More stories

  • in

    5 overused words in 2020 that we would have never used last year

    As the world was turned on its head this year, a pandemic we never expected ended up consuming the whole of 2020. Along with it came some additions to our vocabulary which have been used in excess this year, but might not have existed at all in comparison to 2019.
    With 2020 coming to a close, we’ve decided to look back on the five words that really weren’t a part of our vocabulary last year, but have now become entrenched in our everyday language.
    Lockdown

    While being our least favourite word of the year, this word has gained traction worldwide due to the ongoing health crisis. As this word encapsulates the experience shared by millions in 2020, lexicographers have registered around 250,000 usages of “lockdown” just this year.
    Overall, the word has affected how we work, sleep and even socialise.
    Quarantine

    Originating from the plague era where isolation of ships and people were practised as a form of disease prevention. The word has been dug up from the archives as we just might have overused it this year.
    Social distancing
    Coined first in 1957, the symbolism earlier related to an attitude rather than a physical term, often referred to keeping oneself distant from each other. Now, it has been understood as that the distance needed to be kept in order to curb the spread of the virus.

    Image Unsplash @manuel_peris
    Work from home
    As people globally embrace the new norm, this COVID-stricken world has embraced yet another catchphrase which gained popularity this year as words related to the pandemic in its definitive record of the English language. Used first in 1995 and known to just a few back them, the word has now become a usual way of life.
    And last but not least – pandemic
    According to Merriam-Webster and Dictionary.com – pandemic has been named word of the year and Oxford Dictionaries has reported a surge in the word by 57,000 per cent making it the most used word in 2020.
    While the word COVID-19 and coronavirus might be less obvious, the other managed to accompany it in 2020.
    So, which word have you used the most this year?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Unsplash @workperch More

  • in

    A new 100k sq ft venue with a beach club, 20 bars and more is opening in Dubai

    Just when you thought Dubai couldn’t raise the bar when it comes to “bigger and better”, the emirate has done it again.
    A new establishment which is approximately 100,000 square feet is set to open in JBR in the coming weeks and will house 20 bars, three restaurants and a beach club – sounds about right for a six-figure measurement.

    The new venue, Bla Bla, will cater to all and is also set to be the first independent property in the area licensed for alcohol, shisha, music and dancing. Whether you’re looking for a more casual flip flops and T-shirt vibe, or you’re looking to dress to the nines, this new venue will have all bases covered.
    The establishment is set to open in two parts, with the beach club set to open its doors first. With uninterrupted views of the sea and the Dubai Eye, Bla Bla Beach Club will have its own bar and feature live entertainment.

    In the venue, there will also be a Bali-themed beach bar on the ground floor. On the first floor there will be a nostalgic Irish bar, a Hollywood inspired venue and a vinyl-clad Record Room bar – and there’s more to be revealed.
    Bla Bla’s three licensed restaurants will also open in the first phase and include traditional Italian and Japanese eateries, as well as a Texas-style BBQ Smokehouse serving classics including Smoked Brisket, Honey Glazed Barbecue Chicken and Angus BBQ Ribs.
    To top it all off, there’s a slide for venue visitors who decide taking the stairs is just a little too much effort.
    Watch this space for more details!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    Everything you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine in the UAE

    Nearly three months after the COVID-19 vaccine began to be administered in the UAE, it’s now been determined that it is 86 per cent effective following the trials which took place over the summer.
    The vaccine known as Sinopharm 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.
    After being administered to frontline workers across the emirates, the vaccine is now available those who wish to have it across the UAE after the voluntary programme launched last week in Abu Dhabi.

    Those wishing to have the vaccine will receive two injections administered within 21 days of one another. Upon arrival to receive the vaccine, proof of your Emirates ID must be provided as well as your health insurance details.
    Where can I get a vaccine in the UAE?
    The vaccine is available across the UAE.
    Abu Dhabi – it is currently available at a wide range of hospitals which are run by the UAE capital’s health operator, Seha.
    Ajman – it is currently available at Al Humaidiya Centre from 9 am to 12.30 pm and from 5 pm to 8.30 pm.
    Dubai – it is currently available at Dubai Parks and Resorts field hospital.
    Fujairah – it is currently available at Murashied Medical Centre.
    Sharjah – it is currently available at the Wasit Medical Centre from 4pm to 9pm.
    Umm Al Quwain – it is currently available at Al Bait Metwahid centre from 8am to 1pm.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Visit Dubai Instagram More

  • in

    Sheikh Hamdan leads work from home initiative in Dubai

    For the better part of 2020, many across Dubai and the globe have been working from home.
    However, some have now returned to offices and that includes Dubai government employees, who returned to their offices at the end of June.

    But in a recent move made by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a work-from-home system has been approved under his leadership and is supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    The Crown Prince of Dubai that the new “flexible working system” has been put in place to champion the latest developments in tech which promotes remote working, but also allows for a new working model which will pave the way for new job opportunities in the future.

    “Remote work is one of the solutions that proved successful in maintaining the sustainability of business during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “It is a flexible system that enables an employee to discharge his tasks and helps him be more creative.”

    .@HamdanMohammed approves new remote work protocols for #Dubai Government employees. As part of the new Protocols, employees can perform their duties from outside their offices, using remote working technologies https://t.co/9hYGCnY4WI pic.twitter.com/3I9yjCpQEn
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 10, 2020

    His Highness also outlined that the Dubai government firmly “embraces the future” and finds “proactive solutions to challenges”.
    “We have the potential to strengthen our preparedness and harness the tools that support our forward approaches and focus on making the best use of opportunities,” he said.
    A number of private sector companies have the same thinking, including leading Middle Eastern company Careem.
    The business giant, which has its headquarters in Dubai, revealed to Emirates Woman back in September that the business would be going remote-first.
    Careem’s 1,300 employees can now work from any location within the business’ employment market which spreads across 36 offices in 13 different markets. As part of the move, employees will be able to work from any worldwide location for up to a month.
    It’s clear that this new model of working is here to stay, and perhaps the traditional nine to five is gone forever.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    An opening date for this exclusive Dubai club has been announced

    With a long-standing history having been founded by Charles Dickens and being located in one of the poshest localities in London, decadent private members’ club, The Arts Club, has officially announced its opening date in Dubai.
    Spread over four floors with more than 65,000 square feet of space, The Arts Club Dubai is all set to launch in DIFC on December 26 with the first few days being a part of the soft opening phase.

    This exclusive private members’ clubs will provide its guests with a slew of elegant facilities such as private dining rooms, a cigar lounge, a reader’s haven and specific areas for art exhibitions along with an alfresco dining experience overlooking the stunning skyline of Dubai in the laidback rooftop atmosphere of its restaurant, Brasserie.

    With a diverse set of beverage options and cuisine offered, the second restaurant in The Arts Club Dubai, named Nikkei Cuisine, will offer members an eclectic taste of exemplary flavours under one roof.
    In addition, there will be various membership categories offered such as full, spouse, young for this under 30s and international. More details regarding the one-off joining fee and the annual subscription will soon be disclosed.
    An exclusive selection will be offered to individuals who have an interest in arts, music, literature, design, science, technology, health and wellbeing, business, finance, law, fashion and entrepreneurship.
    For more information regarding The Arts Club Dubai, which will be located in ICD Brookfield DIFC visit theartsclub.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @artsclubdubai More

  • in

    Can laser treatments replace Botox? A Dubai-based skin expert weighs in

    With skincare being an ever-evolving space in the beauty industry, laser treatments have gained extreme momentum and popularity in recent years.
    More and more are opting for the less-invasive laser treatments rather than going under the knife and are even turning to such treatments instead of Botox and fillers. However, it begs the question – can laser treatments really replace Botox and other popular skincare treatments?

    Emirates Woman sought the advice of the amazing skincare expert Rebecca Treston at Dubai London Clinic, who has been the go-to skincare guru for the past 20 years in Dubai. With more than 50 certifications in laser technologies, she’s definitely the person to go to about all thing laser treatments.
    “Since I started working as an aesthetician, I have worked hard to gain a reputation for not only curating the best technologies available on the market but for my expertise at manipulating energies to deliver unrivalled treatment results,” Treston tells EW. “My protocols offer unrivalled treatment outcomes thanks to the way in which I combine and layer energies to work synergistically.”

    Treston explains that her “protocols address even the most challenging skincare and body concerns, such as pigment, laxity, texture, excess isolated fat, and more, with uncompromising treatment standards and results”.
    So, can lasers replace Botox and going under the knife? See what Treston has to say below.
    Talk us through your career.
    After several years in the UK beauty industry, I relocated to Dubai in 1999 where I worked at various clinics. Earlier this year, I joined Dubai London Clinic, a group that has been synonymous with exceptional service and care for more than 30 years. In the past 20 years, I have become Dubai’s go-to skin expert for energy-based transformative skincare treatments. Boasting more than fifty certifications in laser technologies, I am certified to practice in both the UAE and UK, and I am globally recognised as a pioneer in my field, regularly featured as an expert commentator in beauty bibles.
    I work with the latest cutting-edge technology to develop protocols that harness different energies – namely laser, radiofrequency, sound and light – and ensure they work in complement to deliver brilliant results to treat a myriad of challenging skincare and body concerns; and ultimately push the boundaries of what is possible to achieve with an aesthetics treatment. Working under DLC’s umbrella and in partnership with its network of doctors, I and my team of expert practitioners offer all my carefully curated protocols at a refurbished and state-of-the-art clinic at DLC’s Al Thanya branch.
    How popular laser treatments have become in the last few years?
    Laser treatments are very popular due to the fantastic results and that they give. Also, they are cost-effective rove and have little to no downtime. Laser treatments help to maintain the function and structure of the skin – no amount of plastic surgery or injectables can give you radiant healthy skin. To ensure the healthiest possible skin, you need to work on the dermal and subdermal levels to address any issues and also to stimulate collagen and elastin, which will ultimately trigger rejuvenation and decelerate the ageing process.
    How many different laser treatments are there?
    There are lots of different laser treatments on the market today but not all laser treatments are created equal. It is important to ensure that you do your research to find not only a technology that will combat your skincare concerns but an aesthetician who can use and manipulate this technology to ensure the delivery of the treatments to the highest possible standard, which will yield the best possible results.
    In my clinic, thanks to my relationship with those at the forefront of the industry, I often work closely with manufacturers on newly developed and emerging technologies, and they use my own parameters as their gold-standard. These relationships have allowed me to trial and manipulate new technologies long before they are available on the commercial market, ensuring her clients always benefit from the latest technology.

    Why do you recommend the use of lasers so much?
    Laser treatments help to maintain the function and structure of the skin – no amount of plastic surgery or injectables can give you radiant healthy skin. To ensure the healthiest possible skin, you need to work on the dermal and subdermal levels to address any issues and also to stimulate collagen and elastin, which will ultimately trigger rejuvenation and decelerate the ageing process.
    Is there a laser treatment that can give you similar results to Botox?
    No laser is going to give the exact result you would achieve with an injectable, however with the range of energy-based treatments you can maintain younger-looking skin that is free from the signs of ageing, especially lines and wrinkles but also laxity. For instance, Ultherapy uses safe, time-tested ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin naturally—without surgery or downtime. While Ultherapy relies on ultrasound therapy to deliver its collagen-boosting treatment, it also incorporates traditional ultrasound imaging, which allows practitioners to see the layers of tissue they are treating, ensuring the treatment energy is delivered to where it will be most beneficial. Ultherapy is acclaimed as a lunchtime treatment, meaning it requires no downtime, only takes 45-60 minutes and leaves you looking younger and more refreshed without a scalpel in sight!
    Can you talk us through the Fotona 4D treatment?
    You had the Fotona 4D treatment. This brilliant treatment offers the chance for all skin types to experience facial rejuvenation without any of the negative impacts of surgery. Fotona’s Nd:YAG and Er:YAG wavelengths work together to enable four different modes of lifting procedure.
    The first step of the 4D Facelift is a unique procedure called Smoothliftin®. The entire inner surface of the cheeks and lips are treated with non-ablative Er:YAG laser, for tightening, volumizing and restoring collagen starting from the inside out. This reduces depth of the nasolabial and melomental folds (The lines from nose to lips, and lips to chin), and helps restore lip volume.
    The second step uses the Nd:YAG laser in Fotona’s Frac3® modality. This enables the treatment of specific, deeper imperfections, as well as restoring a youthful texture.
    The third step uses the Nd:YAG laser in Fotona’s PIANO® mode. Controlled deep tissue heating is maintained for a period of time. This promotes tightening and restoration of collagen and elasticity in the dermis and deeper tissues.
    Finally, the skin surface is lightly treated with the Er:YAG laser in Superficial® mode, to provide a smooth, fresh surface and smooth out skin surface irregularities.
    What are they meant to do for the skin?
    The goal is to restore the skin to its normal, more youthful-appearing contours. The look achieved by the 4D procedure is more natural than that of a surgical facelift, as there is no tugging or stretching of the facial features, so this treatment can be used on anyone who has some visible signs of aging.
    A healthy skin should be healthy skin is one that has a smooth texture and is free of chronic inflammation and disease such as acne and rosacea. It should be well hydrated and have no pigmentation or vascular concerns. It should be firm and have no real lines or enlarged pores. The 4D works on all these aspects. This treatment is ideal for anyone who is worried who wants an effective anti-aging treatment. For some people, the signs of aging come when they are in their late 20s, while others might not experience sagging or wrinkling until the late 30s or early 40s. But the treatment can be used on anyone aged in their mid-20s to anyone in their mid-70s.

    What should you be mindful of when undergoing laser treatments?
    It is vital to have a thorough consultation before embarking on any treatment to assess your skin type and condition. During this, the aesthetician will go through patient’s medical history, as well as what medication they are taking. Once this has been done, a bespoke programme can be devised to take into account what you want to achieve and what your priorities are for your skin.
    Generally, everyone is good candidate for laser treatments, provided the aesthetician delivering them knows what he/she is doing so that there will not be any adverse reaction. Laser treatments should not be performed on someone with a suntan and patients who have skin type 6 need to have more precautions built into their treatment plan to ensure that there will be a brilliant outcome without any negative impact.
    To make an appointment with Rebecca Treston visit dubailondonclinic.com or call 800 352.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

  • in

    The rules for dining out in Dubai restaurants have been updated

    The food and beverage industry has been turned on its head this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, slowly but surely things in Dubai have returned to somewhat normal.
    In another step towards normality, the rules for dining out in restaurants in the emirate have been updated.

    In a recent update from the Dubai Economy, it was stipulated that authorities had seen “the greatest compliance” occur with the previous COVID-19 guidelines in place. With that, it was confirmed that as of Thursday, December 10 restaurants would be able to increase their table capacity to 10 people, which was previously capped at eight.
    Similarly, establishments are now able to stay open until 2am and alcohol is now once again allowed to be served in bottles.

    As for live entertainment, bands are now permitted to perform as long as adequate social distancing measures are implemented.
    These updates have been made just in time for the festive season arriving and ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai.
    However, it should be noted that all residents and visitors should still be mindful when it comes to social distancing and ensure they wear a mask at all times unless dining.
    In need of some celebration inspiration? Take a look at EW’s numerous round-ups for the festive season below.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

  • in

    Still need to make NYE plans? Here’s 15 spectacular places to go in Dubai

    Many of us are ready to say goodbye to 2020. However, in the midst of the chaos that has been this yea,r you may have forgotten to make plans for New Year’s Eve.  With a myriad of celebrations happening in Dubai, there’s a plethora of options for you to choose from.
    Emirates Woman has curated a list of exclusive venues hosting extravagant celebrations in case you don’t have any plans as yet.
    Bvlgari Resort Dubai

    This gorgeous property is all set to host one of the most spectacular celebrations, as guests can witness an unforgettable display of beautiful fireworks in a luxurious setting keeping the theme of Italianity and exclusivity at the heart to welcome the new year in sparkle and style. For contemporary Italian cuisine, guests can spend New Year’s Eve in the elegant settings of Il Ristorante – Niko Romito starting at Dhs1,700 per person, For a more intimate celebration, Hōseki with views over the iconic Dubai skyline is the perfect choice for an exclusive private dinner starting from Dhs2,500 per person. In addition, the hotel extends the glamorous celebrations to the Yacht Club Restaurant which has an exceptional seafood set menu, starting from Dhs1,500 per person and this Capri-themed evening at the Gala Di Capodanno at La Spiaggia, the Resort’s private beach starts at Dhs1,400 per person.
    For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
    La Mezcaleria

    See in the New Year at top Business Bay hotspot La Mezcaleria. From 8pm onwards enjoy unparalleled views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks alongside some amazing international and tex-mex menu, it’ll make for the perfect New Year’s night. Prices start for fountain tables start at Dhs1,000 per person; lounge and window tables for Dhs1,200 per person; and Burj Khalifa views for Dhs1,500 per person.

    Amazonico

    With an extravaganza set to take place at this DIFC hotspot, see in the new year with neon lights and all things that shimmer, with a specially curated NYE set menu starting at Dhs800 per person. Located at Gate village 11 in DIFC, a premium feast is ready to keep you entertained.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com/dubai
    Anantara The Palm Dubai

    While being seated as this beautiful luxurious venue right across the water, get ready to enjoy a tasty four-course menu at starting at Dhs1,350 inclusive of soft drinks at Anantara, The Palm Dubai from 8pm.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    Black Tap

    With two CrazyShake counters, signature interiors and a delicious set menu with outdoor seating, there’s plenty of food options for one to relish at you ring in the New year at the new Black Tap now open in Dubai Mall. With stunning views of the much-awaited fireworks display, prices start from Dhs900 with a minimum spend of Dhs200 from 12pm to 2am.
    For more information visit blacktapme.com
    Couqley French Bistro & Bar

    To kick in the New Year’s Parisian style, you can bid farewell to 2020 with a special New Year’s Eve dinner for residents to enjoy a memorable spread with a cosy vibe and a signature twist perfect for the festive occasion. Starting at Dhs349 for a two-course meal, this fabulous venue is located in JLT, cluster A.
    For more information visit couqley.ae
    Koko Bay

    Enjoying a Bali beach spirit at one of Dubai’s favourite hotspot. You can enjoy a five-course dinner with an exclusive range of drinks packages with a special kids’ menu for the little ones to relish too. Located at West Beach, Palm Jumeirah from 7pm to midnight at from Dhs895 with house beverages, you can ring in 2021 in a picturesque location.
    For more information visit kokobay.co
    La Cantine du Faubourg

    Listen to your favourite tunes all evening while you relish some delicious French food as you usher in 2021. From caviar-topped Chilean seabass to an exclusive selection of deserts there’s enough to devour for the new year. Starting at Dhs950 excluding drinks, located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 8pm onwards get ready to enjoy nothing but the best.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Soho Garden

    With views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks and a four-course dinner menu including bottle service, guests can enjoy the Adriatique new Soho Garden experience with house music from 8pm to 3am starting at Dhs699 for ladies located at Meydan.
    For more information visit destinationsoho.com
    Nikki Beach Dubai

    With a DJ, live dancers and premium drinks all night, make sure to dress up in white for this exclusive night featuring signature Nikki snacks and exclusive drinks starting at Dhs3,000 for six people located at Pearl Jumeira Dubai.
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
    The London Project

    With front row seats for the various firework displays from the skyline terrace, this chic venue will have a live band and DJ with distinct packages at The London Project from 8 am to 11:45 pm starting at Dhs950 located at the gorgeous Bluewaters Island.
    For more information visit thelondonproject.com
    Scalini

    Serving resolutely Italian cuisine, with an authentic and charismatic flair. Scalini invites guests to end their year with an unforgettable dining experience inspired by the beauty of Ravello and a live DJ will play throughout the evening, bringing the essence of the Amalfi alive with vibrant. With a minimum spend of Dhs850 per person from 7pm onwards, it’s located at Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah.
    For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
    The Meydan Hotel

    For a fabulous lounge-style gala dinner at Farriers with an enticing menu selection that takes you from East to West and beyond. Enjoy a Burj Khalifa firework display including a buffet with prices starting at Dhs550 per person.
    For more information visit meydanhotels.com
    Taikun

    To ring in 2021, Taikun Pan Asian Restaurant & Lounge will host a Goldfinger-themed New Year’s Eve party, inspired by the classic film James Bond 007 adventure. Offering up a high-energy atmosphere and Burj Khalifa views, guests can expect authentic Asian flavours from the kitchen, with free-flowing beverages paired with live entertainment from the stage. Starting at Dhs1,999 for four hours per person, guests can enjoy a set menu and unlimited house beverages.
    For more information visit taikundubai.com
    Sonara Camp

    Featuring an extravagant Great Gatsby-themed party in the heart of this desert in Dubai, with a lavish sharing menu platters and live entertainment, there’s also plenty of fun-filled activities to help kick in the new year in style. The package starts at Dhs,1,200 with free-flowing drinks at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
    For more information visit nara.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More