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    10 uber-cool cafés to switch-off with a cup of joe in Dubai

    Life

    by Mehral Sadat
    4 hours ago

    Looking for a place to have a solid cup of coffee and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life? We got you covered.
    When it comes to coffee, the journey in finding an aesthetic spot is always half the job done. With Dubai’s ever-growing coffee community, we are always on the look out for spots that we can go to escape the our busy schedules and take some time to be mindful and have a tasty cup of joe. Whether you feel like winding down on your own, or with some friends the following spots are perfect to do just that.
    Emirates Woman has curated a guide of our favourite coffee shops to visit for a midweek break.
    IYKYK Community Club & Café in Villa AUMÉDAN

    Tucked away inside a single story villa in a quiet Jumeira neighbourhood, IYKYK prides itself in offering the community a nice cup of coffee in concept store and flower studio Villa AUMÉDAN. Surrounded by modern and unique furniture, prints and colors you are sure to enjoy the space whilst catching up with friends. The space hosts pop-ups with local designers, ranging from clothing to accessories. What better way to browse?
    For more information visit aumedan.com
    Boston Lane

    Located in Courtyard in the art district of Al Quoz, this hidden gem is the perfect place to unwind and grab yourself a cup of coffee. From 7:30AM to 7PM, Boston Lane provides its guests with a cozy, pastel interior, delicious food and speciality coffee. Boston Lane shares its space with The Collective, which houses several homegrown concepts to have a look at whilst waiting for your coffee.
    For more information visit outset.ae
    Backyard Coffee

    Established in the Umm Suqeim area on 22nd street, Backyard is your neighbourhood coffee club. With big glass windows and plants all around, you are bound to enter into serenity here. Not only does Backyard serve coffee, but it also has its own German-inspired spin on the ice latte called the Einspänner latte. This is a drink you must try. With over 7 locations, Backyard ensures you get the winding down session you need with a delicious drink.
    Orto Dubai

    Sitting on a corner, overlooking the Dubai Water Canal, Orto is the spot to go to when looking for aesthetic visuals and good coffee. Additionally, they offer both indoor and outdoor seating, giving their clients choice in where they would like to sip their drink. Orto is the perfect place to head when craving an evening cup – as the sun sets and the breeze hits, the coffee is sure to complete the serene experience. Lastly, the spot offers parking by the Dubai Water Canal, making it an easy destination to get to.
    Terra

    Nestled in the corner of Waitrose in Al Thanya Street, Terra is a malleable amalgam inspired by people and places. This spot welcomes its regulars and new guests with open arms. Filled with big, leafy plants and a variety of textures this space is definitely one of the places you should experience for a moment of calm and a delicious coffee drink. The outside space acts as an escape to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
    Paus Club

    With the opening of its new space right on Al Wasl road, Paus Club ensures that those who walk into their doors are offered sanctuary. With a minimal approach to décor, this space allows you to rid your mind of the daily stresses you might be feeling. Besides the big windows and luscious greens to look at, Paus gives you a moment to pause during your day to both enjoy your coffee and unwind. What’s more, is that the new location offers a big parking space, so there is no need to fret on where you are going to park your car.
    For more information visit pausdxb.com
    Toby’s Estate

    Straight out of Australia, Toby’s Estate has locations in Jumeirah 2, Dubai Hills Mall and finally Last Exit DXB Bound. The coffee shop offers quiet from the busy roads no matter what part of town you are. Modern architecture mixed with the presence of green plants evokes a sense of luxury bliss. The bright space offers a selection of coffee beans with great service.
    100 Café in The Hundred Wellness Centre

    Situated in the heart of Dubai in Jumeirah 1, the 100 Café finds itself in a The Hundred Wellness Centre, a wellness destination. Located in a minimal white villa with a couple of parking spaces. The café overlooks a lush green garden with seating inside and outside. This space serves healthy bites and drinks. The cafe caters to a chemical-free and organic lifestyle, putting thought into each ingredient. With that in mind, if you are into plant-based milks and healthy treats, then surely 100 Café is the place for you without a doubt.
    East West

    Just a minute away from Boston Lane in Al Quoz’s Courtyard, East West is a blank canvas platform. It links the creative and cultural relationship of bringing people together. It is well-lit with wooden chairs and a tall ceiling. This space serves a selection of refreshing coffee and drinks. Therefore this is a great option to pick whether you want to have a cup in the morning or until your break on a busy, work-filled day.
    The Grey

    The Grey has a sophisticated take on winding down. You can sit in the garden space outside or sit inside and appreciate the landscape. With the windows slid open, the space shifts into a sleek yet cosy setting. With a focus on coffee culture, The Grey opens its arms to guests with enthusiasm and connection. This space connects its guests. From serving your coffee order to hosting coffee sessions where you can grow, learn and experience the art of coffee-making. You can find The Grey in Al Safa 1. There is parking lot in front of the shop for an easy in and out.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @emelieolson More

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    How I got my job as… founder of a well-curated vintage interior concept store

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    41 seconds ago

    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Mateen Shah, founder of Assembly, a well-curated vintage concept store of rare furniture, decor, and collectibles located in Al Quoz that will satisfy all interior desires.
    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businessmen 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.
    Here, Mateen shares how he’s spent his early career before eventually pivoting his passion in curation and eye for design into opening Assembly.

    Mateen Shah, founder of Assembly

    What was your favorite subject at school?
    Business, economics, and history were my favorites. I’ve always been fascinated by how markets evolve, how industries shape culture, and how history influences design and consumer behavior. Understanding economic trends and historical movements has played a huge role in how I approach sourcing, curating, and growing Assembly Vintage.
    What was your first job?
    My first job was in retail—I started working in department stores in sales at the age of 12 or 13 to earn extra pocket money. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the world of storytelling and the art of selling beautifully crafted, aesthetically appreciated products. That early experience shaped my passion for curation and design-driven retail.
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    Moving from New York was not an easy decision, but Dubai’s dynamic, ever-evolving nature drew me in. It’s a city that embraces creativity, innovation, and new ideas while maintaining a strong connection to tradition. The growing appreciation for design and interiors here made it the perfect place to bring Assembly Vintage to life. That said, my journey wasn’t immediate—I spent my initial years in a corporate role before fully embracing entrepreneurship and carving out my space in the design world.
    What inspired you to enter the retail/interior design space and launch Assembly?
    I’ve always had a deep appreciation for design that tells a story—pieces that have lived a life before they reach you. The idea for Assembly Vintage came from a desire to make unique, high-quality vintage and collectible design more accessible in the GCC. There was a gap in the market for a curated, design-driven vintage concept, and I wanted to create a space that brought together people who share that appreciation.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    A bit of everything! From sourcing pieces from around the world to curating collections, working on store activations, and connecting with collectors and designers. A big part of my role is storytelling—each piece at Assembly has history, and it’s my job to bring that to life for our audience.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    No two days are the same, but typically, my mornings start with reviewing new inventory or checking in on sourcing opportunities. I spend a lot of time curating the showroom, working on digital content, and collaborating with designers and collectors. Afternoons might involve client meetings, styling consultations, or brainstorming new activations. In between, I’m always on the lookout for unique finds.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    “Buy with intention.” Whether it’s in business or in life, every decision should be made with purpose. It’s easy to chase trends, but true design—and true success—comes from curating with a clear vision.
    And what is the worst?
    That you have to follow a set path to succeed. I don’t believe in rigid formulas—sometimes, taking an unconventional route leads to the most exciting opportunities.

    Tell us more about the offerings at Assembly – is there a favourite piece you like?
    Assembly Vintage is all about sourcing timeless, design-forward pieces—from mid-century modern furniture to rare collectibles and unique decorative objects. One of my favorite pieces right now is the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman—an absolute icon that blends comfort and elegance effortlessly. Another standout is the Praying Mantis Sculptural Floor Lamp, a truly artistic lighting piece with incredible presence.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    Building awareness around the value of vintage in a market that’s still catching on to it. Many people associate “new” with better, but vintage isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about sustainability, craftsmanship, and design that lasts. Educating customers and shifting that mindset has been both a challenge and a rewarding part of the journey.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Follow your instincts, but also do your research. The vintage and collectible space requires deep knowledge of design history, authenticity, and sourcing. And most importantly, be patient—great pieces (and great businesses) take time to find and build.
    What are your goals for the future?
    To expand Assembly Vintage into a curated global platform for collectors and design lovers—a space where rare, high-quality vintage pieces are accessible, celebrated, and thoughtfully sourced from around the world. I also want to continue building unique collaborations, immersive retail experiences, and a community that appreciates the artistry and history behind each piece.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Exclusive: In the office with Fay Ezzat, founder of L’Atelier Middle East

    Fashion

    by Camille Macawili
    1 min ago

    Fay Ezzat, founder of L’Atelier Middle East, exclusively shares the conception and vision of her latest venture with Emirates Woman.

    How long have you been in this space?
    It actually took me a few good months to establish and renovate the whole place, and I can proudly say that we have been operating here for a year-and-a-half now.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    In our L’Atelier we mostly produce clothes for different local designers from the region as well as outside. We are getting requests from designers from France, Australia, but we also have started doing pieces for Jo Malone, Bvlgari, Victoria’s Secret and other big global brands for their campaigns. In the meantime, I have been creating a few bespoke pieces for my own brand for this year’s launch.
    How do you think the interior reflects you?
    I have been creating this space not only for myself, but also for designers and brands to inspire and produce their collections within a beautiful set-up and light space. I believe that the environment is very important when it comes to creation, that’s why I built this place to make everyone feel the fashion energy, where they can come up with new ideas.
    The way that reflects in L’Atelier is not only production but is also a space to create, design and do fittings. L’Atelier is a fashion hub.
    Describe your taste in three words.
    Sharp, androgynous and minimalistic.
    Scroll through the gallery below for an exclusive tour inside L’Atelier:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    January’s – The Optimism Issue – Download Now 
    Images: Supplied More

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    10 aesthetic cafés to wind down with a cup of joe in Dubai

    Life

    by Mehral Sadat
    18 seconds ago

    Looking for a place to have a solid cup of coffee and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life? We got you covered.
    When it comes to coffee, finding an aesthetic spot is always half the job done.
    To ensure you know where to go in Dubai, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of our favourite coffee shops to visit for a midweek break.
    IYKYK Community Club & Café in Villa AUMÉDAN

    Tucked away inside a villa in a quiet Jumeira neighbourhood, IYKYK prides itself in offering the community a nice cup of coffee in concept store and flower studio Villa AUMÉDAN. Surrounded by modern and unique furniture, prints and colors you are sure to enjoy the space whilst catching up with friends. The space hosts pop-ups with local designers, ranging from clothing to accessories. What better way to browse?
    Boston Lane

    Located in Courtyard, this hidden gem is the perfect place to unwind and grab yourself a cup of coffee. From 7:30AM to 7PM, Boston Lane provides its guests with a cozy, pastel interior, delicious food and speciality coffee. Boston Lane shares its space with The Collective, which houses several homegrown concepts to have a look at whilst waiting for your coffee.
    Backyard

    As stated in their Instagram bio, this is your neighbourhood coffee club. With big glass windows and plants all around, you are bound to enter into serenity here. Not only does Backyard serve coffee, they have their own German inspired spin on the ice latte called the Einspänner latte. This is a drink you must try. With over 7 locations, Backyard ensures you get the winding down session you need with a delicious drink.
    Orto Dubai

    Sitting on a corner, overlooking the Dubai Water Canal, Orto is the spot to go to when looking for aesthetic visuals and good coffee. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, giving their clients choice in where they would like to sip their drink. Orto is the perfect place to head when craving an evening cup – as the sun sets and the breeze hits, the coffee is sure to complete the serene experience.
    Terra

    Nestled in the corner of Waitrose in Al Thanya Street, Terra is a malleable amalgam inspired by people and places. Filled with big, leafy plants and a variety of textures this space is definitely one of the places you should experience for a moment of calm and a delicious coffee drink. The outside space acts as an escape to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
    Paus Club

    With the opening of its new space in Al Wasl, Paus Club ensures that those who walk into their doors are offered sanctuary. With a minimal approach to décor, this space allows you to rid your mind of the daily stresses you might be feeling. Big windows and luscious greens to look at, Paus gives you a moment to pause during your day to enjoy your coffee and unwind.
    Toby’s Estate

    With over several locations, Toby’s Estate offers quiet from the busy roads no matter what part of town you are. Modern architecture mixed with the presence of green plants evokes a sense of luxury bliss. The bright space offers a selection of coffee beans with great service.
    100 Café in The Hundred Wellness Centre

    Situated in a wellness destination located in the heart of Dubai. 100 Café overlooks a lush green garden with seating inside and outside – this space serves healthy bites and drinks. The cafe caters to a chemical-free and organic lifestyle, putting thought into each ingredient. If you are into plant-based milks, then 100 Café is the place for you.
    East West

    Just a minute away from Boston Lane, East West is a blank canvas platform. It links the creative and cultural relationship of bringing people together. It is well-lit with wooden chairs and a tall ceiling. this space serves a selection of refreshing coffee and drinks and is a great option to pick when wanting a small bite in the morning or setting a meeting.
    The Grey

    The Grey has a sophisticated take on winding down. You can sit in the garden space outside or sit inside and appreciate the landscape. With the windows slid open, the space shifts into a sleek yet cozy setting. With a focus on coffee culture, The Grey opens its arms to guests with enthusiasm and connection. This space connects its guests with its coffee in ways from serving your coffee order to hosting coffee sessions where you can grow, learn and experience the art of coffee-making.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Exclusive: At home with Ann Hertha, founder of FE Agency

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    27 seconds ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    Take a peek inside Ann Hertha, founder of FE Agency, modern-minimalist home built upon bespoke interiors and thoughtful decor.
    How long have you been in this space?
    After living in Dubai for 12 years, we finally purchased our first house and transformed it into a space that truly reflects our taste and style. In December, we received the keys and wasted no time starting renovations. Despite a complete overhaul, we were able to move in after just three months. Unfortunately, the heavy rains earlier this year caused delays, and our outdoor area was only finished in June. Typically, we spend the summer months in Europe, but this year we were equally thrilled to return to our new home and open it up for the new season.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    The list of our custom-built interior items is extensive. I have a deep passion for fashion and interior design, both of which reflect my identity and values. Throughout our renovation process, I prioritised sourcing locally and upcycling. Working with local craftsmen has been key in bringing my vision to life and supporting local is also one of the pillars at FE Agency.
    Various pieces in our home, such as the dining table, sofa, and bathroom counters, were designed by me and produced locally. We also repurposed materials, like tiles and marble, for different areas of our home. The kitchen countertop is upcycled marble from a Bottega Veneta event and the wooden pergola that frames the outdoor dining space is made from our old dining table. The outdoor space was a major project, with secondhand tiles, where the cracked pieces found new life in the outdoor shower. We created spaces for entertaining and socialising, such as an outdoor dining and BBQ area, game corner and a sunken Majilis with a fire pit.
    Each detail in our home holds special meaning, like the railroad sleeper used for the staircase, which reminds me of a cherished memory in Bali when my husband proposed. But my favourite is for obvious reasons my custom walk-in closet.
    How do you think the interior reflects you?
    I love combining the simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian design with the rich textures and colours of Middle Eastern and African influences. My home is a mix of clean lines, natural elements, and pops of vibrant hues inspired by my travels. Our green statement pool and the wilderness planted around is, for example, inspired by a trip to the Seychelles.
    My home is a representation of my past, present, and future and brings me a sense of comfort and happiness to be surrounded by things that remind me of the places and people that have shaped me into the person I am today. I believe that creating a space that reflects who you are and where you’ve been is essential in making a house feel like a home. It’s important to me that every corner of my home tells a story and evokes a sense of warmth and comfort for not only myself but also for my family and guests. I hope that anyone who visits my home can feel the love and care that I have put into creating a space that is truly me.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    November’s – The Precious Issue – Download Now
    Photography: Ahmed Abdelwahab More

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    A design-led hotel in Austin is home to bold interiors and eclectic vibes

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    18 seconds ago

    Austin is the base and muse to Austin Proper Hotel and Residences – a design-led space with bold interiors, mid-century and eclectic vibes, and global influences.

    THE STAY

    Austin Proper Hotel and Residences’ guest rooms and suites have been meticulously detailed by world-renowned designer Kelly Wearstler, whose distinctly bold vision and eclectic takes from global influences filled the spaces within the property to create a sense of elevated residential hotel living. The space is accented with bold interiors that are deeply influenced by local craft and artisans, featuring Arts & Crafts-inspired wall coverings, distressed hardwoods, and barefoot-friendly area rugs. Well-considered appointments include signature Proper beds, Aesop bath amenities, Kelly Wearstler x Parachute Home robes, and state-of-the- art connectivity.
    THE DINING
    Dining options cater to every mood, from café grab-and-go to garden cocktails over- looking Shoal Creek, poolside suppers, or a full spread at The Peacock, its signature restaurant. Leading Austin Proper Hotel’s array of creative dining is McGuire Moorman Lambert, a James Beard Award Nominee hospitality team behind Austin’s modern food, drink, and fashion empire. At the landmark eatery, The Peacock, guests can enjoy an array of light bites such as spreads and sunny mezze. On the rooftop pool deck at La Piscina, a destination restaurant offers an elevated alternative to Tex-Mex with family-style platters piled high with wood-grilled light fare. At The Quill Room, sip classic beverages and spin a record at the living room lounge; or indulge in the elegance of Goldie’s Sunken Bar, our intimate 30-seat lounge for the ultimate nightcap.
    THE WELLNESS
    Whether you’re looking forward to a refreshing dip by the sparkling pool on the 5th floor, or recovering at the Verbena Spa, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences is designed and well equipped for guests who wish to linger on the property. For prime leisure, set up camp and lounge on the sun-deck cabanas and plush chaises that offer stunning sunset views of the city, or if ultimate relaxation is your goal, enjoy world-class wellness amenities at the in-house spa that offers full-service pampering, from cold plunge to dry sauna to recover from jet lag.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    October’s – The Bold Issue – Download Now More

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    In the office with Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica, takes us inside their upscale fitness studio at ICD Brookfield Place.
    How long have you been in this space?
    We opened our doors at ICD Brookfield Place on September 1, 2023.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    The whole space has been custom- built. As design guardians, London-based TR Studio Architects worked very closely with us to turn our vision into reality. We wanted to create a special space for our clients. In addition to the design, the art collection has been specially curated and includes pieces by Picasso, Ed Ruscha, Damien Hirst, and eLSeed, among others.
    How do you think the interior reflects you?
    Whether at our ICDB or our Jumeirah location, art has been at the heart of our design. This is a constant in all our spaces because what is a space without art? We also believe that comfort and aesthetic must go hand in hand which is why we en- sure that our spaces are first and foremost comfortable for our clients.
    Describe your taste in three words.
    Classically modern, comforting and timeless.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Photography by Mark Mathew More

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    Dopamine decor: feel-good items to make your home a happy space

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    “Dopamine decor” is a term used to describe interior design choices that aim to stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, by creating a visually appealing and emotionally uplifting environment.
    Here are some ways to incorporate dopamine decor:
    Color Palette: Choose colors that evoke positive emotions. Vibrant hues like blues, greens, and yellows can create a cheerful atmosphere.
    Natural Light: Maximize natural light to improve mood. Open curtains, use sheer fabrics, and position mirrors strategically to reflect light.
    Texture and Comfort: Include plush cushions, soft rugs, and cozy blankets to create a sense of comfort and relaxation.
    Art and Creativity: Hang artwork that resonates with you emotionally. Abstract, colorful, and visually stimulating pieces can elicit positive feelings.
    Sensory Elements: Use scented candles, essential oils, or incense to engage the sense of smell and create a soothing environment.
    Organized Space: A clutter-free environment can reduce stress and anxiety. Proper organization promotes a sense of control and calmness.
    Positive Affirmations: Decorate with positive quotes, affirmations, or motivational artwork to uplift your spirits.
    Functional Design: Arrange furniture in a way that promotes easy movement and functionality. A well-organized space can reduce frustration and increase efficiency.
    Variety and Novelty: Incorporate elements that capture your attention and pique your curiosity. Unique or unexpected decor pieces can trigger feelings of excitement.
    10 editor-approved dopamine-inducing decor items you can add to your cart

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Farfetch & Feature Image: Instagram @ted.amsterdam More