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    Festive blues: Can’t make it home? Here’s how to still feel the spirit around

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    21 mins ago

    In the symphony of the holiday season, there’s a nostalgic melody that often tugs at our hearts — the desire to be home for the festivities.
    Yet, life’s intricate score sometimes plays a different tune, leading us away from the familiar warmth of our hometowns.
    Whether distance or circumstances keep you from making it home this festive season, fear not! In the spirit of embracing the season wherever you are, here’s how you can beat the holiday blues and feel the magical essence of the holidays.
    Create a cozy corner at home

    Transform a corner of your space into a festive haven. Adorn it with twinkling lights, plush blankets, and a touch of greenery. This snug nook will become your personal retreat, radiating warmth even in the absence of familial hearths.
    Virtual celebrations

    via GIPHY

    In our technologically connected era, the distance between hearts can be bridged with a simple click. Arrange virtual gatherings with loved ones, sharing laughter, stories, and perhaps even participating in a virtual gift exchange. The pixels on the screen may not replace physical presence, but they can certainly amplify the joy of togetherness.
    Cultural cuisine

    Transport yourself home through the magic of flavours. Experiment with recipes that echo the festive feasts of your roots. Whether it’s the aroma of spices or the taste of a traditional dish, let your taste buds become a passport to the heart of the celebration.
    Celebrate festive traditions with your current community

    via GIPHY

    Discover and embrace the festive traditions wherever you are, with the community you’ve built for yourself. Whether it’s friends like family or colleagues, visit them or invite them over. Explore holiday markets, and partake in customs. By immersing yourself in these celebrations, you’re not only broadening your cultural horizons but also cultivating a sense of belonging.
    While the yearning for home during the holidays may persist, let this season be a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through a blend of creativity, technology, and a dash of festive magic.
    So, wherever you find yourself this season, may it be filled with the unmistakable spirit of love, togetherness, and the timeless magic of the holidays.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image & GIFS: Instagram: @sarashakeel,  Pinterest & Giphy  More

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    The best Diwali gifts to order in Dubai for all the foodies

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    52 mins ago

    As the Festival of Lights is approaching soon on Sunday, November 12, 2023, celebrating together with your loved ones is one of the most precious moments of the season.
    From traditional sweets (Mithai’s) to a myriad of wellness teas, this auspicious occasion comes with a lot of house parties, dinners and bringing all your loved ones together. To show that you care, a small token of appreciation can go a long way and even make it an evening to remember.
    Whether a friend, family or any of your work colleagues, there’s a gift for every kind of foodie this Diwali season.

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

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    Desi Diwali: Visit these 5 Indian restaurants to celebrate the festival of light

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Diwali – the festival of love and light is just around the corner.
    For Indian expats living in Dubai, this time of the year is bittersweet – on one end, it’s the joyful spirit of festivities and on the other, it’s the nostalgia of being away from home.
    But if you were to be away from home anywhere in the world during the festive season, Dubai is where you should be. A city that respects and celebrates all cultures – creating a wonderful kaleidoscope of peace and harmony.
    When you think of Diwali, you cannot finish the though without considering the mouth-watering food and delicacies prepared during this time. Lucky for you, many renowned Indian chefs are now bringing that familiar taste of home to their fine dining tables.
    From celebrity chef Kunal Kapoor’s Pincode in Dubai Hills Mall to the rustic yet homely Bombay Bungalow, the options are endless. Take a look at our 5 favourite selections, where you can enjoy a hearty Indian meal with your loved ones.
    Bombay Bungalow

    As Diwali approaches, Bombay Bungalow, a Michelin-led modern Indian restaurant in JBR, is offering a special Diwali menu from November 6th to November 13th. This menu features a variety of authentic Indian dishes to cater to different tastes, including options like Kandhari Murgh Tikka and Gajar Halwa.
    For for more information contact 800-692-8779 or book at sevenrooms.com
    PINCODE

    Located in Dubai Hills Mall, PINCODE by chef Kunal Kapur is offering a special Diwali Menu from November 8th to 14th at 129Dhs per person. The menu includes Kale Patta Chaat and a selection of Pincode ki Mithai desserts. Celebrate Diwali with friends and family in a vibrant setting and savor the diverse flavors of India.
    For for more information contact +971 4566 1424
    Punjab Grill

    Celebrate Diwali at Punjab Grill, a Michelin-Guide Select restaurant located in Hotel Anantara in Business Bay, from November 9th to 19th. Enjoy a special Diwali Menu by Executive Chef Sandeep Ail, blending tradition and innovation. Highlights include Butter Pav Bhaji, Fried Idli with Kundapur Paneer Bites, Makkai Saag with Missi Roti, Sesame Coconut-Crusted Shrimps Laddoo, Mutton Missal Pav, and delightful Indian Meethai desserts. Perfect for a festive gathering with friends and family.
    For more information contact +971 50 194 1107 or visit punjabgrill.me
    Bombay Borough

    To commemorate Diwali, the festival of lights, Bombay Borough, the all-day Indian bar and eatery in DIFC, presents an exclusive brunch featuring a set menu that celebrates the spirit of community, diverse culinary traditions, and festive customs from across the Indian subcontinent. The four-course set menu caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians, ensuring a delightful experience for all. This special Diwali brunch menu will be offered on the 11th and 12th of November 2023 at a price of AED 225 per person.
    For more information contact +97154 995 8296 or visit bombayborough.com 
    Armani/Amal

    The renowned Indian restaurant situated within the luxurious Armani Hotel in Dubai, is all set to celebrateDiwali, India’s most beloved festival. Visit the restaurant on November 12th for a splendid Diwali set menu. This year, Armani/Amal presents an exclusive Diwali culinary experience featuring delectable choices for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, each priced at AED 399 per person. Savor a delightful three-course feast, commencing with an Amuse Bouche of Asparagus Ki Chaat, followed by an array of appetizing starters, such as Shakarkandi Ki Tikki, Bharwan Paneer, Archari Kumbh, Malai Cod, Crispy Chicken Bao, and more.
     For more information please contact+971 4 888 3666 or book at restaurant.reservations@armanihotels.com 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    8 of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai to kickstart the Diwali celebrations

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    With the festive season in full-swing and Diwali just around the corner, it’s always memorable to enjoy a fine-dining Indian meal together with your loved ones.
    All set to take place on Sunday, November 12, 2023, Diwali celebrations are in full form this month and there’s no better way to begin it than to embark on journey of spices and Indian culinary delights to savour in style.
    With no dearth of Indian restaurants in Dubai to cater to everyone’s palate, the world of spice has seen a contemporary twist with its playful interiors and gastronomic culinary journey.
    So, if you’re thinking of where to book during the upcoming weeks to kickstart the celebrations this month.
    Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia

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

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

    If you’re looking for a unique dining experience inspired by the ancient Silk Route, check out Aamara at the VOCO Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. Aamara has curated a menu that celebrates the diversity of flavors and techniques shared along this historic route. Guests can look forward to a moody interior with a modern, contemporary finish, a Mediterranean and Indian-inspired menu, and a captivating cultural fiesta.
    For more information visit aamara.ae  
    Masti
    After shifting to a new location, Masti is all set to welcome guests to its restaurant situated at the Dubai Edition. Listed in the first Michelin Guide this restaurant brings a bold 360-degree experiential offering of innovative food, experimental beverages and unmatched hospitality. Masti remains emboldened and unafraid to be different. The new location will take risks and deliver a buzzing dining scene, with a sprinkling of Masti spice at The Dubai Edition. Befitting of the restaurant’s legendary reputation, the iconic Dubai Edition Hotel, optimally positioned on Fountain Street, Downtown will prove a stellar destination from which the restaurant can shine from. The restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 1am and 12:30pm to 2am.
    For more information visit mastidubai.com
    Indego by Vineet

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

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

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

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

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    9 of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai to kickstart the Diwali celebrations

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    October 31, 2023

    With the festive season in full-swing and Diwali just around the corner, it’s always memorable to enjoy a fine-dining Indian meal together with your loved ones.
    All set to take place on Sunday, November 12, 2023, Diwali celebrations are in full form this month and there’s no better way to begin it than to embark on journey of spices and Indian culinary delights to savour in style.
    With no dearth of Indian restaurants in Dubai to cater to everyone’s palate, the world of spice has seen a contemporary twist with its playful interiors and gastronomic culinary journey.
    So, if you’re thinking of where to book during the upcoming weeks to kickstart the celebrations this month.
    Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Diwali 2022: The ultimate luxury gift guide for your loved ones

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    With Diwali soon approaching, it’s time to spread the love with some heartfelt gifts for the festive occasion.
    All set to take place on October 24, the festival of lights is marked by a special evening together with friends and family and the exchanging of presents.
    Whether it be a delicate piece of jewellery, a delectable scent, a classic bouquet of flowers, a chic candle and more, Emirates Woman has you covered.

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

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    Diwali 2022: Where to watch the firework displays in the UAE

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    After a two-year hiatus, UAE residents can celebrate Diwali on a grand scale.
    With the festival all set to take place for five days in full swing, the UAE will experience this occasion with a host of fireworks displays and cultural programmes.
    To find out where to go and which dates to mark on your calendar, we’re here to help.
    Dubai
    Dubai Festival City Mall

    A bespoke show is all set to take place with an elaborate display of laser, fire, water and other projections for all those who visit the area. To add to the festivities, a spectacular firework showcase with enchant the visitors on Sunday, October 23, 2022 at 8:30pm. Alongside the display, visitors have an opportunity to win 50 grams of gold and a rent-free apartment for one year.
    For more information visit dubaifestivalcitymall.com
    The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

    The spectacle will feature two firework options with the city’s fountain show on Sunday, October 23, 2022. Complemented by an exquisite display from the world’s biggest dancing fountain, the celebrations will include an incredible getaway as guests have access to a selection of restaurants bars and hotels in the vicinity. Until October 28, guests can enjoy live performances daily from 6pm to 10pm.
    For more information visit thepointe.ae
    Abu Dhabi
    Hilton Yas Island

    As a world-class leisure destination, this luxurious property will be decorated with traditional décor, featuring cultural entertainment, delectable cuisine and a beautiful light show. The beautiful façade will come to life with an animated 3D projection and a lavish firework show at Yas Bay from the property on October 29, 2022 from 6pm to 11pm at Capila Pool Bar & Grill.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @mo More