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    Mohamed Hadid says having famous children like Gigi and Bella is a ‘burden’

    It’s no secret Mohamed Hadid has some very successful children – and that success just so happens to be in the public eye.
    However, it seems the 71-year-old struggles with the fame of his daughters Gigi and Bella Hadid sometimes, which he has opened up about in a new interview.

    In a new interview with The Times UK, the property tycoon admitted that many people don’t see him as Mohamed Hadid.
    “They look at me as the father of Gigi and Bella and Anwar and Alana and Marielle,” the father-of-five said. “It’s dangerous for me to be their father.”

    Clarifying his statement, he went on to explain that he has to be very cautious of everything he does, as he doesn’t want his actions to reflect on them. “[People] use my kids as an instrument to harass me,” he added.

    Further explaining what it’s like to be a parent to two of the biggest supermodels in the world, Mohamed likened it to being a “tremendous burden”.
    “Just being their father is a tremendous burden on me,” he said. “They were my kids. Now I’m their father. It is what it is.”
    Comparing his family to the very public lives of the Kardashian-Jenners, Mohamed explained that they are very much “not the Kardashians” and are a very private family.
    This certainly rings true for his daughter Gigi, 25, who recently gave birth to her first child. The model largely kept her pregnancy under wraps until recently, and made sure to keep her birth a secret and hasn’t revealed the name of her newborn daughter with boyfriend Zayn Malik yet.
    Whilst Mohamed may have some reservations about being a father to two of the most famous people in the world right now, we’re betting it’s definitely not all bad…
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Getty/Instagram More

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    5 editor-approved brunches in Dubai that are definitely worth booking

    Sometimes there is so much to do, so much to try, whatever the situation may be, things can get slightly overwhelming. In EW’s series ‘Editor-Approved’ we’re aiming to show you experiences and products which have truly been tried and tested and have our editors’ stamp of approval.
    In this week’s instalment of ‘Editor-Approved’, we round up some fabulous brunches that are based in Dubai which have been tried and tested and are definitely worth booking.
    Bull & Bear

    A truly cool and relaxed vibe, complete with live music, amazing food and flawless service, this new brunch at Bull & Bear restaurant in the Waldorf Astoria DIFC has our seal of approval. The new brunch takes on an iconic theme inspired by the Martin Scorsese directed blockbuster The Wolf of Wall Street – enter ‘The Bull of Wall Street’. Officially launching this Friday, October 2, the brunch will be running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm. There’s two brunch packages available: Dhs290 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for bubbles, house hops and a selection of cocktails.
    La Mezcaleria

    Those looking for a lively brunch and a good time with friends, this Latin American pop-up in DIFC is the place for you. Enjoy sharing-style starters with your friends, followed by your own main course and then a sharing platter of desserts. Running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm packages start from Dhs190 for soft drinks, Dhs290 for grape, Dhs360 for house beverages and mixed drinks and Dhs460 for bubbly.
    OPA

    A Mediterranean feast awaits you at OPA every Friday, bringing Mykonos to Dubai. Let your hair down with your friends feasting on the iconic flavours of Greece, along with some plate-smashing entertainment. Running from 12pm until 4pm, packages for this four-course brunch begin at Dhs245 for soft drinks, Dhs350 for house drinks and Dhs395 for bubbles.
    French Riviera

    While you might have missed out on your summer holiday to the south of France this year, you can enjoy the next best thing with Jumeriah group’s pop-up restaurant – French Riviera. Located on the stunning oceanfront at Jumeriah Al Qasr, enjoy a Cote D’Azur dining experience. Enjoy the culinary expertise of Chef Kim Joinié-Maurin – who previously worked with Joël Robuchon, a three-Michelin star French chef and restauranteur – with an array of French dishes. Available every Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 3pm, with packages starting from Dhs350 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for house drinks and cocktails. This brunch at French Riviera is an absolute must-try.
    Miss Lily’s

    For those looking to celebrate, whatever the occasion may be, with a great group of people, complete with great food and great tunes, Miss Lily’s is your one-stop-brunch-shop.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram / Supplied More

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    Good American and the power of inclusivity

    September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
    Entrepreneur Emma Grede is all for inclusivity at every level, championing this with her pioneering brand Good American alongside co-founder Khloé Kardashian.
    “Power, to me, means making sure every woman feels heard and included,” says entrepreneur Emma Grede. This is the exact philosophy she has taken with her trailblazing brand, Good American, an all-inclusive label she co-founded with Khloé Kardashian in 2016. “It isn’t just about fashion and trends, our brand is about creating something that helps empower women to feel their best and break down barriers.”
    Having studied at the London College of Fashion, and eventually working for a fashion production agency which led her to working in New York City and Los Angeles, British-born Grede came to a realisation when she was pregnant with her daughter. “I wanted to start my own company that I would be really proud of and that she would be really proud of,” Grede tells Emirates Woman. “When I started thinking about and exploring the opportunity for Good American, it was clear that so many women are ignored by the fashion industry, and I wanted to create a brand that bridges this gap.”

    The idea was there, then it came time to execute it. Having become connected with Kris Jenner during fashion weeks in Paris, the pair always discussed different projects they were working on which led to her casual pitch for Good American and to pin down Khloé Kardashian as her co-founder. “I pitched her in a casual way that was like, ‘Hey, I’m doing this thing, and I’d really love Khloé to be my partner,’ and she loved it but said she’d talk to Khloé,” she recalls. She flew to Los Angeles to meet with Kardashian “and the rest is history, as they say”, Grede says. From the moment they sat down together, it was clear their visions aligned creating the perfect partnership for the pioneering brand. “As soon as I started speaking, she started chiming in with stories,” Grede says. “Immediately, we were both on board with the idea that we were going to create this empowering, inclusive brand.”

    When launching four years ago, Good American’s focus was on denim, but at the helm of its focus was size-inclusivity with the jean sizes from the brand ranging from American size OO to 24. That gap in the market Grede saw was revolutionary – on their first day, Good American sold $1 million worth of denim. “It showed us that there is a huge market of women who have felt ignored by fashion brands,” Grede explains, and there was an appetite for more. The brand has since branched into activewear, dresses, bodysuits, trousers and most recently swimwear. Every single item that is created under the Good American umbrella is in their inclusive size range 00 to 24.
    “Historically, the fashion industry has been built on standards of exclusivity, catering only to specific body types, carrying a small range of sizes and representing a sometimes unrealistic body ideal,” Grede explains. “We continue to pioneer the space by listening to our customers to directly impact our design choices and product launches.” The brand has opened up a new chapter for many women, particularly many curvier women, who have been forced to shop for lower-priced, low-quality products as it’s been the only option.
    The success of Good American hasn’t gone unnoticed by other brands, with Grede noting how they are beginning to recognise the issue of size-exclusivity in the fashion industry. “We still have a long way to go, but we’re excited to see the industry take steps in the right direction while leading the way,” she adds. However, this hasn’t been without its obstacles. “It has been challenging to transform the way the industry views the inclusivity and body positivity movement, and understand that it’s not just a trend, it’s the future of business,” Grede explains, admitting the movement can feel “superficial” at times. “Not all retailers will put their money where their mouth is,” she candidly says. “There are a lot of costs associated: bigger sizes take extra fabric, shooting product on different sized models and more.”
    There was also the hurdle of getting retailers to carry all of the sizes the brand was offering. “Traditionally straight sizes are displayed in one location while plus sizes are offered in a separate section,” the Good American CEO says. “However, this went against the very core of Good American.” It’s not just been the challenge to find partners to work with that will stock their sizes, it’s also about changing the core beliefs of the industry. “I’d say the biggest hurdle is getting more partners and people to shift their mindset, and in turn, shift their behaviour,” Grede says. While it’s been tough, it’s clear they’ve made major leaps and bounds.

    At its core brand principles, Good American, of course, seeks to work with partners that are not only willing to showcase size inclusivity, but also a diverse group of women. This is where Grede and Kardashian took matters into their own hands, going directly to the women they appeal to. “When we were in search of a diverse cast reflective of who our woman is, we launched our first-ever Open Casting for Good American’s first seasonal campaign in 2017,” she says. “The response was overwhelmingly positive and our customers were beyond excited.” Following the tremendous success of the initiative, the Good American Open Casting is now held annually. Furthermore, it’s become a whole movement. “Our Open Casting programme gives women over the age of 14 the opportunity to join our Good American #GoodSquad – a group of real women who celebrate and inspire our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, body positivity and female empowerment,” Grede says. “Our goal is to use these cornerstones to push the fashion industry to be more inclusive, diverse and real.” It’s what has become one of the most enriching parts of Grede’s journey with Good American. “Being able to impact the lives of women has been the most rewarding experience,” she says. “Whether through our Open Casting initiatives, or talking with customers on social, our customers are really the ones shaping our product offerings and the future of Good American. They keep us motivated each and every day.”
    While the Good American name may pertain to the USA, the brand has become a global phenomenon and is particularly well-loved in the GCC region, which is seen by Grede. “We saw that there was an appetite for Good American in the UAE and GCC region through both customer feedback and comments and messages on our social channels,” she says. “While we’ve heard from customers about how much they love our product, we have seen an incredible response to our focus on empowerment, inclusivity, diversity and body positivity. These are the true tenets of our brand and it’s clear that they’re resonating with women all over the world, especially in the UAE and GCC region!”
    It’s been an incredible journey for Grede – who now resides in Los Angeles with her husband and two children – to build a brand from the ground-up not only with an amazing co-founder in Kardashian, but with incredible core values. As for what’s next? We’ll all just have to wait and see.
    September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more about luxury lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Abu Dhabi outlines quarantine guidelines for international travellers

    Last week it was announced Abu Dhabi would be reopening its borders to tourists.
    The reopening of the borders to international travellers is to “support recovery plans of the country’s tourism sector and economy”, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) said.

    However, unlike neighbouring emirate Dubai, those arriving into Abu Dhabi those who are arriving from an international destination – whether they are tourists or residents – must quarantine in their homes or a hotel room for 14 days even if they test negative for COVID-19.
    In a recent statement issued by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, per the emirate’s Crisis, Emergency and Disasters Committee, the quarantine rules for international travellers have been reiterated.

    The #AbuDhabi Crisis, Emergency and Disasters Committee requires international travellers to Abu Dhabi to disclose date of entry into the country at check points designated for international travellers at all ports, and to adhere to approved quarantine guidelines. pic.twitter.com/Bk31nzVw1B
    — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) September 28, 2020

    “The Abu Dhabi Crisis, Emergency and Disasters Committee requires international travellers to Abu Dhabi to disclose the date of entry into the country at check points designated for international travellers at all ports, and to adhere to approved quarantine guidelines,” the statement read.
    READ: Abu Dhabi residents and tourists no longer require an alcohol license
    It was also outlined that those who did not adhere to the implemented guidelines, there would be fines and penalties to face.
    Abu Dhabi’s borders have opened three months after Dubai opened its borders back in July.
    For those seeking to travel to the emirate, a negative COVID-19 test is required. Once you arrive, you only need to isolate until you receive the negative test result.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Visit Abu Dhabi Instagram More

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    Queen Rania shares a new portrait with her daughters to mark their birthdays

    There’s that age-old saying: like mother, like daughter. In the case of Queen Rania of Jordan, it’s like mother, like daughters.
    Her Majesty recently took to Instagram to wish her two daughters Princess Iman and Princess Salma – who share birthdays a day apart – a happy birthday over the weekend.

    Queen Rania shared a new portrait with her daughters, showcasing the likeness to the two princesses share to their mother.

    “When my girls are near, love and laughter are never far behind,” Her Majesty lovingly captioned the photo. “Happy birthday Iman and Salma.”
    Princess Salma celebrated her 20th birthday on 26 September and Princess Iman celebrated her 24th birthday the day after on September 27.
    It’s been a busy birthday period for the Jordanian royal family as Queen Rania herself celebrated turning 50 at the end of last month.
    At the end of last month, Her Majesty opened up about celebrating her birthday amidst the pandemic in an interview with Hello! magazine. Queen Rania gave thanks to her country in their efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, putting the people of Jordan’s “health and wellbeing first”.

    Speaking on her family, the royal admitted she’s “always wished for more time” with her husband, King Abdullah, and their four children. But given the current pandemic “time is all [she’s] had” with her family, which she’s incredibly thankful for.
    “It has been such a blessing to have all my children around, particularly during the months when Jordan was under a strict lockdown,” she told the UK publication.
    She also took the opportunity to lovingly pay tribute to her husband of 27 years saying he makes her “want to do more and be more… inspiring me in every moment of my life”.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Queen Rania Instagram More

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    Meet one of the first female ambulance drivers in Saudi Arabia

    As major positive changes continue to happen for women in Saudi Arabia, a light has now been shined on one of the very first female ambulance drivers in the Kingdom.
    In a new documentary published by the Saudi Center for Government Communication, Sara Al Anizi detailed how when she was younger she hoped she would be able to help people who were injured.

    “When I was young, I used to keep band-aids,” she said. “When anyone had an injury, they would call me for assistance.
    “This was a source of great happiness, especially as my father consolidated the idea that I was the home doctor.”

    Since becoming an ambulance driver, Al Anizi has gained some incredible experience as well as “high confidence”.

    توجّه إلى اليمين قليلا.. في المسار الأيسر المسعفة سارة العنزي، ضمن أوائل سائقات الإسعاف بالمملكة، على أهبة الاستعداد دومًا لنداء الإنسانية والوطن. @KFMC_RIYADH #التواصل_الحكومي pic.twitter.com/WDCqr7LPia
    — التواصل الحكومي (@CGCSaudi) September 23, 2020

    She also reflected on the current pandemic, admitting it has been a difficult time.
    “It was a big challenge,” she said. “I would look behind and remember my family, children and my mother without knowing what is in store for me. But Thanks to Allah, I drove patients to the quarantine and was happy for doing this.”
    In the last few years, things have changed drastically for women in Saudi Arabia when it comes to their rights and female empowerment.
    The changes are part of the many initiatives under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 scheme, an ambitious post-oil economic plan, which has a major focus on women’s rights in the Kingdom.
    Just three months after he stepped into the role in 2017, the Crown Prince unveiled in a royal decree, women would be able to secure driving licenses from June 2018 and he has gone on to do much more.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: CGC Saudi Twitter More

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    Trust us, you deserve this fabulous ladies daycation deal

    If you have spare days off, put them to good use by spending time with your besties at one of the most popular resorts in Dubai.
    Re-charge and catch up on all the gossip (we thoroughly believe that chatting away is a form of self-care) at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina that has recently introduced a ladies all-inclusive daycation deal.

    Your day away from it all begins with a vibrant and nourishing breakfast ay Bounty Beets. Tuck into the much-loved avocado toast, acai bowls and pancakes before heading to a deluxe skyline room, all yours for the day.

    We know you want to get down to the pool but the team at the hotel want to make sure that you’re completely at ease beforehand by offering an indulgent in-room spa treatment.
    Once you’ve changed into you Hunza G bikini, feel free to relax by the pool or beach for the rest of the day and don’t forget to grab a complimentary cocktail at Latitude 25.
    All there’s left to do is to switch off your notifications, perfect the selfie pout and celebrate pay week in style.
    Lady Daycation deal is priced at Dhs299 and is available Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 7pm. Call 043993333 to book.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    This is where Gigi Hadid reportedly gave birth

    From the moment the news of her pregnancy was made public, Gigi Hadid has kept things largely under wraps.
    From shying away from showing off her bump for quite a few months, to not talking a lot about her pregnancy and more, the model and her boyfriend Zayn Malik have chose not stay relatively quiet about the arrival of their first child.

    The couple announced the exciting news last week that their newborn daughter had arrived the weekend prior.
    Now the whereabouts of where the new parents welcomed their daughter has reportedly been revealed.

    According to Page Six, the 25-year-old gave birth “gave birth to her baby girl on her farm in rural Pennsylvania”. This is where she has been spending the majority of her time with Zayn throughout their self-isolation.

    It was thought that Gigi may be giving birth in New York City given that she and Zayn had been photographed there together in August, but it appears she was more rural than initially thought.
    The publication also reports that the newborn’s birth date was September 19, 2020.
    Gigi shared a new photo of her daughter – whose name hasn’t been announced as of yet – on Friday.
    In the picture, the new mum revealed the newborn’s outfit was gifted to her by designer Donatella Versace and singer Taylor Swift.
    Baby Hadid-Malik was wearing a Versace sweater from “auntie Donatella” and was also covered by a silk pink blanked from “auntie Taylor Swift”, which she made herself.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Gigi Hadid Instagram More