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    Sheikh Hamdan shares adorable new photos of his grown-up twins

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai has shared a few snaps showing just how fast his little ones are growing up.
    The doting father welcomed twins Rashid and Shaikha into the world in May 2021 and his fans have seen them visit a variety of places including zoos since then.
    Known for giving his followers snippets into his life on Instagram, the Crown Prince of Dubai shared a couple of new photos on social media. In the latest post on his feed, a series of images were shared from a recent outing at the zoo with his twins grown up.

    In the first photo, Sheikh Hamdan, affectionately known as Fazza, is holding baby Rashid and in the second photo, he’s holding baby Shaikha as he feeds the giraffes fresh grass.
    Earlier this year in January 2022, In January 2022, Fazza took them on a special outing in Dubai with a visit to see the giraffes, where the twins were seen wearing their animal-themed outfits.
    Love for horses
    With a love for animals especially horses, Sheikh Hamdan has exposed the little ones to his love for equestrian activities.
    In a post earlier this year, he said, “The love for horses runs in our blood.”

    Known for his regular visits to the UK, her also paid a visit to the Godolphin stables where Fazza was seen holding baby Rashid with their family horse, Adayar. He had taken also taken the 10-month twins to the f3 Team stables, where the Crown Prince of Dubai cradled Rashid and Sheikha as both of the little ones pet the horses.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @faz3 More

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    10 wanderlust-inspired gifts for the globetrotter in your life

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Since a cure for wanderlust doesn’t exist, finding the right gifts for those a love to travel is the perfect option.
    With the holiday season in full swing, finding keepsakes for the explorer has never been easier.
    From yoga mats to travel-fuelled books, here’s one more opportunity to brighten up the year to keep the wanderer at heart enlightened throughout the year.
    To save you the legwork, Emirates Woman has created the ultimate wanderlust-inspired gift guide to ensure every globe trotter is inspired this season.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Sheikh Mohammed aims for Dubai to be ’20-minute city’ by 2040

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Dubai is never short of ambitious plans and the next masterplan will transform the city with easy access to different destinations.
    As per the latest announcement by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, a new 2040 Urban Master Plan is in the works to develop the emirate into a ’20-minute city’.
    The plan will focus on allowing residents to access 80 percent of their daily activities and destinations within 20 minutes on foot or by other renewable sources of transportation as per its second phase.
    Without limiting to transport, this masterplan will focus on other sustainable sources including government funding for vertical farming, with 60 percent of Dubai’s area will be set out to be natural reserves.

    To delve into further details, Sheikh Mohammed said, “Today, we have a clear vision for the development of Dubai’s urban infrastructure and housing sector until 2040.”
    For the housing sector, the plan has highlighted further developments in Dubai South, Dubai World Central airport, Silicon Oasis, and other residential areas next to the south of Dubai International Airport.
    A plan will further be developed to enhance and utilise urban space including spaces underneath bridges, enhancing the beauty of urban areas, reducing carbon footprint and enhancing the overall landscape strategy in the emirate.
    The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in March 2021, aims to make Dubai the world’s best city for living.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @hhshkmhd More

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    Why you need to book this pool day in Dubai ASAP

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: There’s nothing better than a relaxing day by the pool as the weather cools down.
    For the ultimate relaxation this season, Coco Lounge is set to welcome tourists and residents with its highly sought-after deal this season.
    To unwind visitors can recline on a lounger and soak up the sun by day and rejuvenate by the pool at Dhs99, which is fully redeemable on food and beverages.
    The venue is complemented by a delectable poolside menu, that combines Latin American and Nikkei Japanese fusion cuisine with classic cocktails to sip on throughout the day. With a myriad of options varying from bite-size burritos to maki rolls, there’s enough for everyone to delight in.

    Everyone can enjoy this laidback day of blissful relaxation by catching up with their friends in the private cabanas, poolside chairs or sofas, while being looked after by the team of exceptional staff.
    With a new-age approach to liquid concoctions, guests can indulge in a plethora of beverages from day to night. To kick up the pace, this poolside venue plays chill lounge hits throughout the day to experience the outdoors at its best.

    Located in Media One Hotel on the 8th floor, pool access is open from 10am to 7pm with F&B available at Coco Lounge from 10am to 11pm.
    To make a booking or for more information visit mediaonehotel.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    12 Christmas brunches in Dubai to celebrate with your loved ones

    Dubai is never short of festive celebrations to bring in the occasion.
    With Christmas soon approaching, brunches are all set to take place in full swing to bring on the holiday cheer.
    From renowned fine-dining havens to beachside venues, the emirate will be bustling with dining hotspots hosting special brunches with an array of mouthwatering dishes and well-crafted beverages.
    So, whether Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, there’s a brunch in every cuisine to tantalise your palate this year.
    SushiSamba

    For an exclusive festive celebration, this much-loved restaurant is bringing a blend of Japanese, Brazillian and Peruvian flavours to the table for its Christmas brunch. With a multi-sensory experience, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as black cod, crispy quinoa, beef gyoza and more. With a dynamic explosion of cocktails and scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this brunch is not to be missed out on. To make the afternoon even more enticing, DJ Megablast will play irresistible beats with the venue’s dazzling samba dancers to create an exciting atmosphere. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25 from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs649 for cocktails, hops, grape and house spirits and Dhs799 for eveything including premium bubbles. Located on the 51st floor at The St. Regis, The Palm, this spectacular brunch will promise an unforgettable afternoon.
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    Amazonico

    This special Jungle Bell Brunch gives Christmas a Latin. With the restaurants, best-loved dishes including delectable plates, creative cocktails, tunes from the resident DJ and an afterparty at its rooftop, this Christmas brunch can’t be missed out on. Set to take place in the heart of DIFC at Dhs575 soft drinks, Dhs675 house drinks, Dhs795 Champagne on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.ae
    La Cantine du Faubourg

    For a Parisian take on Christmas, this fine-dining haven is hosting a special festive brunch with a plethora of delightful dishes. From French toast with fresh berries to wagyu beef carpaccio, the options are endless in the bed-in-breakfast-themed concept. This special 105 brunch will take place on December 24 and December 25 for three hours from 12pm to 5pm with the soft beverages package starting at Dhs360 per person, the house beverages at Dhs485 per person and bubbles at Dhs725.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Fi’lia

    For a sky-high Christmas brunch with a view, this restaurant is the place to be. To ensure guests feel their best, this special brunch will serve a sharing-style menu with festive cocktails and ensure the live DJ plays your favourite hits throughout. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 for the soft beverages package, Dhs400 for house beverages and Dhs560 for bubbles at SLS Hotel in Business Bay.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Cove Beach

    For a sandy Christmas, soak in the festive spirit with a specially curated Christmas Day brunch at Two.0 restaurant located in Cove Beach Dubai. This picturesque venue will serve high-class culinary delicacies curated by a team of experts on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm. The packages start at Dhs299 for soft beverages, Dhs499 for house beverages and Dhs549 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit covebeach.com
    Netsu

    For a Warayki-style dining experience visit this fine-dining haven. With Warayaki-style grills, sushi, and sashimi platters, this restaurant promises the complete package. The evening is complemented by their interiors, music, flames, and the overall Christmas feel on Sunday, December 25. The packages for children from the age of 4 to 12 is priced at Dhs250 and for adults are Dhs495 for soft beverages.
    For more information visit netsu
    Bull & Bear

    This New York-inspired restaurant will make Christmas even more special for you with a Broadway-themed menu. Guests can savour perfectly cooked turkey served with all the trimmings and desserts to share, welcomed with classic mulled grape. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 5pm starting at Dhs195 for children from 6 to 12 years, Dhs395 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house beverages package and Dhs795 for the bubble package at Waldorf Astoria DIFC.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Address Beach Resort

    For a delightful festive buffet, The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort is hosting a wholesome afternoon of culinary delights with turkey and all its trimming. To complement the afternoon, guests can enjoy enchanting performances from its soulful choir along with Santa Claus who will make a special appearance to bestow the little ones with presents. The brunch will take plac eon Sunday, December 35 from 1pm to 4pm at Dhs788 for the soft beverage package, Dhs988 for the house beverages plus half a bottle of bubbles and 50 percent off for children from ages 7 to 11.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Rive Gauche

    Take a trip back in time with this vintage-themed festive brunch. Add extra sparkle to this year’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations by leaving it in the glamour-filled hands of new French dining and cabaret experience. The afternoon comes with special festive entertainment and a selection of starters, one main course, side dishes and delicious desserts. The three-course soft beverages is priced at Dhs390 per person, Dhs490 for house spirits and Dhs690 for bubbles and will take place on December 24 and December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit rivegauchedubai.com
    Toro Toro

    Explore delicious traditional dishes from across Latin America with friends and family looking for a merry time this Christmas. Celebrate the holiday season with a delectable set menu bursting with Latin American flavours at the award-winning restaurant. This entertainment-fuelled evening will feature a DJ, Latin dancers and percussionists while children can expect a visit from Santa Claus. All set to take place on Saturday, December 24, 2022 from 1pm to 4pm at Grosvenor House with packages starting from Dhs457 for soft beverages, Dhs675 for house beverages and Dhs975 for house beverages and bubbles.
    For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
    Nikki Beach

    For an all-white-themed brunch, Café Nikki is hosting a special Christmas buffet brunch with a live duo band, resident DJ and pool and beach access until sunset. This enticing brunch is set to take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with packages starting at Dhs500 for children below 12 years old, Dhs650 per person for house beverages and cocktails and Dhs860 for bubbles and house spirits.
    For more information visit nikkibeach.com
    The London Project

    Get ready to sleigh this Christmas at The London Project. Guests can sit back and relish merry entertainment, from singers, musicians, and Christmas-inspired performances. The brunch is filled with a host of delicious Christmas cocktails, festive food, jolly music and other dishes. Let The London Project do all the hard work, for a truly unforgettable day on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm starting at DHs495 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house package, dhs696 for the premium package and Dhs895 for the bubbles package with a 50 percent discount on the soft beverages package for children from 6 to 12 years.
    For more information visit thelondonproject.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Chanel Fine Jewellery 2021 Campaign More

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    How I got my job… as Co-Founder of this Dubai-based artisanal Italian restaurant

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Mohamed Jamal Alshamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Monno, which is home to artisanal Italian food using the finest ingredients.
    This exclusive Italian haven brings the most cherished culinary traditions to the forefront with recipes passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizzas to decedent desserts such as tiramisus, each dish is crafted to perfection as a true taste of Italy.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about his career path and how he converted his love for food into a full-time business.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    In school, I mostly enjoyed business studies.

    What was your first job?
    I studied to become a pilot, so that was my first job and is still what I do today – as well as being a first-time restauranteur with the opening of Monno.
    How long have you lived in Dubai?
    I am Emirati and was born and raised in the UAE.
    What inspired you to launch Monno Ristorante?
    Me and my business partner – the co-founder of Monno Hamad Hamad Abdelsalam, who is also a pilot, also shares a deep passion for Italy. Through flying there very regularly, we both developed a love for the country’s food and culture and noticed that there is a huge lack of quality and authentic restaurants in Dubai that fit in the casual Italian dining sector, so we decided to establish Monno.
    Talk us through the inspiration being your restaurant and its menu.
    At Monno, we focus on quality, value for money and authenticity. Fresh and natural ingredients imported from Italy are carefully calibrated and prepared, to deliver a nostalgic journey of the country’s most cherished culinary traditions. From exclusively using San Marzano tomatoes to importing artisanal Italian cheeses and olive oils for handmade pasta and genuine Neapolitan pizzas, our menu also features a range of antipasti, main courses and traditional desserts. Inside the restaurant, expect interiors and an ambiance inspired by that of a classic Trattoria found on the back streets of quaint towns in Italy.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    The key elements of my role are handling all things related to the food and beverage – so working with our chef to create the menus, food tastings, the development of special menus and more. I also handle the marketing and PR side of the business, while my partner, Hamad is our Chief Financial Officer and handles all things related to finance and accounting, then for general operational requirements, we do everything together.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    As a pilot, my daily routine depends on my flight schedule that week. If I’m flying that day, I go to work and complete my pre-flight procedures then take to the sky, however, if I’m not, my days are spent at Monno and with my family and friends.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps of opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    First and the most important advice is to think of something special and unique, something new that no one in Dubai has thought of before. Once you have a unique idea, work to execute it well.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    The best advice I ever received and believe in is simply ‘don’t rush’. Take things slowly and think twice before making your move, it will pay off in the long run.
    And what is the worst?
    The worst was to always be spontaneous and do things on the spot. I believe this connects to my best piece of advice, which is not to rush. I believe good things take time and we should think wisely before acting.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome when opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    The biggest challenge was when our opening fell close to the end of the pandemic. It was a huge challenge as there were so many restrictions in place at the time, so we could only accommodate a small number of guests at any given time, which is hardly what any new restaurant wants. We thankfully made it through that challenging time.
    What are the future plans for your brand, Monno?
    At Monno, we’re working on a couple of collaborations, which we will be able to announce in the coming months. We’re also working on an exciting pop-up for Monno that we hope to launch early next year. Watch this space!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    7 glamping spots to book in the UAE for the ultimate escape

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Looking for a quick cityscape? Your staycation experience in the UAE is about to get a whole lot more luxurious.
    For a big city detox, the UAE is home to a myriad of unique glamping spots that undoubtedly offer the best of both worlds. With scenic views of nature accompanied by utmost comfort, this bespoke staycation is an experience you simply can’t miss out on.
    So, if you’re ready to pack your bags this winter, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the must-visit glamping spots for a getaway with your loved ones.
    Mysk Moon Retreat, Sharjah

    Discover a stay under serene skies and stunning surroundings with a dome or tent of choice. Developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the eco-friendly destination will be the ideal place for a unique overnight stay. This experience comes fully equipped with private pools and a majority of lodgings to choose from. As for activities, guests can enjoy stargazing at night and during the day hikes through the incredible landscapes of Mleiha or visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Prices start at Dhs1,350 inclusive of breakfast with pristine mountain views.
    For more information visit myskhotels.com
    Sedr Trailers at Hatta Resorts

    If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
    For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
    Pura Eco Retreat, Abu Dhabi

    For a complete wellness experience, this bespoke retreat lies in the heart of Jubail Mangrove Park with several activities such as kayaking, waterslides and yoga sessions surrounding nature. There are also several options for your camping experience, such as individual camping, serviced camping, and luxury camping. With minimalist chic domes with neutral hues and a hands-on active camping experience in the tents, guests can wander amid nature in utmost tranquility. The domes with breakfast start at Dhs1,750 for the packages and are not to be missed out on.
    For more information visit staypura.com
    Longbeach Campground, RAK

    This is the perfect getaway to get close to nature with various recreational facilities such as beach yoga, sea view aerobics, kite flying and exhilarating water sports. If you’re looking for a fun-filled camp, kids will be far from bored with all the host of onboard activities for them to try out during the stay. There’s also a pleasant site of farm animals for kids to interact with at the petting zoo. Starting at Dhs249 for the authentic deluxe tent with a comfortable setting, this will make the perfect home for your next camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah.
    For more information visit bmhotelsresorts.com
    Bedouin Oasis, RAK

    You can live like a bedouin for a day with luxury in the middle of nowhere with thrilling desert experiences, and traditional hospitality at its best all set in the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah with a traditional style setting offering a host of exciting activities as you witness a touch of the Arabian culture with beautiful landscapes on the trip starting at Dhs750 for three adults.For more information visit bedouinoasis.org
    Banan Beach, RAK

    If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy glamping spot, Banan Beach effortlessly transports all its guests to Greece. With infinity pools, bars and enchanting views of nature, this venue should definitely be on your list this season. Starting at Dhs650 for a tent, guests can prolong their stay for more than two nights for the ultimate escape.
    Starlight Camp, Dubai

    This unique glamping destination is found 45 minutes from Dubai. Designed only for one couple at a time, the dome comes with a crystal roof and a relaxing four-poster queen size bed as well as outdoor dining space, so you can tuck into an inclusive breakfast while admiring the surroundings with utmost comfort. At the venue, guests can prepare their own stargazing feasts with the BBQ facilities provided to dine in style. Starting at Dhs 2,400, this one-of-a-kind experience comes fully equipped with onboard amenities.
    For more information visit starlight-camp.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Everything to know about Prince Harry and Meghan’s latest Netflix documentary

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    35 mins ago

    The once-upon-a-time royals of Sussex will soon make a debut on the global streaming platform, Netflix.
    The docuseries, Harry & Meghan comes after Prince Harry and Meghan’s previous tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey, where untold truths were revealed in March 2021.
    After the couple stepped down from their royal duties two years ago, they received backlash for their decision, the details of which will be unveiled in the series.
    So, if you’re eagerly waiting for Harry & Meghan’s new series, here’s everything you need to know prior to the release.
    Release Date
    The six-episode series will be released in two parts on December 8 and December 15, 2022, globally.
    Theme
    By sharing the other side of their high-profile love story as revealed by Netflix, the documentary will shed light upon what goes on behind the scenes. From their public fall-out with the royal family to their whirlwind courtship, their full-time roles in the institution and what their friends and family have to say about the situation.
    When asked about why they wanted to this documentary, Prince Harry replied, “No one sees what’s happening behind closed doors… I had to do everything I could to protect my family.”
    Trailers

    The new one-minute teaser video opens with Prince Harry saying, “It’s really hard to look back on it now and go ‘What on earth happened?”

    Harry & Meghan. A Netflix Global Event.Volume I: December 8Volume II: December 15 pic.twitter.com/WpFzVEC7Yx
    — Netflix (@netflix) December 5, 2022

    The team behind it
    This highly-anticipated docuseries is directed by two-time Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning director Liz Garbus with producers Erica Sashin, Mark Monroe, Dan Cogan, Ben Browning, Chanel Pysnik, Jon Bardin, Mala Chapple and Angus Wall.
    In an interview with The Cut, Meghan told the team, “It’s nice to be able to trust someone with our story — a seasoned director whose work I’ve long admired — even if it means it may not be the way we would have told it.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More