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    Sheikh Hamdan meets famed Dubai delivery driver for the first time

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    37 seconds ago

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, has met the delivery driver he praised on social media for his selfless good deed.
    The Crown Prince of Dubai previously put out a call for his followers to help him find the individual in question, who was eventually identified as Abdul Ghafoor.
    His Highness has now met the Dubai delivery driver, sharing a photo of the pair together.
    “An honour to meet you Abdul Ghafoor, a true example to be followed,” His Highness said on Twitter.

    An honor to meet you Abdul Ghafoor, a true example to be followed. pic.twitter.com/eRQ0nuYAZF
    — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) August 11, 2022

    Last week, His Highness shared a video, which was caught on camera by another onlooker, of Mr Ghafoor, a Talabat delivery driver, removing an obstruction of two concrete blocks from a busy intersection.
    Sheikh Hamdan referred to the individual’s good deed as “an act of goodness in Dubai to be praised” and called on his followers to help him find the man.

    An act of goodness in Dubai to be praised. Can someone point me to this man? pic.twitter.com/clEIWQQe3A
    — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) July 31, 2022

    It wasn’t long before Mr Ghafoor in question was found, prompting Sheikh Hamdan to personally thank him on his social media channels, calling him “one of a kind”.
    It just goes to show a simple good deed always goes a long way.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Twitter More

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    Update: 5 new UAE visas available from September 2022

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    As the UAE continues to bring in new changes post the COVID-19 pandemic, visas are a major topic of discussion.
    Back in April, the UAE Cabinet approved a number of new visas, as the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe.
    “The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” the cabinet said via a statement from the media office.
    With a host of new visas being granted from next month onwards, below is everything you need to know.
    Business visa
     For those who wish to start their own company or invest in other companies, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor.
    Temporary work visa
    For any project-based work or temporary work assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa after submitting a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer and a valid health certificate, per the government website.
    Visa for studying/training
    This visa is required for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes. The requirements for such a visa include the details of the study or the internship and its overall duration. It can be sponsored by public and private sector educational and research institutes.
    Family visa
    Families now have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously 18 years old only. Sponsorship can also be granted to disabled children and unmarried daughters for an indefinite time.

    The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR
    — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

    Job visa
    After graduating from the best 500 universities, job-seekers can avail of this latest visa that will be given to bachelor’s degree holders or its equivalent to exploring more job opportunities in the UAE. This visa can be granted to those who fall under the first, second or third skill levels category as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
    Already available in the UAE
    Multi-entry tourist visa
    If tourists wish to visit the UAE and stay for a longer time frame, that’s now possible for up to 90 days and it can be extended for another 90 days without a sponsor with this five-year multi-entry tourist visa. The requirements include a minimum bank balance of $4000 (Dhs14,700) or its equivalent in the last six months before applying.
    Green visa
    If residents wish to bring their families without a sponsor or employer, this five-year visa is granted to skilled workers, self-employers and freelancers who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of Dhs15,000.
    Golden visa
    Launched as part of a programme in 2019, however, effective in full force since 2021. The Golden visa is now offered to a host of professionals that have changed over the course of time. Golden visa holders can now sponsor their families including their wife and kids without any age limit along with domestic workers.
    For entrepreneurs
    With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
    For real estate owners
    The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
    For ‘exceptional talents’
    The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
    For scientists & researchers
    Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
    For outstanding students
    Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
    For skilled workers
    Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
    For more information visit the UAE government website. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kasialukaszczuk More

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    Fazza goes incognito on the London Underground

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    2 hours ago

    He may have 14.5 million followers on Instagram and be one of the most high-profile royals in the UAE, but HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has proven even he can go incognito from time to time.
    Currently on holiday in the UK, the Crown Prince of Dubai has been spending ample amounts of time in London.
    Over the weekend, Sheikh Hamdan, affectionately known as Fazza, was spending time in the UK’s capital and was seemingly able to go about his day being unrecognised.
    His Highness shared a selfie on Instagram with his friend Badr Ateej riding the crowded London Underground.
    “We’ve got a long way to go and Badr is already bored,” he said in the caption of the post.

    However, just a couple of weeks ago, the Crown Prince of Dubai was recognised around central London as he was driving.
    In a video captured by Sheikh Hamdan’s friend Ahmad Jaber Al Harbi, the royal is seen interacting with two fans.
    Sheikh Hamdan was in his car driving in the city when he was stopped for some photos by the two individuals, who also happened to be Dubai residents.
    Not ever one to say no to a photo, Dubai’s Crown Prince enthusiastically posed with the fans, even helping them to get the right shot.
    At one point in the video, the male fan says “Sorry to bother you” but Fazza responded saying, “No, it’s okay”, also shaking his hand.

    Regular visitor
    His Highness is a regular visitor to the United Kingdom, as are many other members of the Dubai royal family.
    Sheikh Hamdan’s father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is also currently in the UK and was seen walking around London with an entourage over the weekend.
    The Dubai royals have also been enjoying some quality time together.
    Last week, Sheikh Hamdan, shared a snap on Instagram with his father and his two children, Rashid and Shaikha, spending time together in the UK.

    In the forefront of the photo, the twins are seen sitting in a pushchair, with doting dad Sheikh Hamdan and grandfather Sheikh Mohammed behind.
    Sheikh Hamdan captioned the post with three heart emojis: one red, one blue and one pink, representing the Dubai Ruler and his two grandchildren.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    America’s Next Top Model to launch in the Middle East, new report claims

    Fashion

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    Iconic fashion and model-based reality show America’s Next Top Model is reportedly launching in the Middle East.
    According to The National, the show is set to be entitled Arabia’s Next Top Model, with a teaser clip reportedly in the works ahead of the official announcement.
    The outlet also reported that no judges or host have been appointed yet and it’s also not known if the reality show will be open to both male and female contestants.
    The Next Top Model franchise was first launched in 2003 in the USA under the direction of Tyra Banks and Ken Mok who handpicked aspiring models to take part in the competition to become ‘America’s Next Top Model’.
    The competition consists of a series of challenges and a weekly photo shoot, all judged by a panel of experts. A model is eliminated each week, with an eventual winner being named who receives prize money and a modelling contract.
    Over the years, the franchise has expanded globally with versions in the UK, Asia, Africa, Germany, Australia and more.
    Many reality television franchises have made their way to the region over the years including Project Runway Middle East, Arabs Got Talent, The Voice and most recently The Real Housewives of Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: America’s Next Top Model  More

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    Rolls-Royce introduces a brand new private office in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    25 seconds ago

    Rolls-Royce cars exude a high degree of sophistication like no other with endless personalisation options.
    However, the luxury automobile maker’s customisation options have remained only available at their Goodwood base in the UK, base, until now.
    Rolls-Royce has introduced its first international outpost, allowing for customisations, and it’s based right here in the UAE.
    A new Rolls-Royce private office has opened in Dubai, allowing clients to choose exact specifications and designs with an expert to produce the final outcome.

    Whether you’re thinking of highlighting a colour with sentimental value or showcasing a bespoke constellation on the roof, this luxurious feature brings any vision to life.
    Rolls-Royce’s CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos described the opening of the new Dubai private office as the next chapter in the history of the luxury automobile maker.
    “This is yet another step in the evolutions of the marque, rooting itself as a true house of luxury with effortlessly elevated design services that are on a par with our products,” he said.
    With over 44,000 ready-to-wear hues available, each customer can craft an individual ride that projects their vision, Rolls-Royce style.
    Through the brand’s coachbuilding programme, buyers are taken through a step-by-step process where they can go through the journey of seeing the motors being built entirely by hand.

    After establishing the success of this programme, Rolls-Royce plans to open more private offices in the near future.
    Customers can book appointments through local showrooms across the UAE at the private office or visit rolls-roycemotorcars.com
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Emirates Woman February cover shoot More

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    Video: Sheikh Mohammed spotted out in London

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has been spotted out in central London.
    Currently holidaying in the UK, the Dubai Ruler was caught on camera by Khalid Al Khoori walking through the streets of the capital city accompanied by a group of people.
    His Highness was in casual attire wearing black sneakers, white tracksuit pants and a blue shirt as he enjoyed the cooler weather in the UK.

    Holidaying with his family
    Just like his father, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai is also holidaying in the UK, where the pair have been spending time together.
    Last week, Sheikh Hamdan, shared a snap on Instagram with his father and his two children, Rashid and Shaikha, spending time together in the UK.

    In the forefront of the photo, the twins are seen sitting in a pushchair, with doting dad Sheikh Hamdan and grandfather Sheikh Mohammed behind.
    Sheikh Hamdan captioned the post with three heart emojis: one red, one blue and one pink, representing the Dubai Ruler and his two grandchildren.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    The most romantic wedding venues in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Wedding season in Dubai is fast approaching and the venue remains at the helm of all marital celebrations.
    From beachfront destinations to ballrooms that exude elegance, Dubai is home to an array of venues that are beyond sophisticated.
    For immaculate attention to detail, each property creates a bespoke proposal as per the bride and groom’s requirements.
    So, for those currently looking for the perfect place to tie the knot, we’ve gathered a list of all the luxe venues for a potential wedding venue.
    Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach

    Combining the city’s modernity and old-time charm, this expansive venue includes the grand Dana ballroom and a plush garden for any outdoor festivities. Whether you wish to exchange your vows on the sand or in the lush seaside garden, this hotel makes any dream a reality. No matter the size, this exquisite property welcomes every guest in style. With incredible backdrops and on-side wedding experts working with them at every step makes the entire process easier.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Mandarin Oriental

    With world-class service and impeccable catering standards, the property will ensure any event is truly unforgettable. From flowers to venue decorations, Mandarin Oriental has relationships with external suppliers to ensure each detail is taken care of. For the bride to feel special on her wedding day, the property offers a magnificent suite with showcases expansive views of the Arabian Sea featuring a make-up station, a private lift, for bridal parties, and a spacious living space.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    One & Only Royal Mirage, The Palm

    This exceptional romantic beachfront resort promises a one-of-a-kind celebration with gourmet menus, serene spa treatments, and a timeless backdrop to enjoy with up to 50 guests. From catering to Moorish-style gardens to beginning a memorable journey, this venue caters to every request. Surrounded by nature, this property caters to refined pre-wedding photoshoots with pictures to capture those happy moments.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

    Couples can exchange their vows at this resort with views looking over the magnificent Arabian Gulf. Whether a small or grand occasion, the property caters to each client with world-class food, beverages menu, spa, and beauty services combined with an unending list of live entertainment. From a beach villa with a private pool for an intimate gathering to spacious ballrooms, the resort provides an exclusive service to assist customers in planning their special day.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

    To ensure each wedding is different from the other, the team of in-house experts has a keen eye for an ethereal setting. From overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to preparing a plethora of delicious canapes, every bride and groom is made to feel special Whether custom lanterns or a bespoke culinary request, the property will do its best to cater to every need.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Fairmont, The Palm

    When starting your life together, a wedding becomes an important decision in any couple’s life and the wedding planners at Fairmont bring each dream to life with bespoke celebrations. By bringing a wow factor to the venue, the Sea View Garden is ideal for an al fresco experience allowing couples to celebrate with around 500 guests. To ensure the guests’ taste is carefully considered, each chef will create a gourmet dining experience for a successful wedding for a stress-free experience.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Bulgari Resort

    With Italian luxury at its heart, this exclusive property exudes an unmatched love for luxury. This beautiful venue features a 360sq metre ballroom located in the Yacht Club overlooking romantic seaside views and a welcoming space with earthy tones. With a birch walkway and candles subtly lit across the walkway, the hotel provides seamless service to make every minute count. With bespoke packages for each guest, the space can be rented for both daytime and evening events.
    To find out about the packages visit here.
    Raffles, The Palm

    Mona Kattan and Hassan Elamin recently exchanged their vows at Raffles The Palm and celebrated one of their occasions with all their special guests prior to their wedding. Whether intimate ceremonies or lavish celebrations, each setup can be designed according to the guests’ needs. With its palatial structure and vibrancy in every corner, this property has a host of facilities to offer for guests including spa facilities and other fine-dining restaurants.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber  More

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    Temperatures to approach 50°C in the UAE – when is the cooler weather coming?

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    28 seconds ago

    As the scorching heat in the UAE continues, temperatures in some parts of the country are set to approach 50 degrees celsius.
    According to the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), some parts of Abu Dhabi, including Gasyoura and Razeen, could reach up to 49°C today.
    Meanwhile, in other parts of the country temperatures are set to be around the 41°C mark.
    And while the sweltering heat continues to rage on, it begs the question: when exactly can we expect the cooler weather to come?
    There’s actually an ancient method the people of the Arabian peninsula have been using for centuries to decipher the weather, as well as timings, seasons and more – the stars.
    In relation to the sign summer is coming to an end, it’s dependent on when the Suhail star – the second brightest star in the sky, which is estimated to be 313 light-years away from Earth – is spotted.
    It may have felt like the sweltering summer heat has been never-ending this year, but there’s a tell-tale sign that’s appeared meaning that summer is officially drawing to a close.
    The Suhail star – one of the brightest stars in the sky, which is estimated to be 313 light-years away from Earth – has been spotted.
    Ibrahim Al Jarwan, a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, previously explained to the Khaleej Times Arabs would learn “through to the stars” when hot periods would come, when the rain would come and so on.
    “And by counting the stars, farmers and people in the villages knew when to plough their land, and when to sow in preparation for the rain,” he said. “People of the mainland got to know the seasons for grazing and travel, whereas those of the sea were able to know the fishing and travel seasons from the stars.”
    Generally, the Suhail star makes an appearance around late August, signalling cooler weather is on the horizon.
    So, hopefully, there’s not too long to wait for the very best weather to arrive in the UAE.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied More