More stories

  • in

    National Matcha Day: 7 matcha desserts to try in Dubai

    Life

    22 seconds ago

    As a healthier alternative to your caffeine intake, Matcha has increased in popularity over the years. As May 2, 2025 celebrates National Matcha Day, we look at some of the most delectable desserts to try in Dubai this year.
    With various cafés in Dubai bringing on a new take to Matcha in the form of new desserts, there’s a plethora of hotspots to visit with Japan’s most loved
    This delectable incarnation in cakes and other sweet tooth variables has been seen throughout the Emirate as the ingredient continues to rise in fame.
    So if you’re on the lookout for an experimental take on matcha, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the must-visit spots in Dubai.
    NETTE

    Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from. Their vegan Matcha and Chocolate éclair is a must-try for your matcha cravings. The quaint café is located inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz.
    Megumi Matcha

    As Dubai’s first matcha specialty shop, this woman-owned and operated café works as a farm-to-packaging concept. For all the macaron lovers, this Korean-style macaron comes with Black sesame matcha flavour with an irresistible taste. Run by women, guests can also delve into the history of the Japanese tea ceremony. Megumi hosts a matcha workshop at Vanilla Sukkar – a local mother-and-daughter-owned gem in Jumeirah.
    For more information visit megumimatcha.com
    The Kakao Guy

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with their luscious Matcha Nama Chocolate. Made with premium quality ingredients, this indulgent treat is a fusion of rich, creamy chocolate and earthy matcha flavors that will tantalise your taste buds. Known for their freshly bakes cakes and desserts this Nama chocolate with customers craving for more and can now be delivered straight to your doorstep.
    For more information visit thekakaoguy.com
    Yamanote Atelier

    At this artisanal Japanese bakery and café concept guests can expect a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes. Inspired by Japanese minimalist and pastel colours, this venue comes with a modern quirky edge. Reminiscent of the cafés Japanese culture, the pieces are baked fresh with authentic ingredients. For the matcha lover, the newly introduced matcha-flavoured dessert, Ya Baum is the perfect treat. Guests can visit the brand’s several locations across Dubai including Mirdif Hills, Dubai Frame, Al Seef Village Mall, Motor City, Al Ferdous Dubai and The Dubai Mall.
    For more information visit yamanoteatelier.com
    Bageri Form

    Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal café was elevating bakery classics and serving dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, the bakery also serves freshly sourced matcha in minimal cups for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagrammable-worthy. For all the matcha fans, the restaurant has recently added the matcha tartine with matcha butter and biscuit crumb. It’s located in Dubai Design District, Building 4.
    For more information visit bageriform.com
    Soo Matcha

    As UAE’s all Matcha-inspired café, visitors are sure to have the whole matcha experience. After first launching in early 2020, this hotspot comes with all things matcha. By experimenting with different flavours and constantly tailoring their menu, the brand even has its own matcha-flavoured ice cream that’s irresistible and must-try.
    For more information visit soomatcha.com
    More Matcha

    Located in DIFC, this new hotspot will have matcha lovers hooked, as it cater to all their craving. Besides the regular matcha drink and coffee, you can also enjoy matcha éclairs, donuts or soft serve. The decor and the aesthetic completely elevates the vibe of the place in a complementary pastel green palette, giving it a fresh facelift.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @beauty_snob More

  • in

    Technogym unveils innovative dumbbells for chic at-home strength trainings

    Life

    8 seconds ago

    Premiere fitness brand Technogym launches innovative weights of 12 sets of connected dumbbells packaged into one.
    The go-to brand for champions and training enthusiasts, founded by Nerio Alessandri, continue lead the game with a game-changing product that makes workouts even more seamless and intuitive. Built-in with a sensor, the smart technology customises your workout allowing you to adjust the weight (ranging from 2 to 24 kg, in increments of 2 kg) based on your training needs, analyze every movement and track performance for maximum results. The data collected through the Technogym AI Coach help you choose the exercise and weight and access a training experience tailored to you through the Technogym App.

    In true Technogym style, the design boasts of a sleek, minimal, and a elegant appearance. Its ergonomic and compact and includes a stand with an exercise mat, a foam roller, three loop bands, that allows you to easily store everything away after completing a workout.
    Founded in 1983, Technogym is a leading global brand in the fitness, wellness, sport and health sector. Technogym offers a complete ecosystem of connected smart equipment, digital services, training content and apps, giving every single user the chance to access a fully customised workout experience, anytime, anywhere: at home, at the gym and on the go.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    Dubai’s most elegant Jazz venues to unwind in style

    Life

    14 mins ago

    With International Jazz Day, celebrated on April 30th, Dubai has a myriad of Jazz spots in Dubai to celebrate the occasion.
    After a long week at work, a sophisticated evening with jazz is one of the best ways to wind down.
    Having been around for years, jazz has become a staple in our lives with its soulful sounds of classics in an opulent setting. As we delve into the world of pure musical bliss in Dubai, knowing how it all began, sheds light on how these hotspots focus on authenticity.
    The History
    Jazz began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, primarily in the culturally diverse city of New Orleans, Louisiana. It emerged from a blend of African American musical traditions with European influences, creating a new, vibrant style of music.
    During Prohibition, from the 1920s’ jazz thrived in illegal speakeasies where people came to drink, dance, and listen to live performances.
    Early on it began as a hybrid of African rhythms, European harmonies, and American culture. However, it quickly became a vehicle for self-expression, improvisation, and artistic innovation. It spread from New Orleans to the world, evolving into a rich and diverse genre with numerous subgenres and global influence.
    Overall, Dubai has a lively scene with a mix of upscale venues and intimate settings. The emirate boasts a vibrant jazz scene, offering a variety of venues where you can enjoy live performances in stylish settings. Here are some top jazz bars and lounges in the city:​
    Here are some popular spots to enjoy live jazz in Dubai:
    Q’s Bar and Lounge

    Located at Palazzo Versace, the space offers an intimate venue created by legendary music producer Quincy Jones. The atmosphere is luxurious and chic, offering performances by world-class musicians. It ensured the perfect blend of great music, fantastic cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.
    For more information visit Q’s Bar and Lounge
    Jass Lounge

    First of all, the bar is just how a Jazz Club should be, dark and sultry but with a large sprinkling of DIFC with its first-class cocktail experience. All you need to do is sit back and be entertained by the fantastic selection of musicians that they have on their roster. It’s a place where art attracts art and often fellow musicians who frequent the venue as spectators can’t help themselves but join the fun and contribute to the show, adding to the eclectic atmosphere of the venue. It’s open daily from 6pm until late in DIFC Gate District 2.
    For more information visit Jass Lounge
    Sola Jazz Lounge

    Experience an evening of live jazz at the award-winning SOLA Jazz Lounge, taking guests on an authentic one-of-a-kind journey. Romanticize your evening and immerse in the world of Jazz to go back in time to a vintage era. Here guests are immediately engulfed with thrilling music by world-renowned jazz artists, bands, and hotly-tipped rising stars, accompanied by a wide selection of cocktails and perfect end to the evening. With each programme designed by the team’s designated music curator, this evening is not one to miss out on. Located at Raffles The Palm, it’s open from 5pm to 3am.
    For more information visit raffles.com
    Nola Eatery & Social House
    This New Orleans-inspired venue offers Southern American cuisine alongside live jazz music. It’s a casual and lively place with a focus on laid-back jazz vibes. Located in JLT, NOLA revolves around music and evolves throughout the day to create an immersive ambience from day into the late night. Delivering a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz and complimentary genres. Guests can expect live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ.
    For more information visit Nola Eatery & Social House
    BOCA
    A stylish Mediterranean restaurant in the DIFC that occasionally hosts jazz nights. The ambiance is elegant, and the jazz complements the fine dining experience.
    For more information visit Boca.
    The Fridge

    As a hub for independent musicians and live performances. The Fridge often hosts jazz events in its artistic warehouse space.Located in Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz. If you’re looking for a more underground, artistic vibe in Dubai’s arts district, this is the space to be.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

  • in

    12 fine dining restaurants that define Riyadh’s vibrant culinary scene

    Life

    56 seconds ago

    Saudi Arabia’s dining scene has evolved into a global culinary destination, boasting everything from Michelin-starred imports to homegrown gastronomic gems. These luxurious fine dining Riyadh establishments offer not just exceptional food, but unforgettable experiences that rival the world’s best dining capitals.
    Swipe through to mark your favorites for your next Riyadh trip

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

  • in

    10 luxurious UAE staycations that feel like a world away

    Life

    48 mins ago

    From gliding through silent mangrove forests by private boat to waking in a Santorini-inspired villa suspended above turquoise waters, the UAE’s most exceptional staycations transform ordinary weekends into extraordinary escapes.
    Whether you crave the romance of a desert fort under star-filled skies, the thrill of an overwater retreat where flamingos skim the waves, or the serenity of a palm-fringed lagoon, these addresses deliver singular experiences—all just a short journey from home.
    Below, we unveil 10 of the most extraordinary boutique staycation spots across the emirates, each a masterpiece of design, service, and location, proving beyond doubt that sometimes the most remarkable journeys are the shortest.
    Here are our favorite staycation spots in the UAE

    In a country that redefines luxury at every turn, these exceptional escapes prove the UAE does staycations better than anywhere else. Whether you seek avant-garde design, untouched nature, or pure indulgence, your perfect staycation awaits—no passport required.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied More

  • in

    National Matcha Day: 14 of the best matcha spots in Dubai

    Obsessed with matcha? Us too. As the health benefits outweigh everything, let us look at some of the best Dubai Matcha cafés to visit this National Matcha Day.
    Known for its host of health benefits, matcha is best for both its energising and detoxifying properties. This highly sought-after drink is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which help fight inflammation and support heart health. It provides a steady energy boost without the jitters of coffee, thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. Matcha also supports metabolism, aiding in weight management, and may enhance brain function, improving memory and concentration.
    When is National Matcha Day?
    National Matcha Day is celebrated annually on May 2. Established in 2021 by Jade Leaf Matcha, this day honors the rich history and cultural significance of matcha, a finely ground green tea powder integral to Japanese tea ceremonies and culinary traditions. Overall, this period is considered optimal for harvesting tea leaves, as they are believed to yield the highest quality matcha. By choosing this date, National Matcha Day pays homage to the generations of tea farmers and the cultural heritage of matcha production​
    So, if you’re looking to skip coffees and adapt to a natural source of caffeine, Dubai offers an array of chlorophyll-infused beverages that we simply can’t resist.
    AVANTCHA Tea Bar

    The pioneering avant-garde tea beverage now has a first-of-its-kind flagship destination in Dubai. This launch marks the beginning of a new era for tea enthusiasts, offering an immersive sensory experience that transforms tea into a lifestyle. Additionally, loyal Matcha enthusiasts can benefit from the Matcha Latte Loyalty Card, which rewards customers with a free Matcha Latte after every ten purchases. The AVANTCHA Tea Bar is more than a place to drink tea — it’s a destination to experience tea’s artistry, culture, and future—a world where every sip tells a story. With a myriad of matcha creations, guests are completely spoiled for choice.
    For more information visit avantcha.com
    Backyard

    ​Backyard is a popular café in Dubai known for its authentic matcha offerings. They use the finest organic matcha sourced directly from Japan to ensure a genuine experience. Their matcha menu includes unique beverages like the Matcha Cloud, Pink Cloud Matcha, Mermaid Matcha, and Military Matcha, with prices ranging from Dhs30 to Dhs38. For a sweet treat, they offer a Matcha and White Chocolate Cookie priced at Dhs9. Backyard has multiple locations across Dubai, including Meydan South and Umm Suqeim 2, and offers delivery services through platforms like Deliveroo and Talabat. ​
    For more information visit bckyrd.ae
    The Matcha Tokyo

    The Matcha Tokyo, located at The Beach, JBR in Dubai, is an authentic Japanese matcha café offering 100% organic matcha sourced from Uji, Kyoto. With a minimalist design, it provides a serene space for matcha lovers to enjoy drinks like iced and frozen matcha lattes, along with treats like matcha brownies. The café also sells retail matcha products for home brewing. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, The Matcha Tokyo brings an elevated tea experience to Dubai, making it a must-visit for matcha enthusiasts
    Peaq Wellness

    Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from.
    Nette, Inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz. Open daily 8am to 10pm.  matcha-club.ae
    Bageri Form

    Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal café was elevating bakery classics and serving dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, the bakery also serves freshly sourced matcha in minimal cups for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagrammable-worthy.
    Bageri Form, Dubai Design District, Building 4. Open Monday to Thursday 7:30am to 8pm, Friday to Sunday 8:30am to 10pm. bageriform.com. 
    LDC Kitchen + Coffee

    For an enticing spot to dine with your friends, this restaurant is an ideal smart working space that brings a healthy twist to all its culinary delights. Without limiting the menu to coffees and smoothies, this delightful place offers both iced and hot matcha’s in an inviting atmosphere.
    LDC Ktichen + Coffee, One JLT, One Business Centre DMCC. Open daily 7am to 1am.
    The Grey

    Known for its minimalist décor and creative space, this café is designed as a venue where creative minds can meet. With a twist to your usual matcha, the café serves a coconut-infused iced matcha latte that comes with boba, making it a speciality.
    The Grey, Al Wasl, Al Safa 1, open from Sunday to Thursday 7:30am to 11pm, Friday & Saturday 8am to 12pm. the-grey.co. 
    Flow Kitchen

    This healthy eating creative hub serves a plethora of conscious eating meals and drinks including vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options. With ethically sourced ingredients from around the globe, this café serves vegan matcha lattes, ensuring every customer’s need is met.
    Flow and Jumeirah Emirates Towers.  flowdubai.com
    % Arabica

    Designed to embody a strong Japanese aesthetic, this café expands beyond the world of coffee. With a futuristic touch to serving beverages, this haven becomes the perfect go-to spot for unwinding after a long day or a mid-day break. With latte art, this deliciously offered matcha is sure to boost your energy levels.
    % Arabica, Mall of the Emirates, City Walk, Dubai Mall and many more. arabica.coffee
    Blu Matcha

    blu matcha has become a matcha haven for those seeking moments of blissful relaxation and a taste of pure matcha magic. As Matcha Pioneers in the bustling city of Dubai, curating the finest quality Japanese matcha to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your soul.
    For more information visit blumatchacafe.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @aatras More

  • in

    7 empowering female Saudi artists you need to know about

    Life

    33 mins ago

    With a budding art culture sweeping the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there are several noteworthy Saudi artists who have made an impact in the creative industry.
    From paintings to installations displayed at various exhibitions, these artists are part of the Kingdom’s urban landscape as important messages are conveyed through each piece created.
    Manal AlDowayan

    From capturing highly skilled women working in her highly acclaimed I Am series (2005) to recording fatal accidents involving women school teachers, Manal Al Dowayan highlights unjust social customs through her pieces while also offering channels for women in the Kingdom through her workshops. By addressing her plea of change through her works of art, Manal has also participated in exhibitions regionally at renowned institutions such as the Sharjah Art Foundation.
    To find out more details about her work visit manaldowayan.com
    Huda Beydoun

    The Saudi artist and photographer began her career by teaching children with autism and then eventually ventured into her passion for photography. Capturing the images of the lives of illegal immigrants in Saudi Arabia, her work was published in a series entitled Documenting The Undocumented. After honing her craft, Huda has also started her own agency.
    Mawadah Muhtasib

    Jeddah-based artist Mawdah Muhtasib has always been passionate about art since an early age and has been celebrated for her distinguished paintings across the globe. she also created the first-ever Arabic Calligraffiti typeface that is a combination of Calligraffiti paintings and mirrored Arabic letters. Madwash’s Calligraffiti is a beautiful decorative contemporary Arabic handwritten typeface that is exclusively and exceptionally written from left to right. It is a celebration of a merge of two eras, the legacy of Arabic Calligraphy and the progressiveness of graffiti Art.
    To find out more details about her work visit mawadahmuhtasib.com
    Noura Bouzo

    While not only co-founding the first Arts and Culture magazine in Saudi Arabia and becoming its creative director, Noura is a full-time artist who presents her work at various exhibitions. Known for her most recent exhibition ‘A Miniature (Af)fair, Noura’s works largely cast light on modern Saudi society, making her one of the most playful artists of her time.
    To find out more details about her work visit nourabouzo.com
    Raeda Ashour

    Specializing in miniatures, motifs and Islamic decorative units, Raeda Ashour uses her strong visual sense to incorporate elements inspired by the old Arabian cities with its famous architectural and aesthetic features, as she closely delves into the subject through her practice. By honing her own style through her background, Raeda is highly respected in the art realm for her impactful work.
    For more information visit raedaashour.com
    Sarah Al-Abdali

    Emerging as one of the kingdom’s first street artists, Sarah’s work explores Arab culture and Islamic philosophy in every realm through innovative sources of demonstration such as illustration, painting, ceramics, woodwork, drawing and painting. With her deep appreciation for the land and heritage of her home, Abdali experiments with traditional crafts of the Islamic world as seen in exhibitions around the country.
    To find more details about her work visit sarahalabdali.com
    Lulwah Al-Homoud

    Known as a pioneer in the art industry in Saudi Arabia, Lulwah Al Homoud explores the world of calligraphy and Islamic philosophy carefully through her work. Having published books organizing exhibitions and promoting cross-cultural research, Al Homoud presents a fluid movement through her work which represents both simpleness and complexity, as each piece is balanced.
    To find out more details of her work visit lulwahalhomoud.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lulwah_al_homoud More

  • in

    Weekend Files: Find out what the Emirates Woman team is doing this weekend

    Life

    34 seconds ago

    The weekend in Dubai is a sacred time to unwind, recharge, and indulge in the little joys that make life sweeter – whether it’s savoring a comforting meal by the water, catching up on the latest binge-worthy series, or treating yourself to a much-needed beauty refresh.
    For the Emirates Woman team, these precious days off are all about balancing relaxation with self-care, good food, and personal rituals that leave us feeling polished and inspired for the week ahead. From lash tints that elevate a no-makeup look to nourishing hair treatments in serene salons to lo, here’s a glimpse into how we’re spending our downtime – along with the beauty picks we swear by for that effortless glow.
    Amy Sessions – Publisher/Editor

    My weekends are usually reserved for personal development, so I love to listen to podcasts and read. I’m currently reading How to Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell which is great. I’ll also be visiting BROWZ for lash tint, I prefer to keep things minimal beauty wise so this is great so you still feel polished without make-up.
    Restaurant pick: Kokoro is my new favorite, a toro handroll is a weekend must!
    Check the place out here.
    Camille Macawili – Fashion Editor

    I’m treating my hair to a well-deserved nourishing treatment at Twice Salon this weekend. It’s a two-floor salon in Downtown Boulevard with chic interiors and minimalistic colour palette that’s just entices you to relax – can’t wait!
    Skincare Pick:  I have recently added this tinted moisturizer from Hourglass in my makeup kit. It goes on very light on the skin for that no-makeup makeup look, gives you a subtle sheen, and does not break me out – a winner!
    Check it out here.
    Sarah Joseph – Digital Style Editor
    This weekend, I’ll be working on my fitness routine and going for a Pilates Studio at The LOB and then trying the new Japanese restaurant Kiyoshi at Dubai Creek Harbour.

    Beauty picks: I enjoy the Summer Friday’s ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen, check it out here. I also love the Kosas concealer from Sephora – it’s super easy to use and light to carry around especially when I’m on the go.
    Aminath Ifasa – Senior Reporter

    This weekend, I’ll be dining at my comfort food place Wokyo in Al Seef with delicious ramen and beautiful views of the Dubai creek with boats passing by, and catch up on the newly released series You.
    Beauty Pick: My go-to lipstick is the Isabel rosewood lipstick from Gucci, which gives a natural flush of color to my lips.
    Check it out here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied More