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      The history-making Emirati footballer on what it takes to break boundaries

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      IN PARTNERSHIP: Emirati female footballer Areej Al Hammadi is all about breaking boundaries.
      She made history this year becoming a Guinness World Record Holder for the most football ‘hotstepping’ in one minute.

      With options when she was growing up to play women’s football almost being non-existent, Al Hammadi definitely knows the key traits one should have on their journey to success.
      Pursuing football as a career needed courage, and it wasn’t an easy step for Al Hammadi. However, it was an easy choice because it’s where her passion lies.

      “I enjoy the freedom you have to express yourself by showing your skill with the ball at your feet, beating an opponent, controlling the ball, shooting for goal,” she tells Emirates Woman.
      The 34-year-old’s success is the result of grit, determination, commitment and daily training.
      “If you don’t train, you won’t succeed, it’s that simple,” she says. “Football requires a mix of talent, training, and commitment to be successful on the pitch.”
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      Al Hammadi likens this mixture to driving the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé – it’s like a loyal best friend every woman wants to have by her side to keep her strong.
      “Nowadays, women are breaking records and setting the bar high in sports all around the world more than ever,” she says. “However, I think there are a lot of cultural barriers and predetermined gender roles in Arab society that we have to overcome.”
      She believes the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé resembles what women in sport try to combine – preserving traditional values yet “continually demonstrating a drive to succeed, to step into the spotlight and become positive, successful role models on the sports field and in everyday life”.
      The new Mercedes boasts a sporty and elegant design with a touch of luxury offering Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel and vertical fins in high-gloss chrome and, of course, the glamorous AMG logo.

      With a stylish and striking coupé silhouette, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé strikes an ideal balance between design, sportiness, performance, and technology.
      To learn more visit Mercedes-benz-mena.com
       – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      What exactly is UAE National Day and Commemoration Day?

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      As the UAE’s 49th National Day is just around the corner, it’s important to know about its history along with Commemoration Day which is earlier known as Martyrs’ Day.
      What is Commemoration Day?
      Martyrs’ Day was initially declared by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in 2015, in the memory of the nation’s martyrs and in recognition of their immortal sacrifices. Now more commonly known as Commemoration Day, this year the day will fall December 1, 2020. It will be followed by UAE National Day celebrations on December 2, 2020. However, it should be noted that Commemoration Day is a day of reflection to remember and honour those who have sacrificed their lives for the UAE.
      READ: Caution urged about gatherings ahead of UAE National Day and Christmas 

      What is UAE National Day?
      UAE National Day falls on December 2 marks the country’s formal nationalisation and the start of the federal unification of the emirates in 1971. This year will mark the 49th annual UAE National Day.
      While the official theme of UAE National Day celebrations is the ‘Spirit of the Union’, it is derived from the vision and leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founder of the UAE. The theme is complemented with a logo that has a silhouette of the iconic image of the first congregation of the Founding Fathers of the UAE, on 2 December 1971.
      As per a circular issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, public holidays for Commemoration Day and UAE National Day for federal government employees will be from Tuesday, December 1 until Thursday, December 3 with employees being able to resume work on Sunday, December 6, 2020.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Unsplash More

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      Christmas in Dubai: 8 places where you can get your tree from

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      With the most wonderful time of the year soon approaching, it’s all about the festive decor and quintessential elements that make the occasion even more special.
      With many staying in Dubai this year for the festive season, it’s all the more reason to put some thought into where to get your Christmas tree from.

      From full-size artificial Christmas trees to real ones, there are an array of options from where you can avail your trees from with quick delivery, here’s EW‘s edit of the best ones available in the UAE.
      ACE Hardware

      This premier decor majestic pine tree which is 3m tall is made of high-quality PVC material with a thick bushy design resulting in a plump effect, ready to spruce up your dining area adding elements of joy during the festive season. Priced at Dhs559, this tree is easy to assemble and disassemble.
      To purchase visit aceuae.com
      Bloomingdales

      The Spitsbergen pre lit Christmas tree features LED lights, consisting of a tonal stand with folding mechanism arms and a sturdy storage case making it easy to assemble at home priced at Dhs240.
      To purchase visit bloomingdales.ae
      Home Centre

      Made with love to pep up your mood this season, adding a stunning touch to the house’s atmosphere, this Christmas tree is decorated with berries and cones to ensure a classic finish to be reused every year. Priced at Dhs379, this tree is183 cm in height.
      Available for purchase on homecentre.com
      Mumzworld

      For those who wish to have a sustainable Christmas, this Oncor Christmas 6ft Arctic blue spruce is made of 100% recycled PVC plastic material thereby reducing the use of fossil duels in the production process making the entire celebration an eco-friendly one. Priced at Dhs787, this 6ft Christmas tree is made of exceptional quality with 30 years of use.
      To purchase visit mumzworld.com
      Dubai Garden Centre

      This beautiful Christmas tree is a beautiful representation of an evergreen winter wonderland scenario. Being 300cm high, it will make the perfect statement in any home, creating an overall luxe impression by adding life to the Christmas decor. Priced at Dhs950, the Christmas pine cone berries tree is idea for the festive vibes at home.
      To purchase visit dubaigardencentre.ae
      Real Trees:
      Ferns N Petals

      If you’re looking to decorate a real Christmas tree before Santa’s arrival, to plan ahead this layered 5-6 feet foliage can withhold a range of opulent decorations making the season even more magical. Priced at Dhs889, the tree must be taken out from the box immediately after its arrival and it should be kept away from direct sunlight.
      To purchase visit fnp.ae
      Bloombox

      Grown in Oregon, USA, the noble fir is known for its beauty, stiff branches and long its long lasting capability. Being around 6-7 ft tall, this tree is perfect to adorn with heavy ornaments due to its strong nature. Priced at Dhs790, this tree has been growing in popularity.
      To purchase visit bloombox.ae
      Kibsons

      The Nordmann Fir Christmas Trees are sourced from sustainable farms in Denmark and is known for its exceptional longevity. While being pet-friendly this 1.5m high tree has a classic shape with dark green glossy needles making it much more resilient to heat while giving off a fresh, clean, citrus smell too.
      Available for purchase on kibsons.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Unsplash @aurelioarantes More

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      The sweetest photo of Gigi Hadid with her daughter has just been posted

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      To say we can’t get enough of Gigi Hadid thriving in motherhood would be an understatement.
      The supermodel has begun to post more photos of herself with her newborn daughter as of late, all the while keeping the baby’s face hidden from view for her privacy.

      Now, Hadid’s mother Yolanda Hadid has also posted a snap of the 25-year-old with baby Hadid-Malik and it may just be the most adorable snap of the model with the newborn yet.
      In the gorgeous photo, Hadid is cuddling her baby girl tight, whilst kissing the newborn’s head.

      Captioning the photo the doting grandmother added a caption in sticker form saying, “You are my sunshine.”

      Just last week the supermodel gave the most candid insight to date into her life as a new mum with baby Hadid-Malik.
      Taking to Instagram, Hadid shared a rare photo with her baby girl and also showed off her Christmas decorations after getting in the festive spirit early.
      “A whole new kind of busy & tired,” Hadid admitted in the caption of the post. “But she’s da bestie so she got Christmas decorations early.”

      The model welcomed baby Hadid-Malik two-and-a-half months ago with her boyfriend Zayn Malik. Both the new parents announced the birth of their baby girl on social media.
      Following the birth of the newborn, it was reported by E! News that Hadid was feeling “very tired but is already an amazing mum”. A source also told the publication that the model wants to raise her daughter in private.
      “Gigi wants the most privacy for their baby and wants to be able to raise her privately,” the insider said.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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      Halima Aden aims to become the first representative of Somalia at Miss Universe

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      Halima Aden recently made the brave decision to speak her truth about how she had to make compromises in the fashion industry when it came to her beliefs.
      Last week, the 23-year-old reflected on positive experiences in the fashion industry, and other experiences where she was made to compromise her beliefs, in particular when it came to wearing her hijab.

      Following this revelation, Aden has declared she plans to become the first representative of Somalia at Miss Universe.
      Acknowledging that she has been a woman of many firsts including being the first-ever hijabi to compete for Miss Minnesota; becoming the first hijabi model for IMG; and the first-ever person to wear a hijab and burkini on the cover of Sports Illustrated, Aden now plans to add another first to her list.
      READ: Exclusive: Halima on being one of the ‘lucky ones’ to leave her refugee camp

      “All those other ‘FIRSTs’ have prepared me for my true calling,” she said. “I will be the First Miss Somalia on the stage of Miss Universe. Fellow contestants, get ready because I AM COMING.”

      In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, Aden opened up about being a woman of firsts.
      “Being the first isn’t easy,” she admitted. “People innately fear the unknown so even if you do take that step to be the first, some will never understand or agree with you. To me, I knew being the first would mean nothing if there wasn’t a second, a third, a fourth.
      “I am so proud that in just the short 3 ½ years of my modelling career, there are several hijab-wearing models and it’s not uncommon to see these women walking the runway or covering magazines. That makes my journey worth it to me.”
      Aden also revealed just how seriously she takes being a role model to so many other young women around the world.
      “Being a role model is important to me, not just to the young girls in my Muslim or Somali communities, but to those who can relate to any part to my story,” she said. “I feel very fortunate to be in this position and while it comes with an enormous amount of responsibility, at the end of the day, the best I can do is to just do me and be myself.”
      We can’t wait to see what she does next.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Halima Aden Instagram, Feature Image: Photography Matthew Eades At One Represents More

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      UAE National Day: 8 delicious brunches to enjoy over the long weekend

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      With the much-needed five-day weekend just on the horizon, UAE residents now have a myriad of options on where to go for brunches and have the option to indulge in some delicious meals with friends and families over the break.
      From scenic locations to Insta-worthy meals, here’s the best brunch places to visit as you look forward to relaxing over the long weekend.
      READ: 10 of the best pool day deals to enjoy during the National Day long weekendREAD: 10 of the best staycations deals over the UAE National Day long weekend
      Bull and Bear at Waldorf Astoria, DIFC

      Inspired by the famous film The Wolf of Wall Street, this luxurious brunch caters to all the taste buds, with its range of innovative dishes. Located at Waldorf Astoria DIFC, this stylish restaurant can be found on the 18th floor, with views of the surrounding Downtown Dubai area. Every Friday from 1 to 5 pm, prices start at Dhs290 with an array of premium signature dishes.
      For more information visit hilton.com
      Cloud Restaurant & Lounge at Studio One Hotel, Studio City

      If you wish to have an exciting catch-up with your friends and family while enjoying a Turkish culinary journey, this Mediterranean-inspired social venue located at Studio One Hotel in Dubai offers an ‘Above the Clouds’ Brunch every Friday from 2pm to 5pm with live entertainment whether you’re dining indoors or on the terrace and prices starting at Dhs180.
      Fore more information visit studioonehotel.com
      Hutong, DIFC

      This upscale Chinese eatery is located in a foodie’s paradise offering free-flow dim sum, with 15 exquisite dishes to tuck into making it the next delicious hotspot to visit. Every Friday from 1pm to 4pm guests can visit this critically acclaimed restaurant for its brunch with prices starting at Dhs258.
      For more information visit hutong-dubai.com
      MOOD Rooftop Lounge at The Meydan Hotel

      While enjoying the beautiful sunsets of Dubai, this newly launched Sunset Brunch offers inventive local and international cuisine with quality ingredients designed to give an urban rooftop paradise experience with luscious desserts and delicious mains. The beautiful venue is adorned with sophisticated furniture and will feature live music from the DJs. Enjoy this brunch every Friday from 4pm to 8pm.
      For more information visit moodrooftop.com
      Bab Al Shams

      The Al Forsan Garden has the Ultimate Garden Brunch amidst the swaying palm trees and indulgent dishes for everyone to relish. With an array of culinary favourites, this family-friendly brunch also has a range of live entertainment activities for the little ones starting at Dhs385.
      For more information visit babalshams.com
      Pai Thai at Jumeirah Al Qasr

      For those who wish to take a little trip to Thailand, surrounded by lush greenery this award-winning restaurant serves aromatic traditional dishes with irresistible Thai food from on Friday from 12:30 to 4pm with an extensive beverage selection and ambient atmosphere with live hits from a DJ. The brunch package starts from Dhs245.
      For more information visit Jumeirah.com
      Nobu at The Atlantis

      For all the seafood lovers, this brunch is a must-try with a range of sushi’s, soups and salads catering to the vegetarians too. To top it all off, you also get to try the Chocolate Bento box which is the perfect treat for the long weekend. It takes place every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 3pm at Dhs345 per person.
      For more information visit atlantis.com/
      Prime68 brunch at JW Marriot Marquis

      With juicy steaks and vegetable sides, tailored to your preferences this steak lover’s haven is the perfect weekend afternoon delight every Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm with prices starting at Dhs195 per person.
      For more information visit marriott.com/
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Nobu Atlantis The Palm More

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      10 of the best pool day deals to enjoy during the National Day long weekend

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      There’s nothing like enjoying all-day access to some of the best pool decks in Dubai along with a five-star day of having your feet in the sand.
      Emirates Woman has rounded up a list of chic pool days located across the city for you to unwind at. In accordance with government guidelines, guests will need to bring their own towels and reservations are required.
      Bvlgari Yacht Club

      The world’s first yacht club has an exclusive deal for guests to enjoy with plush white loungers while bringing a private island feel to the city. Along with the outdoor bar and pool, guests can enjoy an array of authentic services making it an exclusive destination for the upcoming holidays. With prices starting at Dhs200 on weekdays and Dhs450 on weekends, with it being fully redeemable on food and beverages, guests can relax by the pool all day.

      For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
      WHITE Beach

      This impressive Mediterranean-inspired getaway with bohemian soft furnishings has a city-facing infinity pool with in-water loungers and a picturesque backdrop on the wooden deck, WHITE Beach at Atlantis The Palm should definitely be on your list. For Dhs150 on weekdays and Dhs300 on weekends fully redeemable.
      For more information visit atlantis.com/dubai
      Four Seasons Hotel DIFC

      This boutique style-sanctuary which is located at the heart of DIFC invites all to spend a day by the Hotel’s rooftop glass-walled pool and enjoy a delicious menu priced at Dhs300 for entry along with the amount redeemable on F&B.
      For more information visit fourseasons.com/dubaidifc/
      FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai

      With scenic views of this pristine beach that overlooks the calming waters and city’s skyline, from multiple pools to choose from guests can have the ultimate daycation experience with their sunbeds and music to keep them there the entire day.
      For more information visit fivehotelsandresorts.com
      Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa

      If you’re looking for something family-friendly over the long weekend, this property has just the right amenities and facilities for a family to enjoy with together. From plenty of grassy areas to a golden sandy beachfront and a number of swimming pools, prices start at Dhs200 for adults and Dhs75 for kids, being fully redeemable.
      For more information visit marriott.com
      Cove Beach Dubai

      Located at the popular Bluewaters Island in Dubai, Cove Beach is set on a private stretch with three swimming pools and gorgeous cabanas for those that wish to lounge in style. For Dhs100 on weekdays and Dhs200 weekends, both fully redeemable on F&B.
      For more information visit covebeach.com
      Summersalt

      With views of the much-adored seven-star hotel, Burj Al Arab, this beach club offers impressive views of the location with an airy restaurant, designed with a temperature-controlled swimming pool and views you can’t take your eyes off. Prices start at Dhs200 for singles and Dhs350 for a couple.
      For more information visit jumeirah.com
      DRIFT Beach Dubai

      Located in the classic One&Only Royal Mirage, this picturesque beach is the ideal all-adults setting set on a kilometre of private beach. If you’re looking for an indulgent day in a relaxed, laid-back setting, DRIFT beach should definitely be on your pool list of places to unwind at.
      For more information visit driftbeachdubai.com
      Riva Beach

      One of the longest-serving beach clubs located at Palm Jumeriah lets residents soak up the sun on its private stretch of beach and take advantage of a generously-sized swimming pool as well as a children’s pool. The prices start at Dhs75 on weekdays and Dhs100 on weekends.
      For more information visit riva-beach.com
      Nammos

      This signature Mykonos beach club located in Four Seasons Jumeirah looks like a beachside fine fining restaurant with a minimal bohemian vibe bringing the best in food with gorgeous views of Dubai. Prices start at Dhs200.
      For more information visit nammos.gr/
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @driftbeachdubai More

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      Dubai-based entrepreneur and influencer shows the harm Instagram filters can do

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      In the 13 years of Instagram, filters have gotten more clever and interesting year by year.
      Before we had stories, we just had grid posts with the classic filters including Lo-fi, Juno, Ludwig and Lark. Nowadays, there are thousands of filters to choose from, some can be funny and some can even change the look of your face.

      However, one Dubai-based entrepreneur and influencer has pointed out the damage this can do.
      Posting a two-minute video to her 260,000 followers, Tracy Harmoush showcased just how different filters can make you look in an instant, which also gives a warped sense of reality.

      Screen-recording herself, Harmoush went between a variety of different filters available on the Instagram story function showing how they change her face.
      The investment banker turned entrepreneur explained that most of the filters she used she has seen others use, which prompted her to try them out. However, she said using them is “like a dagger to the heart”.

      “It comes to show no matter how old you are, no matter how confident you are, no matter how secure you are with the way you look, these filters will make you feel a little bit less confident than you were prior to using them,” she candidly said.
      She said using one of the available filters for two weeks straight it would be extremely hard to come back just as herself with no filter.
      “It’s a dangerous game we’re playing here social media – it’s very dangerous,” Harmoush said ending her video.
      In the caption of her video, Harmoush reminded everyone to “trek cautiously” when using social media platforms.
      “Let’s not bring newly found insecurities to our doorstep,” she said. “We’re already trying to dodge the ones the world already throws at us like the matrix.”
      She reminded her followers just to have fun with social media and put an emphasis on using filters “from time to time”.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Tracy Harmoush Instagram More