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    iPhone 16 launch in the UAE: Everything to know

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    18 mins ago

    Apple enthusiasts in the UAE are eagerly awaiting the launch of the iPhone 16 series. With its anticipated launch this month, the tech giant is poised to once again redefine the smartphone experience.
    A New Era of iPhone
    The iPhone 16 lineup will consist of four distinct models: the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Each model is expected to offer a range of enhancements, from improved performance to cutting-edge features.
    Key Features and Upgrades
    Powerhouse Performance: All models will be equipped with Apple’s latest A18 chip, ensuring lightning-fast speeds and efficient multitasking.
    Memory Boost: The iPhone 16 series will feature a generous 8GB of RAM, a significant upgrade from the 6GB found in previous models.
    Enhanced Siri: A new, improved microphone is set to enhance Siri’s performance, providing a more natural and responsive voice assistant experience.
    Customizable Action Button: Following the success of the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 16 series will also feature a customizable action button, allowing users to quickly access their favorite shortcuts and features.
    Design and Display
    While the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will maintain their familiar 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch displays, both models are expected to showcase a new vertically stacked camera design. The Pro models, however, are rumored to offer even more upgrades, including larger displays, polished titanium finishes, and advanced camera features such as a dedicated photo button.
    AirPods Get a Noise-Canceling Upgrade
    In addition to the iPhone 16 series, Apple is also set to introduce two new AirPod earphones. For the first time, the mid-range AirPods will feature noise-canceling technology, providing users with a more immersive listening experience.
    Pricing and Availability
    The iPhone 16 series is expected to be available for pre-order in the UAE on Friday, September 13, with official sales commencing on Friday, September 20. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated starting prices:

    iPhone 16: Starting from Dhs3,399
    iPhone 16 Plus: Starting from Dhs3,799
    iPhone 16 Pro: Starting from Dhs4,299
    iPhone 16 Pro Max: Starting from Dhs5,099

    Trade-In Offers and Purchase Locations
    Apple fans in the UAE can take advantage of trade-in offers to save on their new iPhone 16. Simply trade in your eligible device and receive credit towards your purchase. The iPhone 16 series will be available for pre-order and purchase both online and in-store at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Yas Mall.
    As the iPhone 16 series prepares for the launch in the UAE, excitement is building among Apple enthusiasts. With its impressive features, sleek design, and powerful performance, the new iPhone is poised to set a new standard for smartphones.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    12 travel phone essentials for a quick trip abroad

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    When traveling, having the right phone accessories can make your journey more convenient and enjoyable.
    Here are some essential phone accessories to consider:
    Portable Power Bank
    Ensure your phone stays charged throughout the day, especially if you’re out exploring or taking lots of photos.
    Universal Travel Adapter
    If you’re traveling internationally, a universal adapter is crucial to charge your phone in different countries with varying plug types.
    Charging Cable
    Pack an extra long or braided charging cable, which can be more durable and reach those hard-to-access outlets.
    Protective Phone Case
    A sturdy, shock-absorbent case protects your phone from drops and other potential damage while on the go. If you’re looking for something more fashionable, a phone wallet with a chain is the perfect go-to accessory while travelling.
    Screen Protector
    To avoid scratches or cracks, especially if you’re going to be in environments where your phone might be at risk.
    Car Mount
    Useful if you’re renting a car and need to use your phone for navigation.
    Below, we’ve curated a guide editors’ favourite travel phone hacks when abroad to maximise utility, help prevent theft and save money, among others.

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    15 hidden speakeasies to book in Dubai for an incognito experience

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 15 IMAGES
    For the ultimate hidden experience, speakeasies are the best way to get to know any city.
    What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today, that has now gained popularity in different parts of the world.
    After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights. What first needed a password to enter is now open to the public, however, it’s only if you know you know.
    The history of the concept
    The speakeasy concept originated in the United States during Prohibition (1920–1933), a time when the sale, production, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned under the 18th Amendment. The term “speakeasy” refers to an illicit bar or nightclub where alcohol was sold and consumed in secret.
    The name “speakeasy” itself likely comes from the practice of telling patrons to “speak easy” or quietly when ordering drinks to avoid attracting attention from law enforcement. These hidden speakeasies were often located behind unmarked doors, in basements, or behind fronts like soda shops or cafes, and required passwords or secret codes to enter.
    After Prohibition ended in 1933 with the passage of the 21st Amendment, speakeasies disappeared as legal drinking establishments returned. However, in the 21st century, there has been a resurgence of speakeasy-style bars, now celebrated for their secretive entrances, vintage decor, and craft cocktails, evoking the glamour and mystique of the original era.
    To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
    So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
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    Restaurateur Joey Ghazal on scaling the homegrown restaurant brand along the Aegean coast

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    6 mins ago

    Restaurateur and The MAINE founder Joey Ghazal on scaling the homegrown restaurant brand along the Aegean coast of Türkiye.
    What inspired you to launch The MAINE in Bodrum?
    The Maxx Royal Bodrum is one of the most stunning developments Bodrum has seen in years. Joining such a visionary project was an easy decision to make, to be among such esteemed names as Caviar Kaspia, Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, and the renowned Scorpios from Mykonos. The location and views are truly exceptional.

    While Bodrum offers plenty of beach clubs for daytime relaxation, there are fewer options for dining and late-night entertainment. With The MAINE’s reputation as a top live entertainment venue, its presence at the Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort is the ideal way to elevate Bodrum’s nightlife.

    “Whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere, carefully curated dishes, or attentive service, every MAINE location offers a dining experience that blends global sophistication with local charm.”

    What is the USP of The MAINE Bodrum and what excites you about it?
    Absolutely, no two MAINE locations are alike – each one is distinct. We put a lot of effort into tailoring every location to reflect the unique character of its neighbourhood, adapting our menu and offerings to meet the specific needs of the market. The MAINE Bodrum is no different – everything is crafted to create a lively night-time experience in a destination that has been lacking in this area. However, what remains consistent across all our locations is our signature ambiance, a menu that delights, and a warm, welcoming service culture.

    Our aim is to deliver an unforgettable experience that resonates with the local community while upholding the core values and high standards that define The MAINE brand. Whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere, carefully curated dishes, or attentive service, every MAINE location offers a dining experience that blends global sophistication with local charm.
    What are the natural attributes that have helped you make a success of The MAINE?
    The charm of The MAINE lies in its broad appeal to a diverse range of individuals. Each location is uniquely tailored to its surroundings, attracting different groups of people. Yet, a common thread runs through every MAINE: you can always count on high-quality, comforting meals paired with exceptional service. Those who appreciate great food and a welcoming atmosphere know they’ll find it at The MAINE, which is what draws people in and keeps them coming back.
    What are some of the key dishes to try at the restaurant?
    Fried Chicken & Caviar – it’s a must-try on the Bodrum menu and one of the most interesting flavour combinations you’ll ever have.
    The MAINE is known for its beautifully crafted interiors and a lively atmosphere – can you elaborate on the creative process and design elements chosen for the space?
    My team and I handle the décor for all our venues. Our goal was to design a space that complements rather than competes with the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. Situated on a hilltop with unobstructed 360-degree views of the Aegean Coast, The MAINE Bodrum draws its stylistic inspiration from our other summer destination, The MAINE Ibiza. It embraces a dark, brutalist, and monastic simplicity, with a candle-lit atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable night out in Bodrum. We chose dark, muted interiors to create a moody, romantic ambiance, enhanced by warm amber lighting that makes guests feel alluring – and perhaps a little mischievous – as the night unfolds, the music intensifies, and the drinks start flowing.
    What is most important to you when expanding internationally?
    Choosing destinations that our core Dubai clients frequent regularly. By having locations in London, Ibiza and Bodrum, we are able to give our guests a taste of home, while at the same time surprising and delighting them with each different iteration of The MAINE. What is always constant is the quality food and drinks, friendly service, warm ambience and lively atmosphere that they’ve grown to expect.

    “Introducing people to this UAE homegrown brand has been the big highlight of the past five years.”

    What has been the highlight, for you, looking back on the past five years?
    The past five years have been a rollercoaster, when you think we went through COVID, where we had to close all our restaurants, opened four new venues including one in Business Bay and in London and pivot towards seasonal summer outlets in Ibiza and Bodrum. I think the big highlight for me has been introducing MAINE to three new international markets. Introducing people to this UAE homegrown brand has been the big highlight of the past five years.

    Joey Ghazal, The MAINE Founder
     
    As a restaurateur, what do you wish you knew five years ago?
    The restaurant industry has changed dramatically in the past five years. There has been a major shift towards luxury high concept brands and entertainment experiences, especially in Dubai there has been a giant shift towards beach clubs. Most restaurant groups have become branded houses with a collection of multiple brands, whereas we have been largely focused on developing one brand internationally. Hindsight is 20/20 as they say, but when we look back, we have no regrets and are proud of the organic and natural evolution of the brand.
    What does Bodrum offer for the discerning traveller as a destination?
    Bodrum is a captivating blend of rich history and stunning natural beauty, offering something for everyone. The vibrant nightlife, luxurious beach clubs, and world-class dining make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea provide perfect conditions for a leisure-based trip. Additionally, Bodrum’s warm Mediterranean climate and charming, whitewashed architecture create an inviting atmosphere that enchants visitors year-round.
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    11 nature-inspired cafés to visit in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    23 mins ago

    Immerse yourself in nature for a midweek city life escape.
    To take a break from the hustle and bustle, Dubai is home to a myriad of green cafes that will most definitely transport you to the suburbs.
    For a botanical-themed afternoon, the emirate is never short of nature-fuelled cafés to experience with your loved ones and go for a coffee break or even a refresh.
    If you’re in need of inspiration, scroll through our guide of nature-themed cafés to visit ASAP.
    Splendour Fields

    This chic neighborhood eatery occupies the entire ground floor of The Park with its Instagrammable views. Designed for breakfast, lunch and a relaxing dinner, this one-of-a-kind destination promises a welcoming experience with its earthy tones, allowing visitors to take a quick break from the city. With a healthy produce-driven menu, this serene venue promises delectable delights such as baked goods, a coffee bar and carefully prepared dishes. The restaurant is located at The Park in Jumeirah Lakes Towers.
    For more information visit eatx.com
    Seven Seeds

    With an Instagram-worthy outdoor setting, this picturesque café promises a nature-driven experience as visitors can dine in the luscious expansive area. From fresh salads to a delectable array of desserts, this venue is one of the most popular cafés with a host of dishes to try. Located in the heart of Jumeirah 1, this café is open from Monday to Thursday 7am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 7am to 12am.
    For more information visit 7seeds.ae
    SEVA

    SEVA has been a trailblazer in the region as the first 100 percent plant-based, gluten-free, cane-sugar-free, and GMO-free venue. While you may come for the delicious, healthy and environmentally conscious food and beverage options, you’ll stay for the secluded and laid-back vibes. This place embodies a Sunday morning feeling with its casual, healthy, and holistic approach to dining. The spaces always make it a great place to decompress with a meal away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai. To fully immerse in nature, the venue promises other mindfulness sessions such as sound healing, yoga and more.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    Maisan 15

    This secret oasis lies expands beyond a café with its hidden library perfect for a getaway. With impeccable customer service and a courtyard experience, this one-of-a-kind space lies in a secluded spot for visitors to unwind. With fresh foliage and a fountain inside a bath, this peaceful area, is exactly where to visit during the cooler months. From sakshouka to other classic dishes such as avocado on toast, this space promises a booth-style dining experience with an artistic touch. Located in Al Barsha South, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
    The Farm

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    At this oasis of calm with a botanical waterside backdrop, guests can enjoy a range of culinary flavours from the Mediterranean to Middle Eastern as The Farm serves high-quality foods with an ambience for you to take in with friends and family, in a relaxed and tranquil setting making it the perfect place to enjoy breakfast amid nature. It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 8am to 10:30 pm and Friday and Saturday 7:30am to 10:30pm at Al Barari.
    For more information visit thefarmdubai.ae
    Amongst Few

    This Dubai-based space echoes minimal hues and textures with both an outdoor area for relaxing and an indoor for working from. By using simple materials such as natural wood, steel counters and lots of plants, this café also serves organic fair-trade coffee and fresh seasonal dishes to match the standards. With refreshing raw finishes, one can’t help but notice how seamlessly the café blends with creative space. Located in Villa 3 on Al Wasl Road, Palm Strip and Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 9am to 9pm.
    For more information visit amongstfewcafe.com
    Roseleaf Café

    For homemade goodness, this independent café ensures locally roasted coffee and other carefully prepared dishes in this sanctuary. With fresh quality ingredients and green space, guests can experience the warmth of the venue and feel at home. This café is located in two prime venues in Al Quoz and Emirates Golf Club and it’s open daily from 8am to 8pm.
    For more information visit roseleafcafe.com
    NETTE

    Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from. Located inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz, it’s open daily 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit matcha-club.ae
    The 100 Café

    Founded by Asma Hilal Lootah opened the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre – The Hundred Wellness Centre – in the country in 2008. Surrounded by natural greenery, this lush destination promises a holistic approach to living. This tranquil space promises healthy dishes and nutritious comfort food in a serene location. Located in Jumeirah 1, the centre is open from Saturday through Thursday, 7am to 8pm.
    For more information visit thehundred.ae
    Planet Terra

    For a vegan spot in Dubai, Planet Terra promises a myriad of dishes to tantalise your taste buds. The restaurant was born out of a desire to create a space where diners can eat intentionally and nourish both their body and mind. With dishes such as Kimchi Pad Thai and organic coffee, guests are spoiled for choice. At the newly-opened family-run café, guests will discover an entirely vegan menu created with animal-free ingredients that are sourced fresh from ethical and sustainable suppliers, locally and internationally. Located within the residential community of Greens in Panorama Building and is open from 7:30am to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit planetterra.life
    Harvest & Co.

    This farm-to-table concept is situated in the heart of Dubai Garden Centre giving visitors the ultimate botanical retreat. This rustic-meets-modern greenhouse restaurant ensures an urban retreat for all those who visit with its fresh produce and an industrial palette for the complete experience. With signature roast coffee and other wholesome dishes, this homegrown experience, promises a homely atmosphere. Located in Al Quoz, it’s open daily from 8am to 6:30pm.
    For more information visit eatx.com
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    Deepika Padukone welcomes first child: A baby girl

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    Bollywood actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have welcomes their first child — a baby girl, congratulations to the happy couple.
    Yesterday, the couple made the announcement of the arrival of their princess via Instagram, sharing the joyous news with their fans and well wishers. Born on 8 September, 2024, the name of their baby girl has not been revealed yet.
    From Alia Bhatt to Katrina Kaif, friends from the industry shared their excitement for the couple in the comment section.

    Ever since announcing that she’s pregnant with her first child, actor Deepika Padukone has been fairly private about it.
    Last week, the actor along with husband Ranveer Singh shared portraits from their pregnancy photoshoot. Dressed in a relaxed denim, bralette and an oversized shirt, the 82 East founder looked relaxed and in her element. For the second look, the Tamasha actor chose a black body con dress, a pregnancy staple in her closet. For the last look, Deepika chose a sheer dress to twirl in.
    Pregnancy Portraits

    The Piku actor first revealed her baby bump 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 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
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    10 editor-approved luxury hotels to book in Europe

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    15 mins ago

    At some point during the year, we always have Europe on are travel itinerary as most of the destinations are all a direct flight away from Dubai.
    When it comes to planning your stay, the most crucial element is choosing the right hotel. For your next trip to one of the beautiful countries in Europe, we’ve curated an exclusive list. This collection represents hundreds of hours of researching, scouting and sourcing the best properties around Europe to make it a memorable trip.
    From classic hotels such as Claridge’s in London to modern ones such as The Julius in Prague, there’s something for every taste.
    Each of these hotels offers something special, from incredible locations to luxury services that make them stand out among Europe’s finest accommodations.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Director General of Sharjah Museums on shaping the cultural landscape of Sharjah

    Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of Sharjah Museums Authority, shares her transformative journey and forward-thinking vision for Sharjah’s museums – blending heritage with innovation.
    Can you talk us through your career to date?
    My journey in the cultural and museum sectors has been both rewarding and transformative. I began my career with the SharjahMuseums Authority in 2008 as a Curator at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, where I managed collections, organised exhibitions, and fostered national and international collaborations. This role allowed me to deeply engage with the cultural heritage of our region. In 2012, I was promoted to Director of Executive Affairs at the Sharjah Museums Authority. In June 2023, I was appointed Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority. My focus remains on sustainability, cultural preservation, and community engagement. I believe museums are crucial not only in preserving our heritage but also in fostering social connections and engaging the community.

    What inspired the establishment of Sharjah Museums Authority, and how has its mission evolved since 2006?
    The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) was established in 2006 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah. The vision behind its creation was to preserve and promote Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage, making it accessible to residents and visitors alike. At the time, the already existing museums were brought together under the umbrella of SMA to weave a strong network of museums that would serve as educational, cultural, and social hubs, reflecting the emirate’s legacy in arts and culture. Over the years, these museums have been developed and new projects initiated. SMA now manages 16 museums covering diverse topics such as Islamic art, archaeology, natural history, and contemporary art.
    You are visionary in your outlook. How do you plan on shaping the cultural landscape of Sharjah through SMA?
    Sharjah has been named the Capital of Arab Culture, the Capital of Islamic Culture and the World Book Capital in 1998, 2014 and 2019 respectively. Driven by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah, SMA and all the cultural entities in the emirate work on preserving our rich heritage while embracing innovative practices that engage both the local and global communities. What this means for the museums, and for me personally as Director General of SMA, is a focus on the role of the museums towards the community in terms of social engagement, inclusion and diversity, and various means of knowledge transfer such as: documentation and research, partnerships and exchange, and education and awareness.
    How do you balance cultural preservation with the need for modern, engaging exhibitions?
    Balancing cultural preservation with modern, engaging exhibitions is central to our mission at the Sharjah Museums Authority. We honour Sharjah’s rich heritage by showcasing and safeguarding it through our extensive collections and exhibitions, and we ensure that we implement the highest museum standards in the preservation of collections, exhibition design and community programming. Modern engaging exhibitions may incorporate modern technology and innovative strategies, however, what really lies at the heart of engagement is speaking to the needs of your audiences. For instance, our latest “Journey of Discoveries” exhibition at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum offers an interactive hands-on experience designed specifically for children, allowing them to play freely while also teaching them a lot about the field of archeology and its significance. Understanding the developmental needs of children in this case here is the main engagement factor. We have also integrated technologies like augmented reality (AR) into our exhibitions, enhancing visitor interaction and making the museum experience more immersive.
    What’s your vision for the role of Emirati women in the art and culture space, and how do you plan on empowering them?
    Emirati women have always been integral to our nation’s cultural fabric, and my goal is to ensure they continue to play a central role in shaping the future of the arts and culture sectors in the UAE. At Sharjah Museums Authority, we prioritise education and professional development, offering platforms for women to share knowledge, engage in cultural dialogues, and contribute to preserving and promoting our heritage. This includes mentorship and leadership programmes, partnerships with universities, and practical experiences that help women build their careers and assume prominent roles in the cultural landscape. I am also dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where women’s voices are heard and valued. Through exhibitions, educational programmes, and community initiatives, we highlight the contributions of women, ensuring their achievements are recognised and celebrated. By providing the tools, opportunities, and support needed, we empower Emirati women to become leaders in the art and culture space, driving positive change and innovation in our cultural sector.

    How does SMA ensure each museum remains unique while contributing to Sharjah’s cultural narrative?
    Each museum under SMA has a distinct thematic focus, which allows it to offer a unique perspective on Sharjah’s heritage. For instance, the Sharjah Heritage Museum is dedicated to Emirati culture, while the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum celebrates Arabic calligraphy. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization highlights Islamic art and culture, serving as a bridge between the past and present. This thematic diversity ensures that each museum contributes uniquely to Sharjah’s broader cultural narrative while preserving its specialised focus. We also emphasise community involvement and education, making our museums active centres of learning and cultural exchange. Through exhibitions, workshops, and public programmes, SMA’s museums engage the local community and foster an appreciation of Sharjah’s heritage among younger generations. Moreover, SMA participates in international cultural diplomacy, promoting Sharjah’s cultural heritage on a global scale through exhibitions and collaborations. These strategies ensure that each museum retains its uniqueness while contributing to a cohesive and dynamic cultural narrative that reflects Sharjah’s rich history and its role in the broader UAE cultural landscape.
    What strategies do you use to attract diverse audiences to Sharjah’s museums?
    To attract diverse audiences, SMA focuses on diverse offerings both in terms of exhibitions as well as programmes. We also ensure our services and facilities cater to the diverse needs of our audiences. All of our museums are accessible physically and intellectually. Physical access ensures the constant upgrade to allow for optimum accessibility to buildings for various audiences with different abilities and of all age groups; this includes wheelchair access, Braille labels and touch tours, and a wide range of services for mothers, children, families and the elderly. Multiple museums have been awarded the certificate of Accessible for Disability in the Museum category by The World Disability Union (WDU). Furthermore, our museums are also recognised as ‘Child Friendly’ and ‘Age Friendly’ within the efforts of the emirate as a whole to be both child and age friendly.
    Could you share some of the proud moments and key milestones the SMA team has achieved together?
    I have witnessed numerous proud moments and key milestones that reflect the collective success of our dedicated team. One of the most notable milestones was the recognition of our unique SAWA Museum Studies Program, which received the AGYA award in 2019, in recognition for initiatives and projects that promote the role and value of humanities in research, education and society and in communicating humanities to a broader public, and again honoured with the Best Cultural Collaboration Award at the Leading Cultural Destinations Awards in 2020. Another proud moment was the successful, unique and unprecedented collaboration of friendship between the Sharjah Museums Authority and the Vatican Anima Mundi Museum in 2014 on the occasion of Sharjah being named Capital of Islamic Culture. A joint exhibition was devised to give a glimpse of the diverse ways of life Muslims pursue all over the world, their customs and cultural traditions and the fascinating stories that lie behind some of the objects they made and used. Through this collaboration, not only were unique artefacts from the Vatican’s collection shown in the first-ever collaboration with an Arab and Muslim museum, but it also resulted in increased intercultural knowledge of each other and documented and presented elements of Muslim cultural heritage in Sharjah, the Vatican, and later on in Australia as the joint exhibition travelled further to be shown at the National Museum of Australia in 2019.
    What role do you see technology playing in the future of museums in Sharjah?
    Technology is pivotal to the future of museums in Sharjah, enhancing our ability to engage and educate diverse audiences while preserving our cultural heritage. At SMA, we view technology as a tool to complement, rather than replace, the traditional museum experience. We are integrating cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into our exhibitions. Looking ahead, we will continue exploring new technological advancements that enhance the visitor experience, support educational initiatives, and foster greater connection with our cultural heritage. By staying at the forefront of technological innovation, we aim to ensure Sharjah’s museums remain relevant and dynamic spaces that resonate with both local and international audiences.
    This is The Visionary Issue – what is your vision for the future and who according to you is visionary?
    I hope that the museums in Sharjah will continue to evolve and grow as our country continues to evolve and grow. Culture is integral to community development and museums are at the core of that. Museums are dynamic platforms for knowledge exchange and the sustainable development of museums has the power to bridge the past, present and future. Ultimately, my vision is for Sharjah to be recognised not only as a hub of cultural heritage but also as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the museum sector. A visionary in my opinion is a person who can read and understand their current environment in a holistic manner such that they are able to foresee how this environment can evolve and grow in the future.
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