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    Saudi Arabia suspends travel from 20 countries including the UAE

    Saudi Arabia has implemented a temporary ban on entry to the Kingdom from 20 countries, including the UAE, in order to curb the spread of COVID-19.

    It was announced via the Saudi Press Agency from an official from the Kingdom’s Ministry of Interior that the suspension would be implemented from February 3.
    This suspension applies to all travellers who are coming from any of the listed countries or are transiting through the listed countries.
    However, those who are diplomats, Saudi citizens, medical practitioners and their families are exempt from the ban.
    The 20 countries that are suspended from entering the Kingdom include: UAE, Germany, USA, UK, South Africa, France, Egypt, Lebanon, India, Pakistan, Argentina, Brazil, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Sweden, Swiss Confederation and Turkey.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Visit Saudi Instagram More

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    The iconic Tokyo-based Kill Bill restaurant has opened its doors in Dubai

    The iconic restaurant Gonpachi, famed for its role in the hit movie Kill Bill, has officially opened its doors in Dubai.
    It’s the first branch for the famed restaurant to open outside of Japan – where seven Gonpachi restaurants dotted around the country – and will offer authentic cuisine which includes sushi, tempura, kushi-style grilled skewers and fresh soba noodles.

    Located in Business Bay at the Boulevard at Al Habtoor City, the restaurant is set to transport you to the “Japan of a bygone era” with its “nostalgic atmosphere”.

    Many will know Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu from the infamous fight scene in Quentin Tarantino’s 2004 film Kill Bill.
    It’s also the same establishment which hosted former-US President Bush and former-Prime Minister Koizumi’s Izakaya Summit.
    Gonpachi is bound to be a go-to on your restaurant list, especially now its set to launch a Friday brunch and hosts a business lunch for Dhs125 for three courses and Dhs150 for four courses Sunday to Thursday.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Gonpachi Instagram/Supplied More

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    A complete guide to all of the new COVID-19 protocols in Dubai

    Amidst the rising COVID-19 cases in the UAE, Dubai announced on Monday evening stricter protocols would be put in place up until February 28.
    Prior to this, new travel updates were put in place for passengers arriving into Dubai.

    With that, here’s your complete guide to all of the current COVID-19 protocols in place in Dubai.
    Dubai travel
    It was announced last week by the Dubai Supreme Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management via the Dubai Media Office that the new updates would come into effect on Sunday, January 31.

    Firstly, all UAE citizens must do a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival in Dubai no matter which country they have travelled from.
    Meanwhile, all UAE residents, GCC citizens and visitors will now be required to undergo a pre-travel COVID-19 PCR test regardless of where they are travelling from and the validity time of tests is now 72 hours, reduced from 96 hours.
    It was also stated, “Arrivals from some countries (based on the COVID-19 situation there) may be required to undergo an additional test when landing in Dubai.”
    Malls
    Malls can only operate at a maximum of 70 per cent capacity.
    Restaurants
    Live entertainment in venues was suspended a couple of weeks ago and now restaurants and cafes are required to close by 1am.
    Pubs and bars
    All pubs and bars are to remain closed.
    Hotels
    Hotels are to operate at 70 per cent capacity, with new bookings to comply with the capacity limit. Meanwhile, swimming pools and private beaches in hotels to be limited to a 70 per cent capacity.
    Seated indoor venues
    Indoor seated venues including cinemas, entertainment venues and sports venues can now only operate at 50 per cent. a 50% reduction in the capacity of indoor seated venues including cinemas and entertainment and sports venues,
    Tougher penalties
    As per the new laws imposed, there will be tougher penalties for deliberately disregarding preventive measures, while the public is encouraged to report violations by individuals or establishments through Dubai Police’s Call Centre 901 or its ‘Police Eye’ service through Dubai Police Smart App.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image Instagram @dubai More

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    10 things you might not know about Sheikh Hamdan

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is constantly here there and everywhere.
    Given that he recently reached the milestone of 13 years since he became the Crown Prince of Dubai, EW has taken a deep dive into some interesting things you may not know about His Highness, some of which may surprise you.
    He’s a massive foodie

    For those always on the lookout for places to dine in, these well-known establishments in Dubai have had the seal of approval from UAE royalty.

    Sheikh Hamdan absolutely loves to dine at the best eateries in Dubai including Roka, Ammos, Alici, Carine, Avli by Tashas and many more.
    Also read: 10 of Sheikh Hamdan’s favourite restaurants in Dubai
    He cycled alongside an ostrich

    In a heart-stopping video taken to social media, Sheikh Hamdan is seen racing an ostrich in Dubai which is the world’s fastest bird on land. As he cycles with his entourage on the track, his love for the wildlife is beautifully depicted in this video.
    He’s passionate about underwater sports

    While inspiring many to take the plunge, Sheikh Hamdan makes the idea of deep water underground diving look very easy, as he continuously shares footage of himself under the sea, while also heading numerous metres below the surface to explore hidden underwater caves.
    Also read: Sheikh Hamdan is at it again with more cave-diving footage
    He can fly a helicopter

    Starting off from Bluewaters island and making his way to Dubai Marina Mall as he goes around Dubai, Dubai’s Crown Prince’s video on social media has circulated around the UAE as he clearly loves to fly his chopper.
    The Crown Prince is also a poet

    With the caption for the above image being translated as follows, picking up poetry from his father has been one of the hidden talents he possesses, as he has also published under the pen name ‘Fazza’ which is an ode to a legendary Arab knight.
    Nature of the Soul
    My poems have meaning written with intuitionI write my poems aware and observantMy poems are not empty and a waste of my timeThey become more valuable with the passing of time
    What his nickname ‘Fazza’ means
    As mentioned, Sheikh Hamdan is affectionately known as ‘Fazza’. It means “the one who helps” in Arabic.
    He has climbed to the top of Burj Khalifa

    While scaling to new heights before the end of 2020, Sheikh Hamdan is seen scaling the sky-high building with his video amassing over 900,000 views and over 10,000 comments. He also showcases how high he is as he points the camera directly below him showing the busy Dubai highway and other buildings below. Well, this is not the first time he managed to do this, he also scaled to the top around seven years ago.
    Also read: See Sheikh Hamdan climb to the top of the Burj Khalifa
    He worked with Cristiano Ronaldo on his last trip to Dubai

    The duo hit the gym and can be seen exercising on the treadmill in this video posted by Sheikh Hamdan, as the football icon was in town for the Dubai International sports conference and Dubai globe soccer awards.
    He launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge

    The annual fitness challenge which takes place every year, inspires residents of the emirate to work out for 30 minutes every day for 30 days. Fazza himself launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge back in 2017, encouraging people to be more active in the emirate.
    He’s a keen photographer
    While he’s an adventurer at heart, Sheikh Hamdan is also a keen photographer always capturing spectacular shots of the travels he’s on and photographs around Dubai.
    Just recently, he shared some shots and videos of the Dubai fog, which truly are breathtaking.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Dubai Media Office More

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    The best subscription boxes in the UAE to give yourself a monthly treat

    With subscription boxes gaining popularity over the years, these packages being delivered straight to your door can spruce up any situation, especially as we’re all spending more time at home amidst the pandemic.
    From floral arrangements to luxe satin PJs all delivered to your doorstep, why not take the time to treat yourself monthly with these UAE-based subscription boxes.
    PJs Every 30 Days

    Delivered with love, you can open it every month to reveal a new set of chic PJs, accompanied by a minimum number of six different pamper treats as you give yourself a little extra TLC. While everyone deserves some me-time, these surprises are hand-picked to make you go to bed feeling totally relaxed every day.
    For more information visit pjsevery30days.com
    Wear That

    With a personal styling experience to make you look and feel your best, whatever the budget or occasion, pieces are handpicked by your very own stylist and delivered straight to your door. With a one-off styling fee at Dhs105, you can chat with your stylist, while having pieces personally handpicked for you. This luxury service is only one click away with looks to make you feel confident every day.
    For more information visit wearthat.me
    Look Fantastic Beauty Box

    Containing six confidence-enhancing products, starting at as little as Dhs132, you can spend some time treasuring the most important person in your life which is… you. From face masks to body butter, the products received each month vary with items that are essential and suit all skin types. Whether you wish to exfoliate your skin or add that hint of shimmer to your eyes, the Look Fantastic has it all compiled for you in one box.
    For more information visit lookfantastic.com
    Hand Tied Box

    With fresh long-lasting flowers that exude good vibes in sustainable packaging, Hand Tied Box was created with the purpose of bringing nature indoors while keeping organic while embracing the customer’s personal style. Each week the freshest seasonal flowers are picked with a guide on how the blooms need to be taken care of, from weekly to bi-weekly deliveries, customers can pick the package that suits them the best.
    For more information visit handtiedbox.com
    Fruitful Day

    If you are looking to add some healthy snacking to your day, then you should consider this subscription box. Fruitful Day offers a regular package of regionally-sourced, washed and ready-to-eat fruits perfect for busy working women. The Staples Box contains essential fruits like apples, bananas, pears and seasonal stone fruits, along with a selection of nuts, while The Discovery Box is packed with 15 to 20 fruit varieties starting at Dhs135.
    For more information visit fruitfulday.com
    Jones Cheese Culture Club

    Are you a fan of cheese? If so, then you’re in luck. Jones the Grocer has just launched the ‘Jones Cheese Culture Club’ where you can get a monthly delivery of cheese to your door every month. With four selected cheeses per month in each box, you’ll definitely open yourself up to trying new things as each month you get something different. Prices for boxes start at Dhs899 for a three-month subscription, Dhs1,699 for a six-month subscription and Dhs3,199 for one year.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image Instagram @lookfantastic More

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    Khalid Al Ameri and Salama Mohamed share crucial marriage advice

    Khalid Al Ameri and Salama Mohamed have both become well-known for sharing light-hearted and inspiring content online, much of it being very personal to both of them.
    Continuing to keep it real and raw with their audience, Khalid has opened up about the “lowest point” in his marriage and sharing his advice on how they overcame it.

    Taking to Instagram and sharing a photo of himself and Salama with his 1.2 million followers, the social media personality reflected upon a quote by the Prophet Muhammed, “There is nothing like marriage, for two who love each other.”
    ALSO READ: Salama Mohamed’s journey to finding self-love
    Relating the quote to his own marriage, the social media personality and content creator explained that the best thing you can do in a relationship is to “silence the noise”.

    He went on to explain that in his relationship he used to listen to the noise.

    “For so long Salama and I’s marriage wasn’t our marriage, it was everyone else’s, it was relatives who told us what was best, it was ‘friends’ who told us what we should do come out the strongest amongst each other, it was people we didn’t even know that we were trying to be like because they fit in,” he said.
    This eventually caused the couple to grow apart.
    “We grew so far apart that we no longer knew why were together, it was the lowest point of our marriage, until we decided to try something new, and that was to put ourselves and our love for each other first, and everything else second,” he added.
    Putting each other first and silencing other people’s thoughts around them was what turned things around for the couple. As Khalid simply said, it is their marriage and “nobody else’s”.
    He finished his post saying, “We are the ones who wake up and go to sleep next to each other every day and every night, we are the ones who want to be together for the rest of our lives, just us together, with a love stronger that the noise of others.”
    It’s definitely sound advice to live by.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Khalid Al Ameri Instagram More

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    The 7 best UAE-based florists to get the perfect bouquet this Valentine’s Day

    From exquisite plants to specially delivered tulips, Valentine’s Day is a beautiful occasion to express your love and these hand-crafted bouquets curated with love, making the experience even more thoughtful.
    To ensure you get just the right bouquet for your significant other, this list of UAE-based florists will ensure you can express your love this month.
    Florette

    These beautiful flowers delivered straight from Holland have become extremely popular on the ‘gram with their picturesque bouquets and arrangements being the perfect aesthetic gift your loved ones. They’re selected for their beauty, longevity and seasonality.
    To make a purchase visit florette.ae
    Black and Blanc

    Bringing an exquisite range of premium luxury flowers in Dubai with both fresh and infinity roses which are grown in the volcanic ashes of the mountains and will live for years. Black and Blanc bring a range of Parisian style bouquets which are created by experienced florists who provide the best possible quality while meeting the highest standards.
    For more information visit blackandblanc-fleur.com
    Fine Blooms

    Striving beyond the unconventional boundaries of floristry, Fine Blooms creates unique arrangements with beautifully sourced flowers to completely change any environment while creating bespoke bouquets for any occasion. This Valentine’s Day, express your love with a token of your love from this exclusive boutique, keeping quality at the heart of their designs. Their new Valentine’s Day offering is priced at Dhs450 for the bouquet and Dhs550 for the bouquet and balloon, including tax.
    For more information visit fineblooms.ae
    Bliss Flower Boutique

    With a well-balanced floral installation adding just the right note of contemporary to any place, each floral arrangement is created with love, making it perfect for any occasion. While drawing inspiration from current trends in design, Bliss flowers will let you express your love on this special day.
    For more information visit blissdubai.com
    Also read: The luxe edit of the best jewellery to gift this Valentine’s Day
    The Bunch Box

    With a dedicated team of florists, ensuring the finest quality of flowers, The Bunch Box was born out of love to celebrate any occasion while beautifying your interiors too, from luscious chrysanthemums to luscious roses, the brand’s intricate delicacies come packaged in an environmentally friendly box for the perfect feel-good factor.
    For more information visit worood.com
    BloomingBox

    With luxuriously delivered roses, packaged according to your liking, BloomingBox’s arrangements are instant mood-lifters which are pleasant to look, smell amazing and also make for the perfect fond memory by your loved ones. Gifted in celebration of romance, there’s a wide range of choices, including roses, tulips, sunflowers, lilies, peonies, bora bora and many more with special limited-edition bouquets designed especially for Valentine’s Day.
    For more information visit bloomingbox.com
    Ferns N Petals

    While being the one-stop solution for all your gifting needs, their eminent florists would transform beautiful flowers into alluring bouquets and unique floral arrangements that would simply mesmerise you. Making each experience impeccable with seamless delivery, FNP was born to ingest more love in all your relationships.
    For more information visit www.fnp.ae.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

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    This is what Prince Harry is doing with the funds he won from ‘defamatory’ story

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle aren’t here for fake news and the spreading of false rumours.
    Just recently, the Duchess of Sussex was forced to make a statement clarifying rumours that she had her birth name removed from her son Archie’s birth certificate.

    As of late, the Duke of Sussex has also been in the midst of a battle to clear his name after a publication falsely stated in a “defamatory” story he had “turned his back” on the British Royal Marines after he stepped down from public royal duties in January last year with Meghan.

    Britain’s Prince Harry has won an apology and substantial damages from the publishers of the Mail on Sunday newspaper https://t.co/5w5QuyRY02 pic.twitter.com/2FATJGUNMu
    — Reuters (@Reuters) February 1, 2021

    An article published by the Mail on Sunday stated that since Harry had left the UK for North America he had “not been in touch” with the armed forces following his farewell royal tour in March last year.
    Settling the matter in court, Harry has agreed to accept “substantial damages” from the publisher, which he will be donating to the Invictus Games Foundation, an organisation he founded back in 2014.
    “The duke is personally donating the significant damages recovered from this legal resolution to the Invictus Games Foundation,” a Sussex spokesperson told Harper’s Bazaar US, adding that “the duke’s commitment to the military community is unquestionable”.
    Meghan clears things up
    Earlier this week, the Duchess of Sussex once again had to defend herself against tabloid gossip, this time it’s surrounding her son’s birth certificate.
    It was reported by UK tabloid The Sun over the weekend that the Duchess of Sussex had taken “unprecedented action” to remove her birth names from Archie’s birth certificate.
    What previous read as ‘Rachel Meghan Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Sussex’ then became to be just ‘Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Sussex.
    However, not letting rumours run rife, the former Suits actress issued a statement via a spokesperson hitting back at the report.
    In fact, according to Meghan, the change of name on the documents was “dictated by the Palace”.

    From a spokesperson for Duchess Meghan: https://t.co/TuXZPRytC7 pic.twitter.com/ZyFvceqBDs
    — Omid Scobie (@scobie) January 31, 2021

    “The change of name on public documents in 2019 was dictated by The Palace, as confirmed by documents from senior Palace officials,” a spokesperson clarified. “This was not requested by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex nor by The Duke of Sussex.”
    In her statement, the Sussex camp also branded the report “deceptive”.
    “To see this U.K. tabloid and their carnival of so-called ‘experts’ chose to deceptively whip this into a calculated family ‘snub’ and suggest that she would oddly want to be nameless on her child’s birth certificate, or any other legal document, would be laughable were it not offensive,” the spokesperson said.
    “There’s a lot going on in the world; let’s focus on that rather than creating clickbait.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Sussex Royal Instagram  More