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    8 restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 seconds ago

    It’s time to celebrate the Year of the Snake in style. As Wednesday, January 25, 2025 culminates Chinese New Year with the Lantern Festival that lasts for 16 days.
    The annual event is the first day of a new year on the Lunar calendar, which is more than 5,000 years old, allowing you to indulge in some authentic cuisine with your loved ones at these Dubai-based hotspots.
    To see where to kickstart the celebrations, swipe through our editor-approved guide of restaurants to visit this year.
    Hakkasan

    Celebrate Lunar New Year at Ling Ling, Atlantis The Royal, from January 28 to February 7, 2025, with contemporary Asian cuisine and world-class mixology. Enjoy special dishes starting at AED 130, including crispy chow mein with smoked duck, steamed razor clams, and bao with short rib, paired with festive drinks like the Rattlesnake Highball or Serpentine mocktail. A snake-inspired dessert adds a sweet finale. Post-dinner, the Ling Ling Ultra Lounge offers handcrafted cocktails, bottle service, and premium entertainment from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM, Thursday through Saturday.
    For more information visit Hakkasandubai.com
    Ling Ling

    Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Ling Ling, Atlantis The Royal, from January 28 to February 7, 2025. Indulge in special dishes starting from AED 130, such as crispy chowmein with smoked duck, steamed razor clams, and bao with short rib. Pair these festive creations with a Rattlesnake Highball cocktail or Serpentine mocktail, and enjoy a delightful snake-inspired dessert. Ling Ling’s à la carte menu is also available. After dinner, unwind at the Ling Ling Ultra Lounge, open Thursday to Saturday from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM, with bottle service, handcrafted cocktails, and entertainment.
    For more information visit lingling.com
    MOLI

    Celebrate Chinese New Year at MOLI, Dubai Hills Business Park, from January 27 to February 2, 2025, with a week-long festive dining experience. Enjoy eight authentic Cantonese dishes à la carte or a special five-course set menu available on January 28 and 29 for Dhs299, featuring standout dishes like the flavourful turnip cake and Kung Pao Chicken, with an optional two-hour beverage package for Dhs100. The festivities include Guzheng music, a Lion Dance, a Hand Fan performance, symbolic red envelope wishes, and charming Chinese décor.
    For more in formation visit
    Mott 32
    Celebrate Chinese New Year in style at Mott 32, perched on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort, offering breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline. From January 27 to February 2, 2025, indulge in a specially curated menu by Executive Chef Frankie Yang Tao, featuring dishes like Lobster and Abalone Lo Hei Salad, Australian Beef Belly, and Mandarin Mousse. Highlights include a Penfolds wine-pairing dinner on January 29 (AED 888 per person) and a festive Chinese New Year-themed Brunch 32 on February 1. Enjoy traditional performances, stunning décor, and unforgettable flavors to welcome the Year of the Snake.
    For more information visit Mott32dubai.com
    Zheng He’s

    Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Zheng He’s, the award-winning Chinese restaurant at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, with an exclusive Chinese New Year menu available from January 20 to February 9, 2025. Curated by Head Chef Wong Lian You, the menu features dishes like cod fish and egg-white dumplings, poached clay-pot chicken with Sichuan pepper sauce, and hand-rolled vegetarian rice rolls. Enjoy traditional Lion Dance performances on January 28 and 29, set against the stunning Burj Al Arab backdrop. Enhance your experience with limited-edition cakes from Margaux pastry boutique.
    For more information visit jumeirah.com/ZhengHes
    Barfly by Buddha-Bar

    Celebrate Chinese New Year in style at Barfly by Buddha-Bar on Thursday, February 1, 2025, with a special Soirée Brunch at  7PM on The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Indulge in a fusion of traditional Chinese flavors and Barfly’s innovative cuisine, featuring dishes like Peking Duck, Cumin Beef, and Stir Fry Noodles Salteado. Priced from Dhs365, the evening includes festive décor, vibrant ambiance, and a mesmerizing Chinese dragon performance, promising an unforgettable start to the Year of the Snake.
    For more information visit
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lingling More

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    Planning for Ramadan 2025 in the UAE? Here’s the latest prediction

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Ramadan 2025: Expected to begin around march 1st in the UAE.
    Many in the UAE are beginning to plan their year, including anticipating the dates for Ramadan. While official confirmation is still pending, astronomical calculations suggest that Ramadan 2025 is likely to begin around Saturday, March 1st.

    According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society, the crescent moon of Ramadan 1446 AH is expected to be born on Friday, February 28, 2025. This astronomical prediction points to the start of Ramadan on the following day. However, it’s important to note that the UAE’s official Moon Sighting Committee will convene closer to the date to conduct an official sighting. This committee’s observation ultimately determines the definitive start of the holy month.

    The Islamic calendar, being lunar, differs from the Gregorian calendar. This means that the dates for Ramadan shift each year, typically moving forward by approximately 10 days. In 2024, Ramadan commenced on Tuesday, March 12th, highlighting this annual shift.   

    Everything to know about the holy month of Ramadan

    Ramadan is a significant time for Muslims worldwide, observed through fasting from dawn until sunset. During this period, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking. This practice extends to public spaces, where non-Muslims are also expected to respect the fasting practices. It’s crucial for everyone in the UAE to be mindful of these customs during Ramadan.   

    Beyond fasting, Ramadan holds deep spiritual significance. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). During this month, Muslims engage in increased prayer, including special nightly prayers called Tarawih, during which portions of the Quran are recited.   

    Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, the fundamental principles that guide Muslim life. These pillars form the framework of Islamic practice, and Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It’s a time for introspection, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion to Allah through prayer and good deeds, seeking forgiveness and spiritual cleansing.   

    The observance of Ramadan also impacts daily life in the UAE. Both public and private sectors typically implement reduced working hours during this period. While precise timings are usually announced closer to the date, a reduction of two working hours is common. This adjustment allows individuals to better manage their time for prayer, reflection, and family gatherings during the holy month.   

    As the anticipated start of Ramadan 2025 approaches, it’s advisable to stay tuned for official announcements from the UAE government regarding the confirmed date and any specific guidelines for the month. While astronomical predictions provide a strong indication, the official moon sighting remains the final determinant. In the meantime, understanding the significance and customs of Ramadan helps foster respect and understanding within the diverse community of the UAE.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Instagram @futurebedouin  More

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    Exclusive: In the office with Fay Ezzat, founder of L’Atelier Middle East

    Fashion

    by Camille Macawili
    1 min ago

    Fay Ezzat, founder of L’Atelier Middle East, exclusively shares the conception and vision of her latest venture with Emirates Woman.

    How long have you been in this space?
    It actually took me a few good months to establish and renovate the whole place, and I can proudly say that we have been operating here for a year-and-a-half now.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    In our L’Atelier we mostly produce clothes for different local designers from the region as well as outside. We are getting requests from designers from France, Australia, but we also have started doing pieces for Jo Malone, Bvlgari, Victoria’s Secret and other big global brands for their campaigns. In the meantime, I have been creating a few bespoke pieces for my own brand for this year’s launch.
    How do you think the interior reflects you?
    I have been creating this space not only for myself, but also for designers and brands to inspire and produce their collections within a beautiful set-up and light space. I believe that the environment is very important when it comes to creation, that’s why I built this place to make everyone feel the fashion energy, where they can come up with new ideas.
    The way that reflects in L’Atelier is not only production but is also a space to create, design and do fittings. L’Atelier is a fashion hub.
    Describe your taste in three words.
    Sharp, androgynous and minimalistic.
    Scroll through the gallery below for an exclusive tour inside L’Atelier:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    January’s – The Optimism Issue – Download Now 
    Images: Supplied More

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    8 aesthetic UAE-based wellness studios to book in 2025

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    32 mins ago

    While we’re all guilty of scrolling on our feeds for countless hours, seeing aesthetic bali-inspired wellness studios, it’s time for us to pick up our own mat and begin the workout.
    As the UAE becomes a hub for wellness studios designed with minimal interiors. For a calming experience to take a break from the hustle of daily life, these studios are the perfect rejuvenating haven
    To revamp your fitness routine, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the wellness studios to visit in the UAE.
    Balans

    This quaint boutique space offers a venue to switch off from the hustle of daily life. The intimate studio can accommodate up to seven individuals in the Pilates room and Yoga studio. With a focus on recovery, advanced contrast ice baths and specialised muscle recovery treatments, each customer can feel healthier, fit and more aligned with their wellness goals.
    For more information visit balans.ae
    Gigi

    As the first studio in the Middle East to introduce Miniformers, Gigi provides exclusive Lagree workouts alongside traditional Megaformer sessions. This makes it a unique destination for both seasoned practitioners and newcomers. This wellness sanctuary located in Dubai’s Mirdif Avenue Mall, offering a harmonious blend of Lagree and yoga practices. The studio’s design is inspired by the serene beauty of deserts and forests, creating a tranquil environment for its members.
    For more information visit Gigi.ae
    HWH Studio

    Having recently opened in Dubai’s new Delano hotel, this space is crafted to be an oasis of calm and inspiration, offering a curated selection of classes, treatments, and experiences designed to nurture the body, mind, and soul. Our new studio is a seamless blend of Delano’s iconic elegance and our commitment to holistic well-being, providing guests and visitors with an environment where luxury and wellness harmonise. Overall, this luxury boutique Yoga, Pilates and Wellness space offers visitors an immersive experience to switch off in solitude. The studio is led by renowned yoga instructor Adrienne Everett in Burj Al Arab too.
    For more information visit Jhwhstudiodubai.com
    Sohum

    This luxurious new Ayuvedic wellness space features a yoga studio, sound healing, hot and cold therapy rooms. Sohum Wellness Sanctuary is a premium holistic wellness center located in Al Quoz First, Dubai. The sanctuary offers a range of Ayurvedic experiences aimed at promoting balance, healing, and reflection. It’s located in Al Quoz First, and includes holistic treatments including Reiki, Sound Healing, and Shamanic Breathwork. It’s open 9am to 9pm.
    For more information visit sohumwellness.ae
    another mars

    Inspired by Himalayan healing, this rehabilitation spa is a membership-only venue in the heart of Umm Seqium.
    Paus Club 2.0

    Enjoy world-class padel courts, yoga classes, reformer Pilates, and strength training sessions. Connect at community events designed to inspire. Paus Club is located on Al Wasl Rd, Umm Suqeim 1306 with an array of wellness treatments and programmes for everyone who enters to unwind.
    For more information visit pausdxb.com
    Form Studio

    Form Studio is a dedicated Lagree fitness studio located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. They offer a variety of classes, including Lagree, Yoga, and Deep Stretch, all instructed by a fully Lagree-certified team. It’s located in Saadiyat Noon Building, Abu Dhabi, open from Monday to Thursday: 6AM to 8PM.
    Brrn Barre (Opening Soon)

    Currently in the works, this LA-inspired wellness studio is all set to make waves in Dubai this year. With Hot Cardio at its core, the studio offers a fusion of Barre, functional training and core Pilates movements in the hot rooms with infrared heating to target all our wellness needs. The studio will be located in Goshi Warehouse City, Al Quoz.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Instagram @flow2glow @mouchouu__ More

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    11 inspiring UAE-based women making a big impact globally

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    Women from the UAE are consistently making exceptional contributions to society, inspiring us all daily. The UAE is full of inspiring women making a big impact globally.
    Their invaluable role in modern society is not to be underestimated as we constantly learn from them.
    Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

    Our cover star of November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is inspiring the new generation of incredible women have risen to great heights in the aviation industry.
    “I’m most proud of becoming the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot,” she told EW of her proudest moment. “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.”
    Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum

    As a truly powerful and inspirational figure, Her Highness – who graced the cover of EW’s September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – knows exactly how to keep her mind in champion mode. Sheikha Latifah has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. She’s an equestrian athlete who competed in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, becoming the first woman to represent the UAE at the Olympic games.
    Her Excellency Dr Maryam Matar

    Having had the dream and desire to serve in the medical field since she was young, Her Excellency Dr Maryam Mohamed Fatima Matar MD, Ph.D. has become a pioneer and a visionary in the healthcare space in the UAE.
    Not only is Her Excellency a pioneer in the medical space, but she is also a role model for many women in the UAE seeking to succeed, whether that be in healthcare or other industries. Additionally, she’s able to facilitate change, paving the way for other women and girls in the region.
    Captain Salma Al Baloushi

    As the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad Airways, Captain Salma has had a long sparked interest in aviation while also completing her higher education in Aviation Management, forming the face of the modern woman in the UAE as it has taken years of hard work and dedication.
    Amna Al Haddad

    Amna al Haddad has defied stereotypes by becoming a positive figurehead for women in the region. As an Olympic weightlifter and also by being the first Emirati and GCC national to compete in Asia’s regionals, she later on also became a part of Nike’s latest campaign on inner strength, as she continues to push herself to the limit.
    Nayla Al Khaja

    She is the first female film director-producer in the UAE, while also being the CEO of Nayla Al Khaja films. Having directed several movies, they have been presented with awards at various international film festivals as she is also very active in the TV commercials domain, while also constantly directing for various international brands.
    Asma Hilal Lootah

    As the founder of the Hundred Wellness Centre, Asma Hilal Lootah is paving the way in the wellness space in the UAE. The Hundred is the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre, which opened in 2008, and now champions wellness in the mind, body and soul for all around the UAE.
    Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi

    Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer. With a degree in aviation management and in aerospace engineering, Dr Al Shamsi has reached great heights, inspiring the younger generations of the future.
    Fatima Al Qubaisi

    Fatima Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati woman to graduate from Harvard Law School. She is now a fully qualified lawyer practising in the UAE and continues to champion and advocate for fellow females in this country.
    Zahra Lahri

    Known as UAE’s first female professional figure skater to compete in a hijab while also being titled as the ‘Ice Princess of the UAE’. With her growing prominence in the sport, she has defied all odds and broken down barriers to inspire generations of athletes to chase their dreams.
    Amna Al Qubaisi

    Known as the first Emirati female racing driver, especially as she’s no stranger to breaking new ground in motorsport with the Emirati driver making her name during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Al Qubaisi’s success at Yas Marina Circuit was one of the major milestones in her motor racing career.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Instagram More

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    7 interesting facts you didn’t know about Turkish actor Hande Erçel

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    23 seconds ago

    As one of the most popular actresses in Turkey, there’s a lot to know about Hande Erçel.
    At just 29-years-old, she’s reached some incredible milestones in her career with several popular television shows under her belt and an impressive social media following.
    Whether you’re a fan or keen to know more about the Turkish actress, here’s some interesting facts to know.
    Her career in the spotlight began with modelling

    While she’s a huge star on the small screen now, Erçel started her career as a model. In 2012, she competed in the Miss Civilization of the World Contest she ended up being a runner-up in Azerbaijan.
    She’s the most followed Turkish actor on Instagram

    Ensuring she keeps her loyal fans updated, Erçel regularly posts to Instagram. With over 20 million followers, she’s the most followed Turkish actress on the social media platform.
    Hande Erçel sister is a year older than her

    Named Gamze Erçel, the older sister of the beloved actress was born on January 18, 1992, and draws similar features to the Turkish actress. Also in the spotlight, Gamze is a model, actress, entrepreneur and social media personality.
    Hande Erçel has worked in several commercials

    While being seen on screen for several ads, Erçel worked for beauty brands including L’Oréal Paris and DeFacto.
    She split up with her long-time boyfriend in early 2020

    Erçel was previously in a relationship with Turkish singer-songwriter Murat Dalkılıç. The pair became engaged in February 2020. However, the pair later split in June 2020, deleting many of the pictures they had together on Instagram.
    She met Kerem Bürsin on the series Sen Çal Kapimi

    The actress landed a leading role on the new TV series Sen Çal Kapimi (You Knock on My Door) last year in July starring alongside fellow actor Kerem Bürsin. The show has gone on to become hugely popular, particularly due to Bürsin and Ercel’s on-screen romance. After rumours began to emerge the actors’ romance wasn’t just on-screen, they both confirmed their off-screen romance whilst on a recent holiday to the Maldives.
    Hande Erçel off-duty style

    With a massive following on Instagram, Erçel has always been a fashion icon for many with luxe outfits, as she never shy’s away from the camera. From luxe co-ords to well-fitted suits, Erçel sure knows how to keep on top of it with her fashion choices, as she inspires her fans with all the up-to-date fashion trends. Whether cruising on a yacht or vacationing in the Maldives, her wardrobe staples are a must-have for many.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Hande Erçel Instagram More

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    10 adorable photos of celebrities when they were babies

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    37 seconds ago

    While we usually see celebrities in the spotlight, juggling their careers and lives in the public eye, it’s fun to remember that they too were once wide-eyed children full of dreams. We often lose touch with our inner child as adults, bogged down by responsibilities, but a glimpse of these baby photos can remind us all to embrace that part of ourselves.

    Let’s start with a few adorable throwbacks. Who can forget that viral baby photo of Kendall Jenner in her tiny, frilly dress, grinning at the camera? Or Sheikha Mahra, as a curious toddler with bright eyes, long before he became the poised Princess? Seeing Alia Bhatt as a bubbly little girl with her infectious smile or Karen Wazen daydreaming with those big eyes, brings us right back to that innocence and wonder of childhood.

    These photos remind us that before their red carpet moments, all celebrities were just little kids figuring out the world. It’s a comforting thought. Growing up, we tend to suppress that part of ourselves in the name of maturity. The pressures of adult life—work, bills, responsibilities—often make it hard to indulge our inner child. But sometimes, reconnecting with that playful side is exactly what we need.
    Studies have shown that keeping a bit of our inner child alive helps reduce stress, boosts creativity, and even increases resilience. Those carefree moments of laughter, curiosity, and imagination can re-energize us in ways we may not expect. So, let’s take a cue from these celebrities and remember to nurture that playful side.

    It’s always fun to see stars share a slice of their childhood. In a world where we see polished, curated images on social media, there’s something endearing about seeing them as babies with untamed curls, chubby cheeks, and wide smiles. So, this Children’s Day, take a moment to look at your own childhood photos, laugh at those early memories, and let your inner child shine a little brighter. Whether you’re daydreaming, dancing in your living room, or simply playing, remember: the inner child never really leaves – they’re just waiting for you to have a little fun
    Take a look at all the adorable photos of your favourite celebrities:
    Sheikha Mahra

    Kendall Jenner

    Gigi Hadid

    Hande Erçel

    Bella Hadid

    Kylie Jenner

    Ananya Panday

    Kim Kardashian

    Karen Wazen

    Alia Bhatt

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

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    11 EW-approved matcha spots to visit in the UAE

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    42 seconds ago

    Move over macchiatos, step aside chai-tea latte, everyone is under the spell of matchas these days. This vibrant powdered green tea is taking the UAE by storm, and for good reason.
    Forget the jitters and afternoon crashes associated with coffee, the Japanese wonder offers a calm focus fueled by L-theanine, an amino acid known for its relaxing properties. Basically, it’s like sipping serenity in a cup.

    Looking for the perfect spot to everyone’s favourite beverage in Dubai + Abu Dhabi? We’re about to spill the tea (pun intended) on the top spots to find your perfect cup of green goodness, all boasting a minimalist aesthetic to match your zen vibes.

    Rumailah Farms (Umm Suqeim)

    With a significant brown sugar flavor, this particular concoction at Rumailah farms is to look out for. Available on Talabat for delivery, this local place also has a bunch of interesting coffee and milkshake flavours to try.
    The Matcha Tokyo (JBR)

    This renowned Japanese matcha brand arrived in Dubai last year with an aesthetically pleasing kiosk nestled in JBR. Trademark  drink? The velvety Matcha Latte, a fusion of rich matcha and milk, and the bold Matcha Coffee Latte, blending matcha with coffee.
    Blu Matcha (Multiple Locations)

    This dedicated matcha haven is a dream come true for green tea enthusiasts. From their classic latte to playful creations like the Ube Matcha Latte, Blu Matcha offers a full spectrum of matcha experiences. Plus, their locations boast a clean, modern design with pops of green, making it an Instagrammable paradise.
    The Edit (Alserkal Avenue)

    Fashionistas rejoice, you can now fuel your shopping sprees with a guilt-free green fix at The Edit. Tucked away within this stylish boutique, their dedicated matcha bar offers a variety of lattes and iced beverages.
    Orto Cafe (Dubai Canal)

    Craving a green fix with a view? Look no further than Orto Cafe. This serene spot overlooking the Dubai Canal offers a picture-perfect setting to enjoy their Matcha Smoothie Bowl – a healthy and delicious blend with fruit, and granola.
    Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar (Alserkal Avenue)

    This industrial-chic haven offers a haven for true tea enthusiasts. They serve pure, ceremonial-grade powder whisked to perfection.
    Nette (Al Quoz)

    Nestled within Dubai’s trendy padel court complex, Nette offers a Californian vibe with a strong matcha focus. Don’t miss their milkshake, a playful yet sophisticated blend of green tea, vanilla ice cream, and almond milk.
    Abu Dhabi
    LOCAL (Al Zeina & Mamsha Al Saadiyat)

    This bright and airy cafe is a minimalist dream. Their grass green Latte is a crowd-pleaser, offering a smooth and creamy experience that won’t overwhelm your taste buds.
    Coffee Architecture

    The vibe tilts towards less-is-more but the drinks here do the most. If that doesn’t do it for here, try the iced matcha-based latte and come back for more.
    Salt & Caramel

    If you live in Abu Dhabi, tuck yourself away to their quaint cafe and find your corner where you can curl up with a book and a warm concoction to keep you company.
    Ava Cafe

    Soaked in that minimalistic-yet-vintage vibe, Ava Cafe takes the it to a whole new level with drinks like cold fluffy lattes and iced  tonics to savor on summer days.
    So there you have it, folks! Your ultimate guide for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Now go forth, sip green, and embrace the zen
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @yaraalnamlah More