lifestyle and culture

Subterms

    More stories

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      International Yoga Day: 10 studios in Dubai to book

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
      As it’s important to start the year on a positive note, it’s time to book a yoga session to feel calm from the inside out.
      International Yoga Day, also known as the International Day of Yoga, is celebrated annually on June 21st. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014, following a proposal by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the General Assembly. The first International Yoga Day was observed on June 21, 2015.
      So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s a class for everyone to try out and feel completely rejuvenated after.
      What are some of the benefits of yoga?
      Physical and Mental Health
      Yoga is known for its numerous health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness about these benefits and encourage people to incorporate yoga into their daily lives.
      Cultural Heritage
      Yoga has ancient roots in Indian culture and philosophy. The day highlights yoga’s historical significance and its role in promoting a balanced lifestyle.
      Global Unity
      The celebration fosters a sense of global unity by bringing people together from various countries and backgrounds to participate in yoga activities, emphasizing peace and harmony.
      From Vinyasa to hip hop yoga, you can choose a class that fits best into your workout routine to relax and heal during your time off or for a midweek break.
      Hence, for inspiration on where to book next, Emirates Woman has curated the perfect guide of venues to book for your upcoming yoga class.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @galaortin & Feature Image: Emirates Woman’s January Cover 2024 More

    • 75 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      3 Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurants in 2024

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      57 seconds ago

      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai are avid food lovers. They are always seen supporting the restaurants scene in the UAE.
      While the Royal Family may well have kitchens filled with more chefs than a Michelin-starred restaurant, eating out can offer – just as it can for most of us – a thrilling change from the routine.
      From neighbourhood bistros to fine-dining havens in Dubai by Chef Izu, such as Alaya. The options for dining are endless and now some are even approved by the Royals.
      With a plethora of restaurants available in Dubai, it can be hard to choose where to go, however, the Royals know exactly where to visit. If you’re looking for somewhere to dine at then, these restaurants are a must-visit.
      Over the years, Sheikh Mohammed has visited a myriad of restaurants such as CÉ LA VI, Shanghai ME, Gaia, Zuma and more.

      Various Royals from the family have often been spotted dining at a host of the emirate’s best eateries. It proves they truly have their finger on the pulse of Dubai’s booming gastronomic scene. Year after year, Sheikh Mohammed, has consistently shown support for the local F&B industry in the UAE.
      Both Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Makhtoum are all about supporting the hospitality industry.
      Here’s three restaurants in the emirate that are Royally-approved this year.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      When is the next long weekend in the UAE? Most likely in July

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      UAE public holidays: Islamic New Year coming up, long weekend is a possibility.
      The UAE’s holiday calendar offers opportunities for celebration and relaxation throughout the year. If you’re eager to mark upcoming public holidays and potentially score some long weekends, keep reading.
      After a blissful 4-day break on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha 2024, the UAE residents are already looking forward to the next long weekend this summer to be OOO.
      When is the next public holiday in the UAE?

      The good news is that the next public holiday isn’t far off. Hijri New Year, also known as Islamic New Year, is slated for July 7th, 2024 (Muharram 1). However, since it falls on a Sunday, some may wonder if it translates into a long weekend.
      Will it be a long weekend?
      There’s a chance, the UAE authorities have the flexibility to adjust official holidays, excluding Eid holidays, according to Cabinet decision 27 of 2024. This means they could potentially move the Islamic New Year holiday to create a multi-day break. Stay tuned for official announcements to see if this exciting possibility comes to fruition.
      Public holidays for the rest of the year
      Looking beyond July, the UAE’s National Day, now referred to as Union Day, offers a confirmed two-day public holiday on December 2nd and 3rd, 2024. This falls conveniently on a Monday and Tuesday, creating a delightful four-day weekend for those with weekend offs.Those planning further ahead can set their sights on New Year’s Day 2025, which falls on a Wednesday, offering a welcome break to usher in the new year.
      For a complete picture of 2025’s public holidays, keep an eye out for future announcements.
      This glimpse into the UAE’s upcoming public holidays allows you to start planning your breaks and getaways. Whether you’re aiming for a quick staycation or a longer adventure, these official holidays offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: @visit.dubai More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Deepika Padukone reveals pregnancy photos with a baby bump

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 hour ago

      Ever since announcing that she’s pregnant with her first child, actor Deepika Padukone has been fairly private about it.
      Recently, the Piku actor was spotted at a formal event, to promote her upcoming film Kalki, giving her fans a much-awaited peek at her bump.
      Dressed in a black bodycon dress, clubbed with a pair of stilettos – it’s safe to say, Deepika’s maternity style is as glamorous as her pre-pregnancy days.
      Pregnancy Portraits

      Pregnancy Announcement
      It’s official, actor Deepika Padukone is expecting her first child with husband Ranveer Singh.
      Speculations about her pregnancy gained mileage after the Pathaan actor was spotted concealing her tiny baby bump at the BAFTA’s  with her shimmering Sabyasachi sari.
      The celebrity couple has been together for over a decade and got married in 2018, in Italy, in an intimate ceremony with just friends and family.
      With a heartwarming post on social media, the couple announced their pregnancy, while confirming the due date to be in September.
      Congratulations to the happy couple on this joyous news.

      Deepika Padukone, a Bollywood icon and fashion trendsetter, has consistently dazzled on the red carpet, showcasing a consistent evolution in her style over the years.
      From her early days in the industry to the present, Deepika has seamlessly fused traditional elegance with modern flair, creating a narrative that is unique to her.
      In her earlier appearances, Deepika embraced classic silhouettes, favoring gowns that accentuated her statuesque frame. As the years unfolded, her style metamorphosed into a harmonious blend of sophistication and experimentation.
      One standout look includes the opulent Ashi Studio gown she wore for Cannes in 2018, a testament to her risk-taking abilities when it comes to fashion.
      In recent years, the Piku actor has embraced bold choices, opting for options that catapulted her out of her comfort zone. Notable among these is her life-sized Barbie look from the 2019 Met Gala, a stunning departure from her earlier, more subdued choices.
      What truly sets Deepika apart is her ability to seamlessly switch between traditional and contemporary styles. From ethereal sarees to cutting-edge pantsuits, she effortlessly navigates diverse fashion landscapes, showcasing a versatility that resonates with her dynamic career.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
       Feature Image: Instagram @deepikapadukone More

    • 100 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      9 must-visit Indian restaurants to experience in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      From time to time, it’s always good to add a little spice to your cuisine and indulge in an array of exquisite dishes. Indian restaurants are the best way to do so with their flavourful dishes crafted to perfection.
      For a fine-dining Indian meal together with your loved ones, there’s no better way to celebrate any occasion than to savour a host of Indian culinary delights in style.
      With no dearth of Indian restaurants in Dubai to cater to everyone’s palate, the world of spice has seen a contemporary twist with its playful interiors and gastronomic culinary journey.
      So, if you’re thinking of where to book during the upcoming weeks, scroll through our guide of editor-approved Indian restaurants to visit.
      Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia

      Lead by well renowned Indian Chef Ritu Dalmia, Atrangi’s culinary offerings shine a spotlight on lesser-known regional Indian delicacies, infusing the vibrant venue with the comforting essence of homemade cooking. With a varied menu that caters to a diverse range of palates, Atrangi offers a personalised solution for those seeking the ultimate culinary experience. To experience the key dishes, Diners can choose between two options for the tasting menu. The five-course tasting menu is priced at Dhs440 or an indulgent seven course experience priced at Dhs640. The seven-course menu is inclusive of a delectable amuse bouche and palate cleanser, heightening the dining experience and allowing each signature plate to create a harmony of flavours with each bite. It’s available from 6pm to 12am and is located in the prestigious Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel.
      For more information visit atrangidubai.com
      Trésind

      With Executive Chef Mohammed Zeeshan at the helm, Tresind now offers a Premium Chef’s Tasting Menu for its patrons to offer an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can experience a variety of dishes such as Cannoli Samosa with Tomato Chutney, Asparagus Salad, Truffle Mushroom Consommé and more. The price starts at Dhs550 for both the Veg and Non-Veg menu, and is available throughout the week during dinner hours this tasting menu includes Amuse Bouche, Chaat, a selection of starters, palate cleanser, a selection of main courses and desserts. Diners can end their meal with desserts such as Black Forest Mithai Tart and Paan Cotton Candy. Located at the Arabian Court at One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai Marina, it’s open from 12pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm.
      For more information visit tresind.com
      Aamara

      If you’re looking for a unique dining experience inspired by the ancient Silk Route, check out Aamara at the VOCO Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. Here to dazzle your palate during the Festival of Lights with an exclusive 10-course Diwali tasting menu priced at Dhs(all inclusive) per person. The dishes include rustic onion focaccia served with zaatar pesto hummus, delicate butterfly prawns accompanied by mohmara chutney and more which is available until November 16, 2023. Aamara has curated a menu that celebrates the diversity of flavors and techniques shared along this historic route. Guests can look forward to a moody interior with a modern, contemporary finish, a Mediterranean and Indian-inspired menu, and a captivating cultural fiesta.
      For more information visit aamara.ae  
      Masti

      After shifting to a new location, Masti is all set to welcome guests to its restaurant situated at the Dubai Edition. Listed in the first Michelin Guide this restaurant brings a bold 360-degree experiential offering of innovative food, experimental beverages and unmatched hospitality. Masti remains emboldened and unafraid to be different. The new location will take risks and deliver a buzzing dining scene, with a sprinkling of Masti spice at The Dubai Edition. Befitting of the restaurant’s legendary reputation, the iconic Dubai Edition Hotel, optimally positioned on Fountain Street, Downtown will prove a stellar destination from which the restaurant can shine from. The restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 1am and 12:30pm to 2am.
      For more information visit mastidubai.com
      Indego by Vineet

      Known for its experimental take on Indian cuisine and craft cocktails, the restaurant was opened by the first Indian Michelin chef who has curated an eccentric menu with fine-dining presentation. With brightly decorated interiors in an intimate setting, where the sharing-style menu features street food-inspired dishes prepared on a griddle, clay oven, grill and stew pot. Located in Grosvenor House, it’s open from Monday to Friday 7pm to 12am and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 12am.
      Rang Mahal

      This restaurant brings an elevated touch to Dubai’s dining scene with innovative and creative Indian cuisine in an upscale setting. In celebration of Diwali, the upscale Indian restaurant will launch a masterfully crafted 9-course set menu on November 12, 2023 that offers diners a taste of the vibrant colours of India. The menu thereafter will be available daily. The culinary team have put together a carefully curated offering specifically for the festival of lights, featuring a special multi-course dinner with an optional beverage pairing, fitting for the Diwali celebrations. The 9-course set menu features a selection of popular favorites from Rang Mahal, with each dish designed to transport diners through the myriad of flavours of the Indian sub-continent. Located within the iconic JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, the menu is priced at Dhs375 for a 9-course set menu and Dhs495 for a menu with a beverage.
      For more information visit mariott.com
      The Crossing

      To celebrate the annual festival of lights, The Crossing at H Hotel is offering a special menu until November 12, 2023. Michelin-acclaimed Chef Jitin Joshi has crafted a set menu featuring their signature dishes like Patti Chaat (reimagined using tempura shiso leaves, chickpea chaat, creamy yoghurt, and tangy chutneys) and Chicken Makhan Malai (tandoor chicken with mint labneh and pickled onion) plus some exclusive Diwali specials. From lunches with colleagues to grand 20-course feasts, they have something for everyone. With options starting from Dhs175 per person to all tastes. For a grand and luxurious celebration, guests can also book an exclusive, customisable experience with the Chef and Sommelier for only Dhs450 per person.
      For more information visit crossingtherestaurant.com 
      Little Miss India

      Visitors are immersed in a unique full entertainment experience as they are invited on a culinary tour of India with our glamorous globetrotter and fictional character. Guests can enjoy a myriad of dishes such as Dal Bati Churma, Jodhpuri Gatte with gram flour dumplings and even traditional Rajasthani sweets with age-old recipes. The restaurant is open from Monday to Thursday 6pm until 11pm and Friday to Sunday 2pm until 11pm and is located at Fairmont The Palm.
      For more information visit Fairmont.com
      The Cinnamon Club

      This colourful haven Dubai redefines modern Indian cooking, leading the charge with a stunning new menu of contemporary Indian cuisine created by Chef Vivek Singh and Head Chef Kamini Jha, which combines some of the Cinnamon Legends from the highly successful Cinnamon Collection in London, including the original Cinnamon Bazaar and Cinnamon Kitchen dishes, with a number of thrilling promotions making their way to the venue. From Chaat to chai, each dish is carefully prepared for guests to savour. Located in Park Hyatt, it’s open daily from 6:30pm to 11:30pm and is closed on Monday.
      For more information visit hyattrestaurants.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      In the office with Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica

      by

      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
      Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica, takes us inside their upscale fitness studio at ICD Brookfield Place.
      How long have you been in this space?
      We opened our doors at ICD Brookfield Place on September 1, 2023.
      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      The whole space has been custom- built. As design guardians, London-based TR Studio Architects worked very closely with us to turn our vision into reality. We wanted to create a special space for our clients. In addition to the design, the art collection has been specially curated and includes pieces by Picasso, Ed Ruscha, Damien Hirst, and eLSeed, among others.
      How do you think the interior reflects you?
      Whether at our ICDB or our Jumeirah location, art has been at the heart of our design. This is a constant in all our spaces because what is a space without art? We also believe that comfort and aesthetic must go hand in hand which is why we en- sure that our spaces are first and foremost comfortable for our clients.
      Describe your taste in three words.
      Classically modern, comforting and timeless.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      June’s – The Body Issue with So Much Trouble – Download Now
      Photography by Mark Mathew More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Thinking of getting a mortgage in Dubai? 5 essential steps to take

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Thinking of buying a property in Dubai? This guide offers valuable insights from Mollie Credland, a Mortgage Advisor at Espace.
      Mollie dives into the essential steps to prepare yourself for a mortgage in Dubai’s dynamic property market. She covers everything from understanding down payment requirements to navigating the associated costs of buying a home.
      How to Get Mortgage Ready in Dubai?

      Know What You Can Afford & the Down Payment Required
      If, like most people, you require a mortgage to purchase your home, an experienced mortgage advisor can be invaluable at this stage. Homeownership in Dubai requires a minimum down payment of 20% for properties under AED 5,000,000 and 30% for properties valued above AED 5,000,000 (for expats). Note that the Central Bank allows first-time buyers to borrow up to seven times their salary.
      Establish How Much You Can Borrow
      Borrowing limits and mortgage affordability are typically calculated the same way across all banks in the UAE. Your monthly liabilities—car loans, personal loans, new monthly installments, and a percentage of your credit card limits—must not exceed 50% of your total monthly income. This is known as your Debt to Borrowing Ratio.
      Understand the Associated Costs of Buying Your New Home
      Many people make the mistake of simply applying for a mortgage which only covers the price of the house they want to buy. There are several extra costs involved in buying a property and when you are calculating the amount you’ll need to borrow, it’s important you take the following into consideration.
      – Dubai Land Department Fee: 4% of the purchase price + AED 580– Mortgage Registration Fee: 0.25% of the loan amount + AED 290 –– Real Estate Fee: 2% of the purchase price– Property Valuation Fee: Can range between AED 2,500 – AED 3,5004.
      How to Choose a Mortgage Provider?
      One common mistake people make is going directly to their bank instead of exploring the market. It’s always best to consult an independent mortgage broker who can advise you on the best products available. When selecting a mortgage provider, consider interest rates, loan terms, fees, and customer reviews of the bank. There are 18 banks in the UAE currently offering mortgage lending. Many banks offer preferential interest rates if you move your salary to them (salary transfer), so consider this option if it suits your circumstances.
      Apply for a Mortgage Pre-Approval Letter
      A mistake we see time and time again is people missing out on their dream home due to not having obtained their mortgage pre-approval. The property market moves quickly in Dubai, and many buyers become disappointed when they lose out to a pre-approved buyer who can fully commit to purchasing the property. Pre-approval lasts 30 to 60 days (depending on the bank), is free of cost, has no obligation, and can even be extended. I advise securing your pre-approval as soon as you start your property search to avoid disappointment and stress later on.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @visit.dubai  More

    • 88 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      21 luxe Sheikh Hamdan-approved restaurants in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 21 IMAGES
      When it comes to knowing the best restaurants to dine at in Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum always knows best.
      No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best. From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.
      From sophisticated alfresco havens to all the authentic food choices, this royal is regularly seen dining out at some of the best F&B concepts Dubai has to offer.
      So, if you’re in need of some inspiration on where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @faz3 More