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    Emirati Women’s Day 2024: Meet the first Emirati Pastry Chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    50 mins ago

    Known for setting new standards in the culinary world, Chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi is the first Emirati Pastry Chef in the UAE.
    On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day 2024, we invited four inspiring women, pioneers in their fields of expertise to share their remarkable journeys.
    Regarded as MENA’s best Pastry Chef, the Emirati star is becoming a role model for pastry chefs in the region and all over the globe.
    Having previously works as a pastry chef at Burj Al Arab, her culinary skills were put to the test. Through her resilient nature, she was able to establish herself in the industry and carve a niche in the F&B industry.
    “I always wanted to be a chef, I loved making new pastries, finding new ingredients and new techniques on creating.” She also emphasized on how the learning process never stops.
    As a male dominated field, the hospitality industry is slowly steering away from its preconceived notion. Now, more than ever, Emirati women are taking the lead and Chef Sahar is one of them.
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    By drawing on local recipes, Al Awadhi also seeks out the best local ingredients for her dishes. While the UAE has been dependent on importation in the past, she explains how this food culture is gradually changing.
    “Whatever it is that you do, do it wholeheartedly without taking any shortcuts and learn everything on the way,” she advises the younger generation of Emirati women in the region.
    Having completely changed her career trajectory, since she first started. With the vision of now seeing more Emirati Chefs in the industry. Through mentorship and guidance, she’s open to paving the way for many young talents to exceed in this arena.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Location: PAUS; Café & Wellness StudioVideographer: @markmthw and Ahmed Abdelwahab More

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    Everything to know about Emirati Women’s Day 2024

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    17 mins ago

    Emirati Women’s Day is an annual celebration held on August 28th to honor the significant contributions of Emirati women to the nation’s development. This special day was initiated in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, to recognize the achievements of Emirati women and inspire future generations.

    Why does it fall on the 28th of August every year?
    The date of August 28th holds historical significance as it marks the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union in 1975. This institution has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and empowerment of Emirati women.
    What’s the theme for this year?
    Each year, Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated under a specific theme that highlights a particular aspect of women’s contributions. The theme for 2024 is yet to be officially announced, but it is expected to focus on the continued progress and achievements of Emirati women in various fields.

    The primary purpose of Emirati Women’s Day is to:
    Recognize the invaluable contributions of Emirati women to the nation’s progress.
    Inspire young Emirati women to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
    Promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in all aspects of life.
    Showcase the leadership role of Emirati women in shaping the future of the UAE.
    Celebrate the cultural heritage and traditions of Emirati women.

    Through initiatives, events, and programs organized to mark this special day, the UAE aims to highlight the remarkable journey of Emirati women and their unwavering commitment to the nation’s development. By celebrating their achievements, the country seeks to inspire future generations of women to become active participants in building a prosperous and sustainable future for the UAE.
    Emirati Women’s Day is a testament to the UAE’s dedication to empowering women and recognizing their pivotal role in society. It serves as a platform to showcase the remarkable strides made by Emirati women and to inspire them to reach even greater heights.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @fatmaa More

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    HE Sheikha Bodour shares words of wisdom on Emirati Women’s Day 2024

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    35 mins ago

    As we celebrate Emirati Women’s Day 2024, HE Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to women around the world. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women, fostering a love of literature, and promoting cultural understanding has left an indelible mark on the publishing industry and beyond.
    To celebrate and uplift the women in the region, here’s what she said, “The story of Emirati women is one of resilience, selfless contribution, and boundless inspiration. It’s a story that resonates not just within our region but also around the world, highlighting women who are deeply rooted in their traditions while boldly embracing the future. Thanks to the UAE leadership’s support, Emirati women have been playing a key role in our nation’s progress—from government to education, and from business to technology. Their contributions are shaping our world, and their influence extends far beyond our borders as they continue to break new ground and set the stage for the future. As we celebrate Emirati Women’s Day, we honor their achievements and look forward to a future where their contributions continue to inspire and elevate society, laying a strong foundation for generations to come.”

    Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, a prominent figure in the publishing world, has been instrumental in championing women’s empowerment and fostering a thriving literary landscape.
    Her journey, from founding the Kalimat Publishing Group to becoming the first Arab woman to lead the International Publishers Association (IPA), has inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue their passions and break down barriers.
    Born into a family deeply rooted in culture and education, Sheikha Bodour’s early exposure to books laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Recognizing a gap in high-quality Arabic children’s literature, she established Kalimat Publishing Group in 2017, aiming to create engaging and culturally relevant content for young readers.
    Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Sheikha Bodour has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment in the publishing industry. In 2019, she founded PublisHer, a platform dedicated to supporting women’s professional growth and career advancement. Through initiatives like mentoring programs and diversity and inclusion toolkits, PublisHer has empowered countless female publishers to navigate challenges and achieve their goals.

    Sheikha Bodour’s commitment to gender equality extends beyond the publishing world. As the President of the IPA, she has represented Arab women on a global scale, inspiring others to pursue leadership roles and break down stereotypes.Her appointment to this prestigious position is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and ability to foster collaboration and innovation.
    In addition to her professional achievements, Sheikha Bodour is a passionate philanthropist. Through the Kalimat Foundation, she has worked tirelessly to promote literacy and book accessibility, particularly for children affected by conflict or displacement. Her efforts have brought joy and hope to countless young readers, empowering them through the transformative power of books.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    20 tasteful gifts to purchase for the Virgo in your life

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    52 mins ago

    Virgos are known for their practicality, attention to detail, and love for organisation.
    When choosing a gift for a Virgo, consider something that aligns with their interests and personality traits.
    What are Virgo traits?
    A Virgo is a person born between August 23 to September 22, 2024. Virgos are known for being practical, sensible, and loyal. They make excellent friends and partners. Virgos are known for being perfectionists, and can be meticulous and single-minded in their pursuit of improvement. They have extremely high standards, none more so than for themselves, and they obsess over everything. They are fantastic detail-people, love organising stuff, and can be relied on to make everything go smoothly.
    Planners
    Virgos love staying organized. A high-quality planner or journal, especially one that’s personalized, can be a thoughtful and practical gift.
    Books
    If they enjoy reading, consider a book that aligns with their interests. Virgos often appreciate self-improvement, health, or non-fiction books.
    Stationery Set
    A beautifully designed stationery set with pens, notebooks, and other accessories can appeal to a Virgo’s love for order and writing.
    DIY Kits
    Virgos enjoy hands-on projects. A DIY kit, such as for crafting, gardening, or cooking, could be an enjoyable and fulfilling gift.
    Self-care products
    High-quality, natural skincare products or a spa day can appeal to a Virgo’s love for health and self-care.
    Organisational Tools
    Items like storage containers, drawer organizers, or a stylish yet functional desk organizer can help them keep their space tidy and organized.
    Quality Clothing or Accessories
    Virgos tend to appreciate classic, well-made clothing or accessories. A stylish scarf, leather wallet, or minimalist jewelry can be perfect.
    Houseplants
    If they enjoy plants, a low-maintenance houseplant, such as a succulent or peace lily, can bring a touch of nature into their home.
    Health and Wellness Items
    A fitness tracker, yoga mat, or subscription to a wellness app can resonate with their interest in health
    So to help you ease from the scrolling, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the gifts to purchase for the Virgo in your life.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Instagram @jesshunt2 More

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    20 business lunches to book for a midday break in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    23 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 20 IMAGES
    Known for its vibrant dining scene, Dubai has a plethora of restaurants with a host of irresistible business lunches you simply can’t miss.
    Designed for a luxe networking experience or even to take a break from the mundane routine of a 9 to 5, a business lunch is quick, convenient and fancy, making it the perfect meal to savour in the emirate.
    If you need to recharge those creativity levels and tuck into lunch outside the office or if you have to sign a business deal with a client, there are plenty of business lunches in Dubai to choose from.
    Quite often it’s important to have a change of scenery during the day to switch off for an hour and simply laugh and unwind. Dubai is home to several  Michelin-recognised spots in Dubai, Green star, and Bib Gourmand spots where the finest quality resides.
    Hence, with our hectic schedules and day-to-day meetings, trying out new spots can be a challenge, which is why several top-rated eateries in town offer set business lunch menus for the busy bees in the city. From LPM to Zuma, the city offers the best without breaking the bank.
    So, if you’re looking for where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of fine-dining restaurants in Dubai for an elegant midday meal.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber @ana_elisa_ More

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    9 relaxing boutique hotels in the UAE to unwind at

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 9 IMAGES
    What is on offer once you arrive are some of the most remarkable boutique hotels in the world.
    These intimate hideaways are designed for a more relaxing experience with your friends and families, while getting the best of both worlds through art and culture.
    From quirky restaurants to murals created by local artists, each element is carefully sought-after and designed to perfection for a wholesome experience. Be it loft-style settings or a traditional Bedouin style aesthetic, each theme is carefully considered for a memorable journey.
    With a boutique hotel room to check into, you will not only enjoy all of the luxury this part of the UAE has to offer. But also be able to enjoy some quirky room features, design aesthetics, and one-off hotel room layouts. Always check the full-service description of each boutique hotel. So you know more than just the rating of the property but also whether it provides parking services. It is ideal if you are driving from the airport or arriving by road from across the desert. Note, too, that some of the best hotels in the UAE provide special offers to international guests. Therefore, despite the luxury on offer, you can expect some great prices.
    Overall, the options are vast and varied. We’ve eliminated the guesswork and rounded up our favourite Dubai hotels for all travel preferences. Here is our tried-and-tested pick of the best hotels in emirate.
    If you’re looking for a midweek escape or weekend retreat at any of these authentic stays, swipe throught. Emirates Woman has curated a guide of the best boutique hotels that emulate a new side of Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @Zozoewitherspoon More

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    In pics: Inside Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick’s dreamy wedding

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    9 seconds ago

    The newlywed couple lit our Instagram feed with their stunning wedding this week. Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick had a dreamy wedding in the heart of Italy.
    “The journey has just begun,” the Gossip Girl alum, 37, wrote via an Instagram post on Sunday, August 25, 2024 sharing portraits from their ceremony.

    Dawned in a stunning white gown she complemented her bridal look with a long veil. She can be seen holding a bouquet. Ed Westwick was dressed in a white Tuxedo. In one click, the newlyweds can be seen posing for the camera. In the other click, Ed can be seen looking at Amy while her eyes are fixed on camera.
    Jackson wore a custom gown by Italian designer Alberta Ferretti and a separate outfit by Pronovias Atelier for the reception.
    Along with the sumptuous food, pastry chef Damiano Carrara also created chocolates to honour Westwick’s late mother and father, Carole and Peter. The strawberry and meringue-inspired chocolates had his parents’ names engraved into them and were given to guests as wedding favours.
    Ahead of the wedding, the couple hosted a pre-wedding party on a luxurious yacht.
    Background
    The couple initially sparked romance rumors in June 2022 when they were seen holding hands in London. Later that month, the twosome made their romance Instagram official when the former Miss Teen World shared a photo putting her arms around Westwick. The White Gold star, for his part, debuted their relationship via his account one month later.

    In 2022, Jackson and Westwick made their relationship Instagram official. The duo then got engaged in Gstaad, Switzerland in January, 2024. In the caption, Jackson confirmed that she got engaged during the winter trip. “Hell YES,” she wrote, alongside a ring emoji.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    How I got my job as… Founder of this sustainably sourced Matcha brand

    This week we speak to Louisa Birkhahn, CEO & Founder of Matcha Union, of this global wellness and lifestyle brand.
    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible wellness, fashion and beauty entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    Keen to share the smooth, full-bodied taste of sustainably sourced Japanese Matcha and it’s plethora of health benefits on a wider scale, goal is to place your wellbeing at the very core of this community and maybe see you swap your coffee for something slighter greener.
    The brand emphasises enjoying Matcha as a way to promote personal well-being and build community. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a ritual for finding balance and rejuvenation, and for connecting with others, reflecting the significant role that Matcha has played throughout Japanese history.
    To delve into Birkhahn’s journey, Emirates Woman spoke to her on how her holistic journey began for launching Matcha Union.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    My favorite subjects were Economics and Art—kind of opposites, but I’ve always been drawn to both the analytical side of numbers and my creative expression of art. This blend of interests has definitely influenced my approach to business.

    What was your first job?
    My first underage job was working in my parents’ pharmacies. Later, as part of a school placement, I worked as a Corporate Lifestyle Manager at Quintessentially, managing high-net-worth individuals. This experience taught me a lot about planning, client relations and customer service.
    Have you been to Dubai?
    Yes, many times! I used to live there and now visit frequently. I love the energy, the blend of cultures, and the dynamic lifestyle that Dubai offers.
    What inspired you to enter the matcha space and launch your own match brand, Matcha Union?
    I was never really a coffee drinker. During my travels, I discovered the profound benefits of Matcha and its integral role in Eastern culture, particularly in Japan. I was captivated by how Matcha not only provides sustained energy and focus but also promotes a sense of calm and wellness. At the time, only the US and Australia had adopted Matcha as a wellness drink. I wanted to share these benefits with a broader audience and create a product that embodies sustainability, quality, and health. Thus, Matcha Union was born to offer premium Matcha that can seamlessly fit into anyone’s daily routine, providing both energy and balance.
    Talk us through the concept of Matcha Union.
    The name “Matcha Union” embodies our core philosophy of creating harmonious unions—between people, the environment, and the ritual of preparing and enjoying Matcha. It represents the blend of tradition and modern wellness, as well as the interconnectedness we aim to cultivate within our community and individual wellbeing. Our sustainably sourced, vibrant green Matcha and its health benefits are the foundation of everything we do, but our focus is on building a community that makes Matcha even more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    Like anyone who has started their own business, I wear many hats. One day I’m acting as a marketer, the next I’m focused on business development, accounting, or supply chain management. Since my team is very small, I do it all. The key elements include strategic planning—like managing the supply chain and planning product launches—followed by creative implementation and marketing. Operations management is also crucial, ensuring that our product moves seamlessly from the farm to your cup. And of course, our customers and problem-solving are constant priorities.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I start my mornings with warm lemon water, followed by celery juice, which has done wonders for my gut health. Then I usually do a quick 20-30 minute Pilates workout at home. I reward myself with a smoothie bowl and a Matcha latte while checking my emails. This routine helps me set a positive tone for the rest of the day, and I always look forward to it in the evening! I work until the evening, with a break for lunch and probably a second Matcha. I work remotely, so the location varies, but the routine usually stays the same. I try to unwind by 7 pm, usually in time to prep dinner or get ready for it.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    My advice would be to stay true to your vision and remain patient. Building something meaningful takes time, and there will be challenges along the way. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek advice when needed, and never stop learning. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and trust your instincts instead of listening to others —ultimately, it’s you who will make this happen!
    Tell us more about the products offered?
    At Matcha Union, we offer a range of premium, ceremonial grade and flavored Matcha, sourced from the best regions in Japan. We also provide Ritual and Ceremony Sets, which include everything needed for traditional Matcha preparation. Our products are designed to fit seamlessly into daily routines, whether you prefer a simple cup of Matcha Tea or want to be creative.
    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to trust the process. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s important to stay committed and resilient, even when things get tough.
    And what is the worst?
    The worst advice I’ve received was to “play it safe.” In my experience, taking calculated risks has always led to the most significant growth and opportunities. Playing it safe often means missing out on what could be great.

    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    The biggest challenge I’ve faced was launching and growing Matcha Union during the COVID-19 pandemic. The uncertainty and rapidly changing circumstances required quick adaptation and innovative thinking. It was a challenging time, but it also strengthened my resolve and taught me the importance of flexibility and resilience.
    What’s your future for the brand?
    My vision for Matcha Union is to continue expanding globally while staying true to our core values of quality, sustainability, and community. I hope to introduce more people to the benefits of Matcha and create a larger, more connected community around wellness. We also plan to innovate with new products and sustainable practices that align with our mission.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More