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    The 7 most popular spots to live in Dubai in 2021

    As 2020 had a significant shift in the housing market both for rentals and buying property, we’re coming into 2021 with some significant changes in what people are looking for in their home lives in Dubai.
    Lynette Abad, the director of research and data at UAE-based Property Finder, explained that there has been a 400 per cent increase in searches for villas and townhouses. Evidently many are now looking for more outside space with large balconies and pools.

    EW spoke with Abad about the most popular spots to live in Dubai in 2021.
    Dubai Marina

    While exploding in popularity both for tourists and residents, the area has experienced a boom in classy restaurants, bars, cafes and beaches. With endless dining options along with stunning views of Dubai’s skyline, there are plenty of buildings to choose from for both families and singles. With the metro station being within an accessible distance, there are all sorts of options starting from a studio to four-bedroom apartments. With prices starting at around Dhs50,000 for a one bedroom, there are affordable options for all with both gym and pool facilities depending on the chosen building.
    JLT

    Dubai’s high rise community is well-known for its amenities such as shops, cafes and restaurants which are all situated in clusters with easy access to public transport and pet-friendly park offering a wide range of dining experiences. Starting at around Dhs36,000 for one-bedroom, most of the buildings might have gyms and swimming pool facilities depending on the chosen venue.
    Dubai Hills Estate

    After becoming another key golfing destination in the region, located only 15 minutes away from Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate is a new aspirational city within a city with elegantly-planned neighbourhoods. It’s now one of the city’s most popular communities with a 2,700-acre multi-purpose development offering leisure choices and the upcoming Dubai Hills Mall. Starting at around Dhs125,000 for a two-bedroom villa, the community is well beyond affordable for families with both pool and park facilities.
    Downtown Dubai

    Being extremely unique and stylish to rent, each tower in Downtown has its own charm, depending on your preferences while being surrounded by popular landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain and Dubai Opera. Offering numerous options with studios, one and two bedrooms, featuring ultra-luxury options, the destination overall is a unique love affair with the best of what the city has to offer. Prices start at around Dhs60,000 in Downtown Dubai for a one-bedroom apartment,
    Palm Jumeirah

    The world’s largest man-made island comprises of a two-kilometre long truck with 17 fronds and 4000 exclusive villas and spacious apartments with beautiful sea views and amazing facilities including a pool, gym, sophisticated beach clubs and restaurants. Starting at Dhs60,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, you can witness the picturesque views of with different hotels to access during your stay.
    Meadows

    Spread around beautiful lakes with streets lined in lush greenery, the Meadows is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai in a serene environment offering a secure and peaceful residential area, while providing its residents’ safety and the benefits of living in a gated community. Located next to the Montgomerie golf course, residents can also avail membership opportunities here with the verdant green landscape Starting at around Dhs160,000 a year for a three-bedroom, each villa has a stunning layout with a family-friendly locality.
    Jumeirah Village Circle

    While being one of the most family-friendly master communities, developed by Nakheel, situated in the heart of new Dubai, it offers residents with amenities in a tranquil setting making it an ideal spot for both renters and buyers. It’s close in proximity to Dubai Marina and JLT, along with facilities such as swimming pools, launderettes and gyms making it a popular destination for those renting.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    6 places in the UAE to have an unforgettable horse riding experience

    From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy.
    As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse-riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
    Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

    With a state-of-the-art polo and equestrian community located in Dubailand, with over six million square feet of land, it consists of four world-class polo fields, a polo academy, a riding school with a dedicated riding aren’t emulating that Andalusian elegance with an oasis of excellence and uncompromising luxury. The instructors help fine-tune your skills with the well-schooled horses as it operates from Sunday to Saturday, 6am to 12am. Prices start at Dhs240 for beginners in a group setting and Dhs475 for a private beginners class.
    For more information visit poloclubdubai.com
    JA Equestrian centre

    Featuring its own air-conditioned stables with a vast expanse at JA, The Resort. This wonderful place for horse riding in the UAE provides expert qualified instructors for both experts and beginners in a fully-equipped schooling environment where regular riders can venture out and enjoy the natural desert environment, making it available all year round. The stables operate from 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm.
    For more information visit jaresortshotels.com
    Dubai City stable

    This family-friendly oasis located in Umm Sequim district, being only 10 minutes from Dubai’s Downtown area is perfectly suited for city residents who are either trained or wish to begin their horse riding journey as this stable is truly the perfect point for all horse desert adventures as they offer both private and group tuition for beginners through various events too. Starting at Dhs190 for 45 minutes, this place is definitely one to visit.
    For more information visit dubaicitystable.com 
    Sharjah Equestrian and Racing club

    Being one of the first equestrian clubs in the UAE established under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, this riding club is located on Al Dhaid Road. It’s home to one of the largest indoor riding facilities in the Middle East ensuring that its well equipped with qualified trainers and riding instructors who have advanced their technical skills. The riding school is closed on Tuesday and is open from morning 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
    For more information visit serc.ae
    Emirates Equestrian centre

    Whether you’re interested in horse riding or simply wish to experience a tranquil equine desert escape, riders of all levels are welcome and also have the opportunity to learn about show jumping, dressage, eventing, join the pony club or visit the riding school. With fully qualified instructors being able to answer your queries, polo events also take place for you to simply visit. The lesson hours are available from 7am to 11am and 4pm to 7pm and is located on Al-Ain Road, Dubai.
    For more information visit emiratesequestriancentre.com
    Al Wadi Equestrian Centre
    Located at the Ritz Carlton resort Al Wadi in Ras Al Khaimah, this equestrian centre offers lessons and experiences for guests of all ages and skill levels. Group and private lessons are available for experienced and beginner riders, including children. Spacious paddocks and a horse-walking arena are among the facilities.
    For more information visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    9 Qatari women who are inspiring future generations to make an impact

    As a number of proven initiatives have been spearheaded by women, there has been a significant increase in the rate of female entrepreneurs in Qatar who continue to inspire everyone around the globe with their vision and have made a mark in society.
    Also read: 9 inspiring Saudi women who have made an impact on the world
    Emirates Woman has compiled a list of influential Qatari women, who continue to keep inspiring future generations.
    Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al Thani

    Regarded as one of the most prominent female figures in Qatar, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al Thani has been actively involved in many endeavours to help social issues and education in the country. She spearheaded Education City in Qatar which was built in 1997 under her leadership of the Qatar Foundation as chairperson. She is also the chairperson of the Education Above All Foundation and chairperson, founder of the Qatar Social Work organisation and a United Nations Sustainable Development Goals advocate. She also is a major advocate for emerging fashion designers in the Arab region as the Honorary Chair of Fashion Trust Arabia, which launched in September 2018 under her patronage.
    Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser Al Thani

    Known as one of the most successful Qatari women, Sheikha Hanadi is Founder & CEO of AL Waab City Real Estate development project, Vice Chairman of Nasser Bin Khaled Al-Thani & Sons Group and Founding Chairperson Q-Auto, the founding Chairperson of INJAZ Qatar. As a successful businesswoman and philanthropist, she is a prominent figure in the business world.
    Buthaina Al Ansari

    Buthaina Al Ansari is one of Qatar’s leading businesswomen and the founder of Tamkeen Training and Consulting Solutions, which facilitates the advancement of Qatari women in the workforce within three main segments of training, development, business and consultancy. Al Ansari is also a member of the MENA business women’s networks, a board member of Qatar business women’s association and a mentor at the Qatar professional women’s network circle.
    Aysha Al-Mudahka

    The chief executive of the Qatar Business Incubation Centre which is the largest mixed-use business incubator in the Middle East, and also the founding member of the Roudha Centre, which promotes women’s entrepreneurship and innovation, Aysha Al-Mudahka has specialised in reinventing business in emerging markets.
    Her Excellency Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari
    While being a part a medical research initiative known as Qatar Biobank, Her Excellency Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari has been recognised as managing director of Hamad Medical Corporation, which is regarded as Qatar’s largest public hospital. Over the year it has been transformed into a major academic medical centre, she also assumed her position in the government in 2016.
    Dana Al Fardan

    Dana Al Fardan is Qatar’s only female contemporary composer. She is also a songwriter and symphonic artist, drawing on her rich cultural heritage and influenced by her love of world music. Her work is a blend of Arab-influenced contemporary classical, epic in scale and universally accessible. She made her debut on London’s West End in 2019 and has also been appointed the official composer for Qatar Airways.
    Hend Rumaihi

    The young Qatari fashion designer founded her eponymous clothing brand in 2018, with monochromatic elements as a key focus. She’s an independent businesswoman who’s created fresh unique contemporary pieces, which are sold on an exclusive basis as she never stops to reinvent herself.
    Nayla Al Thani
    While championing gender equality and female empowerment in the region, Nayla Al Thani is an inspirational Qatari woman in the field of education, as she progressed in a career of teaching with the assistance of Teach for Qatar NGO and has overcome the challenges in the region. By spearheading a new era of thinking positioning women in society, she is truly inspiring the future generations of tomorrow.
    Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani

    While building an exciting creative future for Qatar through her work at Qatar museums, Sheikha Al Mayassa has amplified the nation’s cultural institutions and heritage sites, by creating a local first outlook as Qatar continues to expand its creative horizon through local and regional artists. Sheikha Al Mayassa founded the Doha Film Institute in 2010. It is dedicated to film appreciation, financing and education. It aims to build a dynamic film industry in Qatar and nurtures regional storytellers. She is also co-chair of Fashion Trust Arabia.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    Kylie Jenner wore this Dubai-based designer for the final filming of KUWTK

    Kylie Jenner has been known to champion Arab designers on a number of occasions.
    Most recently, the makeup mogul adorned a Dubai-based designer to mark the final filming session of Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

    Sharing some photos to Instagram over the weekend, Jenner was wearing an all-cream outfit. “Last day of filming,” Jenner captioned the post.
    She accessorised the ensemble with the Ida bag by Dubai-based brand L’Afshar in beige croc.

    Born and bred in Dubai in 2013, the brand has become hugely popular around the globe, especially amongst other A-listers, too. Kendall Kenner, Beyonce, Bella Hadid and Queen Rania are all big fans of the designer bags.
    As for the long-running Kardashian-Jenner reality show, it was announced by Kim Kardashian last year that KUWTK would be coming to an end after 14 years.
    In a statement posted to her Instagram Kardashian said, “It is with heavy hearts that we’ve made the difficult decision as a family to say goodbye to Keeping Up With The Kardashians.”

    “Without Keeping Up with The Kardashians, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she added. “I am so incredibly grateful to everyone who has watched and supported me and my family these past 14 incredible years.
    “This show made us who we are and I will be forever in debt to everyone who played a role in shaping our careers and changing our lives forever.”
    Given that it’s been widely reported Kardashian is heading for a divorce from husband Kanye West, we’re intrigued to see what the final season of KUWTK will have in store for us.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Kylie Jenner Instagram More

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    Saudi Arabia’s new female-led tourism campaign is a must-watch

    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has just released its new tourism campaign and it’s a must-watch.
    Showcasing the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla, a story is told through an all-female film titled The World’s Masterpiece. It highlights a young Saudi woman depicted as a true explorer charting the unknown.

    The movie was directed by the well-known French filmmaker and photographer Bruno Aveillan, as it aims to showcase and unharness the beauty of this ancient heritage site. As Saudi Arabia is all set to reopen for international travel on March 31, the video beautifully portrays the key sites in the kingdom to travellers.
    Topping the bucket list for global destinations with cutting-edge art installations, a legacy of 7,000 years of human civilizations and stunning natural rock formations and canyons, AlUla is the first of the big Saudi Vision 2030 initiative of welcome visitors in the region.
    From a diverse itinerary including nature-filled walks to art festivals and food trucks, there’s enough and more for both domestic and international travellers throughout. With a dig into the archives, visitors can explore busy bazaar stalls, book sightseeing tours and unravel a trek to the Adventure Trail as they explore the recently opened AlUla Bike Park while making most of the midnight sky.
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    “The World’s Masterpiece is a play on both the skilful artistry of ancient civilisations who carved elaborate artworks into the rocky outcrops, as well as the pure and unspoilt beauty of the geological rock formations and landscapes sculpted by nature,” Phillip Jones, the chief destination management and marketing officer at Al Ula Royal Commission (RCU), said.
    This carefully curated campaign highlights AlUla’s old town which reopens in February and Jebel Al Fil (Elephant rock) which spans over 22,000 square kilometres and is also home to three luxurious hotels by Aman Resorts International, allowing visitors to plan ahead of their visit with the new facilities at the site.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image Instagram @experiencealula More

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    Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s messages on COVID-19 vaccinations

    As over one million vaccinations have already been administered in the UAE, leaders of the country have issued messages to the public.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces both issued messages via their social media channels to the public about getting the available COVID-19 vaccines.
    READ: Here’s where you can get the free Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Dubai
     Taking to Twitter, the Ruler of Dubai said that the UAE had “made great strides” in combatting the global pandemic.

    “Today, we are ranked the second globally in the vaccine administration rates,” he said. “Taking the vaccine is every individual’s responsibility to protect their health, families and wider society.”

    The UAE has made great strides in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, we are ranked the second globally in the vaccine administration rates. Taking the vaccine is every individual’s responsibility to protect their health, families and wider society.
    — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) January 12, 2021

    Meanwhile, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed praised the frontline workers in the UAE for administering over one million vaccines in the UAE already.
    “Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our frontline heroes, 1,275,000 vaccinations have already been provided to UAE citizens and residents,” he said. “We hope that with vaccinations picking up pace we will reach the point of full recovery in the shortest possible time.”

    Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our frontline heroes, 1,275,000 vaccinations have already been provided to UAE citizens and residents. We hope that with vaccinations picking up pace we will reach the point of full recovery in the shortest possible time.
    — محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) January 12, 2021

    COVID-19 vaccines in the UAE
    Just before Christmas, it was announced that the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was approved to be administered in Dubai.
    This approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine came after a trial began in the UAE over the summer testing the Sinopharm vaccine.
    After three months after the COVID-19 vaccine began to be administered in the UAE a couple of months ago, and it’s now been determined that it is 86 per cent effective following the trials.
    The Sinopharm vaccine has been officially registered in the UAE, with health authorities saying that the “analysis [from the trial of 31,000 people] shows no serious safety concerns”.
    High-up government officials including His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaab, the Minister of Culture and Youth and more have already received the vaccine.
    The administering of the Pfizer jab is now well underway too and many government officials have received the vaccine including the Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, who received it last week.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: WAM More