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    7 fabulous things to do in UAE this weekend

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Your ultimate weekend guide – November 24 to November 26, 2023.
    Enjoy authentic Florentine dishes

    True to its name, the Italian fine dining restaurant Chic Nonna encapsulates the spirit of Italy with its authentic menu – served with dose of chic on the side. The revamped menu highlights a wide range of classic, seasonal dishes from age-old recipes to innovate creations by Head Chef Francesco Torcasio and Group Executive Chef Giuseppe Pezzella that are steeped in tradition and bursting with flavour, from pipettes, pastas, risottos to meat and seafood options. The standouts? The Carpaccio di Fassona with parmigiana reggiano, wild arugula coulis, artichoke dressing and truffle, the pan-fried Dover Sole with lemon, capers and brown-butter sauce, the chef-recommended Bavette Nerano pasta with zucchini, basil, Provolone del Monaco cheese and lastly, the Vassoio di Pasticceria, a beautifully wrapped pastry tray of assorted Italian Pasticcini.
    For reservations, visit chicnonna.com
    Marvel at this must-see public art show

    On view at ICD Brookfield Place until January 3, 2024, Kuwaiti artist Monira Al Qadiri’s “Floating Worlds” exhibition features fossil fuel resources transformed into tangible metallic art objects and larger-than-life inflatable floating sculptures. The visual spectacle explores the fragility and perishability of energy resources, echoing the importance of discussions on the climate crisis and sustainability.
    Pamper yourself to an exclusive wellness session

    Over the next four months, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi will be hosting residencies of world-class wellness masters Jimmy Jarnet, Justin Andries, Dr Buathon Thienarrom and Milena Naydenov.
    Wellness designer Jimmy Jarnet will be kicking off the exclusive experience from today until November 29, 2023, offering guests moments to pamper through his hyper-personalized programs such as The Ultimate Massage Experience (Dhs1,435 for 55 minutes/Dhs1,800 for 75 minutes) and personal training sessions (Dhs825 for 55 minutes) for a holistic body and mind symbiosis.
    For more information and reservations, visit mandarinoriental.com/en/abu-dhabi/emirates-palace/spa or call +971 2 690 7885.
    Book a new nightlife experience

    Tucked away behind a concealed door inside ALAYA, this underground lounge is the latest exclusive club in DIFC. From 11pm to 3am, the refined speakeasy brings a new nightlife energy featuring unique after-hours entertainment and exclusive parties like no other to the region in an opulent Bedouin-inspired interior setting.
    For bookings and reservation, visit alayarestaurants.com or e-mail reservations@lyladubai.com
    Lunch with a view

    The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, introduces the Laurent Perrier Garden, a luxurious retreat for French bubbly enthusiasts, where guests can enjoy a dish and a glass of bubbles from Dhs100. Nestled within the lush grounds of The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, this location is an outdoor oasis, perfect to celebrate big-little moments in life this season. The lip-smacking menu includes a variety of delectable dishes, such as Oyster Fine de Claire, Cured Salmon on Blinis, Burratina, Tartare De Boeuf, Tempura Maki, Chevre Cigar, Beef Cheeks Croquettes, and Prawns Anticuchos.
    For more information and reservations, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/dubai
    Shop till you drop

    The jaw-dropping Black Friday deals are officially here – you can now until your wallets are dry. The Luxury Closet has a massive discount on all your favourtie leather goods – whether you’re looking to invest in a plus new luxury bag or hoping to buy a pre-loved arm candy, now is the time to do so.  From Louis Vuitton and YSL to Dior and Goyard, the options are endless.
    For more information visit theluxurycloset.com
    Indulge in seasonal sweet treats

    Celebrate the season with Magnolia Bakery’s limited-edition Red Velvet Banana Pudding, a delightful twist on the classic favorite. This fan-favorite features a blend of vanilla pudding, red velvet cake, fresh bananas, and chocolate chips, available in sizes from small to large. Cupcake enthusiasts can indulge in the luscious Red Velvet Whiteout and Chocolate Peppermint cupcakes. The product of the month, Red Velvet Banana Pudding Cookies, offers a perfect fusion of soft-baked banana pudding and melt-in-the-mouth cookies. Don’t miss the Favor Box, combining an assortment of best-selling cookies for the ultimate festive treat.
    For more information visit www.magnoliabakery.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @tialineker More

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    What is UAE Flag Day? Everything to know about how it all began

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    4 hours ago

    All set to take place on November 3, UAE Flag Day marks a prestigious day for the country.
    While there is no official day off for UAE Flag Day, it’s a day of significance as it marks the day when the late His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan ascended into the role of President of the UAE.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, even shared a message of importance earlier this week to mark UAE Flag Day.
    “We call on our citizens, organisations, and ministries to hoist the flag simultaneously on November 3 at 11:00 am to express the unity of our home and our destiny,” he said on Twitter.
    But what exactly is UAE Flag Day? Emirates Woman is here to highlight everything you need to know.
    What is UAE Flag Day?
    UAE Flag Day was first launched in 2013 and is celebrated every year on November 3. However, it is not recognised as a public holiday.
    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was the one with the idea to launch the annual Flag Day as a commemoration to Sheikh Khalifa who was elected President of the UAE on November 3, 2004.
    The history of the UAE flag
    The UAE flag was designed in 1971 by 19-year-old Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, who was inspired by a poem of Safiul Din Al Holi in his design. The poem touches on the themes of benevolence, goodness and kindness, which are represented in the colours of the flag.
    Last year, the now President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan explained the UAE flag is “an enduring display of national unity”.

    قبل خمسين عاماً، توحد شعبنا واجتمعت كلمته تحت راية واحدة، وفي “يوم العلم” نجدد العهد مع الوطن بقيادة الشيخ خليفة بأن تبقى رايته مصدر فخرنا واعتزازنا ورمزاً لقوة وحدتنا. pic.twitter.com/UyQPBASZgM
    — محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) November 3, 2021

    The flag was designed in 1971 by 19-year-old Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, who was inspired by a poem by Safiul Din Al Holi in his design. The poem touches on the themes of benevolence, goodness and kindness, which are represented in the colours of the flag.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Unsplash More

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    UAE launches compassionate relief effort for Gaza, extending a helping hand

    In a compassionate initiative, the UAE has launched the ‘Tarahum’ campaign to offer essential humanitarian support to Palestinian families and children affected by the conflict in Gaza.
    Emirates Red Crescent has established multiple donation centers throughout Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, where the public can contribute food, hygiene essentials, and healthcare supplies for the humanitarian aid packages.

    In Dubai, collections can be made at Emirates Red Crescent Headquarters in Al Quoz, Umm Ramool, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Al Shindagha, City Centre Meaisem, City Centre Mirdif, and Arabian Centre.
    In Sharjah, donation centers are available at Nekheelat Authority Office, Sharjah Co-operative Society in Helwan and Al Dhaid, as well as Lulu Hypermarket in Al Hazana.

    In Abu Dhabi, donors can drop off contributions at various Emirates Red Crescent locations, including the headquarters, Carrefour on Airport Road, Marina Mall Caravan, Shahama, Baniyas Co-operative Society, Khalifa City, Baniyas City, and Al Shawamekh.
    Fujairah also joins the cause with seven donation sites, including the Emirates Red Crescent Headquarters, Al Bustan Hall, Masafi Council, Bidiyah Council, Hawaya Suburb in Khorfakkan, Suhaila Suburb in Kaiba, and Dibba Fujairah Co-operative Society for Fishermen.
    The donations will be categorized into three humanitarian aid packages for children, women, and food. For those seeking guidance, a comprehensive list of required items for each category is available. Alternatively, cash contributions can be made through the official Emirates Red Crescent website.
    Notably, H.H Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has already allocated Dhs73.5 million in humanitarian aid, while H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, directed an additional Dhs50 million for this humanitarian cause.
    This aid will be channeled through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Emirates Red Crescent More

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    Nurai Island: A paradise in Abu Dhabi that is redefining luxury with tailored attendants

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Nurai Island, an exclusive haven nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, unveils its much-anticipated concierge service.
    This extraordinary offering has been available for all guests since September 1, 2023. It has redefined the art of luxurious getaways.

    The dedicated attendants are dedicated to anticipating and fulfilling every guest’s desires, from ensuring seamless arrivals and departures to streamlining the packing and unpacking processes, in addition to providing elite concierge amenities.
    Patrons will revel in the ease of having a single point of contact, forging an entirely bespoke experience.
    Understanding the preferences of visitors, whether for dining, entertainment, or celebrating special occasions, and delivering a custom-tailored experience while preserving a discreet presence, lies at the core of their concierge service.

    From personalized amenities to carefully curated itineraries, each experience is finely tuned to harmonize with the guest’s personality and purpose of visit. The attendants will subtly add unique touches, be it preferred blossoms, a delectable cake, or a sumptuous dish imbued with an extra dash of refinement and luxury.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Breaking News: A new advanced Abu Dhabi terminal is set to open this November

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    With the post-pandemic travel boom, airports continue to be the busiest arena for international passengers and Abu Dhabi is set to open another Terminal to accommodate the influx of travellers.
    By paving the way for technological advances, Terminal A will offer a seamless biometric journey from pre-travel to the boarding gate, with its self-service kiosks, streamlined security checkpoints and well-equipped baggage handling systems.

    Scheduled to begin operations in early November 2023, this world-class facility will be fully equipped with its evolving transportation infrastructure, to accommodate 11,000 passengers per hour to operate 79 aircrafts at any given time.
    Spanning across 742,000 square metres, this one-of-a-kind airport lies at the beacon of modernity and sophistication with an appeal to both leisure and business travellers. With over 163 retail, food and beverage outlets, a wide variety of tastes and preferences can be catered to.
    His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “As Abu Dhabi’s new gateway to the world, Terminal A is an embodiment of Abu Dhabi Airports’ commitment to support the emirate’s sustainable economic development.”
    “The opening of the facility, which is on par with the largest and grandest on our planet, turns over a new page in Abu Dhabi’s 55-year aviation history,” he shared.

    For those who wish to unwind, the airport will feature an array of world-class amenities such as luxurious lounges, relaxation zones and spa facilities to feel at east prior and post travelling,
    By adding to the architecture of Abu Dhabi’s cityscape, this structure blends modern, lightweight aesthetics with functionality by keeping sustainability in mind with energy-efficient lighting, advanced heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems and sustainable materials used for its construction.
    For more information visit abudhabiairports.com.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @rimowa More

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    Etihad and Emirates collaborate to give travellers to the UAE a flexible itinerary option

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    With the new deal signed both tourists and residents now have a flexible travel option in the UAE.
    For a seamless return from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, customers from each airline cab now have this option when they purchase a return ticket from either Emirates or Etihad. With tickets from either of the airlines, customers can choose which airport to arrive at.
    Known as an ‘interline agreement’, this partnership came into light at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) by representatives of both airlines. As the first of its kind, it allows you to buy a ticket to either Dubai or Abu Dhabi and return seamlessly via the other airport.
    With the purpose of attracting more visitors by developing inbound interline traffic from select points in Europe and China. As a means to cater to the influx of tourism and cater to their needs, this collaboration is a one-of-a-kind partnership in the airline industry.

    The President of Emirates Airlines, Tim Clark said, “We are pleased to be working again with Etihad Airways – this time to allow each carrier to offer a new range of seamless travel options in and out of the UAE.”
    Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways echoed the same enthusiasm for the relationship, stating: “We’re delighted to partner with Emirates in our shared mission to support inbound tourism to the UAE and facilitate travel to our vibrant cities.”
    So, for an enhanced travel experience, this partnership promises a convenient itinerary for your next trip.
    For more information visit emirates.com and Etihad.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @emirates & @etihad More

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    UAE Green Visa: Here’s how freelancers and skilled workers can get 5-year residency

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    If you want to move to UAE without being tied to an employer, the UAE Green visa is tailor-made for you.
    UAE’s Green visa allows its holder to sponsor themselves for 5 years without the requirement of a UAE national or employer to do the same.
    As per Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO), the vision behind this new visa is to make the job market more felxible and invite extraordinary talent from across the globe to UAE. It comes with  not just a long-term residency solution but also serves more benefits to the families of the visa holder, as opposed to those with a standard residence visa.

    Who is eligible for this visa?
    Freelancers, self-employed and skilled employees can apply for a Green visa.
    Benefits of the Green Visa
    Removes  the need for employment to reside in the UAE.
    Allows sponsorship for sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters of any age.
    The Green Visa also offers an extended grace period of six months after the 5-year validity is over.
    Application criterias for freelancers and/or self-employed people
    Freelancers and/or self-employed need to submit a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources.
    Emiratisation proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma.
    Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to not less than AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
    Application criterias for Skilled employees
    Must have a valid employment contract.
    Should be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per Ministry of Human Resources.
    Hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
    Have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
    Application criteria for investors
    Approval from the ICP on the investment as per the investors’ rating system.
    Investment proof, if the investor/partner has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated accordingly.
    Approval from competent local authorities.
    Green Visa process and cost
    Visit www.gdrfad.gov.ae or download the GDRFA-Dubai application.
    Create a new user account.
    Select the required service – Issuance of entry permit for green residence under Entry Permissions
    Click on the relevant subcategory: Skilled worker, investor, partner or freelance work
    Attach the required documents
    Pay the fees due for the service (Dhs2,280)
    Submit the request
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Instagram More

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    When is the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr long weekend for UAE’s public sector?

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    As per the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, dates have confirmed the Eid Al Fitr holiday period for the public sector (Government workers) in the Islamic Calendar (Hijri).
    A post on Twitter has been shared announcing that the Eid al-Fitr holiday for the Federal Government is from Ramadan 29 until the Shawwal 3.

    Eid al –Fitr holiday for the Federal Government from 29th of Ramadan until the 03rd of Shawwal pic.twitter.com/P3UVvglmfy
    — FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) April 13, 2023

    However, the moon-sighting committee will convene on the night Ramadan 29 to confirm the dates of Eid. Depending on this, the holiday could begin from Thursday, April 20 and run until Sunday, April 23, with regular working hours then resuming on Monday, April 24, 2023.
    How long is the break for?
    The Eid Al Fitr holiday will begin on Thursday April 20 in the UAE.
    This completely depends on when the moon is sighted The start date of the break does not depend on when the moon is sighted as Ramadan 29 falls on April 20. If the moon is spotted on that night, the break is from Thursday, April 20, until Sunday, April 23.
    If the moon is not seen on that night, residents will have an additional day off since Ramadan 30 will also be a holiday. It’s still yet to be confirmed by the sighting of the moon as to whether the Eid break will be four or five days, but work will resume either on Monday April 24 or Tuesday April 25, depending on whether Ramadan is 29 or 30 days.
    What is Eid Al Fitr?
    In the Islamic Calendar, Eid Al Fitr marks the official end of Ramadan and is the first day of Shawwal. During the Holy Month Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset for around 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of fasting, and literally translates in English to the “feast of breaking the fast”.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @abudhabi More