Life

Whether you’re on the lookout for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or simply wish to seclude yourself in utmost tranquility there are plenty of staycation options in the UAE, which are away from the hustling and bustling cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
If you wish to escape from the bustle of city life, these hotels are sure to give you the much-needed break that you deserve without being located in the capital or in Dubai.
Ras Al Khaimah
The Cove Rotana Resort

Offering a distinct Nubian design with modern furnishings, you can experience an Arabian escape with a difference. Enjoy cosy rooms on the resort hillside for an unforgettable stay. The resort offers a host of amenities to suit your needs with a raft of leisure activities to suit those of all ages with impressive beach facilities starting at Dhs340 per night.
For more information visit Rotana.com
Ajman
The Oberoi, Al Zorah

Protected within the Mangroves of Ajman with pristine white sandy beaches, this thoughtful retreat offers a sophisticated environment with panoramic ocean vistas with contemporary architecture. Starting at Dhs1,450 per night prices vary according to availability and dates.
For more information visit Oberoihotels.com
Ajman Saray

This beach-side resort is located on the pristine waters of the Ajman coast with plenty of amenities offering unique pampering experiences with stylish facilities for a relaxing getaway with opulent décor above turquoise waters and ivory sands with a Middle Eastern flair starting at Dhs395 per night, with prices varying depending on availability and dates.
For more information visit mariott.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Al Wadi Desert

Located at the Al Wadi Desert, this remote getaway combines a tranquility, offering a luxurious touch to this traditional desert experience. Combining adventure with nature, you can enjoy horse-riding, an outdoor playground for the children and hydrotherapy facilities with a fitness club for guests starting at Dhs2,254 per night, subject to availability.
For more information visit ritzcarlton.com
Sharjah
The Chedi Al Bait

In the midst of the cultural renaissance in the emirate, this luxurious property offers an inspiring contemporary scene where Islamic heritage with modern features provides an escape bringing the best of old comforts to a new age world. The hotel is nestled within the fulcrum of the UAE’s vibrant landscape starting at Dhs900 for one night subject to availability.
For more information visit ghmhotels.com
Fujairah
Radisson Blu

With views of the nearby Hajar Mountains, the resort features a diving centre with restaurants to cater to every taste as it lies on the stunning private beachfront making it the perfect getaways for a full day of relaxation and on-site bars with a stylish ambience starting at Dhs320 per night.
For more information visit radissonhotels.com
Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

This family-friendly resort is nestled between the extraordinary backdrop of the Hajar mountains with outstanding international cuisine with a scenic setting for the perfect escape exploring rich tradition where outdoor adventures fuse with the relaxing atmosphere of the hotel in this idyllic setting which is home to exotic species of water life starting at Dhs352 per night subject to availability.
For more information visit lemeridien-alaqah.com
Amid coronavirus, all hotels and resorts have adopted the necessary social distancing and hygiene rules to ensure all guests have a safe experience during their stay.
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Barack and Michelle Obama are set to launch a new podcast series focusing on Muslim stories.
Entitled Higher Ground: Tell Them, I Am, the power couple’s podcast sheds light on their journey on being of Muslim faith. It will be released every weekday during Ramadan from April 12, 2021 onwards.

During the show, Michelle and Barack will host a series of interviews with renowned American Muslim activists, artists performers, athletes and actors to bring out their stories in the open, while being published on Spotify through their company Higher Ground Productions. First launched in May 2019, the Obamas are ready to make an impact with inspiring stories, as shown in their previous episodes with novelist G Willow Wilson, comedian Maz Jobrani and many more.
Hosted by the Pakistani-American Misha Euceph, she says, “The stories are universal and the guests are all Muslim. The ultimate goal is for people to feel something, for them to fall in love with the people they’re listening to without ever thinking about who they are and what they look like.”

The versatile Michelle Obama is also all set to launch her own cooking show for kids entitles Waffles and Mochi which explores the wonders of food and culture while prepping meals with freshly curated ingredients as they travel the world with a snippet of the trailer below as it’s ready to go live on March 16 on Netflix:

A host of other podcasts are also set to go live on Spotify, as they continue to keep their audience engaged. From an upcoming investigative series focusing on George Floyd’s death to something lighter with Warner Bros and DC on superheroes and villains.
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
The most romantic hotels around the globe to add to your travel list.
Aman Venice, Italy

Set in one of Venice’s eight great monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, this exclusive hotel has just 24 individually decorated rooms and suites. The Aman Venice combines the past and present perfectly, creating authentic cultural encounters for all of their guests.
The Highlight
The historically significant art and architecture, including frescoes by Tiepolo.
Hôtel de Crillon Paris, France

A timeless and historical landmark that dates back to 1758 overlooking the Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon is a celebration of the spirit of Paris and French art de vivre.
The Highlight
The carefully curated art and antiquity was the result of an extensive four-year restoration.
The Residence Zanzibar, Tanzania

This luxury resort blends modern comforts with Omani, British, Swahili and Indian influences. Set on 32 hectares of tropical gardens, The Residence Zanzibar takes privacy to a whole new level with just 66 individual villas.
The Highlight
All villas come with their own private swimming pools ensuring the ultimate unwind and relaxation.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Escape to the astonishing beauty of the Maldives at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. Just over a 40-minute yacht journey from the airport, this resort boasts 119 beach, reef and overwater villas each with their own private pool, 11 dining venues and a world-class spa and wellness sanctuary.
The Highlight
The resort has its very own 350,000 sq ft private island, the largest of its kind in the Maldives.
Nanuku Resort, Fiji

This resort offers barefoot elegance in a lush tropical paradise situated on a private 550-acre coastal Fiji estate.
The Highlight
Enjoy a private island romantic experience on Vatu-i-Ra – a short boat ride away from the resort – and dine on a gourmet, chef-prepared picnic with champagne.
Auberge du Soleil Napa, California

A resort inspired by the south of France, which is also infused with the soul of California. Showcasing breathtaking views, Auberge du Soleil is the dream of French restaurateur, Claude Rouas.
The Highlight
In a countryside setting in Napa Valley on 33-acres of heritage olive and oak trees, you can truly get away from it all and relax in understated elegance.
Amankila Resort, Bali

As one of Bali’s longest-running luxury hotels, this peaceful sanctuary is situated on the bucolic east coast with a sweeping stretch of private beach and freestanding suites with private pools and expansive terraces.
The Highlight
Enjoy one-of-a-kind wellness experiences which are in secluded open-air spots and explore the outdoors to watch the sunrise over the vast mountain areas.
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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25 February, 2021, marks Kuwait’s 60th National Day Kuwaiti National Day.
In honour of this milestone, Emirate Woman celebrates the incredible women of the country including Olympic athletes, fashion designers, royals, content creators and all of the women who have paved the way for Kuwait.
Noor Bin Eidan

We spoke to Noor, the founder of Done Interior on her vision for the growth of the country.
This year marks the 60th Kuwaiti National Day. What makes you proud to be from Kuwait?

Being a Kuwaiti female citizen is like being a double edge sword as I hold eternal love for this country. However, if it wasn’t for my consistent effort and endeavour, it would have been almost impossible to become the person I am today.
In just 60 years so much has happened in the country. What, to you, stands out as Kuwait’s biggest achievement?
Coping up with the traditions and what is thought of as restricted in our culture has probably made many women give up. It takes courage and audacity to stand up for your rights in a country like Kuwait. However, not only me, in fact, I’ve witnessed many enlightening Kuwaiti women outdone themselves to prove the true power they hold within.
What are your hopes for the future of the country?
I’ve spent most of my life here and apparently this is the only place my soul finds peace. I believe back then we’ve all had to sacrifice to become who we are today especially our ancestors. I am proud of the milestones we’ve been achieving as Kuwaitis and I hope we’d give better chances to our Kuwaiti women, who are pretty much proving their astounding capability in almost all fields by empowering them and also granting them equal rights.
Montaha Al-Ajeel

Within a few years of creating high-quality haute couture dresses, she’s won a number of prestigious awards in the Arab world and has become a role model in her own unique way.
This Kuwaiti fashion designer also shared with us her thoughts for the country as it celebrates its 60th National day.
This year marks the 60th Kuwaiti National Day. What makes you proud to be from Kuwait?
On a personal level, I’m proud to be Kuwaiti, as well as having participated in international fashion shows in New York, Paris, and London. The Kuwaiti ambassadors were keen to attend my shows. Kuwait TV and the Kuwait News Agency KUNA were keen to cover my participation.
In just 60 years so much has happened in the country. What, to you, stands out as Kuwait’s biggest achievement?
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Kuwait has carried out the largest evacuation operation in the history of Kuwait. It managed to return all of its citizens and students from abroad safely back to the country in a very short period of time.
What are your hopes for the future of the country?
I’m truly proud to be a Kuwaiti national, as Kuwait is the mother of three major symbolisms which epitomise it as the country of humanity, the country of good and the country of peace with a hope that it continues to embody these values.
Bazza AlZouman

Established in Kuwait in 2014, Bazza AlZouman’s eponymous brand focuses on creating luxury gowns for modern women who love to be adorned in red carpet and evening gowns which are an ode to the founder’s signature style, representing flamboyant yet effortless pieces.
Hend Almatrouk

Kuwaiti architect Hend Almatrouk, the owner of urban design firm Studio Toggle, is a woman of firsts. She has been in the construction industry while leading projects of large scales and overcoming the challenges associated with it.
HRH Sheikha Bashayer Al Sabah-Arab

Her Highness is a successful businesswoman and the honorary president of the Arab Fashion Council in Kuwait while also being passionate about charities of all kinds. Known for her entrepreneurial flair, she’s become a social media success and a lifestyle icon for many.
Noha Nabil

This Kuwaiti content creator has also been listed in Forbes for being the top 10 most influential Arab women in social media. Nabil also recently launched her very own cosmetics brand while paving the way for many other women in the region through her entrepreneurial spirit.
Ascia

This Kuwaiti content creator has managed to stay on top of her game, while showing no sign of slowing down. Having been in the online space for almost 10 years, Asica has managed to cultivate an incredibly loyal fanbase of 2.6 million people, sharing creative posts and also sharing her personal life with her followers.
Rana Al-Nibari

Rana Al-Nibari is the General Manager of The Scientific Center in Kuwait, an institution that aims to promote science and environmental education and foster increased understanding towards a more sustainable future for Kuwait. Rana has long worked towards empowering youth in the country for a better tomorrow while she previously served as CEO of Injaz-Kuwait, a non-profit organization for education and training in workforce readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
Najeeba Hayat

The Kuwaiti creative is the founder and designer of Liudmila, which is a Milan-based brand of shoes. The label has gained worldwide traction for its beautifully handcrafted products made in Italy and sold around the world.
May Al-Qassar

The jewellery designer is known for adding her Middle Eastern roots to her work usually takes cues from the fluid script of the alphabets in the Arabic language with modern simplicity in each of her pieces.
Sheikha Majda Al Sabah

Born in Kuwait, Sheikha Majda Al Sabah was raised with the mindset to chase her dreams, work hard and achieve them. While establishing herself as a beauty entrepreneur and philanthropist in 2007, she also set up the ASAP initiative, which is a private campaign committed to increasing mental health awareness and to destigmatise mental health in the region.
Her Highness Sheikha Intisar AlSabah

A member of the royal family, Her Highness Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali AlSabah is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, author, film producer, columnist and more. She’s an inspiration to many while empowering Arab women who’s at the forefront of her decision-making. She’s also the founder of Alnowair which is a positivity initiative and a non-profit initiative considered to be her biggest contribution to date to her beloved country.
Dana Al Tuwarish

The half Kuwaiti beauty entrepreneur is the owner of Cheya Salons, and has multiple branches in the country. Her business launched after she admitted she struggled to book a makeup artist and stylist when she had shoots that needed to be done early in the morning.
Aseel AlYaqoub

This artist is known for exploring her Kuwaiti identity relies on self-introspection to showcase her purpose in her work. She has always been fascinated by Kuwait’s transformation. She addresses issues impacting future generations and always addresses them through her art by giving them light.
Fahad and Shouq Al-Marzook

Kuwaiti siblings Fahad and Shouq Al-Marzook are the brains behind the brand Marzoon, which was created to express individuality through the luxurious accessories collection with statement pieces loved by celebrities from around the world.
Fatema Alawadhi

While having championed modest dressing with a modern edge, she has inspired many up and coming content creators as she continues to amplify women’s voices in the country through her feed while experimenting with tonal dressing, giving it a new light.
Faye Sultan

This inspiring Kuwaiti swimmer competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics. She was the first female swimmer to represent Kuwait at the Olympics as she’s a true pioneer in this field while making her mark in the sports world.
Bibi Alabdulmohsen

Known for her fun dose of entertainment and humorous remarks, this Kuwaiti social media influencer started off on Instagram with beauty product reviews, in-store events coverage and engaging content and has now gained a huge following inspiring upcoming fashion content creators.
Dalal AlDoub

Being one of the most prominent names in the fashion and beauty industry, Dalal AlDoub knows the importance of staying ahead of the game with her note-worthy makeup tips and outfits.
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
Hanan Mazouzi Sobati, the founder of Arabian Gazelles, sat down with Emirates Woman to talk life in the fast lane, following your passions and breaking down barriers in the GCC.
Can you talk us through your career?
I majored in marketing and went on to work in the fine jewellery industry, securing a gemology degree in the process. This helped me assess and anticipate the needs and preferences of a niche market for luxury products and services.
What brought about your love for cars? 

I have loved fast cars since I was young. Growing up watching Formula One, while playing with my brother’s car toys.
What inspired you to set up the Arabian Gazelles?
One of the main reasons was my growing frustration with the automotive industry and how women were overlooked in this male-dominated sector. It seemed that people just accepted it but no one did anything about it. So I decided to start the platform and find out if there were other women with the same passion who were ready to join me in building this community. We have now grown to over 100 members from more than 25 nationalities.

What do you love about what you do?
Breaking stereotypes and banishing misconceptions while forming strong bonds of friendship with like-minded, driven women.
You’re a woman of many firsts in your career. What is it like being a woman in this region to pave the way for others?
I like to see it as a collective work of empowered women who drive for change and pave the way for others to look for their passion and fuel it. Puns intended!
What are your hopes for women in the future in this region? 
I believe in the capacity of every woman’s boldness, passion and strength. In every aspect of life, a woman’s autonomy, freedom and opportunities are shaped by the degree to which her nation’s laws uphold gender equality. We are lucky to live in a country which has made significant strides in gender equality. The UAE believes in a woman’s role in society as a leader, decision-maker and a key partner in the development process.
You’re definitely a role model to many. What do you love about being a role model?
I believe each one of us should see their future self as a role model. When you are your own hero, you are writing your own story and living each day building it for yourself while inspiring others to follow suit.

What have been three hurdles you have experienced in your career?
When I started Arabian Gazelles three years ago, the obstacles I needed to navigate were manifold, ranging from issues related to my credibility as a woman entering a man’s world; being unable to secure sponsorship for a female-only car club; the need to always prove myself to be accepted in a territory that has traditionally been held and ruled by men for men. However, all hurdles thrown at us make us more creative and resilient and in the end, we prevail!
What have been three major milestones in your career?
Getting published in Forbes magazine; being recognised as ‘a game-changer in the Arab world’ by OSN and NBC; and being nominated for ‘Emirates Woman of the Year’.
This is ‘The Love Issue’ – what does love mean to you and how do you plan to instil love into your life throughout 2021?
It is undeniable that it means different things for different people. But for me, love is everything that gives meaning to our existence in this world. We feel and live better when we love, our world and our existence finds its achievement in love.
February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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