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    Watch: This video proves Sheikh Hamdan is the most humble royal

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With the Dubai Fitness Challenge in full swing, Dubai’s Crown Prince, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum led the world’s largest fun run with total humility.
    Seen stretching and exercising before the Dubai Run, Sheikh Hamdan led the way at the most anticipated fitness event of the year on Sheikh Zayed road, which turned into a running track for athletes, UAE residents and tourists.
    A host of fitness enthusiasts spoke about the delight of running next to Dubai’s Crown Prince on Sheikh Zayed Road, with some recalling His Highness “shook our hands and waved at us”.
    Fazza shared a series of photos on his Instagram page with the caption, “More than 193,000 ran together – thank you #Dubai.”

    Post-event His Highness shared his gratitude for all those who turned out for the Dubai Run saying he was “moved by the strength of our community and seeing what we can achieve when we work together”.
    As a myriad of fitness enthusiasts of all ages, skills and abilities participated in the 5-kilometre run where he shook hands with runners and smiled at others.

    The exhilarating run spanned across two main routes of 5km and 10km, each of which went through the Dubai Canal, Dubai World Trade Centre, Museum of the Future and other prominent landmarks.
    Designed to transform the emirate into one of the most active cities, Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is an initiative that has always focused on. Through a month of all-inclusive, free fitness events and other leading fitness challenges, Fazza ensures the UAE continues to succeed in this path.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @faz3 More

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    This luxe concept store is a must-visit in Riyadh and the UAE

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Imagine a place where you can dine, shop and host events all under one roof.
    Enter Wabi Sabi, a concept store which first opened in Saudi Arabia’s capital in 2019. Since then, the Kingdom’s first vegan dining haven has expanded into a conscious community with a venue now in the UAE. By adopting a holistic approach, the concept draws inspiration from its name which translates into beauty in imperfection.
    To ensure wellness remains at the forefront, the Japanese concept caters to the health-loving community of the region. With a focus on luxury clothing items, art and essential oils, the experts have taken a 360-degree approach to create an all-rounded creative space.

    A host of ethical brands across fashion, beauty, health and more are available which reflect the space’s eco-initiatives. This includes IAmBetter which offers health and beauty products that believe in the power of plants, technology, and human empathy. Through natural supplements, oils, balms, tonics and elixirs, the products take care of everything from hair, skin, nails, immunity and gut health.
    For energy healing, Piedras brings a range of healing stones that focus on vibration, energy, and handmade ready-to-wear pieces handmade in Venezuela. For contemporary and genderless upcycled pieces, Salad offers a host of upcycled timeless keepsakes that stand the true test of time.
    As a wellness sanctuary for events, the team of chefs and experts can create a bespoke experience according to the requirements of each brand. For like-minded individuals to grow, the space ensures each visitor connects with the other in the retail and well-being arena.

    By thinking beyond the Kingdom, the concept eventually opened in Al Quoz in Dubai in 2021 and in Mirdif and Sharjah with further plans for expansion.
    For customers to embrace a new era of healthy living, Wabi Sabi has something for everyone who enters.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Instagram  More

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    Elevate your travel experience with exclusive tips from The Points Guy

    Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, knows how to work the system when it comes to collecting and maximising reward points.

    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    When I’m at my house in Pennsylvania, I like to have a cup of cold brew coffee with almond milk to get me going and then I like to go out and say good morning to my horses. Their energy is the best way to start the day.

    What inspired you to launch ‘The Points Guy’?
    I’ve had a good understanding of how to maximise points and miles since I was a young child. When I started working in Corporate America, I realised I could start earning a lot of points for myself through work travel. In 2010, I started The Points Guy as a blog for fun, and never in a million years did I think it would grow to what it is today. I get great satisfaction out of helping people unlock the power of points and miles. It’s the best job in the world to help people explore this amazing earth.
    What’s the best way to get started when it comes to building points for an enthusiast?
    Sign up for hotel and airline loyalty programmes as most are free and a great way to earn points when you fly and stay at ho- tels. Second, credit cards are the biggest way to earn points from not only travelling but through everyday purchases. The best way to earn lots of points sustainably is to have a multifaceted approach – earn from travel, earn from everyday spending, and book smartly.

    What are the top 3 tips you can share to get started?
    My top three tips to get started are first, it’s important to get the right credit card that rewards you for what you spend the most on. Secondly, always shop through online shopping portals for extra miles and points and lastly leverage social media and travel platforms to find the best deals such as Scott’s Cheap Flights, The Points Guy and Google Flights.
    What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
    Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Some of my best trips have been to less popular destinations such as Israel and Rwanda which really open your eyes to amazing and different cultures, wildlife, and cuisines.
    What is the best thing you’ve been able to afford through the points you’ve collected?
    It’s been amazing to travel with my parents and take them on memorable trips. For example, we flew the Emirates A380 together and I made my mom take a shower to experience doing so at 40,000 feet in the sky. We also use points and miles to support an amazing nonprofit organisation called PeaceJam and visit their communities in Ghana, Liberia, South Africa and Guatemala. So, using points and miles to both giveback and travel with my parents has been my ultimate dream.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Emirates launches groundbreaking fast-track service at Dubai airport

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    Standing in long immigration queues for international passengers is now a thing of the past courtesy of Emirates’ latest partnership.
    Travellers can soon move hassle-free within Dubai International Airport terminal 3 due to the innovative biometric technology that will give passengers a smart check-in option starting in 2023.
    As per an agreement between Emirates and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA), the official announcement was made by the Dubai Media Office on November 15, 2022.

    .@emirates signs an agreement with @GDRFADUBAI offering international travellers the opportunity to speed up their airport experience by consenting to the use of biometric data starting from 2023.https://t.co/OHFAJfK7uj pic.twitter.com/r4XP993H8A
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 15, 2022
    While this service was previously only available to UAE residents and GCC nationals, it’s now open to everyone. Through its pre-populated biometric database, the technology can seamlessly identify travellers at multiple points in the airport. With facial recognition systems paired with artificial intelligence, this instant identity will improve traffic efficiency inside the airport.
    “Dubai is one of the world’s most aspirational destinations, and 2022 has already seen more than eight million tourists arrive in the city,” said Lieutenant General Mohamed Ahmed Al Marri, director general of the government body.

    How does it work?
    All passengers can provide their official consent through the Emirates app, at Emirates self-check-in kiosks, or in person at the desk.
    This experience will add to the myriad of other services that contribute to the Emirates travelling journey which include the self-check-in kiosk, checking in online 48 hours before, dropping off luggage a night before travelling and using the app to receive all the updated flight information.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Emirates Instagram, Feature Image: Rimowa Instagram More

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    Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out…

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a new tool has officially been launched 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.

    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.
    Eligibility
    So, 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.
    Entrepreneurs
    With 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 investors
    The 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 & researchers
    Any 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 students
    Students 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 workers
    Workers 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 Instagram
    Images: Instagram @Dubai More

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    7 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
    From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
    To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
    Book an alfresco dining experience

    It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
    Try a glamping experience

    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
    Visit this famed desert café

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae
    Hone your equestrian skills

    From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
    Swing your best shot

    For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit topgolf.ae
    Go ziplining

    Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
    It’s time to trek

    Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
    To make a booking head to visithatta.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More

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    The Softest Fabric For Your Toughest Workouts

    With workout gear acceptable and comfortable in all day activities way beyond the gym, it’s become a focus of active people to seek out the best gear that feels as good after your exertions as it does while working up a sweat.
    Like Suede On Your Skin
    The secret to success in this crossover of comfort comes down to how the gear feels on your skin. Under Armour has created Meridian fabric with that precise goal – to feel soft on your skin during and after a workout. A technical quick-dry hybrid fabric that lets you go hard without losing that super-soft feel.
    It’s a sensation to the skin you never knew you needed but can’t imagine wearing anything else once your feel it. This specially engineered fabric delivers a unique type of softness that can still wick sweat like a champ. 
    All Day Comfort
    With the realisation that soft just for the sake of comfort is not good enough, numerous rounds of research and development were used make sure comfort and workout versatility are priorities. The result is the  softest performance gear to date from Under Armour.  The impressive collection is ideal to wear to any fitness class, from spin to yoga to pilates, but is  also so flexible, lightweight and soft, that you  won’t want to take them off once you get home. 
    “The Under Armour Meridien legging is absolutely phenomenal. Moving in them feels  like they weren’t even there. Even while sweating, they still just felt really comfortable.”, says Rachel Garcia, Pro Softball Player.
    The ‘SOFT YOU CAN SWEAT IN’ collection’s notable promises include:
    SERIOUSLY SOFT Under Armour brushed the surface of the fabric to an ultra-soft finish for our softest feel yet.
    LASTING COMFORT Wicks sweat and stays comfortable, especially in those high-friction zones.
    FLEXIBLE PERFORMANCE Super-breathable, lightweight stretch goes everywhere you do.

    The ‘SOFT YOU CAN SWEAT IN’ collection includes a wide range of gear and also features the new UA Smartform Evolution Bra. The new ‘must have’ bra delivers strategic support, tailored for medium-support activities like cycling, weight training & boxing. Bending, jumping, and squatting can make your clothing shift or slip as you move, The UA Smartform fabric can help your clothes adapt to your movement moulding to the shape of your body which may help keep them from slipping or shifting during workouts.              
    The new ‘SOFT YOU CAN SWEAT IN’ collection will be available at Under Armour Brand House stores nationwide as well as online: www.underarmour.co.za More

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    Mazda Made With Soul

    Mazda has searched the South African landscape to find people driven by an innate sense of curiosity, willing to tell their human-centric stories of success and passion for their craft. These individuals embody the true meaning of community and harmony with all things in and around us. In this series, they will be imparting their stories of precision craftsmanship, infused with their soul; so who better to share their journey with you, than a brand Made with Soul?
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    Meet Roushana Gray
    Founder of Veld and Sea, and winner of the Spier Sustainability award in 2019, Roushana Gray is a wild food artist, foodie and avid forager. She shares her passion for the local edible landscape through immersive educational experiences, connection and creativity. For Roushana, her vocation as a food innovator is a journey that never ends as there is always something new to learn and discover.
    Explore more HERE 
    *In Partnership with Mazda More