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    10 best matcha spots to try in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Move over macchiatos, step aside soy lattes, everyone is under the spell of matcha these days.
    This vibrant powdered green tea is taking the UAE by storm, and for good reason. Forget the jitters and afternoon crashes associated with coffee, the Japanese wonder offers a calm focus fueled by L-theanine, an amino acid known for its relaxing properties. Basically, it’s like sipping serenity in a cup.

    Looking for the perfect spot to everyone’s favourite beverage in Dubai + Abu Dhabi? We’re about to spill the tea (pun intended) on the top spots to find your perfect cup of green goodness, all boasting a minimalist aesthetic to match your zen vibes.
    Dubai
    The Matcha Tokyo

    The Matcha Tokyo, a renowned Japanese matcha brand announces its debut in Dubai with an aesthetically pleasing kiosk nestled in JBR. Trademark  drink? The velvety Matcha Latte, a fusion of rich matcha and milk, and the bold Matcha Coffee Latte, blending matcha with coffee.
    Blu Matcha (Multiple Locations)

    This dedicated matcha haven is a dream come true for green tea enthusiasts.From their classic Matcha Latte to playful creations like the Ube Matcha Latte, Blu Matcha offers a full spectrum of matcha experiences. Plus, their locations boast a clean, modern design with pops of green, making it an Instagrammable paradise.
    The Edit (Alserkal Avenue)

    Fashionistas rejoice! You can now fuel your shopping sprees with a guilt-free matcha fix at The Edit. Tucked away within this stylish boutique, their dedicated matcha bar offers a variety of lattes and iced beverages.
    Orto Cafe (Dubai Canal)

    Craving a green fix with a view? Look no further than Orto Cafe. This serene spot overlooking the Dubai Canal offers a picture-perfect setting to enjoy their Matcha Smoothie Bowl – a healthy and delicious blend of matcha, fruit, and granola.
    Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar (Alserkal Avenue)

    This industrial-chic haven offers a haven for true tea enthusiasts. Their matcha latte is a revelation – pure, ceremonial-grade powder whisked to perfection.
    Nette (Al Quoz)

    Nestled within Dubai’s trendy padel court complex, Nette offers a Californian vibe with a strong matcha focus. Don’t miss their milkshake, a playful yet sophisticated blend of green tea, vanilla ice cream, and almond milk.
    Abu Dhabi
    LOCAL (Al Zeina & Mamsha Al Saadiyat)

    This bright and airy cafe is a minimalist dream. Their grass green Latte is a crowd-pleaser, offering a smooth and creamy experience that won’t overwhelm your taste buds.
    Coffee Architecture

    The vibe tilts towards less-is-more but the drinks here do the most. If that doesn’t do it for here, try the iced matcha-based latte and come back for more.
    Salt & Caramel

    If you live in Abu Dhabi, tuck yourself away to their quaint cafe and find your corner where you can curl up with a book and a warm concoction to keep you company.
    Ava Cafe

    Soaked in that minimalistic-yet-vintage vibe, Ava Cafe takes the Matcha-game to a whole new level with drinks like cold fluffy matcha lattes and iced  tonics to savor on summer days.
    So there you have it, folks! Your ultimate guide for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Now go forth, sip green, and embrace the zen!
    Looking to upgrade your summer wardrobe? Stock these breezy dresses, all under Dhs500 for all your summer matcha runs:

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

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    EW-approved matcha spots to visit in Dubai + Abu Dhabi

    Lifeby Ruman Baig2 hours ago Move over macchiatos, step aside soy lattes, everyone is under the spell of matcha these days.This vibrant powdered green tea is taking the UAE by storm, and for good reason. Forget the jitters and afternoon crashes associated with coffee, the Japanese wonder offers a calm focus fueled by L-theanine, an amino acid known for its relaxing properties. Basically, it’s like sipping serenity in a cup.Looking for the perfect spot to everyone’s favourite beverage in Dubai + Abu Dhabi? We’re about to spill the tea (pun intended) on the top spots to find your perfect cup of green goodness, all boasting a minimalist aesthetic to match your zen vibes.DubaiBlu Matcha (Multiple Locations)This dedicated matcha haven is a dream come true for green tea enthusiasts.From their classic Matcha Latte to playful creations like the Ube Matcha Latte, Blu Matcha offers a full spectrum of matcha experiences. Plus, their locations boast a clean, modern design with pops of green, making it an Instagrammable paradise.The Edit (Alserkal Avenue)Fashionistas rejoice! You can now fuel your shopping sprees with a guilt-free matcha fix at The Edit. Tucked away within this stylish boutique, their dedicated matcha bar offers a variety of lattes and iced beverages.Orto Cafe (Dubai Canal)Craving a green fix with a view? Look no further than Orto Cafe. This serene spot overlooking the Dubai Canal offers a picture-perfect setting to enjoy their Matcha Smoothie Bowl – a healthy and delicious blend of matcha, fruit, and granola.Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar (Alserkal Avenue)This industrial-chic haven offers a haven for true tea enthusiasts. Their matcha latte is a revelation – pure, ceremonial-grade powder whisked to perfection.Nette (Al Quoz)Nestled within Dubai’s trendy padel court complex, Nette offers a Californian vibe with a strong matcha focus. Don’t miss their milkshake, a playful yet sophisticated blend of green tea, vanilla ice cream, and almond milk.Abu DhabiLOCAL (Al Zeina & Mamsha Al Saadiyat)This bright and airy cafe is a minimalist dream. Their grass green Latte is a crowd-pleaser, offering a smooth and creamy experience that won’t overwhelm your taste buds.Coffee ArchitectureThe vibe tilts towards less-is-more but the drinks here do the most. If that doesn’t do it for here, try the iced matcha-based latte and come back for more.Salt & CaramelIf you live in Abu Dhabi, tuck yourself away to their quaint cafe and find your corner where you can curl up with a book and a warm concoction to keep you company.Ava CafeSoaked in that minimalistic-yet-vintage vibe, Ava Cafe takes the Matcha-game to a whole new level with drinks like cold fluffy matcha lattes and iced  tonics to savor on summer days.So there you have it, folks! Your ultimate guide for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Now go forth, sip green, and embrace the zen!Looking to upgrade your summer wardrobe? Stock these breezy dresses, all under Dhs500 for all your summer matcha runs:– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram: @yaraalnamlah More

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    20 aesthetic coffee spots to unwind in Dubai

    If there’s one thing Dubai isn’t short of, it’s all the aesthetic coffee shops that allow one to unwind at.From getting your daily caffeine fix to embracing a café with minimal interiors, there are plenty of options that offer both.For adding to your list of must-visit cafés, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of where all you need to go next.The GreyThis bespoke coffee haven is the newest epicentre for creative freedom, where a subtle yet charming aura is felt throughout the space. From luxe coffees to a relaxing meeting place, for different cultures, minds and communities to unite, The Grey is definitely a must-visit here in Dubai. Located on Al Wasl Road, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.For more information visit the-grey.coHealThis minimal café situated in the heart of Dubai concentrates on keeping it clean with its refreshing interiors and neutral tones. Designed with sleek furniture, this café is the next Instagrammable spot to be at. With a refreshing design and an impressive menu, this luxe spot is a world away from the everyday. It’s open daily from 7am to 11pm and is located in Umm Suqeim on 30 Al Manara Rd.DropThis speciality Dubai-based café has revolutionised the coffee experience in the emirate, with its team of experts who use nine different brewing techniques while delivering a unique experience to all its visitors. Drop Dubai is open from 10am to 11pm, with one of its locations being on Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, entrance 3, shop 72.For more information visit dropdubai.aeAlchemyWith a minimal mindset approach, Alchemy came about with a passion for coffee spurred from ethical single farms where it’s roasted to perfection to enjoy it will all your loved ones in the heart of Dubai. For a redefined coffee experience, visit Alchemy which is open on weekdays from 8am to 10pm and on weekends from 8am to 11pm.For more information visit alchemydubai.comPARKAEscape the ordinary with this minimalist coffee shop, that offers a calming ambience to help you refuel for the day. With simple interiors and delicious coffee, ranging from hot to cold brews with alternative milk preferences, guests are sure to enjoy this refreshing space in Dubai. Complimenting the coffee is a range of decadent pastries, muffins, tarts and croissants to ensure you relax, snack and unwind with your loved ones. Located in Town Square, it’s open daily from 7:30am to 11pm.Café OtakuOffering authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Dubai Design District, Otaku embodied the philosophy of home throughout its layout. From a welcoming entrance to modern aesthetics, the café celebrates the minimal elements throughout the experience. Known for their speciality coffee and delicious Japanese pancakes, the café reflects the overarching simplicity of Japanese design. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 8am to 10:30pm and Friday to Sunday 8am to 11:30pm.Comptoir 102This award-winning ethical concept is tucked away on Jumeirah road offering conscious choices with ingredients sourced from local organic farms, serving delicious food while promoting sustainability. From homemade nut milk to its famous smoothies, there’s enough and more for everyone who visits. This eatery is open daily from 8am to 10pm.For more information visit comptoir102.comTom & SergThe Melbournian-inspired café has become the city’s favourite not-so-hidden gems with good food, great coffee and excellent vibes while also transforming this warehouse space into a cultural delight to include start-up galleries, food concepts and coffee roasters. Serving plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, the menu caters to a dynamic palate with fresh ingredients. It’s located in Al Quoz and is open from Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm and Saturday to Sunday 8am to 6pm.Brunch & CakeWith a fresh needed space added to Dubai’s dining scene, this unique spot offers a wide range of spectacular dishes in a chic relaxed setting with delicious Instagrammable breakfast staples. There are three locations in Dubai at Jumeirah Islands, The Pointe and Wasl 51, ensuring each visit is a memorable one.For more information visit brunchandcake.comCassetteThis homegrown gem is a modern Parisian bistro celebrating food, music, art and design with dishes that evoke subtle hints of French familiarity in their flavours with a wide range of diners and tastes. Located at The Courtyard in Al Quoz, this getaway has the very best curated content in food making it an ideal breakfast spot while you get your creative juices flowing. From food, coffee, inspiration work or a catchup with friends, you’re sure to feel inspired every time you visit. It’s open daily from 8am to 6pm.For more information visit cassette.aeThe Hamptons CaféInspired by the distinctive charm of New York, this boutique café is nestled in some of the most popular locations in Dubai and is famous for its flavourful and picturesque breakfast spreads with a combination of light and hearty meals, while offering reinterpreted classics. The all-day breakfast menu has been curated to stay true to the Hamptonian tradition of hearty and simple to ensure freshness. It’s located in JBR, Islands and Arabian Ranches.For more information visit hamptonsdubai.comNightjar CoffeeLocated in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, Nightjar is known for its delicious coffee options and extensive range of creative cold brew teas. With nitro-infused formulas, Nightjar has become an artisanal coffee roasting platform with cold brew production. Known for sourcing their coffee beans from ethical sites, it allows them to meet the farmers, ensuring a seamless process from a great coffee bean to roast. The eatery is open daily from 10am to 9pm and is located in Unit G62.For more information visit nightjar.coffee/shop/The LighthouseThis restaurant and concept store sits at the intersection of food, creativity and design. With a menu focusing on Mediterranean-inspired delights, guests can choose from a myriad of dishes prepared with fresh seasonal produce. By incorporating the principles of fresh eating, each dish is prepared with nothing but the best ingredients. Adding to the venue’s charm is a minimal shop that boasts a handpicked selection of gifting merchandise including glassware, travel and lifestyle accessories by a pool of unique designers. Located in building 6 of Dubai Design District, Mall of the Emirates and Nakheel Mall at The Palm, it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm and Thursday and Friday 8am to 11pm.For more information visit thelighthouse.aeFriends Avenue CaféWith a fresh blend of all your favourites including Açai bowls, gourmet burgers, a breakfast-style menu and healthy smoothies, Friends Avenue Café lets you enjoy your food completely guilt-free. Aimed to provide food that reminds you of home, this concept launched in 2015 and has been a hit ever since. Located in Fortune Executive Tower, Cluster T and Motor City, it’s open daily from 7am onwards.For more information visit friendsavenue.aeCommon GroundsThis relaxed epicurean escape serves an array of wholesome dishes with ingredients that are beautifully sourced packed with goodness. Located at balcony level 2, building 5, DIFC, JBR, Mall of the Emirates, JLT and soon to open in Dubai Hills and Nakheel Mall, making it the perfect neighbourhood space with warm wooden finishes. It’s open from 8am onwards until different timings at each location.For more information visit commongroundsdubai.comAmongst FewThis 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 a creative space. Located in Villa 3 on Al Wasl Road, Palm Strip and Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 9am to 7pm.For more information visit amongstfewcafe.comSocietyThis aesthetic café is known for its visually appealing textures and Instagram-worthy dishes. From delicious coffees to appetizing dishes, this bespoke haven is surely one visit. The dishes vary from their mouth-watering shibuya toast to a honey cake with several layers of perfection. It’s open daily from 8am to 11pm for all-day dining and breakfast until 3pm and is located in Jumeirah 1.MyocumLocated in Dar Wasl Mall, this cafe brings the essence of Australian coffee and cuisine to Dubai. Their coffee is some of the best you’ll find in the UAE and hero dishes include the Halloumi Hash Burger and Casuarina Toast. As a result of the friendship between coffee and great food, Myocum was born. It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 7am to 11pm and Friday and Saturday 7am to 12am.For more information visit myocumdubai.comCafe Villa515This social spot has a workspace, food and coffee moments all combined into one place. With sophisticated interiors and tranquil space, this venue is definitely one to add to your list for a catchup with your friends or family. The timings are from 8am to 10pm and It’s located in Villa 515, Jumeirah Beach Road.L’Occitane CaféBringing together a fusion of delicious flavours with something to delight all taste buds, while serving the classic breakfast staples in Dubai and transporting you to the South of France with a multi-sensory journey. It’s located at Citywalk and is open on weekdays from 9am to 11am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.For more information with ae.loccitane.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram, Feature Image: Instagram @veneti.a More

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    20 aesthetic coffee spots to visit in Dubai ASAP

    If there’s one thing Dubai isn’t short of, it’s all the cafés that allow one to unwind in.
    From getting your daily caffeine fix to embracing a café with minimal interiors, there are plenty of options that offer both.
    For adding to your list of must-visit cafés, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of where all you need to go next.
    The Grey

    This bespoke coffee haven is the newest epicentre for creative freedom, where a subtle yet charming aura is felt throughout the space. From luxe coffees to a relaxing meeting place, for different cultures, minds and communities to unite, The Grey is definitely a must-visit here in Dubai. Located on Al Wasl Road, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
    For more information visit the-grey.co
    Heal

    This minimal café situated in the heart of Dubai concentrates on keeping it clean with its refreshing interiors and neutral tones. Designed with sleek furniture, this café is the next Instagrammable spot to be at. With a refreshing design and an impressive menu, this luxe spot is a world away from the everyday. It’s open daily from 7am to 11pm and is located in Umm Suqeim on 30 Al Manara Rd.
    Drop

    This speciality Dubai-based café has revolutionised the coffee experience in the emirate, with its team of experts who use nine different brewing techniques while delivering a unique experience to all its visitors. Drop Dubai is open from 10am to 11pm, with one of its locations being on Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, entrance 3, shop 72.
    For more information visit dropdubai.ae
    Alchemy

    With a minimal mindset approach, Alchemy came about with a passion for coffee spurred from ethical single farms where it’s roasted to perfection to enjoy it will all your loved ones in the heart of Dubai. For a redefined coffee experience, visit Alchemy which is open on weekdays from 8am to 10pm and on weekends from 8am to 11pm.
    For more information visit alchemydubai.com
    PARKA

    Escape the ordinary with this minimalist coffee shop, that offers a calming ambience to help you refuel for the day. With simple interiors and delicious coffee, ranging from hot to cold brews with alternative milk preferences, guests are sure to enjoy this refreshing space in Dubai. Complimenting the coffee is a range of decadent pastries, muffins, tarts and croissants to ensure you relax, snack and unwind with your loved ones. Located in Town Square, it’s open daily from 7:30am to 11pm.
    Café Otaku

    Offering authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Dubai Design District, Otaku embodied the philosophy of home throughout its layout. From a welcoming entrance to modern aesthetics, the café celebrates the minimal elements throughout the experience. Known for their speciality coffee and delicious Japanese pancakes, the café reflects the overarching simplicity of Japanese design. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 8am to 10:30pm and Friday to Sunday 8am to 11:30pm.
    Comptoir 102

    This award-winning ethical concept is tucked away on Jumeirah road offering conscious choices with ingredients sourced from local organic farms, serving delicious food while promoting sustainability. From homemade nut milk to its famous smoothies, there’s enough and more for everyone who visits. This eatery is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit comptoir102.com
    Tom & Serg

    The Melbournian-inspired café has become the city’s favourite not-so-hidden gems with good food, great coffee and excellent vibes while also transforming this warehouse space into a cultural delight to include start-up galleries, food concepts and coffee roasters. Serving plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, the menu caters to a dynamic palate with fresh ingredients. It’s located in Al Quoz and is open from Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm and Saturday to Sunday 8am to 6pm.
    Brunch & Cake

    With a fresh needed space added to Dubai’s dining scene, this unique spot offers a wide range of spectacular dishes in a chic relaxed setting with delicious Instagrammable breakfast staples. There are three locations in Dubai at Jumeirah Islands, The Pointe and Wasl 51, ensuring each visit is a memorable one.
    For more information visit brunchandcake.com
    Cassette

    This homegrown gem is a modern Parisian bistro celebrating food, music, art and design with dishes that evoke subtle hints of French familiarity in their flavours with a wide range of diners and tastes. Located at The Courtyard in Al Quoz, this getaway has the very best curated content in food making it an ideal breakfast spot while you get your creative juices flowing. From food, coffee, inspiration work or a catchup with friends, you’re sure to feel inspired every time you visit. It’s open daily from 8am to 6pm.
    For more information visit cassette.ae
    The Hamptons Café

    Inspired by the distinctive charm of New York, this boutique café is nestled in some of the most popular locations in Dubai and is famous for its flavourful and picturesque breakfast spreads with a combination of light and hearty meals, while offering reinterpreted classics. The all-day breakfast menu has been curated to stay true to the Hamptonian tradition of hearty and simple to ensure freshness. It’s located in JBR, Islands and Arabian Ranches.
    For more information visit hamptonsdubai.com
    Nightjar Coffee

    Located in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, Nightjar is known for its delicious coffee options and extensive range of creative cold brew teas. With nitro-infused formulas, Nightjar has become an artisanal coffee roasting platform with cold brew production. Known for sourcing their coffee beans from ethical sites, it allows them to meet the farmers, ensuring a seamless process from a great coffee bean to roast. The eatery is open daily from 10am to 9pm and is located in Unit G62.
    For more information visit nightjar.coffee/shop/
    The Lighthouse

    This restaurant and concept store sits at the intersection of food, creativity and design. With a menu focusing on Mediterranean-inspired delights, guests can choose from a myriad of dishes prepared with fresh seasonal produce. By incorporating the principles of fresh eating, each dish is prepared with nothing but the best ingredients. Adding to the venue’s charm is a minimal shop that boasts a handpicked selection of gifting merchandise including glassware, travel and lifestyle accessories by a pool of unique designers. Located in building 6 of Dubai Design District, Mall of the Emirates and Nakheel Mall at The Palm, it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm and Thursday and Friday 8am to 11pm.
    For more information visit thelighthouse.ae
    Friends Avenue Café

    With a fresh blend of all your favourites including Açai bowls, gourmet burgers, a breakfast-style menu and healthy smoothies, Friends Avenue Café lets you enjoy your food completely guilt-free. Aimed to provide food that reminds you of home, this concept launched in 2015 and has been a hit ever since. Located in Fortune Executive Tower, Cluster T and Motor City, it’s open daily from 7am onwards.
    For more information visit friendsavenue.ae
    Common Grounds

    This relaxed epicurean escape serves an array of wholesome dishes with ingredients that are beautifully sourced packed with goodness. Located at balcony level 2, building 5, DIFC, JBR, Mall of the Emirates, JLT and soon to open in Dubai Hills and Nakheel Mall, making it the perfect neighbourhood space with warm wooden finishes. It’s open from 8am onwards until different timings at each location.
    For more information visit commongroundsdubai.com
    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 a creative space. Located in Villa 3 on Al Wasl Road, Palm Strip and Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 9am to 7pm.
    For more information visit amongstfewcafe.com
    Society

    This aesthetic café is known for its visually appealing textures and Instagram-worthy dishes. From delicious coffees to appetizing dishes, this bespoke haven is surely one visit. The dishes vary from their mouth-watering shibuya toast to a honey cake with several layers of perfection. It’s open daily from 8am to 11pm for all-day dining and breakfast until 3pm and is located in Jumeirah 1.
    Myocum

    Located in Dar Wasl Mall, this cafe brings the essence of Australian coffee and cuisine to Dubai. Their coffee is some of the best you’ll find in the UAE and hero dishes include the Halloumi Hash Burger and Casuarina Toast. As a result of the friendship between coffee and great food, Myocum was born. It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 7am to 11pm and Friday and Saturday 7am to 12am.
    For more information visit myocumdubai.com
    Cafe Villa515

    This social spot has a workspace, food and coffee moments all combined into one place. With sophisticated interiors and tranquil space, this venue is definitely one to add to your list for a catchup with your friends or family. The timings are from 8am to 10pm and It’s located in Villa 515, Jumeirah Beach Road.
    L’Occitane Café

    Bringing together a fusion of delicious flavours with something to delight all taste buds, while serving the classic breakfast staples in Dubai and transporting you to the South of France with a multi-sensory journey. It’s located at Citywalk and is open on weekdays from 9am to 11am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.
    For more information with ae.loccitane.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Instagram @veneti.a More

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    6 new coffee shops in Dubai that you’ll love a latte

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    17 mins ago

    If you’re a true coffee aficionado, you’re in the right place.
    With an ever-growing coffee culture in the UAE, more and more coffee shops continue to open in the emirate to attract a pool of residents and tourists from around the globe.
    Having already made its mark on the global map, some cafés have recently opened in the UAE, these cafes and coffee shops serve up the best brews in Dubai.
    As coffee culture continues to grow in the Dubai, these spots are perfect for a solo midday adventure or an evening stroll with your friends.
    So, if you’re eager to see what’s brewing, swipe through our editor-approved guide of the latest coffee shops to visit.

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

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    Inside the office with Himyan Al Qubaisi, founder of Koncrete

    Life by Camille Macawili 9 mins ago VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES Founder Himyan Al Qubaisi shares the conception of Koncrete, a design-led multifunctional coffee and creative space in Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah. How long have you been in this space? It’s been three months since we officially opened. Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces? We curated our space thoughtfully, ensuring that each element harmonises with our design approach, resulting in a cohesive and effortless aesthetic. How do you think the interior reflects you? The interior mirrors my personal style, combining modern simplicity with personal touches and elements of raw minimalism, resulting in a sophisticated and inviting space. My brand aligns seamlessly with this aesthetic, reflecting the character of the space through a language that resonates with the community. Describe your taste in three words. Refined, eclectic, and sophisticated. Emirates Man The SS24 Issue – Download Now – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram Photography by Mark Mathew More

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    How I got my job as… founder of this bespoke Dubai-based coffee company

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible 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. This week, we speak to Maria Pavani, a highly acclaimed coffee specialist and a 32-year-old award-winning entrepreneur, who has emerged as a trailblazer in the nation’s coffee industry through her brainchild, Três Marias Coffee Company. Maria took the leap of faith and moved to Dubai in 2013 to work as a head barista at a prestigious five-star hotel. Despite not having English as her mother-language, Maria thrived to succeed and eventually climbed up the ladder until she became a general manager of a roaster and even launched her own plant-based milk now. To delve into her journey, Emirates Woman spoke to Pavani to see how her journey in the F&B industry began. What was your favourite subject at school? My favorite subject was Physical Education. What was your first job? My first job was at the library of my school. I would have classes until noon, and then I would start my shift from 1:30pm to 5pm Have you been to Dubai? No, I came to Dubai for the first time in 2013 to start working. What inspired you to enter the F&B space and talk us through your role as founder of Três Marias Coffee Company? Well, my journey into the F&B world basically started with my love for people and coffee. I mean, who doesn’t love a good chat over a great cup of coffee, right? I started working with coffee as a barista in 2009 in the hospitality industry. Hospitality is all about people, and I’m good with both. I like exchanging pleasant conversations, and at the same time, I love coffee. When I came to Dubai, I spotted this awesome opportunity to blend my hospitality skills with the vibrant coffee scene here. I started growing in the coffee sector as a professional, and then I decided it was time to start exploring a bit more, and that is how Três Marias Coffee Company was born. My role as the founder is to ensure that, first of all, the company stays on track with our vision and then ensure I work on my growth journey as a first-time entrepreneur to be able to run the business as best as I can, innovating, creating new products, ensuring we are adding value to the coffee community as well. Talk us through the concept of Três Marias Coffee and how did you launch your own plant-based milk. When we launched the business in 2019, it was quite different from what it is today. I’m grateful that we’ve remained open to adapting and seeking out various ways to contribute to our community. The plant-based milk stemmed from a mix of questions: What was lacking in the specialty coffee industry, and how could we fill that void while also leveraging it as an opportunity for global expansion. This led us to the idea of creating high-quality plant-based milk. Our goal was to address the challenge of limited alternative milk options, particularly in the Middle East. It was essentially about crafting a superior product that not only solved a local issue but also had the potential to resonate on a larger scale. What are the key elements of your role? As the founder and CEO I feel it is very important that I have to network and meet as many people as a I can, knock as many doors as I can and introduce the story to as many people as I can to be able to look for new opportunities for the brand and the brand reaching the right ears that could give us an opportunity to enter as a supplier for businesses as well as, pretty much staying positive and being open to adapt especially because my colleagues at the company can feel when I’m down or up so its very important that I stay as stable and consistent with interactions with my team. Also, I am open to learning about what is new in the industry, so I travel the world making sure I’m aware of what is happening in the industry, what the trends are, what the future looks like, what is changing, and what not. As the founder and CEO, I strongly believe in the power of networking and making connections. It’s crucial for me to actively engage with as many people as possible, knocking on doors and sharing our brand’s story. This not only helps us uncover new opportunities but also ensures that our brand reaches the right ears, potentially opening doors for us as suppliers to other businesses. Maintaining a positive attitude and remaining open to adaptation is also important; my team can sense my mood and can tell when I’m feeling up or down, so I try my best to ensure I’m consistently having positive interactions with them.Moreover, I am always open to learning about what is new in the industry, so I travel the world, making sure I’m aware of what is happening in the industry, shifts in the market landscape, and future projections. It’s essential for me to continuously learn and evolve, ensuring that our brand remains relevant and competitive in the ever-changing F&B industry. Talk us through your daily routine. My typical day looks something like this: When I wake up in the morning, I pray, have my first cup of coffee, and then head to the gym for my daily workout. I then shower and either have my first meetings around the city or I meet with my team to work on the tasks for the day. By 5 pm, I’m usually done for the day, so I head out to catch up with friends, exercise, or play padel. At night, I either go out for social dinners or call my family back home. What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps? In my opinion, one of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to embrace the possibility of failure. Not every idea will succeed, but persistence is key. If you keep trying, you might hit the jackpot once after multiple attempts, and that’s all it takes to propel yourself to the next level. Be curious. Curiosity is essential. Engage in conversations with others, exchange knowledge, and soak in diverse experiences. There’s immense value in sharing and learning from how others navigate the business world. Passion is another critical factor. The journey can be challenging and grueling, so having a genuine passion for what you’re doing is vital. Without it, you may find yourself wanting to throw in the towel when faced with challenges. Lastly, prioritize self-development. Stay open to personal growth and seek answers beyond the obvious. Continuous learning and evolving as an individual are fundamental to success in any endeavor. Tell us more about the product? The plant-based milk line from Três Marias was crafted with baristas in mind. We worked backward to address the problem that we were seeing in the market. Despite the growing trend towards healthier and more sustainable lifestyles, we noticed a hesitation among consumers in our region to adopt milk alternatives for their coffee. We discovered that taste was a major deterrent, especially when alternative milk was steamed and mixed with coffee. To tackle this problem, we developed an alternative milk that enhances, rather than overpowers, the flavor of coffee. Our formula ensures that consumers can still enjoy the taste of the high-quality beans they select. Additionally, our milk formula is engineered to achieve optimal frothing, allowing baristas to create stunning latte art and presentations for their customers. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? The best piece of advice that I received was from a friend who is also a business person. He told me that you, as the founder, carry the vision of the company; you have the answer within yourself, so listen to what others have to say but always go with what your gut has to say and your vision. Don’t let others influence you because they are successful. After all, each business is different; sometimes what works for you may not work for someone else, so trust your gut always. And what was the worst? One of the worst pieces of advice I’ve received was to slow down. It wasn’t the right guidance for the stage our business was in at the time. We were at a point where we needed to expand, but I was struggling to find the right product to propel us forward. After trying various approaches, a business acquaintance suggested I should take things slower. Had I followed that advice, we might have faced closure because we wouldn’t have gained the momentum needed to drive the business forward. Instead, I persisted and came up with the idea for our plant-based milk line and was given similar advice to slow down again. Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t heed that advice because our plant-based venture turned out to be a success, opening up new opportunities for us. What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome? The biggest challenge that I had to overcome was definitely the financials of the business. I did not have a financial or business background, so all the biggest challenges that we have had so far were related to finance. How to structure our budget or even simple things like what is revenue, net profit, cost of operations, etc., so learning about these things and then being able to negotiate with partners or investors was very challenging at the start. I’m still learning every day but I feel much more confident now. What’s your future for the brand? We want to take Tres Marias global so we are expanding in the Middle East right now, expanding to retail, and we want to go to other continents as well. We want to enter in North and South America, in Europe and Asia as well. We want to create ready-to-drink plant-based drinks and keep improving our product line. We want to become more accessible to people and improve our e-commerce experience. So to summarize we want to make our high quality products accessible to people worldwide in retail, foodservice and e-commerce. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied  More

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    9 uber-cool gadgets to elevate your daily routine at work

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Tired of the same old mundane routine at work? Why not upgrade your routine in the best possible way.
    With these simple hacks, you’ll feel more productive and motivated, and you would get through your to-dos without the boredom taking over you.
    As a convenient alternative to the usual, swipe through our guide of must-own gadgets to spruce up your desk while ensuring your time at work is effective.

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