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    Saudi National Day: 8 incredible women you should be following

    Today, September 23, 2020, marks the 90th official Saudi National Day. It commemorates the renaming of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This was by royal decree from King Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud in 1932.
    Fifteen years ago, in 2005, it was made a national holiday in 2005 by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

    In recent years many changes have taken place for the country, particularly in the realm for women’s 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.
    Then, in March 2018, it was announced by the Ministry of Justice that women who are divorced in the country would be able to instantly retain custody of their children.
    Women are are a celebrated part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is why this Saudi National Day EW has rounded up eight incredible women you should be following. Furthermore, we celebrate all the women from the Kingdom this Saudi National Day and the amazing work they do for their country.
    HRH Princess Lamia

    Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia Bint Majid Al Saud has made it her life’s mission to help others, particularly advocating for women. Through her incredible philanthropic work, Her Royal Highness is changing the world, one incredible story at a time.
    “If you are fortunate enough to have access to resources or a raised platform, it is your responsibility to support and empower those who are not as fortunate,” Princess Lamia recently told EW in an interview for ‘The Power Issue’.
    Harnessing this desire to help others, Her Royal Highness began working with Alwaleed Philanthropies – an organisation founded by His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud 40 years ago. Initially serving as the Executive Manager of Media & Communication, she was appointed Secretary-General of the organisation in 2016. Passionate about advocating for women’s empowerment both in Saudi Arabia and globally, in her role with Alwaleed Philanthropies, Princess Lamia has been able to lead and work on a whole host of impactful and fulfilling projects to help women and youth.
    Instagram: @lamia1507 Twitter: @lamia1507
    HRH Princess Reema

    Her Royal Highness Princess Reema Bint Bandar Al-Saud is an iconic female figure in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, consistently advocating for women in the region and works tirelessly to expand opportunities for Saudi women.
    Princess Reema has been a member of the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee since 2017 and of the IOC Women in Sports Commission since 2018. She then became president of the Mass Participation Federation in October 2018.
    However, it was last year that she made history becoming the first female to be Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States. And just a few months ago, another history-making moment happened for Princess Reema – she became the first Saudi female ambassador to be officially elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
    Twitter: @rbalsaud
    Haifaa al-Mansour

    As the first female filmmaker and director from Saudi Arabia, Haifaa al-Mansour has been breaking boundaries since day one.
    In her body of work, although she didn’t initially intend to do so, she often focusses on important women’s issues. Her first short film released in 1995 Who? and documentary Women Without Shadows, released in 2005, both cover the customs of the abaya.
    In a recent interview with EW, she explained why it’s crucial to march to the beat of her own drum. “I really wanted to tell a story about a culturally conservative, traditional woman who decides to embrace the changes happening now and go out there and seize the moment,” she said of her work.
    Instagram: @haifaa.almansour
    Amy Roko

    Social media sensation Amy Roko isn’t here to be judged by anyone and has been a beacon of light to many women since she started her Instagram account five years ago. Having garnered a huge social media following since first emerging on Instagram in 2015, the Saudi Arabian native continues to break down stereotypes surrounding females from the GCC region and the niqab. What exactly inspired her to resist stereotypes put upon her for being a niqabi is ironically the exact reason she did it.
    “Society’s initial resistance towards me inspired that,” she told EW in a recent interview. “I couldn’t imagine that just being myself and who I am would garner pushback. I don’t like being dictated to. I really do what I want, so I started showing people how I live my life to the fullest and based on my rules.”
    Instagram: @amyroko
    Aseel Al-Hamad

    Aseel Al-Hamad is the first female to be appointed as a board member of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation. She’s a hugely successful F1 racing driver in this region and has made the Kingdom a notable destination for the Grand Prix.
    Instagram: @aseel.alhamad
    Raha Moharrak

    Raha Moharrak became the first Saudi woman to scale Everest back in 2013. Throughout her career, this adventure-seeker has also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Vinson, Mount Elbrus, Aconcagua, Kala Pattar, Pico de Orizaba and Iztaccihuatl.
    Instagram: @rahamoharrak
    Haifa Al Mogrin

    Considered one of the most powerful people in Saudi Arabia, Princess Haifa Al-Mogrin continues to break down barriers in the Kingdom. Earlier this year she was appointed the Saudi Arabian representative to UNESCO.
    Twitter: @HaifaAlMogrin
    Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini

    Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini is the managing director for the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) and has been vital in the development of women’s sport in the Kingdom. She was right at the forefront when the Saudi Greens Team, which became the first Saudi women’s team ever to join an international event. In 2019, the Greens competed in the Global Goals World Cup (GGWCup) – a tournament that was launched to champion the role of sport in achieving the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SGD) No. 5.
    Al-Husseini is incredibly proud of the change that’s happened in the Kingdom, and she only hopes this continues. “I hope to see more Saudi women become the faces of sport in Saudi,” she told EW recently. “Already we have a few very well-known professional athletes and some fitness professionals that are very well-known at the community level as well.”
    Twitter: @shaimahusseini
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Your fabulous guide to this weekend in Dubai: September 24-26

    Ready for a busy weekend? From happy hours to fabulous staycations and indulgent dining experiences, we have more than one reason to get excited for some much deserved time off.
    Cheers to the weekend

    We can finally enjoy a drink or two outdoors and what better way to kick off the weekend than with a happy hour. Hosted at NOÉPE, located within the iconic Park Hyatt Dubai, from 5pm to 8pm you can avail a buy one get one free offer on selected beverages. Why not make a night of it and tuck into the newly revamped menu that celebrates the best of the vibrant food from New England, Californian and Nikkei cuisines.
    Just the two of us

    Overdue a date night or celebrating a special anniversary? One&Only The Palm wants to create an unforgettable night for the lovebirds of Dubai in a private setting overlooking the Grand Pool. Follow the candlelit pathway to a beautifully arranged table set in a secluded cabana and enjoy a bottle of champagne alongside a three-course meal curated by three-Michelin starred chef as a curated playlist sets the scene. The romantic experience starts at Dhs1,500 for in-house guests and Dhs3,000 for external guests. For more information on booking the experience contact info@oneandonlythepalm.com or call +971 4 440 1010.
    We’re jammin’

    Dubai’s favourite Caribbean hotspot, Miss Lily’s, introduces a vibin’ Saturday offering that will bring the island to the city with a tropical burst of Jamaican plates, rum refreshments and tunes to match. Kick-off your Foreign + Yard night by choosing either Patties – beef, chicken or callaloo (vegetarian), Peppa Shrimp- whole white prawns and scotch bonnet pepper or Stamp & Go- salted cod, Jamaican spices and tomato salsa. Follow this up with a choice from the mains which include fried or jerk chicken with the best sides of coleslaw and mac & cheese and Ackee & Saltfish and make sure to have room for Dark Fruit Cake or Homemade Coconut Cake to finish. Foreign + Yard is available from 6pm to 3am and is priced Dhs165 for food only with drinks bought separately.
    Did someone say brinner?

    Who is to tell you how to spend your weekend. If you want to have breakfast for dinner, go for it. Need a quick lunch stop with minimum fuss? You got it. Flexible grub is exactly what Tom&Serg offers with it new all-day dining menu for you to indulge in any type of dish no matter what time it is. It’s the weekend, enjoy the flexibility.
     24 hours of bliss

    Fancy a quick staycation to reset without strict check-in and check-out rules? At Renaissance Downtown Hotel, you can come and go within the 24 hours that you booked and immerse yourself in luxury in one of chic suites, complete with rich designs and local flair, overlooking Dubai’s unique views. The 24-hour Staycation is priced from Dhs650 up and includes buffet breakfast at Basta and covers two adults and two children. You will also receive a 25 per cent discount on food and drinks as well as the Spa. Use promotional code ROM when making a reservation.
    A stylish comeback

    The chic rooftop bar Mercury Lounge at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach has reopened with a new theme. Relax in the shady red and white striped cabanas reminiscent of the Côte d’Azur, indulge in a host of new dishes crafted by Head Chef Andrea Ierardi or enjoy an intimate dinner in the new Private Dining Room with views of the Arabian Gulf. Why not kick off your weekend with Mercury’s aperitivo which is served daily from 6pm to 8:00 pm, and includes miniature bites with each drink ordered from the aperitivo menu. Prices start at Dhs70.
    Naughty Brunch

    Head to Five Palm Jumeirah this Friday for an indulgent Naughty Noodles Champagne Brunch at Maiden Shanghai. On from1pm to 4pm, the dining experience includes unlimited gourmet Chinese food, unlimited crafted cocktails and sips, unlimited champagne for an hour all with a side of tunes by Sam Starks. Priced at Dhs450, if you are a FACE card holder then you pay Dhs325. Not ready to go home? Stick around for the afterparty from 4pm to 7pm where you can three drinks for Dhs100.
    Heading to Abu Dhabi?

    A tranquil hideaway, EDITION Spa has reopened its doors with several indulgent packages to treat yourself to. First up is the GLOW-GETTER, a 60-minute experience that includes an EDITION House Massage for Dhs496 with a complimentary upgrade to 90-minutes when reserving between 10am to 3pm daily. There’s also SKINSATIONAL at Dha600 that will help you restore with a deep cleansing facial, elevated by a choice of complimentary back and shoulder massage or healing sound therapy. Want to make a day of it? Then book in for SPA & SUN SEEKERS package for two priced at Dhs990 and enjoy a day of relaxation and sunshine, paired with a 60-minutes couples massage and complimentary pool access.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied, Instagram More

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    Sheikh Hamdan takes a trip down memory lane sharing a series of throwback photos

    It appears HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has taken a trip down memory lane.
    Taking to Instagram yesterday afternoon, the Crown Prince of Dubai shared a series of old photos, some of which included his late brother HH Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

    Many of the photos featured His Highness horse riding, a passion which has been in the family for years. Some images also featured Sheikh Hamdan with his father, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    The Crown Prince simply captioned the reminiscent Instagram post: “Good old days.”

    Over the weekend, Sheikh Hamdan paid tribute to his elder brother Sheikh Rashid on the fifth anniversary of his death.
    He took to Twitter to share a video montage which showcased photos of the late Sheikh Rashid.
    Some images were from his younger years, some were from later in his life and some were taken with Sheikh Hamdan.
    Alongside the video, the 37-year-old Crown Prince also posted some poetic words in Arabic which translate into: “Brotherhood feelings of love inspire him. The word ‘brother’ spoken from the mouth of my brother is the sweetest thing someone’s lips could say.”
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram and Twitter More

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    The power of the perfect smile

    September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
    Never underestimate the power of the perfect smile. If you prefer perfecting what you already have than replacing it, Dr Maysoon is the go-to in the industry for a naturally flawless finish.
    What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
    My morning routine is quite simple. When I wake up I brush my teeth, do a few stretching exercises then have my breakfast before I leave for work.
    In your role you have to have the ability to wear a lot of ‘hats’ in terms of understanding marketing, working with patients directly and of course the dentistry itself. What do you think are your natural strengths and which part do you enjoy most?

    Most of the patients who have written me reviews have complimented me on my communications skills and on the way I’ve made them feel relaxed so I would say my communication skills are definitely one of my big strengths. I love to sit with my patients and take my time when explaining their dental challenges and treatment options. And of course, the dentistry itself comes naturally to me after many years of experience and the hundreds of courses I have attended and continue to attend. I believe the best marketing tool is word of mouth, and the majority of new patients that visit me are through recommendations from current patients.
    Have you seen any trends in terms of cosmetic dentistry changing in recent years and if so what?
    Treatments such as composite bonding (or cosmetic bonding) and composite veneers have become more popular recently because they are relatively quick and conservative treatment options that enhance your smile. You can do so much with composite bonding, such as changing the shape, the length and texture of teeth. Most of the time there is no drilling or injections involved.

    The other trend is teeth straightening using clear aligners such as Invisalign. More adults are opting for these nearly invisible aligners to straighten their teeth as they can wear the aligners with more confidence and are able to remove them for important events.

    Tell us about how you create the perfect smile and would you always suggest trying to perfect what you naturally have before turning to other more extreme solutions?
    For me the perfect smile is enhancing what someone is naturally born with rather than destroying their teeth to achieve or copy someone else’s smile. This can be done in many ways depending on the patient’s goals, teeth, budget and time frame. I would always advise my patients to opt for the most conservative option if possible. For example, if someone has crowded teeth or a narrow smile then orthodontic treatment would be the least invasive option. I think Invisalign is a fantastic option and we can achieve so much with it. It allows us to transform the patient’s smile whilst still maintaining the uniqueness and natural shape of the teeth.
    On average how long can someone expect to spend going through this process?
    It really varies from person to person, depending on the position of their teeth to begin with. Teeth straightening can take any time from 3 to 24 months. Composite bonding and composite veneers can take 1 or 2 appointments.
    How do you aid the patient through the process?
    I always offer support, advice and encouragement throughout their treatment. Sometimes I would show them photos of their progress to increase their motivation and this ensures the time it takes to achieve the final result is minimised.
    Can you describe the process for us in terms of stages?
    The first appointment would involve a dental examination to check that the teeth and gums are healthy before embarking on any treatment. It’s essential to check if the patient is suitable for Invisalign and discuss a treatment plan accordingly. The second appointment would be to take photographs as well as impressions of the teeth and send them to the US where the aligners will be manufactured. After receiving the customised aligners, the third appointment would involve placing attachments on some of the teeth and fitting the first pair of aligners. After this, the patient will typically visit the dentist every 4 weeks to check progress and make any necessary adjustments until the treatment is complete.
    Who for you has the perfect smile?
    Anyone who has straight, bright, healthy teeth and gums has a perfect smile!
    This year has proven challenging for many business and leaders. If you face a challenge –  what have you found is personally the most successful way to overcome it?
    I try to think positively and focus on my mental and physical health. Things somehow end up falling into place when you do this. We cannot control the challenges and problems that come in our way, but we can try to change our mindset towards them.
    Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals?
    I try to avoid bright light and screen time an hour before I go to bed. I always make time for my skin routine before I sleep as well. I’ve recently started spraying lavender on my pillow just before I sleep, lavender helps me relax.

    What effect has social media played in the cosmetic dentistry industry and which channel do you feel will be strongest in future?
    Social media has made dentists more competitive in a good way. Dentists can now share their work in terms of  what can be achieved through photos and videos. Followers can engage with dentists and ask questions making the idea of treatment more accessible. Social media has definitely increased awareness amongst the public with regards to the importance of having a healthy, beautiful smile. Many influencers are documenting their smile makeover journeys on social media and sharing it with their followers. This has increased the demand for cosmetic dentistry. There are filters on Instagram and TikTok that make your teeth appear whiter and straighter which inevitably makes people think twice about their smile.
    If you were not working in the role you are now, which other role would you choose career-wise?
    I would have probably chosen a career in the culinary world. I’m very passionate about food and cooking!
    This issue is The Power Issue. What is powerful to you?
    Power is good health. Without a healthy body and mind we cannot achieve anything. Being powerful is being forgiving.
    For more details contact Dr Tosun Dental Clinic (04) 3435051 or @doctormaysoon
    September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Getty and Supplied More

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    4 of the best luxury hotels in Oman

    After being closed for seven months, Oman’s borders are set to reopen on October 1.
    With that in mind, EW has decided to round up some of our favourite resorts to book or put on your hotel wishlist.
    Six Senses Zighy Bay

    Where: Zighy Bay, Oman

    The Vibe: Rustic Luxe
    USP: If you’re putting plans in place for your next getaway out of the country once borders open, why not look close to home in Oman? For the ultimate relaxation, escape to the secluded and serene setting of Six Senses Zighy Bay. The luxury villas have a rustic vibe, each coming with their own pool giving optimum privacy for guests. Whether you fancy a trip to the spa, a calming fishing session or just lounging on the beach, this is the place to rejuvenate and recharge. As night hits, enjoy dinner at the array of different dining options at the resort which features both local and international cuisines.
    The details: A two-hour drive from Dubai Airport, this is a great option for a staycation that really feels like you’ve travelled somewhere far away.  Prices start from Dhs4,875 for a pool villa for two adults. For reservations call +968 2 673 5555.
    The Chedi Muscat

    Where: Muscat, Oman
    The Vibe: Beachfront bliss
    USP: Located where the Al Hajar Mountains meet the waters of the Gulf of Oman, The Chedi Muscat incorporates the best of both worlds. The resort boasts 160 guestrooms and villas, six distinct restaurants and lounges, a thirteen-suite Asian spa and three swimming pools.
    The details: The hotel is approximately a 15-minute drive from Muscat International Airport.
    Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

    Where: Muscat, Oman
    The Vibe: Serene spa experience
    USP: Enjoy quintessential Arabian style reflected at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, which boasts fabulous views of the sea of Oman as the resort stretches over 500-metres of stunning coastline. For the ideal relaxation and rejuvenation, visit the world-famous Chi, The Spa which offers a range of treatments using natural Omani ingredients. The resort also features a lazy river, which is a perfect source of entertainment for the kids if you’re on a family holiday.
    The details: The hotel is approximately a 40-minute drive from Muscat International Airport.
    Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

    Where: Muscat, Oman
    The Vibe: Refreshing luxury
    USP: With 136 rooms, villas and pool villas and a private 250-metre beach, an infinity pool and a freshwater lagoon, it’s safe to say you’re spoiled for choice at the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. The resort celebrates the cultural treasures of Oman and is right next to Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Land of Frankincense. There’s also a luxe spa where you can relax and rewind with an array of treatments.
    The details: Salalah International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the resort.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: The Maldives Ayada Resort More

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    Dubai-based airline relaunches flights to the Maldives after two-year hiatus

    Dubai-based airline flydubai has relaunched flights to the Maldives after a two-year hiatus.
    Initially, the carrier was providing flights to Malé between 2013 and 2018, but put a hold on flights two years ago. Now, next month services are set to resume on October 27.

    The airline carrier has stated flights to the island getaway have been reinstated due to popular demand.
    Services to the Indian Ocean destination, which reopened its borders a couple of months ago, will be operating four times a week – on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

    It’s a positive sign for the travel industry, as noted by flydubai’s CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith.

    “We continue to see signs of recovery as more countries start to lift restrictions on international travel,” he said in a statement. “Working together, all the stakeholders in the travel industry have a role to play to safeguard travel in this new environment enabling more people to travel confidently.
    “We remain agile in our operations and committed to gradually adding more flights to further support the flow of trade and tourism around the region as we look ahead to this new way of travel in the months to come.”
    With the resumption of flights to the Maldives, this brings flydubai’s current destination network total to 40 covering regions of Africa, Central Asia, Europe, Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East.
    Meanwhile, Emirates is currently operating flights to over 80 destinations.
    If you are thinking about an island getaway, look at our recent round-up of fabulous hotel offers in The Maldives.
    For latest updates on travel information, including visa policy and airport regulations, check out Maldives Ministry of Tourism.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: The Maldives Ayada Resort More

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    ‘Inshallah waiting patiently’: Mohamed Hadid shares his baby excitement

    Gigi Hadid’s fans – which includes us – have been keeping a close eye to see when she’s set to give birth to her first child with boyfriend Zayn Malik.
    While it’s set to be any day now, last week fans were sent into a spin after the supermodel’s father, Mohamed Hadid, hinted that the new Hadid-Malik baby had already arrived.

    Taking to Instagram, he penned a sweet handwritten letter saying, “Hello my little grandchild.” However, the 72-year-old quickly deleted it after fans began speculating Gigi had given birth.
    Now the Palestinian-American property tycoon has again taken to social media to share he is “waiting patiently” for the arrival of his eldest daughter’s first child.

    “Looking out for … soon Inshallah waiting patiently #baby @gigihadid (Jido) (grandpa) in English … is here waiting to meet you … so excited,” he said.
    It’s unclear if Mohamed is currently with Gigi. Bella Hadid recently posted a series of Instagram stories of Mohamed – aka “baba” – cooking up a Middle Eastern feast, but it wasn’t clear if Gigi and Zayn were there.
    The couple were recently pictured in New York City, where it was initially thought the supermodel would give birth, but it seems they may be back in Pennsylvania on the Hadid family farm, where the family has spent most of their self-isolation together.
    Regardless, the due date for baby Hadid-Malik is fast-approaching and we couldn’t be more excited.
     – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Mohamed Hadid Instagram More

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    The UAE’s COVID-19 vaccine is starting to be administered to doctors and nurses

    One week after it was announced the UAE government had approved a COVID-19 vaccine to be administered on frontline workers, the doses are starting to be given to doctors, nurses and others.
    Just a few days ago, the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine was administered in the UAE, which was given to the country’s Minister of Health and Prevention, Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Owais.

    The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has begun giving doses of the vaccine to the medical staff at Al Qassimi Hospital for Women and Children, which is located in Sharjah, according to the Khaleej Times.
    Discussing the new vaccine, the MoHAP issued a statement saying, “This step clearly underlines the interest and support of the wise leadership for all workers in the health sector and its commitment to providing them with the highest levels of safety.”

    The Ministry also clearly stated that those who are receiving doses of the vaccine will be closely monitored.
    “Those who got vaccinated will be under careful and continuous medical supervision along with necessary examinations to spot any adverse effects that may arise,” they said.
    Per the UAE’s state news agency WAM, the vaccine was developed by Chinese drug maker Sinopharm and has undergone extensive testing in the UAE with over 31,000 volunteers taking part in the trial over the last couple of months.
    Upon the announcement that the vaccine had been approved by the UAE government, the principal investigator and chairperson of the National Clinical Committee for Coronavirus, Dr Nawal A-Kaabi noted that the initial results are “encouraging”, but that studies will be ongoing.
    “The initial results are encouraging in terms of the presence of antibodies in the body,” Dr Al Kaabi said.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: WAM More