videos and dynamic chemistry, had amassed a substantial following of 3.8 million subscribers, becoming icons of relationship goals on social media.
      Speculation about their relationship began when the pair ceased posting content for over a year, and their joint social media account disappeared.
      Khalid Al Ameri’s engagement
      The rumors intensified when Khalid Al Ameri recently posted a black and white photo, suggesting he had moved on and was engaged. The photograph, showing him holding his new fiancée’s hand, was captioned “Alhumdulilah,” meaning “thank God” in Arabic.
      When did it end?
      Salama confirmed that the divorce was finalized on February 14th of this year, putting to rest the swirling rumors. The interview offered a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and resilience after the end of her marriage.
      Life after divorce
      In her heartfelt conversation, Salama shared insights into her life post-divorce. She spoke candidly about finding independence for the first time in her life. “For the first time, Salama’s life wasn’t dependent on anyone,” she said. “Before marriage, I was dependent on my family. After marriage, I was dependent on my husband. But now as an independent person, it’s the first time that I know Salama.”
      Fans are eagerly awaiting the second part of the interview, which has yet to be scheduled for release. The first part of this revealing conversation can be watched on NourAldin Alyousuf’s channel.
      [embedded content]
      This candid revelation marks a significant chapter in Salama’s life as she steps forward into a new phase with newfound independence and strength.
      3 interesting things to know about Salama Mohamed
      From being the founder of a clean skincare brand to creating statical content on a daily basis, Salama Mohamed has made an impact in the world of content creation as she continues to inspire her audience on a daily basis.
      She launched her own beauty brand

      Launching exclusively at Sephora, Salama Mohamed has managed to create a skincare brand that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is purely made with love. With a sustainable line that primarily addresses people’s skincare concerns, Peacefull promises products with active ingredients while consisting of a natural formula. With the brand that adjusts accordingly to the extreme temperatures in this part of the world, as it consists of healing properties, to keep your skin at peace.
      The brand is available in all Sephora Middle East stores and online on peacefull.com
      She’s “blessed with vitiligo”

      Salama previously opened up to Emirates Woman about being on a continuous journey of self-love. She has been diagnosed with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes the loss of skin colour in patches. When she was young she’s learned to embrace her condition. “It was a struggle growing up, when you feel you are different and don’t fit in it is easier to think there is something wrong with you,” she previously told EW. However, despite the uncertainty, Salama has managed to overcome her challenges and embrace the power of self-love.
      She’s has an impressive social media following

      From her travels to humorous videos, Salama has a fanbase of over 1.6 million followers on Instagram. She now uses the platform for  fashion, beauty and lifestyle content.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @salamamohamed More

    • 88 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      9 wanderlust-inspired accounts to #follow on Instagram

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      30 seconds ago

      As travel is back on the horizon again for the warmer months, we’ve curated a guide of wanderlust-inspired accounts to follow on Instagram for some  inspiration.
      So, as the desire to travel gets real after summer comes to a close, it’s time to see all the wanderlust-inspired Instagram pages that can infuse that element of adventure once again.
      From content creators to fashion experts, there are numerous accounts that give an insight into content creation, their pieces and overarching netural colour scheme.  Be it effortlessly cool Parisian content creators to the bolder New York fashion scene and the minimal Scandinavians brands, the social media platform gives you access to the street style and fashion greats from almost every corner of the globe.
      Thankfully, the realms of Instagram street style know no bounds, connecting us with some of the most stylish accounts across the globe. As one of the key advantages of social media, the virtual world offers an endless repository of street style inspiration—if you know who to follow, of course.
      So, if you’re looking to keep up with trends and deep dive into all things fashion, beauty and lifestyle? Scroll through our list of accounts to follow on Instagram this month.
      Oséree@Osereeswimwear
      Stand out swimwear for a high octane summer.
      Maison de la Plage@maisondelaplage_

      THE new hangout on Palm Jumeirah’s West Beach.
      Anantara Santorini@anantarasantorini

      A Grecian getaway in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
      Aman Ruya@amanruya
      A retreat overlooking the Aegean Sea on Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula.

      Matcha Tokyo@thematchatokyo.uae
      High-quality Japanese matcha for that caffeine fix.
      Jacquemus@jacquemus
      Alluring Summer minimalism with youthful touch.
      Sunday Riley@sundayriley
      Science-backed skincare for that summer glow.
      Mai Swim@mai.swim.pt
      Supportive swimwear crafted to perfection.
      Browz@browz.uae
      The best in the brow business.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      New portrait of Princess Rajwa’s baby bump in its full glory

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 mins ago

      On the occasion of Crown Prince Al Hussein’s birthday, Queen Rania shared a new photo of her son with his wife Princess Rajwa.
      The Royal couple of Jordan is expecting their first child this summer and the grandmother-to-be wished for her son to be a father in her birthday wish.
      Princess Rajwa looked radiant in a nude body con dress, standing tall next to her is the Crown Prince, dressed in a formal black shirt.

      Previous Pregnancy Portraits
      The Royal Court has unveiled new photos of Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein, on the joyous occasion of her first wedding anniversary and her pregnancy in June 2024.
      Princess Rajwa’s Official Pregnancy Portraits

      Radiating elegance and grace, Princess Rajwa dazzled in a vibrant red dress by Alice & Olivia, complemented by exquisite gold jewelry that added a touch of regal splendour to her look. The photos beautifully captured the joyous moment in her life as she lovingly cradled her baby bump, symbolsing both a personal milestone and a bright future for the royal family. This special celebration highlights a year of love and anticipation for the Princess and the entire kingdom.
      The anticipation of royal parenthood grows as the Crown Prince of Hussein and Princess Rajwa Al Hussein of Jordan eagerly await the arrival of their first child this summer.
      First Outing Post Announcement
      For her first public appearance after the announcement captured on video, Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein was spotted wearing a jumpsuit from Seraphine and carrying a Bottega Veneta mini tote, showcasing her radiant baby bump as she left THE ABDEEN store in Amman.

      The Royal Hashemite Court of Jordan shared the delightful news in April, spreading joy throughout the kingdom.
      Recently, on the occasion of her 30th birthday, The Royal Hashemite Court of Jordan released a few precious portraits of the new Princess. While the photos looked ethereal, it didn’t give a glimpse of her baby bump.
      For the birthday celebration, the 30-year-old Jordanian Royal chose to wore a midnight blue, velvet set by Rabanne. In a different portrait, the Princess of Jordan was seen wearing a form-fitting black dress paired with a diamond necklace and a matching tiara.

      Last June, the Crown Prince and Princess exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony held in Amman, Jordan. Their union followed closely after the wedding of Princess Iman to Jameel Thermiotis, a 28-year-old businessman from a distinguished Greek family, which took place three months prior.
      In Pics: Memorable moments from Crown Princes Hussein and Princess Rajwa’s royal wedding:

      As the royal couple prepares to embark on the journey of parenthood, their nation eagerly awaits the newest addition to the Jordanian royal family, a symbol of hope and continuity for generations to come.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: @rhcjo, @arabianroyalagency More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How this Beirut hotspot Amelia has made its mark on Dubai’s culinary scene

      by

      Situated in the heart of Downtown at Address Sky View, this hotspot Amelia offers a delectable menu of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines.
      Embracing a theme of retro-futuristic revelry, Amelia’s cocktail menu is a testament to the artistry and skill of its mixologists. Known for its insatiable appetite for bringing people together, it focuses on warm service in an uplifting atmosphere to invoke all senses.
      Overall, the the fine-dining lounge restaurant at Address Sky View presents an exquisite selection of cocktails that embodies a journey through innovation. The restaurant provides an experiential culinary experience with a difference, hence it promises to take guests on a journey unlike any other.
      To see how the restaurant continues to innovate, Emirates Woman spoke to Rayan Nicolas, the CEO of Amelia Dubai on preserving and furthering culinary expression and innovation.
      Tell us about your background.
      My background began with an engineering education, but my curiosity for the F&B sector and entertainment scene blossomed during college. This interest led me to start with a small restaurant in Beirut and venture into event management, specializing in musical events and concerts. Over a span of 15 years, I expanded our portfolio to include over 10 restaurants and lounges in Beirut, as well as managing hotels and resorts. In 2018, we launched Amelia Lounge, which quickly became a local sensation. However, Lebanon faced significant challenges from 2020 onwards, including financial crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the devastating Beirut explosion.
      These events prompted us to explore new markets, and after extensive research, Dubai emerged as the most promising opportunity. Recognising the risks and intense competition in Dubai, we decided to expand Amelia from Beirut to Dubai, scaling up to meet the city’s grandiose standards. It was a daunting task, but we meticulously studied the market’s nuances to ensure our concept aligned with Amelia’s established identity and principles.

      The concept hails from Beirut – what inspired you to bring it to Dubai?
      The story of Amelia revolves around adventure and transcending boundaries in all aspects, particularly in architecture, mixology, gastronomy, and music. Our menu takes guests on a culinary journey inspired by Japanese and Peruvian origins, showcasing a finely articulated blend of Nikkei cuisine with Mediterranean hints. This fusion reflects an intense intercultural exchange and expresses a rich diversity of flavours. Bringing the Amelia concept from Beirut to Dubai was inspired by the city’s vibrant and cosmopolitan food scene. Dubai is a global hub known for its appreciation of diverse and high-quality dining experiences. We saw an opportunity to introduce our unique blend of Nikkei cuisine and steampunk-inspired design to a market that values innovation and cultural fusion, enhancing the culinary landscape with a new and exciting offering.
      The chefs take guests on a Japanese and Peruvian culinary journey – what are the key dishes to try?
      The key dishes to try at Amelia include, Salmon Ponzu Truffle Ceviche: Fresh salmon combined with the rich umami of truffle and the tangy brightness of ponzu, the Wild Sea Bass with Coconut Tiger Milk which is A creamy, tropical twist on classic ceviche, highlighting the delicate texture of sea bass. The Rollo De Camarones: A delightful combination of shrimp, halloumi cheese, avocado, kimchi, and Togarashi. This is one of our cooked sushi dishes and one that is favourite amongst our diners and the Flammkuchen A la Truffa (Truffle Pizza): Crispy, thin crust with the luxurious flavor of truffle, creating a unique and indulgent experience.
      The interiors shed light on aviation – tell us more.
      The interiors of Amelia shed light on aviation by paying homage to Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator. The design includes aviation-inspired elements such as a majestic airplane atop the main bar and abstract representations being submersed underwater in the mezzanine area. These elements celebrate Earhart’s adventurous spirit and the golden age of aviation, creating an ambiance that transports guests into a world of exploration and discovery.
      The restaurant journeys deep into the retro-futuristic steampunk-inspired theme – how did the theme begin?
      The inspiration behind the steampunk-retro design concept for Amelia is deeply rooted in the adventurous spirit of its namesake, Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Drawing parallels between her boldness and the restaurant’s theme, Amelia embodies a fusion of her adventurous spirit and timeless elegance, marrying aviation-inspired decor with subtle nods throughout the menu. The design concept is a homage to the retro era of the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by the industrial revolution and art deco movements, intertwined with elements from the aviation industry.
      Steampunk serves as the overarching theme, infusing the space with surrealism and a twisted fairy tale ambiance, all brought together in a modernized manner. This eclectic combination of styles serves as the perfect backdrop for Amelia’s culinary offering of Nikkei cuisine. Just as the design concept blends different eras and influences, Nikkei cuisine similarly represents a fusion of cultures and flavors, modernized and elevated to create a unique and harmonious dining experience. The rich tapestry of influences and the innovative approach to both design and cuisine align seamlessly, embodying the spirit of exploration and creativity that defines Amelia.
      Amelia’s private room “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem – talk us through the concept.
      “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem that offers an exclusive and immersive experience, set to transport guests to the 1920s through a sensorial journey. Accessed via a private elevator, this secret spot is designed for those in the know, making it the perfect venue for special occasions and private gatherings. The journey begins with the opening of the pendulum-inspired door on the first floor, leading guests into a surrealist interior that depicts strong themes of travel and adventure. The room is designed to portray the inside of a clock, complete with gears and spirals, enhancing the sense of being transported to another time and place. A vintage train station-inspired bar sits centrally, surrounded by walls framed with retro windows and dreamlike art.
      The dedication to the 1920s steampunk era continues with plush velvet, vintage-inspired furniture that resembles retro pieces of luggage, heightening the senses of space and time. Open every Thursday to Saturday from 11pm until the early hours, “Voyage by Amelia” features a musical focus on deep house, ensuring the vibe is always on point. A lineup of resident and international DJs dictates the audio tempo, with sultry sounds paired with an extensive drinks menu of the finest serves. This eclectic design and carefully curated atmosphere set the stage for evenings of master mixology and incredible music, making “Voyage by Amelia” a must-visit for those seeking a unique and exclusive experience.
      Guests can experience a blend of cultures at Amelia – what is the main theme?
      The main theme at Amelia is the fusion of cultures, particularly through our Nikkei cuisine, which blends Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions. This fusion is reflected not only in our diverse menu but also in the design and overall dining experience. We aim to provide a journey through different cultures, offering a unique and memorable experience that celebrates diversity and innovation.
      How has the F&B scene evolved since Amelia’s launch?
      Over the past two years, we have observed a significant increase in the number of Nikkei concepts emerging in the UAE, reflecting a growing awareness and appreciation for this unique culinary fusion. However at Amelia, we offer more than just food; we provide a comprehensive dining experience that includes expertly crafted cocktails, engaging music, and impeccable service. Our patrons have wholeheartedly embraced this holistic approach, consistently praising the quality of our food and the immersive atmosphere we create.
      From the very beginning, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the overall experience we offer. Our guests appreciate the innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, as well as the attention to detail in every dish. From day one, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the immersive experience we provide. It’s been a rewarding journey, albeit challenging at times, to satisfy such a diverse range of tastes. Since Amelia’s launch, the F&B scene has continued to evolve with a growing appreciation for fusion cuisines and unique dining experiences and Amelia has set a new standard for culinary and experiential dining in Dubai. Our success has inspired other establishments to explore similar innovative concepts, enriching the local food scene.
      What sets Amelia apart from other restaurants in Dubai?
      Amelia sets itself apart through its unwavering commitment to culinary innovation, immersive design, and exceptional guest experience. At the heart of our identity is a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, meticulously crafted by our team of world-class chefs. The Nikkei cuisine, harmoniously marries the delicate precision of Japanese culinary techniques with the bold, vibrant flavors of Peruvian ingredients. Our menu features an array of exquisite dishes, from fresh sashimi and sushi rolls to inventive ceviches and tiraditos, each offering a delightful journey for the palate. Stepping into Amelia, guests are immediately transported to a different world, thanks to our captivating steampunk-inspired ambiance. Our interior design is a masterful blend of elegance and industrial revolution aesthetics, featuring exposed gears, brass fixtures, and vintage mechanical elements.
      This unique setting, with its warm, moody lighting and richly detailed decor, creates an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and adventurous, inviting guests to relax and lose themselves in the experience. Moreover, Amelia prides itself on meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering dedication to high-quality service. From the moment guests walk through our doors, they are greeted with warmth and genuine hospitality. Our staff, trained to anticipate and cater to every need, ensures that each visit is seamless and enjoyable. Whether it’s a personalized menu recommendation, a perfectly timed wine pairing, or a special accommodation for dietary preferences, every aspect of the service is designed to exceed expectations. In addition to our culinary and design elements, Amelia frequently hosts exclusive bar events, with guest shifts from bartenders not only based in the UAE, but from around the world.

      What lies ahead for Amelia?
      Looking ahead, Amelia plans to continue pushing the boundaries of culinary and experiential dining, constantly striving to elevate the guest experience to new heights. Central to our future vision is the introduction of new and exciting menu items that further explore and celebrate the dynamic fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. Our culinary team is dedicated to ongoing experimentation and creativity, ensuring that our menu remains fresh, innovative, and reflective of the latest trends and techniques in the culinary world. Guests can look forward to seasonal dishes that highlight the finest ingredients, as well as inventive takes on classic favorites. In addition to our food offerings, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our new cocktail menu.
      This carefully curated selection of beverages will feature unique, handcrafted cocktails that push the outer boundaries of mixology with an almost chemical precision. Utilizing a range of exotic ingredients and artisanal spirits, our mixologists will craft drinks that not only complement our dishes but also stand out as exceptional experiences in their own right. Each cocktail is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. Enhancing our immersive design elements is another key focus for Amelia’s future. We plan to further develop our steampunk-inspired ambiance, incorporating even more intricate and captivating details.
      Expansion
      Moreover, Amelia is poised to expand its presence into other vibrant markets, bringing our unique dining concept to new audiences. We are exploring opportunities to open additional locations in key cities known for their culinary diversity and appreciation for innovative dining experiences. Each new venue will retain the core elements that define Amelia while incorporating local influences to create a distinct and authentic experience for our guests in different regions.
      This expansion will allow us to share our passion for culinary fusion and immersive design with an even broader audience, establishing Amelia as a leading name in the global dining scene. Our goal is to keep evolving and innovating, providing our guests with unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate the fusion of cultures and the spirit of adventure. By consistently pushing the envelope in both our culinary offerings and our overall guest experience, Amelia will continue to set the standard for excellence in the world of experiential dining.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @amelia.dubai More