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    8 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
    From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
    To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
    Go sky high

    The first to operate balloon flights in the northern Emirates, ActionFlight, has recently launched in Ras Al Khaimah. The flight will take visitors soaring over the rolling terracotta dunes for awe-inspiring sunrise views of the Emirate’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Operating seven days a week during the ballooning season, the picturesque experience sets afloat in the Al Wadi desert, where guests will board the 450,000 cubic feet balloon standing at a colossal 34.6m. Taking flight just before sunrise, the journey lasts approximately 60-minutes where visitors can marvel at the illuminated desert dunes, majestic Hajar mountains and glistening coastline and might even be able to spot special appearances from the indigenous wildlife. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. Guests can relax and unwind as they indulge in a decadent selection of dishes and be treated to a fascinating bird of prey show with native Arabian falcons, owls and hawks. Post-trip, all passengers will take home a souvenir flight certificate signed by the Balloon Pilot as a memento from the extraordinary experience. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. The family-friendly flight has the capacity to carry up to 20 passengers and for those looking for a more intimate experience, private compartment and flight bookings are available on request. ActionFlight will run flights seven days per week, flight availability may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Kids under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets start at Dhs1,315 per adult and Dhs1,155 per child inclusive of the flight and return transport.
    For more information visit actionflight.ae
    Book an alfresco dining experience

    It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
    Try a glamping experience

    If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
    Visit this famed desert café

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae
    Hone your equestrian skills

    From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
    Swing your best shot

    For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit topgolf.ae
    Go ziplining

    Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
    It’s time to trek

    Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
    To make a booking head to visithatta.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More

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    Lindsay Lohan shares her pregnancy news via a heartfelt post on Instagram

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Lindsay Lohan is soon going to be a mother and we couldn’t be more excited.
    Taking the news to Instagram, the actress shared the news with her 12.5 million fans in a sweet post that read “coming soon.”

    The caption said, “We are blessed and excited! 🙏🤍👶🍼,” she captioned a photo of a white baby onesie with the words “coming soon…” laid out on a bed.
    Lohan is married to businessman Bader Shammas with this baby being their first child together. The couple, who met in Dubai, have been incredibly private about their relationship and Shammas is not in the public eye.
    When did they tie the knot?

    Lohan revealed she secretly wed Shammas back in July in an Instagram post to mark her 36th birthday, where she referred to the financier as her “husband”.
    Lohan shared a photo with her now-husband, saying she was the “luckiest woman in the world”. The star also appeared to be wearing a diamond wedding band paired with her engagement ring.
    “You found me and knew that I wanted to find happiness and grace, all at the same time,” she said in the caption. “I am stunned that you are my husband. My life and my everything. Every woman should feel like this everyday.”
    The couple had first made their red-carpet debut in New York City for the screening of her highly anticipated Netflix release Falling for Christmas in November, 2022.
    Congratulations to the lovely couple for this joyous news!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    This Mother’s Day treat your Mum with a series of exquisite gifts from Flowwow

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: With Mother’s Day soon approaching on March 21, 2023, it’s time to shop for the most important woman in your life.
    Whether a small token of appreciation or something practical for her to cherish forever, Flowwow is a website with local online stores where you can order flower delivery in Dubai and mother’s day gifts with same-day or next-day delivery.
    If you’re looking at what to purchase as a kind token of appreciation, scroll through our editor-approved guide to make your shopping experience a whole lot easier.

    With a host of luxurious bouquets curated by local artisans, there’s an exquisite selection of arrangements varying from roses to hydrangeas, to make the celebration memorable.

    No special day is celebrated without a cake to mark their love and experience the joyous occasion. A custom cake or a box of craft chocolates is a simple yet stylish present, guaranteed to be enjoyed by your mother. With a meaningful phrase or an inside memory, this day can be cherished for years to come.

    For a long-lasting keepsake, dried flowers are the perfect option to showcase endless love as a precious memoir. With delicate lavender accompanied by its impressionable scent, mothers can feel at ease after a long day and embark on a calming journey from the minute they enter their room.

    If you’re on the lookout for gifts to complement the bouquets, opts for the customised balloons to make her feel loved. Whether red balloons to complement the red bouquets or bespoke confetti rose gold balloons, there are a plethora of hues and patterns to choose from as you scroll through this platform.

    For an elegant possession to gift your mother with, jewellery always works wonders. As a universal gift idea, there are various designs from dainty necklaces to bold pieces to fit your mum’s individual aesthetic.

    To add a hint of greenery at home, indoor plants work as the best option to redecorate any specific area and work as a sign of love and care when treated with love.

    To bestow her with natural scents, there’s an array of handmade soaps that will always allow the gift giver to be remembered with their warm delicate scent.
    So, if anyone deserves to be showered with love on this special occasion, it’s all the mothers and to guide you the process, Frowow, has a wide range of products starting from Dhs80 with same-day delivery and hassle-free shopping from the comfort of your home. For more information visit flowwow.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    How I got my Job as.. Founder of this couture cake atelier in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    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 chat with Cake Artist, Mich Turner, Founder of Little Venice Cake Company, located at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal.
    Synonymous with understated elegance, Turner is a pioneer in the baking industry, a consultant to the retail and hospitality industry and known to combine her creativity with her work. As an award-winning entrepreneur, she has been awarded an MBE in 2010, for her services in the catering industry.
    Set to offer the best cakes for all kinds of celebrations from bespoke cakes to afternoon tea loaves, clients can customise the desserts as per their requirements. With celebrity clients such as Pierce Brosnan, and Emma Thompson, including Buckingham Palace and more.
    While the road to entrepreneurship wasn’t an easy path, she went against all means to come out successful. To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about her career path and how she’s converted her passion into a full-time business.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    Chemistry, Biology and Home Economics.

    What was your first job?
    Bakery and a Patisserie Buyer at a luxury department store, Harvey Nichols.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    I was introduced to the team behind the iconic Atlantis Dubai, who was looking for a cake offering within their new ultra-luxury resort, Atlantis The Royal.
    What inspired you to enter the f&b space and launch Little Venice Cake Company?
    Little Venice Cake Company creates premium luxury cakes for all celebrations and events. We offer a couture bespoke service to clients, working with esteemed partners in the hospitality, retail and events sectors. For me, launching Little Venice Cake Company was a passion to create amazing cakes for amazing people, in amazing venues, for amazing celebrations – offering the very best in professionalism, client service, refined opulent designs, and totally indulgent cakes.
    Talk us through the inspiration of your pieces.
    There is a story behind every cake and every cake has to tell that story. Understanding the who, why, when, where and how provides the mainframe for each design. The skill and expertise then come in combining artistry with technical expertise and hand craftsmanship to design completely bespoke cakes – perfect for every occasion. A feast for the eyes and a memory for the palate.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    The key elements of my role are firstly communication as I meet and engage with people on an international stage. Being able to articulate, connect, direct , understand and empathise with people is key. Secondly, organisation – this is essential working in a critical time-dependent world. Forward planning, risk assessment, hazard analysis and problem-solving is an essential part of my role and thirdly Presentation is an important aspect, for inspiring those involved with Little Venice Cake Company to embrace our brand values.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My days rarely follow a routine. I try to pack as much into each day as I can and am fastidious with timekeeping to avoid time wasting. My time in Dubai is limited and usually built around a particular event – such as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee events at The British Embassy or the grand reveal of Atlantis The Royal. I always wake up three hours before my first commitment to allow time for early morning correspondence, a visit to the gym, grooming, and breakfast. I will spend time with my team in pastry working on new collections, and seasonal offerings, reviewing recipes and designs. We often have tastings, bespoke orders, presentations and photo shoots to prepare for. I also plan time with the management team to review our business performance. I have meetings and consultations with clients for upcoming events which we host in our Royal Meeting Room with cake tastings. We are just starting to offer masterclasses for corporate and private clients in our show kitchen within our atelier at Atlantis The Royal. These are customised and hugely enjoyable, but require a lot of preparation. I juggle press requests and external presentations with invitations to attend official events. I am fortunate to dine within the resort and with so many incredible restaurants to choose from such as Milos, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen and Dinner By Heston Blumenthal it is a treat and certainly one of the best perks of the job.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Prepare to work hard and insist on the highest standards for yourself. There is no fast track to experience and you can’t fake passion. Be committed.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    Do what you do really well, and no one can touch you.

    And what is the worst?
    Genuinely can’t think of anything? I have an analytical thought process – so would always work through the whole journey and possible outcomes before committing. Any advice that I couldn’t see working I would have discounted in the ether!
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    I am a problem solver, always looking for a way through the maze. Every challenge can be managed with time, tenacity and self-belief.
    What are the future plans for your brand and tell us how it feels to open at Atlantis The Royal?
    I have been working with Atlantis Dubai on this project for the past six years to deliver a world-exclusive Little Venice Cake Company atelier with Everyday cakes, a Signature collection, Couture bespoke cakes, customised masterclasses and a curated collection of homewares synonymous with our ethos of authenticity, British premium craftsmanship and heritage. I have enjoyed the whole process and am enormously proud of the atelier and the teams at Little Venice Cake Company and Atlantis The Royal.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Ralph Lauren transforms Twiggy by La Cantine for a unique Californian experience

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Iconic American brand Ralph Lauren joins forces with Twiggy by La Cantine, one of Dubai’s most coveted beach clubs, to present its Spring 2023 global California Dreaming campaign.
    Influenced by the many worlds of Ralph Lauren, this campaign explores the endless pursuit of a life well lived. The label brings the elegant campaign to the glamorous grounds of Dubai through an immersive beach experience at Twiggy by La Cantine, giving exclusive access to its sophisticated world.
    Situated in the heart of the Park Hyatt Hotel Lagoon, Ralph Lauren turns Twiggy by La Cantine into a unique destination celebrating timeless design and the California state of mind. Unveiled on  March 4, 2023, this experience will be extended until April 23, 2023. Kicking it off with a celebratory party, there will be an exclusive series of VIP moments hosted in the Ralph Lauren private cabanas to present the new collection. In addition to that, a selected range of the label’s premium hospitality offerings has also been availed for a completely immersive experience.

    Twiggy by La Cantine x Ralph Lauren
    Offering a welcome departure from the fast-paced city life, Ralph Lauren’s beach club is a luxe getaway from the hustle. With customised sunbeds, parasols, cushions, seating areas and private cabanas in the trademark tones of white and blue,  highlights the American sensibility that is quintessential to the brand. Every bespoke experience reflects the fine art of living that it is well-known for. You can also enjoy a generous offering of gelato along with signature refreshments with a selection of American classics and its favorites at the location’s beach bar and restaurant.

    Twiggy by La Cantine x Ralph Lauren
    Turning this idyllic beach club into its personal turf, Ralph Lauren brings a limited-time pop-up store featuring a myriad of pieces from its Collection, Purple Label and Polo Ralph Lauren ready-to-wear, swimwear, fragrance, and eyewear. Each collection within the Spring 2023 season emotes the brand’s sense of freedom in its own distinctive way, reflecting the spirit of California.
    The exclusive lifestyle experience joins Ralph Lauren’s existing Dubai stores at The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Center and the newly opened Dubai Hills.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Supplied  More

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    Acqua di Parma and Roberto’s come together for an unforgettable evening in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    59 mins ago

    Ever embarked on an olfactory dining journey? Well, here’s an opportunity to experience this in the heart of Dubai.
    Delve into Acqua di Parma’s iconic scents in a new light through the world of fine dining at this DIFC homegrown restaurant.
    This month, Roberto’s will launch a limited-edition menu on March 16 with a harmoniously curated menu for guests can savour the olfactory notes of for an elevated evening. With exquisite attention to detail, every element is carefully thought out to take perfumery a step further.

    This dining experience will feature a delectable spread of dishes such as Risotto Carnaroli al Lemongrass, Pepe Rosa e Bergamotto by amping up the notch culinary at this Italian haven Salsa allo Zafferano to name a few and conclude with irresistible deserts such as Zuppetta di Ciliege e Rabarbaro and more.
    To complement the menu, the restaurant has curated various of mocktails and cocktails reminiscent of Aqcua di Parma’s Colonia in every sip. Priced at Dhs55 per drink, it will be available from 7pm to 3am for a one-of-a-kind evening.

    As a night to remember, guests can continue their evening with celebrations at Roberto’s Bar Scala with an afterparty to appreciate the finer things in life.
    Priced at Dhs500 per person, this fine-dining experience takes place from 7pm to 11:30pm at Gate Village Building 1, for a one-of-a-kind evening to celebrate exceptional cuisine and the brand’s iconic fragrances. Officially launching on March 16, 2023, guests can make a reservation on robertosrestaurants.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    This luxe Abu Dhabi hotel is the ultimate celebratory wedding venue

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    In PARTNERSHIP: Choosing a venue can be one of the most stressful yet crucial parts of the wedding planning process.
    To make your big day special, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences promises to throw a lavish ceremony to remember for a lifetime.
    While Dubai delivers some of the most romantic wedding venues, there is no reason why Abu Dhabi shouldn’t be on your list.
    So if you’re looking for a potential wedding venue, this property offers a myriad of reasons why you should tie the knot here.
    Location
    Just minutes away from the city’s most notable landmarks, celebrate in the heart of the city at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences. Nestled in the iconic West Corniche district, it is an idyllic destination to exchange vows and craft memories weaved with emotions, opulence and sophistication.
    Wedding venues

    With its perfect blend of unparalleled grandeur, elegance and charm, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences is the ultimate location for big celebrations beyond every expectation. Offering one of the largest and most elegant wedding venues in the capital, every couple can choose between a micro wedding for an intimate celebration or a full-on wedding festivity.
    ‘Al Bateen’ is a high-celling ballroom that allows you to customize your big day to your style and preferences and can comfortably host large weddings of up to 600 guests, making for an excellent pick for an eloquent large-scale celebration. The venue boasts a theatrical staircase that leads you from the private entrance to the beautifully designed pre-function area as you make your way toward your magical ever-after. The well-appointed bridal suite and the plush VIP lounge are thoughtfully designed keeping in mind the comfort and privacy of the bride and the groom, making it one of the largest in the city, adorned with luxurious decors.

    For a more intimate affair, there is the ‘Mouza’, a stunning event space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a sea-view private terrace and a dedicated pre-function area. The ‘Lum’a Terrace’ offers a space apt for receptions and ceremonies, and delivers breathtaking views of the palace.
    For traditional weddings, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences also provides a private ladies-only setting in an exclusive set-up that includes female chefs, security personnel and hostesses.
    Dedicated wedding planners
    To ensure a smooth sailing wedding prep you will get to work with an experienced team of event consultants to do all your ‘wedmins’ and ensure your wedding perfectly matches your vision. From an elevated guest experience down to the smallest of details, their years of expertise will allow you a stress-free wedding prep and bring together tradition, culture, and your personal style to create exciting and memorable moments for you and your guests.
    Exquisite catering
    Embark on an epicurean journey with bespoke menus carefully curated by the master chefs, a personalized service, and a customized wedding cake on the house – these culinary offerings add a meaningful touch to your big day.
    Luxurious guest rooms and facilities
    When all the dancing and festivities wind down, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences can host you and your guests throughout the wedding celebration. The property features luxurious rooms and spacious suites and residences providing the perfect space to relax and prepare for your big day. Its world-class amenities include an outdoor pool, spa and in-house salon – allowing the utmost convenience for the day of your dreams. Special stay rates are offered for guests as well as a complimentary first night at the Grand Suite followed by a lavish breakfast spread for the newly-wedded couple.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Robots to soon issue your boarding pass in Dubai if you’re flying Emirates

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With Dubai constantly staying ahead of the curve in aviation, robots are amongst the latest to take the lead at Emirates.
    The Dubai carrier plans on deploying over 200 robots in the next couple of years for the check-in systems. A portable intelligent device, named Sarah will be placed near check-in counters in the Dubai International Airport Emirates terminal.
    At a recent showcase event entitled “FORSA TEK”, organized by the Emirates Group on Thursday, the latest product innovation and technological advancements were released to the public.
    Topics related to robotics, virtual reality, artificial intelligence and other new-age developments were touched upon including the soon-to-implement robot check-in technologies.

    Designed with its human-like etiquette, this technology is already fully functional and available, with more details regarding the volume of units and price point to be revealed later.
    “I think we are the first airline globally to introduce or plan to introduce a portable check-in robot,” said Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redha
    “The robot can complete the passenger’s check-in processes, including issuing a boarding pass, which will be sent to the travellers’ registered mobile number or e-mail,” Al Redha further conveyed.
    By always innovating in the industry Dubai airport also introduced a host of biometric contactless pathways at Terminal 3 in Dubai Airport. With facial and iris recognition supporting all immigration facilities, passengers could have a seamless travel experience.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    For more information visit emirates.com
    Images: Instagram @emirates  More