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Welcome to EW‘s 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 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 the co-founder, partner and general manager of Oblong Gallery, Paola MarucciBased in Bluewaters Dubai, the gallery is involved in promoting contemporary art, operating both locally and on the international art platform.EW sat down with Marucci to find out more about her career history, what brought her to Dubai and her passion for art.What was your favourite subject at school?I have done classical studies studying Greek and Latin, as well as Italian literature and art history but I have always been attracted to economics and mathematics.In fact, after my classical studies, my university career was economics and commerce.Over the years I have been able to combine these various elements that have distinguished my school and study path, making the passion for art a managerial activityWhat was your first job?My first job was consulting for corporate start-ups. Now some may wonder what link a consultancy activity has for business projects and the activity of gallery owner well the answer is as follows: creativity.Analyzing and building the business plan of a new company develops great creativity in analyzing the various aspects involved in the projectWhat inspired you to go into the art industry?Living in Pietrasanta for over 20 years I began to cultivate even more my passion for art. Visiting the marble artisan workshops, the Bronze Foundries, attending all the inaugurations of the countless art exhibitions that followed each other in Pietrasanta, knowing and attending all the major contemporary artists was born my indissoluble love for art that then materialized in the opening at first of the gallery in Forte dei Marmi, secondary to that of Dubai.What eventually brought you to Dubai?I had been in Dubai on holiday many years ago and fell in love with it. Later I decided to open the gallery in Dubai both because I believe that the Middle East is an expanding market. And because I love betting and my dream is to integrate our culture more with that of the Middle East favouring a transfer of experience between the two countries. Art is the instrument that allows achieving full integration between peoples.Can you talk us through what inspired you to open your own gallery?In addition to being an art lover, I am an entrepreneur and as such always attracted by new challengesWhat are the key elements of your role?My role as a Partner and General Manager involves different aspects, from the choice of artists to promote on the market, to the management of events, sales and administrative issues. I mean, I don’t have much time to get bored.Talk us through your daily routine.My daily routine is to always think about how to develop our business and evolve.What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?The advice I can give is that you have to be very courageous and believe in what you are doing even if everything seems to suggest that you have to give up.What is the best piece of advice you ever received?The best advice I generally always get from my husband who is like me a fighter and who always manages to encourage me and give me so much strength to carry on my choices with determination.What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?The biggest change was to go from a simple partner of a gallery in Dubai to General Manager, with all the logistical difficulties that have resulted living in Italy, a wonderful challenge and that fills me with satisfactionWhat are your goals for 2021?My goals are to make Oblong Contemporary Gallery a reference on the Emirati territory for the purchase of sculptures, our peculiarity, and to achieve the goal of creating a cultural bridge between Italy and the UAE.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

Supermodels Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid often express how proud they are of their Middle Eastern heritage.Their father, Mohamed Hadid, is Palestinian and is passionate about his culture and has instilled this in his children too.Recently, the property tycoon opened up about his five children – Alana and Marielle Hadid from his first marriage and Gigi, Bella and Anwar from his second marriage to Yolanda Hadid – and revealed the Arabic names of all of them.Per Turkey-based newspaper the Daily Sabah, Hadid had been on a visit to Istanbul and prayed in the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and the Blue Mosque.Talking about his four daughters, Hadid elaborated of their Arabic names.“Marielle’s name is Zayn, Alana’s name is Amal,” Hadid said. “Gigi’s name is Noura and Bella’s name is Khairiah.” Meanwhile, his son Anwar is named after his father, Mohamed Anwar.Interestingly, model Gigi and her boyfriend Zayn Malik gave their newborn daughter an Arabic name – Khai. Not only is Khai a beautiful name, but there’s also a truly special meaning behind the moniker.Khai means “crowned”, “the chosen one” or “strong” in some Arabic terms and dialects. The name was also chosen as it pays tribute to her late grandmother, Khairia, on Mohamed Hadid’s side of the family, according to TMZ.Hadid has previously claimed his late mother descended from royalty. “Her great grandfather was the Prince of Nazareth – King of Galilee in the 18th century Daher Al-Omer The Ruler,” he previously said.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

This time last year, Dubai and the rest of the world were heading into citywide lockdowns. One of the most affected industries as a result of the lockdown was the F&B industry.As a culinary haven, known for its plethora of incredible eateries, Dubai’s restaurant scene was turned on its head.Around the same time of the outbreak of coronavirus, Roka Dubai opened its doors – definitely unfortunate timing. However, one year on, Roka is thriving amongst the heart of Business Bay, despite the continued restrictions.In fact, following the restaurant’s introduction to the Middle East, Roka, which is known for its traditional Japanese Robatayaki concept of cooking, is set to expand its offerings in the GCC.It was announced earlier this month Roka is set to open its doors in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this summer. Furthering its expansion in the GCC, Roka will also open in Kuwait in autumn 2021 in the country’s first Waldorf Astoria.Commenting on the exciting partnership, Chief Executive Officer of Mabanee, Waleed Alsharian said: “We are very pleased to be bringing the exceptional and renowned ROKA restaurant to Kuwait.”“Mabanee strives to create unique experiences for its customers, a vision that is embedded in our values as well as all projects we develop,” he added. “We believe this is an ideal partnership that will add value to the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, soon to be opening its doors this autumn.”Roka embraces the traditional Japanese Robatayaki concept of cooking originating from the fishermen of the northern coastal waters of Japan, this popular fine-dining encompasses an industrial style as it’s located in London and Dubai.With its flagship restaurant located in London and now Dubai, with soon-to-be venues in Saudi and Kuwait, Roka has hero dishes including dishes such as the flaming grill include kankoku fu kohitsuji which is lamb cutlets with Korean spices and sesame cucumber to kampachi sashimi no salada including yellowtail sashimi, yuzu-truffle dressing, a dish made famously in London, the menu is full of delectable created with authentic ingredients.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

With our lives condensed into the palm of our hands on our phones nowadays, it’s essential to have all the necessary apps you need.From getting quick grocery deliveries, to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, to ensuring you can get the best deals to experience life in Dubai, here’s 11 apps every woman living in the UAE need to have on their phones.OunassAs the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best local and international brands on the Ounass app. In Dubai there’s two-hour delivery available, meaning you can get that new outfit for a weekend brunch in the blink of an eye.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.Bloomingdale’sBloomingdale’s Middle East recently launched a new iOS app for the region, meaning you can shop right on your phone for all the latest new buys. Not only will shoppers have access to the most sought-after brands at their fingertips, but the delivery time for pieces will be minimal. For those based in the UAE, same-day delivery will be available and for Kuwait and Saudi, express shipping is available.You can download the app on the iOS store.CareemThis hassle-free app is your one-stop-shop solution for all provides all your needs as you ride, order food and more around the UAE.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.ViyaTo enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer you need to ensure you download the UAE rewards app Viya. Think of the platform as your VIP access to around 100 city’s top restaurants and bars as well as sporting experiences, exclusive spa days and rounds of golf on Dubai’s leading courses. Sunseekers will love exclusive access to hotel pools and beaches by booking day pass via the app. The format is simple and works on a two-way loyalty system. For every Dhs10 you spend at a Viya partner, the app will reward you with Dhs1 that can eventually add up and go towards an unforgettable experience. In addition, you will enjoy savings on every purchase via the app. Your five-star access awaits from only Dhs1,375 for three months.InstaShopGet your groceries from your trusted local supermarkets on InstaShop at the same in-store prices with a 45 minute average delivery depending on your location. You need to simply download the app, sit back and the experts on this platform will handle the rest.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.The EntertainerThis money-saving app is packed with numerous one for two offers along with a 25 per cent off at some major outlets, be it restaurants, spas, shops, hotels or even activities as you experience more and pay less.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.NamshiAs the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest pieces at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.SpotifyWhat better way to listen to all the songs and podcasts you love than on one consolidated app, giving you access on any gadget whether a phone, computer or tablet. Always ready at your fingertips, you can even let Spotify surprise you with their personalised playlists which are curated especially according to your taste as you sit back and relax with the premium subscription also available for uninterrupted learning.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.Also read: Converse with A-listers on this invite-only exclusive appThe Dubai MallAs the largest shopping centre in the world, getting around The Dubai Mall can prove to be difficult if you’re new to the UAE. However, the app is your ultimate guide to helping you get around the mall to find the best shops and restaurants Dubai Mall has to offer.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.ZoomWith strict worldwide travelling measures, keeping in touch with your friends can be quite the task. The Zoom app has made staying up-to-date with your loved ones easy, as with a click of a button you can all connect as frequently catch up with each other.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.WashmenFor those on a busy schedule or just want an app that can take care of your washing, Washmen will be a godsend. Washmen is a simple app that takes care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services. The usual turnaround time for garments is 48 to 72 hours.You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.For any updates regarding each app, visit the application store for more information– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Supplied More

One of our favourite events of the year didn’t happen in 2020 due to the pandemic, but Dubai Restaurant Week is back for 2021.With the emirate being one big melting pot of flavours with authentic eateries for around the globe, the city’s dining scene is an absolute delight for both residents and visitors. This is exactly why Dubai Restaurant Week is the perfect time to eat your way around the emirate.As you indulge in some global culinary fare, the Dubai Food Festival 2021 is back making the city a paradise for all its foodies. As part of the programme, Dubai Restaurant Week has a list of tasty deals lined out with a list of two-course lunch menus offered at up to half the price for many places.Firstly, at one of the newest hotspots on the block, enjoy the delectable dishes by Chef Alessandro Miceli at Italian Restaurant Bella in Business Bay. Throughout Restaurant Week patrons can enjoy a three-course lunch from 12pm to 4pm at Dhs125 per person with dishes including homemade pasta, folded pizza with veal, tiramisu and much more.For those looking to dine out in the evening, enjoy the dinner menu priced at Dhs250 per person from 7pm to 1am with stunning views of Dubai’s skyline including hero dishes such as the marinated salmon with beetroot.Stuzzichini Selection at Bella Meanwhile, award-winning CÉ LA VI will also be taking part in Dubai Restaurant Week offering guests a chance to try out their exquisite special lunch package which is priced at Dhs125 per person for two courses between 12pm to 3pm seven days which is beautifully crafted by Chef Howard Ko including delectable dishes with spending views of the Burj Khalifa.Miso Caramel Vanilla Mousse at CÉ LA VIIn addition, the participating restaurants with three and two-course menus include Buddha Bar, Nobu, Torno Subito, Toro Toro, Hakkasan, Bread Street Kitchen, COYA, Chicago Meatpackers, Indya by Vineet, Rockfish, Rhodes W1, Seafire and Nobu with over a total of 40 restaurants taking part.You can now dine at the hands of some of the most sought-after chefs such as Massimo Bottura, Akira Black, Gordon Ramsay and many more without breaking the bank.This annual celebration of food also known as the Dubai Food Festival 2021 (DFF) will run from March 25 to April 17, 2021 with Dubai Restaurant Week taking place from March 25 to April 10, 2021 as you discover homegrown concepts, culinary delights, notable hidden gems and bespoke pop-ups all of which Dubai is famous for.Keeping in mind the necessary safety measures, all the social distancing guidelines and protocols will be followed as usual.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied  More

A couple of weeks ago Prince Harry and Meghan Markle dropped some major bombshells in their tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey.The Duke and Duchess of Sussex laid bare their issues with ‘The Firm’ which included accusations of “falsehoods” being perpetuated about them; allegations of racism; severe mental health issues and more.During the first part of the interview, Meghan sat down with Winfrey solo and the pair discussed the royal wedding which took place in May 2018.The Sussexes’ royal wedding was one of the biggest royal events of the decade and was watched by millions worldwide. However, Meghan revealed to Oprah the pair actually got married in secret before their big day.They did it in their back garden with just them and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.“Nobody knows that,” the Duchess of Sussex revealed. “We called the archbishop and we just said, ‘Look ― this thing, this spectacle is for the world.”“The vows that we have framed in our room are just the two of us in our backyard with the Archbishop of Canterbury,” she added.However, it turns out the couple didn’t actually get married before the actual royal wedding.It was confirmed to the Today show in the US that by a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that they “privately exchanged personal vows a few days before their official / legal wedding on May 19 [2018]”.It’s been quite the whirlwind for the couple since they wed. The pair welcomed their first child, Archie Mountbatten Windsor, just under a year after their wedding in May 2019.The following year in January 2020, the pair announced they would be stepping down as senior royals and splitting their time between North America and the UK. Following a stint of living in Canada, the Sussex family relocated to Los Angeles, California, and are now residing in Montecito which is located just south of the city.Having signed multi-million dollar deals with streaming powerhouses Netflix and Spotify, the pair are well on their way to forging their careers in the US post-royal life.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages/Media: CBS, Getty More