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April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now Saif Al Tunaiji, General Manager of ‘Experience Sharjah’ – the tourism division under Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) – shares his insight into the region’s ancient Bedouin culture at the outstanding Mleiha Archaeological Centre.Mleiha is known for its experiences. What gives it archaeological uniqueness?This UNESCO nominated World Heritage site is one of the UAE’s most important archaeological areas which offers plenty of opportunities to explore the nation’s civilizational past, including its key cultural elements along with flora and fauna. It offers an insightful world into the pre-historic world of our ancestors. While being one of the most ancient incubators in the region’s civilizations with archaeological treasures, a treasure to Mleiha allows the visitor to step back in time and learn a whole host of information about the settlers in the region during the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic and modern ages while discovering this time through their history, social order, rituals, pathologies, trade and commerce, art and jewellery and much more. The well-curated exhibitions, interactive displays and artefacts at Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-Tourism Project providing a detailed introduction to the past which allows the visitor to travel back thousands of years to see the UAE in its nascent stages of existence.What inspired the development of Mleiha Archaeological centre as part of a wider Eco-tourism project?Mleiha used to be known as a small village which is located around 20 kilometres south of the Al Dhaid region and 50 kilometres east of Sharjah city. After more than 30 years of thorough excavation and extensive research by the Sharjah Archaeological Authority, its historic aspects have been discovered about the secrets of life in that region.  The Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project was developed by Shurooq as one of Sharjah’s premier archaeological tourism and outdoor adventure destinations, due to its natural beauty, diversity of wildlife and archaeological discoveries. Nominated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site itself reflects the region’s rich cultural and archaeological heritage. The details of designing the project were also inspired by the story of the Umm an-Nar tomb and the archaeological discoveries which date back to over 130,000 years ago – In short, it was the rich heritage and knowledge of the past, that inspired us to design a futuristic project.What values from history in the region can we carry forth today?All our achievements and success stories are deeply rooted in our tradition and history. What we learned from our forefathers have enabled us to be more sensible, aware and open to diversity. The historical importance and unique discoveries of Mleiha also shares insightful thoughts and values. The trade-related artefacts excavated from the region points towards the diversity that we had in the region in the past and the strong connections that we maintained around the globe. It is something that proves the value of tolerance and openness that the region always upheld as knowledge about our past makes us more humble and respects the deep-rooted values and seek to sustain them.What is your role at Mleiha and what has been the most surprising thing about the role?As the General Manager of ‘Experience Sharjah’, which is the tourism division of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), I lead a team of experienced professionals and ensure the best exposure to the destination to create a memorable and exciting experience to the visitors. The surprising and energizing element about the role is its adventurous nature. Working at one of the most picturesque destinations in the UAE, where history, tradition and exhilarating experiences come together is truly unique.With Mleiha being nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, how does it continue to preserve its heritage?Mleiha is retracing the history of the earliest settlers of the region. Graves of humans and animals that have been excavated in and around these archaeological sites make for a surreal moment when one feels deeply connected with people of the past through sociocultural norms that have lived on for countless generations.  At Mleiha, we have enlightening lessons on some of the greatest migrations in history and archaeological evidence to support them. Visitors can go through carefully crafted chapters of history, and in the end, understand how the human settlement of the region began. We take our visitors on memorable journeys on which they will learn, make spectacular discoveries and unravel secrets that Mleiha and adjoining regions have been safekeeping for an incredible 130,000 years. Through this, we aim to give our guests a truly authentic taste of our forefather’s traditions, values and history, To enhance people’s knowledge and understanding of the Arab region’s history – shaped through the ages.  Saif Al Tunaiji, General Manager of ‘Experience Sharjah’How does the venue contribute towards environmental protection and sustainability?Mleiha is a lot more than just archaeology and experiences. The region has a plethora of flora and fauna including some rare plants and animals that are not easily found elsewhere. One of the major reasons why these diverse elements have survived and flourished in the area is due to the foresight of the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project. Along with protecting the natural elements of the site, we also ensure that awareness is passed to the visitors. The Flora and Fauna Workshop organised by the centre is one fine example. It helps the visitors to increase their understanding of the region’s plants, trees, and wildlife. While being educated about the region’s diversity, they also discover plant species indigenous to the region and perhaps see some of the local fauna as well.What are the other major experiences and activities of Mleiha?While providing an educative platform to explore UAE’s ancient history, Mleiha is also known for offering a lifetime experience to the visitors that not only gives them an adrenaline rush but also invigorates their senses with breathtaking activities in the picturesque landscape. From experiencing the beauty of Mleiha’s landscape on horseback to overnight camping under the stars along with exhilarating Mleiha Landscapes adventure to a sunset lounge experience, there is a lot to discover at Mleiha. The Sunset Lounge package is one of the popular visitor’s choices – It includes an off-road drive to catch the sunset in the desert; a barbeque dinner in the desert and stargazing assisted by astronomy experts. Buggy Self-Drive Adventure, another favourite allows the visitors to feel the adrenaline rushes as they pass through landmarks like Fossil Rock and Camel Rock, exploring dune-scapes and landscapes in their buggy. Archaeo-MOG tour, Jebel Buhais trek, Mleiha adventure package, Archaeological tour, and star gazing are some other experiences that Mleiha offers.This is ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – what are you grateful for?I’m grateful for being part of the rich history and tradition of this place – I truly consider it a blessing to be part of a place that connects the past with the present in perfect harmony. Thanks to the visionary leadership of the authority and Sharjah for making this possible.April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

To mark Holy Month, Bahraini artist Hala Al Abbasi has partnered with Instagram to create a series of  Ramadan stickers which were released last week.More than mere aesthetic add-ons, these Instagram stickers have become a vital element of everyone’s feed, as users can get creative on the platform while showcasing their authenticity. The first sticker released by the Bahraini artist includes a beautiful mosque, created to portray the simplicity of the month, the second sticker showcases the traditional food used for breaking a fast with tea and dates with the last image highlighting crescent and stars, depicting moments celebrated during RamadanDiscussing the milestone achievement, Al Abbasi said she was inspired by her favourite aspects of the holiday and chose to reflect on the “beautiful moments that we share together”.Emirates Woman sat down with Al Abbasi on how her collaboration with Instagram came about and what led her to become an illustrator.Can you talk us through your career?I am a Bahraini designer, artist and illustrator. I am very passionate about what I do and love to create new amazing things for people with my designs and express myself through my art as I continue on my mission to spread love and joy with people.What inspired you to become an artist?I started my art journey when I was a child in my early years, I grew up loving to draw and express through this creative art form. My mother encouraged me to do what I love and improve my skills, as I continued to try new things with handicrafts and art. I went through my phases with my art, using a lot of materials until I experienced digital art and chose to focus on it to eventually become an illustrator. I felt like I finally found what I love most and the way I can express myself through it, to be free and use as many colours and shades as much as I want and share it easily with the world. I found my passion and joy in it, as I really wanted to spread the same through the digital world with people all around as I wish to grow and bring them into my life.How did your collaboration with Instagram come about?Instagram approached me because they loved my work and my name had been on their list, so they eventually chose me to create Ramadan stickers for the first time this year.What’s the inspiration behind the sticker designs?Ramadan is the most beautiful, spiritual and elevating month in the Islamic calendar. It encourages people to develop new good habits and continue the progress. Muslims tend to wait for the month’s moon to appear before they announce the first day of Ramadan. Also, once the sun sets, people break their fast starting with dates and water followed by an iftar meal. When Ramadan rolls around, people put forth an extra effort to be the best versions of themselves and tend to go to mosques to pray the Taraweeh prayer besides the five prayers. Keeping in mind this aura, spirit and inspiration, I created the stickers to share the most important and beautiful moments of Ramadan with people.What does this collaboration mean for you and representation for the GCC?I am very grateful and so happy to be chosen by the Instagram team. I really loved and enjoyed working with them and am so proud to be the first in the region to work on the stickers and share them with the world. This amazing opportunity has a very special place in my heart, the love that I have put into my work has been everything to me to share and spread that with the people around the world.What are your goals for 2021?To create more amazing things, work on other big projects and collaborate with big brands when I get any opportunity.To use them, open your Instagram Story tray and add your favourite sticker to your story. You’ll see stories with these stickers from people you follow all in a shared story as shown in the post.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Pexels  More

April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now We talk to some of the most incredible women we know about practising gratitude.Ghizlan GuenezEntrepreneur@ghizlan_guenezWhat are you most grateful for in your life?I’m most grateful for my mindset which allows me to appreciate the little and big things in life and to not take things for granted. I’m also grateful for being able to continue to grow and enjoy this journey that is called life with all of its ups and downs.This is ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – how do you practice gratitude in your life?I’m very intentional with gratitude. I journal and I write down three to five things that I’m grateful for on a daily basis. Sometimes it is big like being healthy and seeing your loved ones well and happy. Sometimes it’s as small as staring out the window and seeing clear blue skies. We are abundantly surrounded by things that we should be grateful and we need to ensure we open our eyes to that.Raha MoharrakThe youngest Arab and first Saudi woman to climb Mount Everest@rahamoharrakWhat are you most grateful for in your life?It’s truly impossible to count or quantify the amount of gratitude I have for my life and that’s precisely what I’m grateful for the most, being healthy and having a healthy family and true friends is a wealth that’s incalculable.This is ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – how do you practice gratitude in your life?I practice gratitude by living with the code of paying it forward and always striving to do small things with love, we might not have the ability to change the world but we all have the ability to change someone’s world.Yasmin Al MullaCreative Director of YNM Dubai@YNMdubai @yasminalmullaWhat are you most grateful for in your life?My health, my family, and the UAE — and everything in between.This is ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – how do you practice gratitude in your life?Each morning is a fresh start, waking up with a thankful heart is my drive in life. I truly appreciate each blessing: small or big, simple or major. Every blessing is a fortune thing by itself, therefore I am always grateful and thankful for everything I have in my life.Khulood ThaniCreative Director of Bint Thani Studio@khuloodthaniWhat are you most grateful for in your life?Every small detail that I have in my life and contributed to make me who I am.This is ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – how do you practice gratitude in your life?It’s important to be connected to the energy of gratitude through appreciating things that we already have instead of looking for things outside. I usually practice daily gratitude affirmations as part of my spirituality and I should say that it has supported me a lot.Asma Hilal LootahFounder of the Hundred Wellness Centre@thehundredwellnessWhat are you most grateful for in your life?I am most grateful to God, as I believe my faith has given me the wisdom, strength and foresight to flourish and prosper both mentally and physically. I am also grateful that I have the self-awareness to make positive changes to my life. Living consciously and making a choice to be mindful and aware of every aspect of your life is vital for happiness, health – both physical and emotional, success and relationships.How do you practice gratitude in your life?I learned an incredibly valuable life lesson from an online course I took by Shawn Anchor. The practise involves writing down three new things every day that you are grateful for and by doing so, your brain is trained into looking for positives. This practice has had a wonderful impact on me and has changed the way I think, and without doubt, contributed to my positive outlook on life.  Life can often become challenging for everyone and when this happens, I make a conscious decision to pause and take a moment to appreciate everything around me. Even in tough times, there is always something to be grateful for and I believe that ultimately a grateful heart finds peace.April’s – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ – Download Now – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

With the concept of digital nomadism becoming rampant, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, working remotely has become a thing of the norm for many. It’s even something you could do for a short period of time.Emirates Woman has curated a guide of where you can unwind and work at the same time to ensure you always deliver your level best results.Anantara Kihavah MaldivesWith this aquatic paradise on earth, you’re bound to be inspired by the natural beauty of the island as you work while being surrounded by the greatest aquatic paradise on earth. The Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has launched its collections of the largest private pool residences in the world with intelligent technology and high-tech gym facilities to stay fit on your visit. From lush foliage to bougainvillaea accents, the resort is perfect for a remote ‘workation’ this season.To make a reservation or for more information visit Anantara.comUltima Corfu in GreecePerched on a dramatic hillside looking out over the Ionian Sea, this elegant space seamlessly blends the outdoor landscape with the indoor spaces combining Mediterranean feasts with an expansive wraparound terrace, being one of the most beautiful spots to visit as you escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With an indoor-outdoor living experience and the ultimate wellness experience, you are sure to get those creative ideas flowing.To make a reservation or for more information visit ultimacorfu.comSLS Dubai Hotels & Residences in DubaiOffering incomparable 360-degree views of the city with unobstructed views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, this impressive 75-storey tower makes SLS Dubai one of the tallest hotels and residences in the region with modern architecture featuring sleek accents at the hotel and subversive designs for you to both work and play at, with a lounge venue to unwind, a coffee shop and a signature spa with an epitome of luxury treatment rooms.To make a reservation or for more information visit sbe.comOne&Only Le Saint Géran in MauritiusWhile redefining luxury, this resort offers tailored holistic experiences with pure relaxation time to a unique wellness journey with signature treatments using relaxing techniques with a Mauritian herbal blend of spices. In addition, the resort has partnered with Biologique Recherche offering a combination of advanced products for facial treatments.To make a reservation or for more information visit oneandonlyresorts.comAvani Palm View Dubai Hotel & SuitesOffering a blissful all-year-round staycation package that is perfect for couples and families, this sought after hotel shares magnificent views of Dubai’s dazzling skyline with a spacious bedroom apartment and a fully-equipped kitchen with a private terrace showcasing breathtaking views of The Palm Jumeirah, it’s complemented with breakfast at Seven Seeds as you work and stay.To make a reservation or more information visit avanihotels.comSix Senses in SeychellesFrom Coral-fringed beaches and a luxe surrounding, this tropical destination is an ode to absolute comfort as you stay at the unique destination offering a host of wellness experiences for you to immerse in local life as you lay back and work in absolute solitude, making this destination a must-visit spot. The villas are secluded with expansive tropical vegetation and unsurpassed ocean vistas, with butler service for an uninterrupted staycation.To make a reservation or for more information visit sixsenses.comThe OZEN Collection in the MaldivesIf you’re seeking a sabbatical from urban living and are looking for a summer escape, this oasis of elegance is located on Maadhoo Island with beautiful options making it a home away from home. Allowing you to live and work from one of the most relaxing villas on the island you can receive a 40 per cent discount when you stay for 30 days or longer, making it an offer you simply can’t refuse.To make a reservation or for more information visit theozencollection.comAl Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa in Abu DhabiWithin the desert landscape of Abu Dhabi lies this relaxing retreat with serene tranquillity, featuring timeless local details. With classical dwellings and traditional artwork, this hotel experience is ideal for guests to work as they are immersed by privacy with a distinct spa as the hallmark of the hotel experience to completely unwind.To make a reservation or for more information visit Marriott.comWith the ongoing pandemic, do check the country’s regulations pertaining to travel regulations and restrictions as they may vary.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Supplied by Anantara Kihavah More

Hollywood royalty has touched down in Dubai it seems.Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith appear to be in the emirate, with the latter leaving a huge clue in a recent Instagram post.Sharing a photo of herself with her 10.7 million followers, Pinkett Smith was seen wearing a peach-coloured hijab, stating she was in the Middle East.“I really think the colour peach in the Middle East … suits me,” she captioned the post.However, it was the background of the photo that really gave it away. If we’re not mistaken, the couple seems to be staying at the luxury Bvlgari Hotel.In the first selfie, Pinkett Smith posted, the balcony furnishings appear to give away her whereabouts. But it’s the second photo that really points to where she’s staying, as it showcases the signature patterned-like white detailing on the balcony, which is seen is almost all the Bvlgari Hotel rooms in Dubai.It should be noted that the timing of when the photo was actually taken isn’t 100 per cent clear and nor has Smith himself posted to social media to share he’s in Dubai.The last time the couple visited the emirate together was August 2019, when they were spotted at Emirates Golf Club with a fan.Even more recently, back in February, the I Am Legend actor was seen in the UAE being photographed with UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov.It’s no secret Smith loves the UAE and has even previously called Dubai “his favourite city on earth”. The city even had a starring role in one of the six episodes of his Facebook Watch series Bucket List.If the couple is currently here, team EW is very much hoping the A-listers will be sharing more of their trip.Who knows, maybe we’ll bump into them at dinner?– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Jada Pinkett Smith Instagram, Bvlgari Hotel Dubai More