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    Saudi Arabia appoints first female director-general in the Foreign Ministry

    Over the past few weeks, Saudi Arabia has made many history-making appointments with women taking on roles they never have before in the Kingdom.
    Another historical appointment has been made with the announcement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry that Ahlam Bint Abdulrahman Yanksar would take on the role of director-general of the ministry’s department of cultural affairs.

    This makes her the first female figure to hold such a senior post in the Kingdom, per Gulf News.
    Having obtained a master’s degree in international business administration from the University of London, Ahlam has had a successful career working in both the Ministry’s undersecretary for political and economic affairs. She has also worked in the Saudi embassy in London, where she studied, in the economic and cultural section.

    Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia’s General Presidency for the Affairs appointed 10 women into senior roles at the Two Holy Mosques.
    These latest appointments are just a few of the many things have changed for women in the last few years in the Kingdom since Mohammed bin Salman was appointed Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in 2017.
    Under his Vision 2030 initiative, an ambitious post-oil economic plan, there has been a major focus on women’s rights in the Kingdom.
    Just three months after he stepped into the role in 2017, the Crown Prince revealed in a royal decree, women would be able to secure driving licenses from June 2018.
    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.
    Under his plans, women are now also able to attend sports events in stadiums in three cities, female students in the Kingdom are now allowed to carry their phones while on campus and as of August 2019, women aged over 21 are now allowed to travel independently.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Saudi Foreign Ministry More

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    You can now get your questions directly answered by the Dubai government

    While it’s been a standstill year for many in terms of staying in one place and working from home, there couldn’t have been more changes that have gone on in our everyday lives.
    This particularly rings true when it comes to the rules and regulations surrounding COVID-19.

    However, the Dubai government is making it easy for UAE citizens and residents to keep up-to-date on changes taking place with a new service that’s been launched by The Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO).
    Members of the public are now able to ask questions they have directly to government officials via social media under the new initiative entitled #AskDXBOfficial.

    As part of the new #AskDXBOfficial initiative launched by @DXBMediaOffice, you can use the hashtag #AskDXBOfficial to address your questions to Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Knowledge & Human Development Authority (@KHDA). pic.twitter.com/BPFH2zmCt7
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) August 24, 2020

    “The initiative is part of GDMO’s objective of creating platforms that allow the community to clarify issues and concerns with government officials,” a statement from Dubai Media Office says.
    In the first instalment of the initiative, questions surrounding immigration, travel procedures and COVID-19 protocols were answered by Major General Mohammed Al Marri, the Director-General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
    He took the opportunity to further clarify the current rules in place for UAE residents returning to Dubai. He said that “all residents holding a valid resident visa are allowed to return to Dubai. Once they receive a return permit from GDRFA-Dubai and obtain a negative PCR test result, they can return to Dubai through any UAE airport.”
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Unsplash More

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    We found the most relaxing way to mark Emirati Women’s Day

    Celebrating inspiring Emirati women is something of a trademark for Emirates Woman and we know exactly how hard these trailblazers work to achieve their goals. But even the most hardworking among us need a break, so we have searched high and low to find a perfect way to embrace the medium of self-care.

    An afternoon of relaxation awaits at Qua Spa tucked away inside the lavish Caesars Bluewaters Dubai. The space of tranquillity will be offering an exclusive deal on the unique Iyashi Dome treatment to celebrate and spoil the women who play a pivotal role in the nation.

    The first of its kind in the UAE, it uses state-of-the-art infrared rays to deeply cleanse the body, restore its balance and gain efficient and long-lasting slimming effects.
    Inspired by traditional Japanese practice, ‘Suna Ryoho’ – where the nestle themselves in the sand near hot springs on the beach to eliminate toxin – this spa treatment also burns up to 600 calories a session, so you can enjoy some sweet treats afterwards.
    For just two days, this ultimate indulgence will be available at 50 per cent off so all you’ll be paying is Dhs150 for 45 minutes instead of Dhs300. The appointments can be made any time between 8am and 9pm by calling +971 4 556 6401 or emailing quaspa@caesarsdubai.ae.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied, Instagram More

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    How Gigi and Zayn are spending their last days before becoming parents

    The arrival of Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik’s first child is just days away – the expected due date is some time in September.
    Ahead of the arrival of baby Hadid-Malik, the couple arrived in New York City which is where the supermodel intends to give birth, according to E! News. This coincides with their arrival in the city that never sleeps last week where they were photographed by the paparazzi.

    It’s fair to assume the pair will be staying in Gigi’s new $5.8 million (Dhs21.3 million) Manhattan apartment, which she gave fans a glimpse of last month.
    According to a source close to Gigi and Zayn, the pregnancy has been good for their relationship after the couple reunited at the end of last year.

    “Zayn and Gigi are really excited and have been loving this experience together,” the source told E!. “They both are reading parenting books, have had fun planning the nursery and picking out items together. Things are going really smoothly, and they are closer as a couple more than ever.”

    The couple has largely kept the impending arrival of their firstborn under wraps, with the 25-year-old only showing off her bump for the first time recently. She also opened up about why she hasn’t shared much of her pregnancy in real-time.
    The model revealed she has been documenting her whole journey and will share it “in the future” when she feels it is the right time.
    “I have been taking a lot of pictures of my bump and sending it to friends and family and it’s been really cute and exciting,” she said. “I’m trying to document it well because I’ve heard a lot of people say obviously, ‘make sure you don’t miss it.’”
    It’s been reported the couple are expecting a girl, but neither of them has officially confirmed the gender.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Media: Twitter/Instagram, Feature Image: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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    Your fabulous guide to this weekend in Dubai: August 27-29

    Use this weekend as an opportunity to try something new in Dubai, whether it’s discovering a stylish new yoga studio or indulging in a recently launched brunch. Oh, and don’t forget to celebrate the amazing Emirati women on Friday.
    Golden hour

    Kick off the weekend with a sundowner at one of the most stylish rooftop locations in the city. Alfresco bar SoBe, located in W Dubai – The Palm, has launched Sunset Hour concept which available from Sunday to Thursday, 4pm till 7pm, with house drinks priced at Dhs35 and a premium selection available for Dhs50. Perfect for after-work catch up, the deal is on until September 31.
    Say bonjour to a new brunch

    Bleu Blanc Oysters & Grill, a Southern French farmhouse-style bistro at Renaissance Downtown Hotel, has recently unveiled a brand new brunch concept La Belle Vie Brunch that takes place every Friday from 1pm to 4pm. From oysters, mussel pots and charred king prawns, to beef tenderloin tartare, prime rib, corn-fed baby chicken, wood-roasted salmon, and wagyu cheeseburger, there is something to suit all taste buds. Oh and there’s also a cocktail station where you can mix your very own drink. Prices start at Dhs325 for soft drinks, Dhs425 for house beverages and Dhs650 for the sparkling package.
    Vegan treats at your door

    The Emirati-owned GOSSIP The Café has created an array of vegan desserts that are now available for delivery. Known for using carefully selected ingredients, the new delivery menu features peanut caramel bars and vegan almond protein balls as well as a new collection of cheesecakes, such as the Mango Blackberry Keto Cheesecake – a creamy fresh mango blackberry keto cheesecake with a pistachio date crust, topped with fresh blackberries, blueberries and mango jelly cubes. GOSSIP The Café is delivering to Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Ajman. Contact GOSSIP directly via Instagram to place your sweet order.
    Meet us on the mat 
    INSPIRE, a yoga, Pilates, and fitness studio is opening a new studio in the heart of DIFC.  Spaced out across two rooms, the new location will offer a variety of yoga, Pilates, and fitness classes as well as specially curated classes and experiences like Floating Bliss, Yin Aroma Yoga and Sound Meditation. Our favourite already is the Coffee Nap “Class” available from midday till 3.30pm daily. To celebrate the opening, INSPIRE DIFC studio will be offering free classes from today until August 29 and is currently giving free classes in the pop-up studio in Zone A Gate Avenue. Additionally, INSPIRE is offering savings of up to 40 per cent on class packages to first 100 new members in DIFC studio and a family class package.
    A sweet gesture

    To celebrate Emirati Women’s Day, the Tania’s Teahouse team has Emira-tea Box t help you show yourself some self-care. Inside you’ll find a limited-edition Tania’s Teahouse mug as well as three tasty retail teas and three decorated sugar cookies. A perfect gift for your bestie which is priced at Dhs120.
    Say cheers to the weekend

    Round off your weekend with a brand new Saturday brunch. Sui Mui, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi’s Asian restaurant has launched Pho Real serving up crowd-pleasers. Expect sushi, Asian tacos and dim sum, Kalbi spiced BBQ short ribs, Chinese style steamed seabass with ginger, scallion and soy and the seafood red curry. Don’t skip out on dessert which includes sticky rice with mango, fruit makki or the Pandan crème brulee. The buffet and soft drinks are Dhs169 and Dhs225 for selected house beverages.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied, main image instagram.com/greenpacha More

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    COVID-19 guidelines for entering Abu Dhabi have changed

    Travel restrictions on entering the emirate of Abu Dhabi have been in place since June.
    In the latest update from the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee, it has been announced that to enter the UAE capital a negative COVID-19 test completed via a PCR nasal-swab test is required.

    Previously UAE citizens and residents were permitted with a negative rapid DPI laser test, but this is no longer the case.
    Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office official Twitter page, “Entry will be allowed within 48 hrs of receiving a negative PCR test result, or with a negative DPI laser test result accompanied by a negative PCR test result received within 6 days. The Committee states that the same type of test cannot be taken twice in a row within six days.”

    The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee, in cooperation with @DoHSocial, approves two tests to enter the emirate effective 27 August 2020, enhancing precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/TclavviPUi
    — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) August 25, 2020

    However, there are exemptions for this. It was confirmed that those who volunteered to take part in the COVID-19 vaccine trials would be “exempt from these entry measures and are authorised to use emergency vehicle lanes for a smooth journey”.

    Volunteers in the COVID-19 vaccine trials are exempt from these entry measures and are authorised to use emergency vehicle lanes for a smooth journey. Meanwhile, violating these procedures will result in penalties and fines as outlined by the Attorney General.
    — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) August 25, 2020

    As of late, COVID-19 cases in the UAE have been on the rise and the question of overnight curfews making a comeback in some areas has been raised.
    Last week, a spokesperson for the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) Saif Al Dhahri said: “The UAE might re-enforce the national sterilization program, which had included a night-time curfew. This would be possible in certain areas where we observe high infection cases.”
    According to health officials across the country, the number of coronavirus cases have been on a steady decline since July 9, but the recent surge has been a concern.
    On August 18 Dr Omar Al Hammadi, the UAE government spokesperson, said the average number of cases had increased by 136.
    “The UAE government has done a commendable job with more than six million tests, which is more than 50 per cent of the total population,” Dr Adel Al Sisi, the Chief Medical Officer, Consultant of ICU and Chair of Intensive Care at Prime Hospital, told Gulf News. “The higher the tests, the more are the possibilities of detecting asymptomatic cases in the community. That is why we see a surge. However, there is cause for alarm when we see a rise in number of cases.”
    To date, the total number of cases in the UAE stands at 67,621 – with 58,754 recoveries and 377 deaths.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Unsplash More

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    Under Armour unveils its first hijab for Muslim athletes

    In a step towards inclusivity, sports brand Under Armour has unveiled its first hijab for Muslim athletes.
    The new sport hijab was developed with help from Hijabi athletes around the world including Saman Munir, who is a Toronto-based personal trainer and fitness influencer and the face of the new campaign.

    Announcing the new launch last week, Under Armour’s CEO, Patrik Frisk said, “Every athlete should have the gear she needs to be the best.”
    In order to ensure the product was of the highest quality, the UA Sports Hijab was om development for several years prior to its launch.

    Every athlete should have the gear she needs to be the best. The Under Armour Sport Hijab was developed with the help of Hijabi athletes from around the world including Saman Munir (@makeuphijabs): https://t.co/lwsKPDoCCL pic.twitter.com/eOaYJGQ1iu
    — Patrik Frisk (@PatrikFrisk) August 17, 2020

    “We spent several years developing the UA Sports Hijab, because we wanted to ensure that when the product launched it was the best it could be,” Jennifer Smith, senior designer of women’s and girl’s accessories at Under Armour, said in a statement. “The UA Sports Hijab is rooted in functionality and performance, from the breathable and sweat-wicking fabric, to the stretch, seam construction and ear bud access.
    “Our team worked diligently to launch a quality sport hijab that will meet the performance needs of its user and ensure all female athletes are covered from head to toe no matter their size, level of performance or religion.”
    Under Armour’s launch of a sports hijab comes three years after competing brand Nike launched theirs.
    It’s set to retail for $35 (Dhs129), the same price at the Nike Pro Hijab.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Under Armour Twitter More

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    This year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been confirmed

    It’s official: this year’s Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been confirmed after months of speculation.

    However, it will be a very different experience than many fans are used to.
    While the closing date has been set for the annual motorsport race on December 13, the atmosphere will be very different as this year it will take place without spectators.
    The event will take place in a “bio-sphere”, which will create a safe-zone for all F1 staff, drivers and teams, sans the hoards of fans the F1 normally sees.
    Speaking on the confirmation of the event, Chase Carey, CEO of the Formula One Group said: “We are delighted that we will be upholding our traditional end of season race with our valued and special partners at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.”
    “While this season has been challenging for everyone, we can think of no better place to bring the 2020 season to an end and look forward to completing our seventeen-race calendar,” he added.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Tommy Hilfiger Twitter More