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    10 sophisticated restaurants in Dubai with spacious private dining areas

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver.
    However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?
    With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.
    From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.
    Indochine

    There’s a piece of New York City right here in Dubai that you can enjoy – Indochine. Whether you wish to host a private event for a new launch or simply want to celebrate a special occasion, this is the place to be. The French-Vietnamese restaurant brings its classic dishes to the table with an in-house indie DJ for some eclectic tunes all night long. The restaurant can seat large parties of 10 to 20 guests in a luxurious private dining setting. Guests can relish a five-course menu served family-style accompanied by an evening of conversation and laughter in this intimate setting. Hosts also have an option of full or partial buyouts for larger gatherings.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com.
    Amazonico

    This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.
    Shanghai Me

    Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.
    For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. 
    Le Guépard

    Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.
    For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.
    Cé La Vi

    With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.
    For more information visit celavi.com.
    Roka

    If there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. 
    GAIA

    This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.
    At.mosphere

    In the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.
    For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. 
    Zuma

    By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
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    13 underground speakeasies to visit in Dubai ASAP

    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.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    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
    Bund Lounge

    To go back in time, Shanghai Me welcomes guests to a world of decadence and glamour with an exclusive 1930s-era experience. With royalty and eclectic energy, visitors can experience rich traditions that lie hidden behind closed doors. Accompanied by a team of expert mixologists, Bund Lounge is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening from 10pm to 3am and serves an array of alluring libations, including classic and contemporary signature cocktails and tailor-made concoctions to entice every palate. With an endless evening of enigmatic wanderlust, this restaurant is located in Gate Village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    LY-LA

    Hidden in one of DIFC’s most popular new venues, Alaya, this speakeasy is designed for guests to experience a night like no other. With Middle Eastern nostalgia at the forefront, this sophisticated venue promises a one-of-a-kind affair, through upbeat harmony and otherworldly tunes influenced by the region and beyond. The modern Art Deco bar comes to life with its radiating lights and the grand Bedouin-inspired ceiling, offering a lavish immersion into the region’s culture with its richly decorated embroidery, textures, and colours. LY-LA is now open for reservations daily from 10pm until late and is located in Gate Village 4.
    For more information visit Alaya-dubai.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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    Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out now…

    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 glamping spots to book in the UAE for a premium escape

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 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
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    Anoud Al-Asmari becomes Saudi Arabia’s first international female referee

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Saudi women are continuing to break barriers globally, especially in the world of sports.
    By making the nation proud, Anoud Al-Asmari has become the first Saudi international female football referee to receive the international badge from the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) according to the list announced by The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) published on Thursday on Twitter.

    الاتحاد الدولي لكرة القدم يعتمد قائمة الحكام السعوديين الدوليين لعام 2023 🔽 pic.twitter.com/MSnlsM5Gom
    — الاتحاد السعودي لكرة القدم (@saudiFF) January 5, 2023

    The list of Saudi international referees for 2023 released titles for eight arena referees, nine assistant referees and six video referees with a futsal referee, making Al-Asmari the only woman on the list.
    This announcement came one year after the KSA’s women’s football team won its first-ever international match, making history. The Greens Team witness a victorious moment as they won their first international game with Seychelles in February 2022.

    As one for the books, this historical moment also received an official congratulations from the renowned football player Péle on his personal Twitter account.
    By hoping to see more Saudi women compete in sports and reach professional levels globally, the leaders are taking all the necessary steps to ensure, women receive adequate representation and are change agents for future generations and bring about new reforms in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.
    Saudi’s first women’s football league
    In November 2020, The Kingdom officially launched its first women’s football league after a lengthy postponement due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. With a total of 24 teams with over 600 players in different cities in the country, including Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh.
    Per the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), the league aims “to empower women to encourage them to become active and to participate in sports at the community level.”
    A big kudos to Saudi Arabia’s first female referee for paving the way for women in the future!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal will officially accept bookings from next month

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    44 mins ago

    Dubai is all about luxurious cityscapes and with that the highly anticipated Atlantis The Royal is gearing up for its public opening.
    With dates officially moved to February 10 onwards, the bookings have now been moved back a month from its initial launch of March 2023.
    This expansive property features 795 rooms, suites and a penthouse with a series of record-breaking experiences including the largest jellyfish aquarium in the world, the first-ever Nobu by the Beach, meditation with the dolphins, unique fire and water fountains and other one-of-a-kind experiences.

    The standard rooms start at a price of Dhs4,066 per night and a sky pool villa with a private infinity pool is priced at Dhs19,000 per night. Designed with vertical gardens, an expensive sky bridge and other dramatic features to promise the ultimate mega-resort experience.
    Those keen to book can opt for the Three Bedroom Sky Terrace Suite complemented by 24-hour butler service, access to the Daily Royal Club, daily breakfast at all-day dining restaurants across Atlantis Dubai, complimentary entry to Atlantis Explorers Club, daily entry to Aquaventure Waterpark, Skyblaze Fountain, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, AWAKEN Fitness which includes thermal facilities and an outdoor lap pool at a starting price of Dhs17,417.
    The resort is set to host a grand invite-only weekend event open to special VIP guests this month from January 20 to January 22, 2023 with leading celebrities such as Beyoncé performing at an exclusive concert.
    Swipe to see a first-hand look inside the property:

    So, if you’re planning ahead for Valentine’s Day you know exactly where to book next month.
    For a chance to be one of the first to stay at Atlantis the Royal, book your stay for 2023 on atlantis.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @atlantistheroyal More

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    Everything to know about the upcoming Wireless Festival in Abu Dhabi

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    With the UAE constantly making its mark in the world of concerts, one of the most popular festivals is soon coming to the capital.
    All set to showcase some of the biggest international hip-hop stars known globally, Wireless Festival Abu Dhabi will celebrate this London-born annual event by showcasing unmissable electric energy.
    With megastars rappers Travis Scott and Lil Uzi Vert announced as the first headliners, this urban music festival organised by Live Nation makes it an unmissable experience for both residents and tourists.
    So, if you’re planning on adding it to your calendar, here’s everything to know about the festival.
    Artists
    Taking the lead for the concert is none other than American rapper Travis Scott, along with others revered in the hip-hop industry such as Lil Uzi Vert. The Cactus Jack record label founder is responsible for tracks including Sicko Mode and Goosebumps, and has collected some 40 billion streams and counting, for the audience to now witness live. As an ode to regional talent, the festival has also confirmed one of the biggest rappers in South Asia and the Middle East, including Egyptian trap artist Wegz, Iraqi Canadian Rapper Ali Gatie and other R&B artists including King, Divine, hip-hop duo Young Stunners.

    Dates
    The concert will make its take place on Saturday, March 13, 2023.
    Location
    This 2023 inaugural edition will be held on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, making it the event of the year with multiple stages and more than 13 live performances in the expansive venue.
    Tickets
    More details regarding tickets will follow soon. The first sale of tickets goes live on Friday, January 13 on ticketmaster. ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @danny-howe More

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    Reset with the region’s first fully integrated wellness experience

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    How the founder of ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort, Ameer Said has created an immersive wellness experience with a holistic approach in the UAE.
    Talk us through your career.
    I built my career in corporate business development, working for renowned Saudi companies including Saudi Binladen Group and SOOJ International for Development of Economic Cities. I took everything I built throughout my 30 years of experience and focused it on my passion – health and wellness.
    ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort is the region’s first fully integrated experience. What inspired you to launch it?
    After losing my wife and sister to a long battle with cancer and witnessing my mother’s suffering and struggles to perform daily functions in her last years, I recognised the need for prevention over cure. Hence, ZOYA was born out of a determination to address the ailments of the modern world, and to create a special place that protects, nourishes, and invigorates the mind, body, and soul.

    The retreat has a 360-degree focus on the body, mind and soul. Why was it important to incorporate all three?
    The journey towards peace, balance, and rejuvenation comes with focusing on all elements of our being. Unfortunately, we are always more focused on physical health and well-being and tend to forget that without a healthy mind and soul, we cannot transcend into a state of wellness. At ZOYA, we combine unique cutting-edge medical science, physiotherapy, conscious nutrition, and the latest advances in aesthetics to nourish the body and invigorate the mind. Our methods are non-toxic, non-invasive, drug-free, integrative, and holistic – we offer various treatments to create bespoke well-being retreat journeys.
    Oxygen therapy sessions are growing in popularity – tell us more.
    Oxygen therapy is an all-natural treatment that facilitates and optimises the oxygen utilisation of cells and tissues. It improves circulation and reduces heart rate while enhancing physical performance. It also regulates the autonomic nervous system, helps maintain the shorter resting pulse, and aids recovery after exertion by reducing lactic acid build-up. These treatments help with muscle tension, accelerate the healing of wounds and injuries, skin rejuvenation for younger-looking skin, and improve mental wellbeing by boosting relaxation and balance. Our goal is health optimisation; therefore, we offer oxygen therapy sessions as part of all our retreat programmes, where a dedicated team of medical and wellbeing experts will guide guests and provide them with the best-personalised programmes for their healing journey after a detailed health assessment.
    How does medical wellness seamlessly fit into this wellness retreat?
    Medical wellness is infused within our guest journey. Guests’ experience at ZOYA starts with a doctor’s consultation, diagnostics, a detailed wellness consultation, and a nutrition plan selection based on each guest’s needs and requirements to ultimately create a personalised weekly programme to achieve optimal levels of physical and mental wellbeing. We believe that tangible health and wellbeing require knowledge and expertise. At ZOYA, we have a team of professional specialists, from visionaries to doctors, and therapists, who combine their expertise to create individually customised well-being plans suitable for everyone.
    The resort offers a therapeutic culinary experience – can you elaborate on this?
    ZOYA offers various holistic therapeutic fasting, calorie control, detox, and vegan meal plans based on proven benefits, that look beyond the body to provide support and everlasting benefits for the mind and spirit. We only use organic, fresh, and seasonal ingredients at our wellness restaurant and juice bar, where we have adopted a strict clean food policy that turns superb ingredients into therapeutic meals and fine-dining experiences.
    For those planning their first-ever wellness retreat, what tips would you recommend to prepare for the experience?
    Come with trust and an open mind. Our goal is to ensure that our guests leave our resort relaxed, balanced, and rejuvenated with the expert guidance of our health professionals. We have designed our retreat programmes to aid guests in protecting, nourishing, and invigorating their minds, bodies, and souls. While a one-time visit will definitely help, we do recommend that our guests make a habit of wellness visits in order to commit to their wellbeing and transform their lives.
    How has COVID-19 affected the wellness industry on a larger scale?
    Following the COVID-19 pandemic, overall patterns have changed significantly, bringing health and wellness to the majority of people’s top of minds, regardless of their health conditions. This has resulted in the need to maintain physical and mental well-being, driving people to seek holistic approaches to health, which in turn will only continue to boost the global wellness tourism market. With that being said, the wellness industry is vast, consisting of quite diverse offerings, from spiritual to physical practices to improve overall health and well-being. It was important for our resort to position itself as a leader in the wellness space in the region to offer a unique and holistic approach to mind and body rejuvenation, offering only the best retreat programmes curated by experts and professionals in the field with a proven track record.
    Has the need for well-being retreats grown in the Middle East in the last few years?
    Most definitely, the wellbeing retreats were definitely pushed even further following the effects of the pandemic. From launching ZOYA earlier this year, we have seen a huge demand from the GCC and wider Middle East to experience our offering and begin regularly invest- ing in improving their physical and mental health and wellbeing. We are anticipating continued growth and traction both from the regional and international markets.

    This is The Reset Issue – what’s your advice for our readers to reset in 2023?
    As the region’s first fully integrated wellness experience, we urge everyone reading to try and always place physical and mental health and wellbeing at the top of their minds to invest in their health. With our busy schedules and unhealthy routines and habits, our health is often disregarded and neglected. At ZOYA, we put a huge focus on prevention over the cure to avoid the need for medication and assistance throughout varying stages of life, and we hope that we are able to successfully create a space that inspires continuous exploration of self and promotes a wellness- led lifestyle for all ages.
    January’s – The Reset Issue – Download Now 
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