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      The ultimate guide to female fertility: why your lifestyle matters

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      As more women are looking to conceive in the Middle East at and older age, knowing the key factors that affect fertility are of utmost importance.
      A newly launched at home testing kit Ovasave has done all the research and partnered with the best fertility clinics to create all-inclusive egg freezing packages for incredible women like you who want to keep their options open.
      Co-founder of Ovasave, Torkia Mahloul, is passionate about fertility preservation, educating women about their bodies and using tech to empower women to achieve their goals.
      To delve into the topic of fertility, Emirates Woman spoke to Mahloul, who is a tech expert with over a decade of experience in banking, technology and fintech.
      What inspired you to launch Ovasave?
      My journey to launching Ovasave is deeply personal, rooted in my own struggles with fertility. It began at age 34, when I came face to face with the need to preserve my eggs. Like many women, I was initially unaware of where to start or how to navigate the complex world of fertility care. The pivotal moment came when I took an AMH test, which highlighted the importance of fertility testing and understanding our bodies. During this journey, I met Majd Abu Zant, who would later become my co-founder. Together, we recognized a gap in women’s healthcare and were driven by a common belief that women deserve access to information, support, and affordable care. Our mission at Ovasave is to empower women to proactively manage their fertility and hormonal health — not reactively, which can often be “too late” — ensuring every woman has the chance to make informed decisions about her reproductive future.

      Talk us through the product and how does it work?
      Our platform is designed to simplify the fertility journey for women, covering everything from initial hormone testing to accessing fertility healthcare. Women can order our AMH test kit from our website and have it delivered directly to their door. The process involves a simple finger prick to collect a few drops of blood (which can also be done by a phlebotomist if someone is uncomfortable doing it herself) . A courier then collects the sample and delivers it to our accredited lab for analysis. It’s important to highlight that the convenience of our at-home sample collection doesn’t come with any tradeoff in quality or reliability. Our lab tests maintain the same level of accuracy as those conducted in clinics. Within just a few days, women can securely access their results through their Ovasave dashboard. They also have the option to schedule a free tele-consultation with a fertility expert to discuss their results and consider their options. Going beyond convenience, we also want to make fertility care more affordable. Our AMH test and teleconsultation services are priced at a fraction of the cost of traditional clinic visits. Similarly, for women considering egg freezing, we are partnering with leading fertility clinics in the UAE to offer comprehensive egg freezing packages along with payment plans to help ease the financial burden.
      What are the key factors that can affect fertility?
      One of the primary determinants is age. As women age, their fertility declines, particularly after the age of 35— mainly due to a decrease in both the quantity and quality of eggs in the ovaries. By educating women about the impact of age on fertility and promoting early testing, we empower them to make informed decisions about family planning and reproductive health. In addition to age, certain medical conditions can also affect fertility. For instance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can disrupt ovulation and interfere with conception. By raising awareness about these conditions and their impact on fertility, we hope to provide women with the knowledge they need to seek timely medical intervention and support. Lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in fertility. Smoking, consuming a lot of alcohol, poor diet, and high levels of stress can all contribute to infertility. By encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and providing resources for stress management, nutrition, and overall well-being, we empower women to optimize their fertility potential.
      What are your key tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
      I’ll explain this through the lens of reproductive health. You can think of your ovaries and your eggs as any other part of your body in terms of how they age, but unfortunately they age even faster than the rest of your body. That’s why leading a healthy lifestyle at all levels is key to slowing down the aging process. It starts with the obvious things like nutrition,maintaining a clean, balanced diet and regular physical activity. With our busy schedules it is sometimes difficult to make time for exercise but I would recommend just choosing an activity that you enjoy and try to incorporate it in your routine several days a week. The things that are often overlooked, however, are sleep and stress management — and these two things are super important. Stress is especially critical because too much cortisol (the stress hormone) in your body can disrupt other hormones and create imbalances that directly affect your reproductive health. I know first-hand that going through any fertility treatment can affect you mentally and emotionally. This is normal and this is why it is also critical to look after yourself, ensure that you are getting enough sleep and a good support system around you. And if you are struggling with this, I believe that you should not hesitate to get the help of a professional therapist.

      How can one boost their fertility?
      We just mentioned that leading a healthy lifestyle is a good way to look after your fertility and overall health. If you are trying to conceive or preparing for an egg freezing / IVF cycle, there are a number of supplements that you can take to support your fertility. You can take folic acid, which plays a crucial role in cell division and DNA synthesis, which are both important for egg health. Omega-3 fatty acids are another important nutrient for fertility. These healthy fats can help regulate reproductive hormones and improve egg quality. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is another supplement that is known to support fertility, particularly for women over 35. CoQ10 has powerful antioxidant properties that can help protect eggs from damage. Some studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception, especially for women undergoing fertility treatments such as egg freezing and IVF. Lastly, getting enough vitamin D has been linked to improved reproductive outcomes, while deficiency has been associated with infertility. Simply spending time in the sun and eating vitamin D-rich foods can help. However, people who don’t get enough sun exposure or lack vitamin D in their diet might need to resort to supplements.
      At what age would you recommend freezing your eggs?
      The younger the better — and this is indisputable. The ideal age to freeze eggs is typically between the late 20s and early 30s. This is when the eggs are of the highest quality and quantity, which means better chances of successful future pregnancies. While many women don’t even consider egg freezing until their mid to late 30s, starting earlier can provide more flexibility and potentially higher success rates when the eggs are put to use in future fertility treatments.
      How can female infertility be treated?
      Infertility comes in many forms and can have different root causes so it is difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all solution or treatment.That’s why testing is critical for every woman to understand her own unique situation and plan accordingly with the help of fertility experts. Egg freezing is a way to preserve your fertility especially if you have a low ovarian reserve (i.e. fewer eggs than you should have for your age). IVF is another solution for couples who are struggling to conceive. The key takeaway is that the more proactive you are about understanding and preserving your fertility (before issues arise), the better your chances are for a positive outcome. Every situation is unique and we highly recommend discussing it with a fertility expert.
      What are the best tests to have done for women below 35 years?
      If you are not trying to conceive now and are not experiencing any specific hormonal symptoms, then the must-do test is AMH, which stands for anti-Mullerian hormone. It is a simple blood test that gives you a read on how many eggs you have left. If your concern is more related to your overall hormone health, we are soon launching our fertility and hormonal panel test which covers 7 hormones (AMH, LH, FSH, TSH, Estradiol, FT4, Prolactin) and provides insights into conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, diminished ovarian reserve and peri-menopause.
      What are some of the key concerns that women in the Middle East face when it comes to conceiving?
      When we look at the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, one of the pressing issues is a significantly higher infertility rate, which stands at about 50 percent higher than other parts of the world. It’s a complex issue with several factors at play, but one glaring aspect is the lack of education and awareness surrounding fertility and women’s health in general. Unfortunately, this lack of awareness often leads to a reactive approach, where women only seek help after they encounter difficulties conceiving or face complications along the way. Instead of this, we should adopt a proactive approach — and this is where Ovasave comes into play. By taking proactive measures such as early fertility testing, women can get crucial insights about their reproductive health. We’re also striving to normalize conversations about fertility, creating a supportive community where women can openly share their concerns and experiences. This early awareness empowers them to explore various options and make informed decisions about their fertility journey. It’s about providing women with the freedom to choose their path moving forward.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      16 global restaurants that have made their mark in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 16 IMAGES
      For a myriad of culinary options, Dubai is the place to be. With a host of global restaurants opening in the emirate, diners can choose for a variety of concepts to dine at.
      As Dubai is home to 200 nationalities, so it’s no surprise there are great global dining options and restaurants from all over the world here – there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re heading home for the holidays or just a jet setter, you can enjoy a taste of Dubai around the world in the most luxurious fine-dining setting.
      From Cipriani to Fouquet’s, there’s a myriad of captivating dining concepts that have made their mark internationally and now being loved by both tourists and residents in Dubai. Overall, the emirate has also seen a complete transformation in the food scene as they are finally starting to have its moment in the spotlight, with the Michelin Guide launching in the city in 2022.
      With more international chefs setting their base here and making their mark in this part of the world, Dubai is becoming the center of attraction when it comes to fine-dining options. Over the years, this part of the world has also seen a number of exceptional homegrown restaurants and cafés that have impressed diners in the city.
      As the emirate is well-known for offering an unparalleled fine-dining experience no matter what the cuisine, Emirates Woman takes a closer look at all the global culinary havens that have made their mark in the city.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @lilymontasser More

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      Here’s how to make your floral arrangements last longer

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      A bouquet of big, beautiful floral arrangements always brightens up a room. We love to place a vase of them where we can admire the flowers’, however, learning how to make these floral arrangements last longer is an art.
      With same-day delivery across the UAE, Darcey Flowers is always growing with their bespoke collections ranging from peonies to chrysanthemums, the options to create your own bespoke floral arrangements are endless.
      Founded by Albert Tranquilino, Darcey Flowers has grown over the years in Dubai with two brick and mortar stores in City Walk and Al Quoz, where customers can create their own custom arrangements with fresh flowers. Darcey Flowers meticulously select the perfect combination of flowers, considering factors like color palette, texture, and seasonality.
      These tips on how to keep arrangements fresh longer will help extend the life of your cut flowers by at least a few days.
      To understand how to make any gorgeous arrangement last longer, we spoke to Tranquilino himself to tell us how to help delay the dreaded dropping of petals and make your flowers last longer.
      What inspired you to launch Darcey Flowers?
      Darcey Flowers began as a childhood dream of mine. I’ve always loved flowers and wanted to share their beauty with others. I truly believe that flowers have the power to bring joy to people’s lives. It’s also an opportunity to support other florists and like-minded individuals by helping them find success doing what they love.
      Where are the flowers sourced from?
      Sourcing the finest blooms for Darcey Flowers is a top priority hence we carefully select our flowers from the most reputable farms across the globe. We procure our blooms from regions renowned for their exceptional floral quality including The Netherlands, Kenya, South America, Taiwan, Thailand and New Zealand.

      Could you talk us through what each colour and arrangement means for any specific occasion?
      Each hue carries its unique significance. At Darcey Flowers, we love to play around with different colors to create bouquets that are full of emotion and personality. For instance, we use red to capture love and passion, which is perfect for those romantic moments. White represents purity and elegance, which makes it a great choice for weddings or remembering loved ones. Pink expresses sweetness and gratitude, ideal for occasions like Mother’s Day or birthdays. We also use yellow to bring joy and optimism to our bouquets, making them perfect for celebrations or sending cheerful messages. Purple is our go-to color for luxury and creativity, making it perfect for special occasions or to show admiration.
      What are some of the aftercare hacks that people should practice for their arrangements?
      A general tip for maintaining the freshness of your floral arrangements is to provide them with clean water and a suitable environment. To keep your flowers looking fresh, change the water every few days, trim the stems, and remove any leaves in the water. Now, when it comes to choosing a spot for your flowers, think cool and shaded. Keeping your flowers away from direct sunlight will help prevent wilting and fading, which can make them look less attractive. And if you really want to give your flowers an extra boost, consider adding some flower food to the water.
      What are some of the most popular flowers in the Middle East?
      Peonies, phalaenopsis orchids, and roses of all colors are among the most popular choices.
      What are your favourite flowers personally?
      Two of my personal favorites are peonies and vanda orchids. Oh! How I adore them! There’s just something about peonies and their romantic allure and voluminous blooms that captivates me. And vandas? Well, their striking colors and unique personalities always intrigue me. I think each flower is beautiful in its own way and never fails to inspire me.
      How do Darcey Flowers implement sustainable practices?
      We’ve made some great strides in embracing eco-conscious practices, including introducing eco-friendly bags for our beautiful bouquet arrangements. We’re also encouraging the use of plain water instead of floral foam whenever possible, so our flowers can stay fresh while being gentle on the environment. We believe that even small steps can make a big impact, and we’re committed to doing our part to create a more sustainable future. We will continue to explore eco-friendly practices throughout our operations.
      You’ve also recently started a workshop for floral arrangements? What inspired you to launch this and how is it therapeutic?
      Our main goal was to create a space where people could connect with their inner creative selves, let their creativity run wild, and discover the beauty of flowers in a meaningful way and the therapeutic benefits it bring. As the founder, I’m a firm believer in the ability of flowers to transform moods and promote overall well-being. Engaging in hands-on floral arranging can be a relaxing experience, promoting mindfulness and reducing stress. The workshop aims to empower participants to express themselves artistically, learn new skills, and find pure joy in creating something beautiful.

      Are there any new bouquets that have recently been gaining popularity?
      Monochromatic solid flower bouquets are a growing trend in floral design. These minimalist arrangements showcase the natural beauty of each bloom, creating visually striking compositions that exude sophistication and elegance.
      Which flowers can we preserve once dried and are there any tips on how to do so?
      Several types of flowers can be successfully preserved once dried, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for an extended time. The most common are roses, lavender, and hydrangeas. To preserve flowers, trim stems and remove foliage. Tie upside down with twine and hang in a place with good air circulation away from direct sunlight. Wait for complete drying, which can take a few days to weeks. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The ultra-luxe guide on where to stay in the Maldives

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Thinking of taking a break from the city life, then Maldives is the best option to resort too.If you find solitude amid nature, Maldives is now shifting from a romantic vacation destination. It is now a country to visit with friends, families or even go solo for a much-needed break.Located just 5 hours from Dubai, this easy-to-access destination also promises a visa-free experience for UAE residents. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay. Also, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.Surrounded by clear blue waters and pristine white sand beaches, guests can enjoy snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.Each resort offers an unparalleled luxury and personalised service, making them ideal destinations for those seeking an indulgent retreat. With sky high calibre, these world class hotels are spread out on their own private islands. They also include state-of-the-art spas and multiple restaurants amongst lush jungles, pristine beaches and house reefs.By taking it a step further, these resorts even have their own conservation projects and coral programmes. Guests can plant their own coral reefs in the ocean and even monitor their growth over time. Some resorts have also adopted a plastic-free approach to ensuring sustainability reigns supreme.So for your next visit to the Maldives, swipe through our editor-approved guide of resorts to unwind at for the ultimate tranquil escape.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wendyswan More

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      6 minimal cafés with calming interiors in Dubai

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph4 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 6 IMAGESIf you’re on the lookout for Dubai’s best kept secrets, you’re in the right place. This emirate is home to a myriad of minimal cafés known for its calming interiors which allow you to take a break from in the city.With a host of cultural enclaves, this emirate has a plethora of hidden coffee shops and cafés waiting to be discovered. Infused with boho-chic elements, each of the minimal cafés is a zen-inspired oasis for guests to unplug and reset during the weekend or weekend.From concrete interiors to a minimalist palette, Scandinavian interiors have gained huge traction over the years as spaces have sheltered away from the overcomplicated design. Overall, the use of raw materials to meticulously curated spaces that exude a sense of pristine simplicity, allowing each café to be adorned with intricate wallpapers and carefully arranged furnishings and décor.Be it a conscious eatery or a hidden villa in the heart of Jumeirah, Dubai is never short of minimal cafés where you can work from or simply catch up with friends.For a complete guide on the unique hidden cafés in Dubai, swipe through our editor-approved guide.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @chiclebelle More

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      Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz now…

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a tool was officially launched in 2022 to check your eligibility for the same.Through a short quick quiz available on the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, users can answer a few questions relating to their contribution to the country’s economy and additionally find out more about the supporting documents needed for each criteria.After first being implemented in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa residency programme was introduced as a means for expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years without the need for a sponsor.Based on the information provided by VisaGuide.World “Authorities in Abu Dhabi have announced that the Golden Visa scheme will be valid for a period of ten years instead of five years. The new changes have been confirmed by the Director of Operations at the Abu Dhabi Residents Office, Mark Dorzi.”Several talented individuals such as Chef Izu, content creators Ola Farahat and Karen Wazen, actor Shah Rukh Khan and others have already been granted this visa after their notable achievements within the industry and beyond.With immense benefits for Golden Visa holders, the visas extend to immediate family members to ensure expats can keep their members can keep their family members live in the country hassle-free.EligibilitySo, are you eligible for a Golden Visa? The UAE government has made it easy to see if you are with a two-minute quiz which you can take here.Below, we’ve also outlined the key players who are eligible for the Golden Visa.EntrepreneursWith the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.Real estate investorsThe visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.‘Exceptional talents’The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.Scientists & researchersAny notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.Outstanding studentsStudents in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.Skilled workersWorkers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.How to apply once eligible?Eligible candidates will need to follow the six-step process via the Dubai Smart Application after downloading the GDRFA application, then create a new user account, select the required service, follow the attachment of the required documents, pay the fees and ultimately submit the request.Candidates can also apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa through AMER Center, if they wish to physically submit the documents and make the payment.If you think you’re a potential candidate to receive a Golden Visa, take this two minutes quiz on smartservices.icp.gov.ae to find out your eligibility.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram @Dubai More

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      8 luxurious wedding venues to tie the knot in Dubai

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Wedding season in Dubai is already and here and this destination continues to remain at the helm of all marital celebrations, where you can tie the knot with your friends and family.From beachfront destinations to ballrooms that exude elegance, the emirate is home to an array of venues that are beyond sophisticated.For immaculate attention to detail, each property creates a bespoke proposal as per the bride and groom’s requirements.So, for those currently looking for the perfect place for their wedding vows, we’ve gathered a list of all the sophisticate venues for a potential wedding.Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah BeachCombining the city’s modernity and old-time charm, this expansive venue includes the grand Dana ballroom and a plush garden for any outdoor festivities. Whether you wish to exchange your vows on the sand or in the lush seaside garden, this hotel makes any dream a reality. No matter the size, this exquisite property welcomes every guest in style. With incredible backdrops and on-side wedding experts working with them at every step makes the entire process easier.To find out about the packages visit here.Mandarin OrientalWith world-class service and impeccable catering standards, the property will ensure any event is truly unforgettable. From flowers to venue decorations, Mandarin Oriental has relationships with external suppliers to ensure each detail is taken care of. For the bride to feel special on her wedding day, the property offers a magnificent suite with showcases expansive views of the Arabian Sea featuring a make-up station, a private lift, for bridal parties, and a spacious living space.To find out about the packages visit here.One & Only Royal Mirage, The PalmThis exceptional romantic beachfront resort promises a one-of-a-kind celebration with gourmet menus, serene spa treatments, and a timeless backdrop to enjoy with up to 50 guests. From catering to Moorish-style gardens to beginning a memorable journey, this venue caters to every request. Surrounded by nature, this property caters to refined pre-wedding photoshoots with pictures to capture those happy moments.To find out about the packages visit here.Nikki Beach Resort & SpaCouples can exchange their vows at this resort with views looking over the magnificent Arabian Gulf. Whether a small or grand occasion, the property caters to each client with world-class food, beverages menu, spa, and beauty services combined with an unending list of live entertainment. From a beach villa with a private pool for an intimate gathering to spacious ballrooms, the resort provides an exclusive service to assist customers in planning their special day.To find out about the packages visit here.Jumeirah Zabeel SarayTo ensure each wedding is different from the other, the team of in-house experts has a keen eye for an ethereal setting. From overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to preparing a plethora of delicious canapes, every bride and groom is made to feel special Whether custom lanterns or a bespoke culinary request, the property will do its best to cater to every need.To find out about the packages visit here.Fairmont, The PalmWhen starting your life together, a wedding becomes an important decision in any couple’s life and the wedding planners at Fairmont bring each dream to life with bespoke celebrations. By bringing a wow factor to the venue, the Sea View Garden is ideal for an al fresco experience allowing couples to celebrate with around 500 guests. To ensure the guests’ taste is carefully considered, each chef will create a gourmet dining experience for a successful wedding for a stress-free experience.To find out about the packages visit here.Bulgari ResortWith Italian luxury at its heart, this exclusive property exudes an unmatched love for luxury. This beautiful venue features a 360sq metre ballroom located in the Yacht Club overlooking romantic seaside views and a welcoming space with earthy tones. With a birch walkway and candles subtly lit across the walkway, the hotel provides seamless service to make every minute count. With bespoke packages for each guest, the space can be rented for both daytime and evening events.To find out about the packages visit here.Raffles, The PalmMona Kattan and Hassan Elamin recently exchanged their vows at Raffles The Palm and celebrated one of their occasions with all their special guests prior to their wedding. Whether intimate ceremonies or lavish celebrations, each setup can be designed according to the guests’ needs. With its palatial structure and vibrancy in every corner, this property has a host of facilities to offer for guests including spa facilities and other fine-dining restaurants.For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber  More

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      How to create fabulous interiors with high-end textiles with Durup

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago Founder of DURUP, Nicoline Durup is bringing Danish chic to the Middle East with a bespoke approach to luxury drapery with its high-end textiles to create fabulous interiors.Launched n 2019 DURUP wants to create a luxurious atmosphere with plush fabric — for any home, anywhere in the world.To delve into her journey as an entrepreneur, Emirates Woman, spoke to DURUPWhat does the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?Being a mum to a 5-year-old means my day often starts early, around 6am. If it’s not too hectic a morning, my first 30 minutes starts with the essentials, coffee and jazz. I love how jazz can awaken your body and fill your mind with positive energy for the day. Most recently, I’ve been listening to the Icelandic jazz singer Laufey and while she is playing in the background, I’ll sip my black coffee in the kitchen, make breakfast for Edith, check my e-mails, and repeat my self-invented mantra: ‘Chaos makes the muse’.What inspired you to launch your own interior brand?My career began in the fashion industry where I was lucky to have worked with incredibly innovative and fashion-forward brands, including Stella McCartney. The early experience evolved into a love and appreciation for the broader world of textiles and interior design, which was why I founded Durup. I still apply that haute couture sensibility to my work. In a sense, Durup is not your parents’ curtain company. I started this journey with a vision to breathe new energy and life into what has historically been a staid and old-fashioned industry by bringing high-end fashion into the home. Since then, the company has evolved into a multidisciplinary practice that works with global clients to create bespoke interior experiences built on Durup’s founding principle that custom drapery is the cornerstone of good design.How does the design meeting ensure a personalised touch for each client?Getting a deeper understanding of the client is an important part of the process: everything from their lifestyle, hobbies and interests, sensibilities and of course their personal sense of style. I always say, dress your home like you would dress yourself as, it’s not just about fabrics and function. It’s about an ever-evolving lifestyle that invests in the beauty of things – in quality and considered luxury. The drapes set the scene in the home and tell a story about its inhabitants. Getting to know my clients on a personal level helps me to create a bespoke interior experience that truly expresses their individuality.What elements define your style as an interior designer and artist?Curating exquisite fabrics are my starting point as an interior designer. Simply put, I want to change the conventional way people think about drapes as something functional or as an afterthought. For me, it’s the starting point because, when done well and with consideration, drapes and other home textiles – including rugs and wall coverings – create a powerful foundation for the home, the cornerstone of good design. Like a haute couturier, my approach is completely white glove and bespoke. I use fabrics that have historically not been used as much for drapery and other home textiles, rich expressive fabrics like wool, textured cotton, silks with expressive patterns and more to bring to life the unique stories and sensibilities of my clients, and to help them form a deeper connection to the spaces they inhabit.How has the UAE according to you become an important part of the design world?Right now, I’m living between Copenhagen and Dubai and from the start I have felt this inspiring, creative energy in the UAE that is so well suited to the Durup approach, and which has always been about bringing a new point of view to an established perspective. I have found my clients here to be endlessly curious and open and, more broadly, I have encountered the kind of exciting creative experimentation in design here that I think will have a bigger impact in the design world in terms of taste making and trend setting.Your wallcovering pieces are meticulously crafted – how does the process begin?Wallcovering, and especially fabric wallcovering, has become a go-to-interior element and a thing not to miss when decorating your new space. Like drapes, wallcoverings are a foundational element in interior design, and can set the scene like no other element in a space. Imagine a room with walls covered in pure wild raw silk, which is spun, dyed, and woven by hand. Not only does it create a gorgeous atmosphere, given the rarity of the fabric, but it also creates a truly unique luxury experience in your home.Each textile element is carefully sourced – talk us through the creative process.Durup is pioneering a new way of working with textiles. We think beyond drapes to reflect the sensibilities and lifestyle of our clients. I source and curate the fabrics myself from every corner of the world, and only work with fabrics that both reflect the Durup vision and commitment to quality, but also bring something unique and extraordinary to the table. That said, Durup fabrics are a wide range, everything from beautiful and delicate cashmere from a small supplier in France to our sustainable curtain collection which we launched under the name “Unbottling Beauty.” That was a very special project, created from upcycled plastic that was carefully collected from the ocean’s beaches by impassioned volunteers.The Al Quoz Curtain Collection is inspired by the Emirates – tell us more.I have found travelling in the UAE to be a magical experience. The vibrant colors, the golden light, the intricate level of detail in the architecture and the careful and considered way women here approach beauty – all of it inspired me to do a curtain collection under the name Al Quoz. For me, this was also an opportunity to beautifully bring together our two cultures, fusing the muted Nordic color palette and minimalist design approach with the Emirati love of texture and heavier materials. I’m very proud of this collection as it brings together two of my favorite parts of the world.In terms of trends, which fabric do you see is most popular?Linen never goes out of style and for a good reason. Bringing in linen gives any room a natural feeling and with linen, there are also many different variations in terms of weight and texture, which means that you can truly create a specific mood in the room. More recently, I’ve noticed a new trend among textile suppliers of using not just one but two different patterns or fabric compositions in one curtain. So, for example, you can source a fabric that has soft Chanel-esque bouclé on one side, and a printed course silk fabric on the back. This is a cool trend, and one that allows me as designer to create an even more personalized experience for my clients, creating drapery that like good art will reflect the refined sensibilities of my clients.“I want to change the conventional way people think about drapes as something functional or as an afterthought.”This is the Creativity Issue – where do you find your creative inspiration from?I live on a plane these days and find a lot of creative inspiration while traveling for work. I love to people-watch and to truly experience local life in the different cities I travel to. I also find huge inspiration in art, and I rarely leave a place without a visit to at least one contemporary art gallery. But above all, I find inspiration in fashion. I love exploring the connections between fashion and interior design. These two worlds are so intertwined for me that I think of drapes as the foundational outfit of any space. My design approach is centered around self-expression and an investment in timeless luxury – that’s why I always say, dress your home as you would dress yourself.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download NowImages: Supplied  More