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      Sole DXB returns to celebrate its 10th anniversary in Dubai this December

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      25 mins ago

      After a three-year hiatus, one of the most anticipated sneaker events is back in Dubai.
      Sole DXB is set to take the burgeoning art and culture scene by storm this December by shedding light on various creatives in the region including the Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj.
      Designed to bring all the artistic talent in the UAE under one roof, this festival focuses on the four pillars of music, fashion, visual arts and sports by previously displaying a stellar lineup of talents from the globe over. Over the years famous artists such as Stormzy, Nas and more have performed at this spectacular event with more names to come.
      “This is a major milestone for us, having a decade under our belt. And we always knew the story would land right back where we started,” said co-founder of Sole DXB, Joshua Cox.

      Here’s everything you need to know about Sole DXB 2022 below.
      Dates & timings
      The event will take place from December 9, 5pm until 9:30pm and December 10 and 11, 2022 from 12pm until 11pm.
      Where will it take place?
      As a global hub for art and design, Dubai Design District (d3) will be hosting this year’s edition too. Known for its collaborative culture, this creative community will experience a shared heritage where stereotypes are dispelled at this distinct design hub.
      Pop-ups & experiential installations
      The event will include the region’s most competitive streetball tournament and the sneaker swap when attendees will have an opportunity to buy and trade footwear from leading collectors in the region. The other key element will include the Sole Ball Above All Invitational event.
      The other experiential installations will be from the likes of New Balance, Puma and The Giving Movement along with collaboration with new partners including Power Horse, Cashew, Phillips and 25 Hours Hotel.
      Artists and creatives
      This year’s edition brings a series of notable talents together from the region including the likes of Moroccan rapper ElGrande Toto and master vocalist and percussionist, Khadija El Warzazia. Additionally, the core team of talents will feature musicians, designers, artists, speakers and athletes from different parts of the world including the UAE, Kuwait, KSA, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Morocco and more.

      Tickets
      The general release tickets will be available on October 24 and will start at Dhs100 for the Friday, December 9, 2022 pass, Dhs295 for the daily pass on December 10 and 11, 2022 and the weekend tickets are priced at Dhs450 from the three-day event. On the day of the show tickets available at the door will start at Dhs100 for the December 9th preview pass, Dhs345 for the December 10th pass, Dhs295 for the December 11th pass and Dhs550 for the weekend pass from December 9th to the 11th.
      Tickets can be purchased through Virgin Megastore Tickets and on tickets.virginmegastore.me/ae.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      What does the upcoming eclipse season have in store for us this Halloween?

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      3 hours ago

      Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of the Karmic Soul
      Get ready, everyone! On October 19, we start to move into our next Scorpio-Taurus Eclipse energy. The most important dates will be October 25 for the New Moon in Scorpio Solar Eclipse and November 8 for the Full Moon in Taurus Lunar Eclipse.
      The Moon, as we know, relates to how we feel, our unconscious self and the feminine divine. An Eclipse is defined by how close the Sun is to the karmic North and South Nodes in your natal chart. It is easier to remember that an Eclipse is a sign that a significant personal change is about to happen in your life, pulling you closer to your true life path.
      This will be an intense Eclipse season with some major planetary movements. Saturn oversees our security and safety and is moving out of a reflective retrograde period to station direct in Aquarius on October 23. He has been very focused on restructuring your future, and given that he’s been in retrograde since June, he didn’t want you to miss a big opportunity. If you haven’t knowingly made a change this year, he’s asking why you gave your power away. Mars in Gemini is also weighing into the debate, probing and questioning everything, wanting to know what affects your mental well-being.
      The mystical Scorpio season starts on October 24, so the planets will all be perfectly aligned and ready for the New Moon Eclipse on October 25. It will have you thinking about who you are, where you want to go, or why you’ve been blocked until now. Has someone tried to dim your light? They may be jealous of your spiritual energy. It looks like someone changed the rules as they went along to stay in power. Look inwards; could you be your own worst enemy?

      There is a Yod, or Finger of God, pointing to the answer, but will you accept your spiritual assignment? If you’ve been unable to stand up for what you want, you have a unique chance to change the situation. The Scorpio Eclipse can rescue you by helping detox, purge, or declutter your life. She will move you away from the emotional confusion, chaos, and blocking behaviours. We all know that Scorpio can lend itself to being disruptive and assertive when the case arises.
      Trust your instincts. Now is the time to ask deeply probing questions and let go of what holds you back. You won’t be able to move forward or even begin to meet another (more wonderful and loving) partner until this happens. Pay attention to the house topics every Eclipse touches and what is happening around those dates because the changes only occur once in every zodiac sign and the corresponding house every 18 years.
      Is your head spinning yet? We’re still painting the picture! Expansive Jupiter makes his once-a-year sign change into Pisces on October 23, two days before Halloween. You may find yourself yearning for some sense of altered reality. Jupiter will remind you to think back to March through mid-May when he asked you to gamble on something you would be successful in and, more importantly, enjoy. If you missed that opportunity, you are now given one more chance until December 21. But will you take it? Jupiter is at the tail end of his full zodiac transit in Pisces, so he is rather tired. His energy suggests you are without direction, possibly rudderless or drowning in work.
      And then, just before Halloween arrives, Mars Retrogrades in Gemini on 30 October. Mars is heavily activated, but regardless of all the irritations, uncertainty, and chaos, you can improve your situation; it just requires a little effort from you.
      By October 31, you will be able to let go of any intensely felt emotions, deeply rooted sexual desires, behaviours, or manipulation by another holding you back. Scorpionic energy can sometimes leave us feeling quite insecure, as it tends to bring out our selfish side. You needn’t turn love into hatred or continue to invest in another’s drama. Try instead to celebrate the annual passing of souls more artistically. Create an outfit inspired by the object of your revenge. Scorpio rules surgery, so create cuts, burns, scolds, and weapons, and incorporate them into your Halloween outfit with generous lashings of fake blood. Get in touch with your Inner Child and have some long overdue, cackling good fun.
      You can look forward to the Taurus Lunar Eclipse on November 8, illuminating your destined path. She wants to shine a light on your natural genius and your perfect vocation. Taurus in this lunation will rarely settle for second best. Whatever is revealed, be assured you will excel. This is not the time to rest on your laurels, so guard against pride, laziness and being too set in your ways. Try to be humble.
      The Taurus Eclipse may attract a loyal partner in work or love; it appears you have several opportunities. You may initially find them challenging, but they accept you for who you are and encourage your ambition. Be prepared to open yourself to the unexpected; it could be just what you’ve been searching for, but you don’t know it yet.
      The stars will guide you, follow the lunar light, and all will be revealed.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @yana.porter.art  More

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      Al Huzaifa brings a new edge to furniture with its luxe store in Abu Dhabi

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      3 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: The UAE homegrown luxury furniture brand Al Huzaifa has undergone a refined revamp in the country’s capital.
      Spanning across two levels, this expansive 34,650 square foot showroom situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi has opened its doors with carefully curated interiors that will cater to every individual’s needs.
      With a host of customer offerings such as woodwork treatments, fabrics, murals and metalwork all under one roof, the space ensures every element is taken care of.

      By adding a visual touch, the showroom gives customers an insight into emerging styles and concepts that are elegantly put together to seamlessly incorporate as part of any home décor.
      To reinvigorate any space, the store presents various elements of texture, shape and material for every room with key pieces that can blend into any interior. From sophisticated tabletops to grand seating arrangements with asymmetric sofas, Al Huzaifa’s unique eye has beautifully captured the art of emerging styles.
      For a bespoke journey, customers can tailor their pieces according to their personal preferences. With a seamless customization process from start to finish, each individual can transform their interiors completely as per their vision.
      From sourcing to installation, the requirements of each room including living, dining, bedroom and workspace areas can completely be curated according to the client’s specific requirements.

      Designed to highlight its century-old lineage since 1976, the brand is always at the forefront of design with its diverse offerings and to make any abode a luxurious sanctuary.
      With five showrooms in the UAE, including its Abu Dhabi store, Al Huzaifa continues to provide its customers with the best quality and high-end interior offerings tailored to create a comfortable, luxurious living environment.

      So if you’re looking to give your home an edge, you can now visit the refreshed showroom located in the Corniche area at Hamdan Street. For more information visit alhuzaifa.com. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      The 15 apps women living in the UAE need to have on their phones

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 hours ago

      With our lives condensed into the palm of our hands on our phones nowadays, it’s essential to have all the necessary apps you need.
      From getting quick grocery deliveries to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, to ensuring you can get the best deals to experience life in Dubai, here’s 15 apps every woman living in the UAE needs to have on their phone.
      Ounass

      As the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best local and international brands on the Ounass app. In Dubai there’s two-hour delivery available, meaning you can get that new outfit for a weekend brunch in the blink of an eye.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Bloomingdale’s

      Bloomingdale’s Middle East recently launched a new iOS app for the region, meaning you can shop right on your phone for all the latest new buys. Not only will shoppers have access to the most sought-after brands at their fingertips, but the delivery time for pieces will be minimal. For those based in the UAE, same-day delivery will be available and for Kuwait and Saudi, express shipping is available.
      You can download the app on the iOS store.
      Careem

      This hassle-free app is your one-stop-shop solution for all provides all your needs as you ride, order food and more around the UAE.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Microsoft Teams

      With the world adapting to the new work-from-home measures, the best way to stay connected to your team is through this all-encompassing app where members can chat, collaborate, share documents professionally and video call. Designed for hybrid working, this app lets company members connect from any part of the world making it easier to coordinate any upcoming project or assignment.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Talabat

      This online food ordering company ensures prompt service for all your needs, From restaurant deals to medicine delivered to your doorstep, this app connects customers to hundreds of restaurants and shops nearby making each service accessible without any added hassle. With the T-mart service on the app, customers are guaranteed fresh grocery deliveries in under 20 minutes without the need to physically visit any grocery store.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      RTA

      This award-winning app allows residents to top up their metro Nol card, renew their license, top up for parking and renew any car service. This smart app is designed to allow users to chat with RTA agents for any questions pertaining to safe driving measures. Users can also calculate their Green points according to the public transportation services used to keep an eye on the money, time and carbon dioxide emissions saved.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Deliveroo

      After paving its way in Dubai, the British food delivery company seamlessly delivers groceries, takeaways and event floral arrangements right to your doorstep. With an integrated delivery network, meets all your food needs with a plethora of restaurants including fine-dining options.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Viya

      To enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer you need to ensure you download the UAE rewards app Viya. Think of the platform as your VIP access to around 100 city’s top restaurants and bars as well as sporting experiences, exclusive spa days and rounds of golf on Dubai’s leading courses. Sunseekers will love exclusive access to hotel pools and beaches by booking day pass via the app. The format is simple and works on a two-way loyalty system. For every Dhs10 you spend at a Viya partner, the app will reward you with Dhs1 that can eventually add up and go towards an unforgettable experience. In addition, you will enjoy savings on every purchase via the app. Your five-star access awaits from only Dhs1,375 for three months.
      InstaShop

      Get your groceries from your trusted local supermarkets on InstaShop at the same in-store prices with a 45 minute average delivery depending on your location. You need to simply download the app, sit back and the experts on this platform will handle the rest.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Entertainer

      This money-saving app is packed with numerous one for two offers along with 25 per cent off at some major outlets, be it restaurants, spas, shops, hotels or even activities as you experience more and pay less.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Namshi

      As the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest pieces at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Spotify

      What better way to listen to all the songs and podcasts you love than on one consolidated app, giving you access on any gadget whether a phone, computer or tablet. Always ready at your fingertips, you can even let Spotify surprise you with their personalised playlists which are curated especially according to your taste as you sit back and relax with the premium subscription also available for uninterrupted learning.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      The Dubai Mall

      As the largest shopping centre in the world, getting around The Dubai Mall can prove to be difficult if you’re new to the UAE. However, the app is your ultimate guide to helping you get around the mall to find the best shops and restaurants Dubai Mall has to offer.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Zoom

      With strict worldwide travelling measures, keeping in touch with your friends can be quite the task. The Zoom app has made staying up-to-date with your loved ones easy, as with a click of a button you can all connect as frequently catch up with each other.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      Washmen

      For those on a busy schedule or just want an app that can take care of your washing, Washmen will be a godsend. Washmen is a simple app that takes care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services. The usual turnaround time for garments is 48 to 72 hours.
      You can download the app on both the iOS and Android stores.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: @marine_diet More

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      Dubai Design Week makes a creative return to the emirate next month

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      As the UAE continues to be at the forefront of design, Dubai Design Week plays a key role in nurturing this creative spirit.
      All set to take place from November 8 to 13, 2022 at Dubai Design District (D3), this 8th season showcase will push the boundaries of design.
      At one of the region’s most artistic programme, visitors can experience a curated design experience through installations, exhibitions, and experiential mediums that shed light on various talented individuals and platforms in the Middle East and globally.
      “Dubai Design Week is an annual celebration of design and designers that we are proud to be continuously supporting,” said CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash.

      With Metaverse at the core of technological advancements, this year’s annual event will include an exploration of this subject through a series of exhibitions with locally based designers.
      To engage in positive conversations surrounding the environment, this year’s installation programme entitled design with impact with feature immersive installations to showcase new changes in the design world.
      For engaging panel discussions and an opportunity to learn from experts in the industry, visitors can attend talks at The Forum at Downtown Design to delve into in-depth design-related conversations and learn from them through material experimentation.
      Held at this avant-garde district, Dubai Design District is an inspiring community of talented individuals that contribute to the country’s burgeoning artistic sector.

      “We are proud to present the eighth edition of Dubai Design Week, which is set to be – once again – a very exciting highlight of Dubai’s autumn calendar. We look forward to bringing the design and creative community together to engage, connect and be inspired by the ideas, talents and artisans presented across installations, exhibitions, talks, workshops, the Downtown Design fair and the market,” said Vice President of d3, Khadija Al Bastaki.
      As a regional hub for art, design and fashion, this highly-anticipated programme is held at one of the most sought-after venues that engage with like-minded individuals.
      For more information visit dubaidesignweek.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @dubaidesignweek More

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      11 hidden speakeasies in Dubai to visit ASAP

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      Dubai’s best-kept secrets are finally out.
      What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today.
      After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights.
      To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
      So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
      Smoke & Mirrors

      For an experimental new twist, the destination bar comes with an extensive menu of niche drinks and contemporary Art Deco design, that’s curated to impress. With Cuban-inspired cocktails complemented by dark wood panelled walls and shelves, this bar is tucked away on the hotel’s 74th floor bringing a South-American touch to the heart of Dubai. Located at SLS Dubai, the bar is open daily from 6pm and 3am and comes to life with its plush interiors.
      Gohan

      La Cantine du Faubourg, located in Emirates Towers, is one of the staple restaurants in Dubai and has been on the emirate’s dining scene for over a decade. But, did you know it’s now got a secret venue hidden within its walls? Enter Gohan, the Japanese restaurant concept by the team at La Cantine. This intimate space can seat 30 diners at a time with the DJ spinning to some of the most eclectic tunes all night. “The main guideline when it comes to Gohan was to get as close as the authentic Japanese food with a twist of modernity and street food”, Chef Gilles Bosquet told Emirates Woman in an interview. It’s open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 4pm and for dinner from 7pm to 2am daily.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Suave

      Tucked inside the new bustling fine-dining haven of Basko, an antique staircase leads to this eclectic space that’s designed to make any night feel young no matter what day of the week. This underground bar has brought back an era reminiscent of glitz, glamour and galore. Dating back to the 1960s, this retro-fueled bar features a library of over 200 vintage records, featuring hits from Queen to David Bowie, with the DJ spinning to tunes that are sure to impress all those who enter. Located at Opus by Omniyat designed by Zaha Hadid in Business Bay, this new sophisticated venue is one to add to your must-try list.
      For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
      Behind the Yellow Doors

      With a strict no-flash photography policy, the hidden venue allows guests to witness unobstructed views of Dubai’s skyline. For the ultimate late-night experience, this new speakeasy has a list of unending events throughout the week with a diverse mix of high-energy progressive house hits delivered with the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. To find it guests need to search for an unassuming entrance that leads into a classic interior space that’s executed through a modern lens. Located at Weslodge Saloon on the 68th Floor at JW Marriott Marquis Business Bay, this venue is open on Friday and Saturday from 11 pm to 3am and on Sunday from 10pm to 3am.
      For more information visit btyd.weslodge.ae/
      Hudson Tavern

      This urban escape takes cues from a New York-inspired speakeasy with its wooden surfaces and vintage lighting. If you’re looking to wind down in solitude for the evening, reconnect with friends, or go on date night with your partner there are enough seating options in this dimly lit space surrounded by brick walls. From Gillard oysters to exquisite ingredients like beluga caviar, this luxe space at Hyde Hotel in Business Bat is open from 4pm to 1am.
      For more information visit sbe.com
      Off The Wall

      This sleek offbeat bar located at Hotel Indigo in Dubai pushes the boundaries with its unique storytelling experience from the art-laden walls to the signature drinks which offer a fresh take on cocktails as it’s curated with unusual ingredients. It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 6 pm to 2am and Thursday to Saturday from 6pm to 3am, with Mondays closed and expert mixologists who are ready to give you a completely off-the-wall experience.
      For more information visit hotelindigodubai.com
      Nyx at Gaia

      For that ultimate after-dinner soirée, this underground nightclub located at Greek haven Gaia, makes for the perfect way to end your night, as it’s previously welcomed several A-listers from around the globe such as 50 cent, Rita Ora and even A$AP Rocky to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Dubai. From hand-crafted cocktails to a night of nostalgia, this venue is surely one to visit as it’s located in the heart of DIFC.
      For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
      Flashback Speakeasy

      By transporting you straight to the 1920s this surreptitious speakeasy bar located at Paramount hotel is most definitely one to visit. With soulful hits and that take guests to a vintage era back in time, the bar offers handcrafted cocktails to relish with live gripping performances. It’s open daily from 6pm to 2am.
      For more information visit paramounthotelsdubai.com
      The Unlucky Cat

      From delicious cocktails to mixed beverages, this Asian speakeasy welcomes guests in a dimly lit space, with numerous offers and tasty nibbles, positioned right at the entrance of Miss Tess. It’s located at Taj Dubai, and is open from 6pm to 2am, with reservations not required, so definitely pay a visit as you’re guaranteed a relaxing time.
      For more information visit misstessdubai.com
      The Green Room

      For an underground experience, Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah has now launched a new secret space. With vibrant entertainment and eclectic music all night long, guests can enjoy the glamour of a bygone era in an alluring setting. The venue offers the perfect amalgamation of Asian-inspired dishes, private booths and lush green velvet armchairs, making it a must-visit. Every Friday and Saturday, guests can experience burlesque-themed dinner shows with dancers showcasing their talent through a series of jaw-dropping performances. This hidden space is open daily from 7 pm until late.
      For more information visit sohogardenpalm.com
      The Other Side

      As the ultimate post-dinner spot, this oriental island bar brings Tokyo to the heart of Dubai in a tasteful manner. A team of expert mixologists will be on-hand to guide you through the extensive cocktail menu, accompanies by a range of tastefully prepared dishes. Located in St. Regis Dubai on the 23rd floor, this speakeasy bar is open on Saturdays from 11pm to 4am.
      For more information visit tabudubai.com
      Galaxy Bar

      With more than just a private dining area, the bar has a host of signature celestial-inspired cocktails that are handcrafted especially for all those who visit. By transporting guests to Greece, this luxe concept encapsulates the same feeling when guests start at the Aegean Sea at night-time. With shimmering stars and an organic design process, this intimate space has been designed into a magical experience for guests to experience. Located at Avli by Tashas, this bar was born to provide visitors with a stellar journey.
      For more information visit galaxy-bar.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 shoot with Haya Jarrar for By Far More

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      Travel to NYC in true luxury with Etihad’s new business class offering

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      4 hours ago

      On June 30, 2022, UAE airline Etihad Airways celebrated the inaugural flight of its new A350-1000 flying from Abu Dhabi International Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy International airport (JFK). The 14-hour business class flight offers a seamless experience from the moment you step into the airport to the moment you touch down at JFK. The newly-launched flight accommodates 371 passengers and is one of five new Airbus A350s. Forty-four of the seats are in the business cabin and “provides a luxurious experience comparable to first class on other international airlines,” according to Martin Drew, senior vice-president of Global Sales and Cargo, Etihad Airways.
      Not only does the business cabin provide a plush in-flight experience, but the aircraft itself is also highly efficient, enhancing the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s sustainability goals. “This is an incredible aircraft with highly-efficient fuel consumption and CO2 savings, which enables us to support our goals to reduce carbon emissions and deliver an unmatched flight experience for our guests,” Drew explains.
      First Impressions
      With a departure time of 1015, I was picked up from my home in Downtown Dubai by Etihad’s complimentary business class chauffeur service at 0600. It was a smooth and quick journey to the UAE’s capital, with ample time for check-in.
      I arrived at the airport at around 0715 and was welcomed by the friendly Etihad staff at the business class check-in area. An attendant assisted with my bags and led me to the check-in desk where I was shown to a seat while I waited for my bags to be checked and to receive my boarding pass. I presented my passport, along with my ESTA (the visa required to enter the US) and vaccine certificate which I had obtained via the Alhosn app. At the Etihad business class and first class check-in, there is a separate immigration and security section which ensured I got through with plenty of time to spare.

      The Lounge
      I then headed to the Etihad Business Class lounge where I enjoyed some downtime before the long-haul flight. The lounge is expansive with sofa areas, individual seating and dining tables – plenty of options for whatever you need. It was relatively quiet when I entered and the staff were welcoming and friendly, ready to help with anything I needed.
      For F&B offerings, there were a plethora of options at the buffet – everything you could want for a hearty breakfast and a coffee to kickstart your travel day. There were also fully-stocked fridges with soft drinks and other snacks for passengers to help themselves to. The bar was quiet in the early hours of the morning, but it was a welcoming space to relax before a flight.
      Overall, the lounge is a great space for guests to recharge before their flights, get last-minute emails done prior to take-off and enjoy a bite to eat.
      Boarding
      Those travelling to the US from Abu Dhabi need to be mindful of the time when heading to the gate because you’re able to go through US customs whilst physically still in the UAE. This is all done through Etihad’s US pre-clearance, the only United States Customs and Border Protection facility in the Middle East. While it means you need to leave slightly earlier when heading to the gate at Abu Dhabi airport, it saves a huge amount of time and effort when arriving in the US, avoiding immigration and queues. The whole US immigration process went smoothly and I then headed to the gate where I arrived just as business class passengers were being called to board. My ticket was scanned at the gate, and I then headed down the walkway to board the new A350 to New York City.
      The Seat
      Business class is the highest cabin class on the A350 and is complete with 44 seats, all with a generous amount of space. The layout is a standard 1-2-1 layout with cream, brown and gold interiors which gives the cabin a relaxing ambience. It also felt extra spacious as there were no overhead bins in the centre of the cabin – not to worry though, there was no shortage of hand luggage space.
      Business class on Etihad’s new A350
      The seat pods were designed with technology and style in mind with faux marble finishes and the colour hues of the rest of the cabin echoed in the seats. The fold-out table expands out to be approximately 42cm long and 46cm wide, perfect for those who want to work during their flight. There are also several charging spots including a standard power outlet, a USB-A and USB-C charging ports. The seat itself was incredibly comfortable with huge amounts of space and privacy afforded by the double-closing doors of each pod. When fully reclined, the seat turns into a 200cm bed.
      The Flight
      I was welcomed by the friendly Etihad flight attendants who were attentive from the moment I boarded. After making myself comfortable, and ready for take-off, I was given a welcome drink and asked to look at the menu to let them know my meal of choice. We took off in great time, with an effortless transition from the runway and into the air.
      As for entertainment, there were plenty of in-flight movies from all genres to enjoy, as well as television shows and even a few live TV options, all of which could be watched on the 18.5-inch touchscreen TV.
      There was also onboard WiFi. However, business class guests only receive a 350MB complimentary voucher. Thereafter, it’s chargeable with a 24-hour session for 350MB priced at US$29.99.

      Food and drink
      I ordered from the a la carte menu prior to departure and I could choose the time that I wanted to eat my meal. I opted for the Arabic mezze starter which was a great option – filling but not too heavy on a long-haul flight. I then had the truffle pasta which was superb. However, I was sufficiently full, so didn’t opt for dessert.
      Arrival
      The landing was smooth as we touched down at JFK and we made it to the arrival gate ahead of schedule. The whole immigration process was already completed in Abu Dhabi and so we arrived as if we were domestic passengers, heading out through the domestic exit. The whole process was easy and faultless as I headed to get my bags and enjoy a cool 48 hours in New York City.

      Verdict
      From start to finish, the service of the whole Etihad Airways A350-1000 business class was seamless. If you’re due to travel from the UAE to New York City, I couldn’t recommend flying from Abu Dhabi enough, even if you are based in Dubai.
      Price
      Internet rates for return business class flights from AUH to JFK start at Dhs10,740
      For more information visit etihad.com
      This article was originally published on Business Traveller Middle East and has been repurposed here with permission.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Bella Hadid pays a heartfelt tribute to her Palestinian roots

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Bella Hadid never shies away from celebrating her Arab heritage and marking her birthday was no different.
      The supermodel turned 26 over the weekend and she made sure to pay tribute to her Palestinian roots.
      Indulging in some traditional cuisine, a Palestinian baker made a special kunafa cake just for Hadid in celebration of her birthday.

      Shadin Hamdan, the founder of Kanafa Cups, created a bespoke signature heart-shaped kunafa cake with a topper that read “Happy Birthday Bella”. Created with the bakery’s signature bright orange-hued phyllo dough, crushed pistachios and rose petals, Hadid was clearly overjoyed with the final outcome in images shared by the bakery founder.
      “This has been a dream of mine and I’m so excited!” Hamdan said. “This journey with Kanafa Cups really started as a dessert I was good at making for friends and family and turned into a business that made it all the way to Bella Hadid!
      “I never thought I would be writing this. Work hard and it will all pay off in the end.”
      This special dessert was gifted to the supermodel by the Palestinian makeup artist, Nadia Tayeh who plays a key role in creating Hadid’s red carpet looks.

      In a group celebration with her friends including Hadid, the birthday girl received another cake baked by her sister. The simple white cake highlighted symbols close to her heart such as the Palestinian flat, a pizza, a burger, and a butterfly logo for her brand Kin Euphorics’ making it a memorable birthday.
      With a close affinity to her culture, the model never misses an opportunity to pay homage to her culture and she is always vocal about her support for Palestine.
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      Image & Feature Image: Instagram @kanafacups More