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      In Pics: Inside Rajwa Al Saif’s henna cermony

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      With the Jordanian Royal Wedding just a week away, celebrations have officially commenced. Last night, Queen Rania hosted a henna party for the bride-to-be Rajwa Al Saif.
      The henna ceremony looked like an intimate affair with the women of the family adoring the bride and showering her with their blessing.
      For last night’s celebrations, Rajwa wore a traditional white and gold dress by the Saudi-based designer Honayda Serafi. A long white silhouette with intricate gold embroidery detail around the waist and the bodice. Punctuating the ensemble perfectly was the diaphanous veil with similar embellishments that covered her hair.
      At first glance, the surface ornamentation may just seem simple and elegant, but the embellishments bear details that hold an emotional connection between the bride and the country she is marrying into. Elements like the Jordanian star, palm tree and the phrase, ‘I see you’ have been etched on the attire.
      “Inspired by the traditional Najdi dress known as Sahabi thoub, originating from the Najd region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the design bridges past and present staying true to Ms. Rajwa’s Khalid AlSaif’s roots and contemporary persona. The design features a fully handcrafted veil and dress, flourishing through 3-D ornaments with a mix of silk, metallic threads and traditional reed strings. 7 stars are exclusively present on the veil, symbolizing the 7-pointed Jordanian star,” shared designer Honayda Serafi.
      “The veil was accomplished in a record time of approximately 760 hours with a gathered team of experts, craftsmen and women, bringing to life 10 meters of fully handcrafted tulle for the occasion, a process that would generally take about 2,000 hours of work. While the dress was completed over 340 hours of dedicated work, from start to actual realization,” she further added.
      Queen Rania chose a powder blue gown with tone-on-tone embroidery for the occasion. Sharing her happiness with her ardent followers, the Queen of Jordan posted a number of images from the night, giving everyone a glimpse of the event.
      “No celebration would be complete without our Jordanian family. Celebrating our beautiful Rajwa today! #CelebratingAlHussein.” The carousel begins with a hug between the Queen and the to-be bride, leading to an emotional moment shared between Rajwa and her mother. In other imagery, you can also spot Queen Rania giving a toast, making the bride teary-eyed.
      Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan will be marrying Rajwa Al Saif of Saudi Arabia on June 1, 2023. The Royal Hashemite Court released a statement with details regarding the impending nuptials.

      “The wedding ceremony of HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein and Ms. Rajwa Khalid Al Saif will be at Zahran Palace then the wedding procession will move to Al Husseiniya Palace.” Further adding, “At Husseiniya Palace, a Dinner banquet will be held and there will be a closed reception and banquet for the media.”
      The couple got engaged last year in August at the to-be-bride’s paternal home in Saudi. Ever since the engagement, the couple have made multiple joint appearances in public, most recent being Princess Iman of Jordan’s wedding in March.
      Sneak-peek at Rajwa Al Saif’s henna cermony, along with intricate details of her henna ensemble.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied by Honayda Serafi & Instagram: Feature Image: @queenrania and @alhusseinjo More

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      Revealed: Dubai’s second Michelin Guide for 2023

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      With a tried and tested seal of approval on Dubai’s culinary scene, the highly anticipated Michelin Guide has officially presented its selection of restaurants for the emirate this year.
      Michelin-starred restaurants as well as its official Michelin Guide for the emirate have been awarded accordingly.
      In partnership with Dubai Tourism, an official announcement was made at a VIP event this morning with the former Emirates Man cover star and Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Tourism, Issam Kazim, and Gwendal Poullennec, International Director, Michelin Guides at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal.

      The stars are awarded only to eateries that are judged by Michelin Inspectors to be of a particularly high standard, and it’s unanimously respected by both chefs and gourmands around the world.
      “We never had any doubt about Dubai’s culinary potential, and this year this fascinating destination confirms its gastronomic appeal,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides.
      At the VIP event which took place at Atlantis The Royal, the 90 Michelin Guide restaurants were unveiled, as well as three Michelin Green Star Restaurants for sustainability and 17 Bib Gourmands. See the full list below.
      Two Michelin Star
      New: Tresind Studio• STAY by Yannick Alleno• Il Ristorante by Niko Romito
      One Michelin Star
      • New: Avatara• New: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal• New: Moonrise• Tasca by Jose Avillez• Ossiano• 11 Woodfire• Hōseki• Al Muntaha• Armani Ristorante• Torno Subito
      Michelin Green star for sustainable gastronomy
      • New: Boca• New: Teible• Lowe
      The Michelin Guide restaurants
      • New: 99 Sushi• New: Ariana’s Persian Kitchen• New: At.mosphere• New: Boca• New; Chic Nonna• New: City Social• New: Fouquet• New: French Riviera• New: Jaleo• New: Josette• New: Jun’s• New: L’Ovilo at Al Mahra• New La Mar• New: Mayabay• New: Milos• New: Mina Brasserie• New: Mott 32• New: Pierchic• News: RSVP• New: Rüya• New: Takahisa• Akira Back• Al Mandaloun• Al-Fanar• Amazonico• Avli by tashas• Bombay Bungalow• Carnival by Trèsind• CE LA VÌ• Celebrities by Mauro Colagreco• Cipriani• Clap• Coya• Demon Duck by Alvin Leung• GAIA• Hashi• Hell’s Kitchen• Hutong• Il Borro• Indego by Vineet• L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon• Little Miss India• LOWE• LPM Restaurant & Bar• Marea• Masti• Mimi Kakushi• Netsu by Ross Shonhan• Nobu• Pierre’s iT• Rhodes W1• Rockfish• Sea Fu• Shang Palace• Siraj• Sucre• Tan Cha• The Artisan• Trèsind• Zuma

      Bib Gourmand
      • New: 21 Grams• New: 3Fils• New: Amara• Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant• Bait Maryam• Brasserie• Boulud• Fi’Lia• Folly• Goldfish• Indya by Vineet• Kinoya• Ninive• Orfali Bros• REIF Japanese Kushiyaki• Shabestan• Teible
      For more details on the 2023 tables -to-book visit guide.michelin.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @dubai More

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      12 minimal décor pieces to spruce up your interiors

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      For a refined space, less is always more.
      Defined by clean lines, limited ornamentation, and a neutral colour scheme, a minimalist home ensures a timeless aesthetic all-year round.
      From consoles to coffee table books, each element plays a key role in ensuring that even small areas look larger with simple storage solutions to tackle your petite dwelling.
      So, if you’re looking to revamp your space, these 10 décor pieces can seamlessly incorporate a bit of simplicity into any home.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram Cb2 More

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      Revealed: Sheikha Mahra shares a sweet photo of her wedding ring

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Wedding bells are ringing for the UAE royals and a wedding ring is one of the key elements that deserves attention.
      The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Manna Al Maktoum revealed the official wedding ring on her Instagram story.
      Seen holding her husband’s hand, Sheikha Mahra’s adorable story was shared to her 190,000 fans on social media.

      With Royal wedding rings receiving attention over the years, this precious jewel looks ever so stunning with its glistening shine as Her Highness held his hand and tagged his account with a red heart on the image.
      Per an official statement released on Sheikha Mahra’s official Instagram account, the marriage contract called a Katb el-Kitab in Arabic, was signed back in April. The couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony together along with the families as the contract was signed together.

      When are the wedding celebrations?
      The Instagram account, Arabian Royal Agency reveal the date for the celebrations which is all set to take place this coming weekend. On Saturday, May 27, 2023, guests will gather to shower the newly wed couple with their blessings. Reportedly, the men’s reception will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre- Za’abeel Hall and further details are yet to be shared regarding where the bride’s reception will take place.
      So as congratulations are in order for the Royal couple, we’re yet to see other details regarding décor, outfits and the final location.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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      Looking for a luxe escape? A luxury stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa awaits you

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      Take one step closer to nature, at Dubai’s most sought-after unspoiled paradise.
      As the region’s first original lifestyle resort, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa promises an unforgettable experience with its secluded villa sanctuaries that are suited for families who want to create memorable experiences.
      With 15 one and two-bedroom beach villas with a private pool in total, guests can experience this oasis away. Each of which is accompanied by private swimming pools, a terrace, entertainment systems and individual parking spaces.

      Designed with pristine white, urban concrete with flashes of turquoise and walk-in rain showers, guests can celebrate for a special occasion or simply book a much-needed getaway for the family.
      As the perfect option for hosting, the living space has a long bar that runs along one wall along with a one-of-a-kind pool table, 24-hour private dining, Floor-to-ceiling windows, a large private pool, personalized Malin & Goetz bathroom amenities, an exclusive celebration system with Nikki Beach music and mood lighting along with and LCD TV, a surround sound with the latest bespoke entertainment system.

      Situated in the heart of Pearl Jumeira, this private haven promises a spectacular view over the Arabian Gulf with a private entrance that is strategically located between the beach club and the hotel.
      The resort’s beachfront location provides direct access to the sandy shores of the Arabian Gulf, allowing guests to relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful views. The resort also offers multiple swimming pools, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views, as well as cabanas and loungers for ultimate relaxation.
      So, to go back in time with its retro-chic rooms, this luxurious villa needs to be booked ASAP.
      For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com/
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Sheikha Mahra’s wedding celebration details revealed

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      Back in April, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum signed the marriage contract, and shared this news though their respective Instagram accounts.
      Last weekend, the Arabian Royal Agency, revealed more information about the royal couple’s impending wedding celebrations. In a function on May 27, invited guests will shower the bride and groom with their blessings. While the men’s reception will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre – Za’abeel Hall, no specific details about the bride’s reception have been shared.

      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in the March.

      On 5th April, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
      To break this auspicious news, the beloved couple posted a poem written by the groom’s father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum on their official Instagram accounts. The news have also been confirmed via the Arabian Royal Agency.

      Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum
      Here’s how the endearingly worded Arabic poem goes once translated to English. “There were joys on God’s day, books were written, and congratulations were exchanged from every home. Everyone is blessed with joy, and our night is as bright as day from the good news on the day of “Mana.” From the daughters of the wind and along the fringe is a “Mahra” in which there is fondness and estrangement.”
      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
      Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.
      While no official images or information about the ceremony has been revealed, we wish the royal couple a blessed future ahead!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied/Instagram More

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      Eid escape: 12 destinations with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

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      If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
      While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
      Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
      Georgia

      All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Armenia

      With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Azerbaijan

      Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
      Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Japan

      If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
      Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
      For the latest visa requirements visit here.
      Maldives

      For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Seychelles

      With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Nepal

      Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Serbia

      For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
      Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Indonesia

      With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
      Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Mauritius

      Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
      Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Sri Lanka

      All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Thailand

      All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
      Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @clairerose More

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      Emirates passengers can now enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity onboard

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      According to a recently made announcement, Emirates passengers in every class of travel can now enjoy free connectivity once they sign up to Emirates Skywards.
      Always at the forefront of development, this has resulted in an additional 30,000 Economy Class passengers connecting to complimentary onboard Wi-Fi every week.
      Till date, the high-end luxury airline has invested more than US$ 300 million dollars into onboard connectivity. This is a great news for all Emirates Skywards members in every class of travel, as everyone can now enjoy some form of free connectivity.
      Skywards members, whether Blue, Silver, Gold, or Platinum tier, travelling in any class, whether Economy, Premium Economy, Business or First Class will enjoy free app messaging. In addition to that, First Class Skywards members along with Silver, Gold and Platinum Skywards members travelling in Business Class will have unlimited access to free internet. This will allow them to not just spend some leisure time on the internet but also shop or work online while inflight. Platinum Skywards members have complimentary internet access in all classes.
      This new welcoming change has been very well recieved by the Emirates passangers. Today, the airline sees an average of 450,000 users per month. This represents a 30% increase of passenger use in 2023 versus the same period last year. Currently, almost 10% of all passengers are utilising the complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. On routes through the Americas, almost 20% of passengers connect to Wi-Fi onboard, and on European and Africa routes the usage is over 11% of all passengers.

      “Emirates has persistently worked with our service providers to optimise and improve the connectivity experience. In March we delivered about 55% more data per customer session compared to early 2022 despite the number of sessions increasing by 68% in the same period. We will continue to work to invest in upgrades and enhancements, and our A350 aircraft will arrive with the next generation of satellite connectivity already equipped,” shared Patrick Brannelly, SVP Retail, IFE & Connectivity.
      Emirates also announced that it will offer new high-speed, inflight broadband powered by Inmarsat’s GX Aviation, onboard 50 new Airbus A350 aircraft – scheduled to enter service in 2024.
      This new agreement will make passenger experience better with enhanced connectivity and greater global coverage, even on flights over the Arctic. The Airbus A350s will be the first Emirates aircraft to take advantage of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) satellite network, which powers the world’s first and only globally available broadband network, ensuring passengers can enjoy uninterrupted global connectivity, no matter their destination, including the North Pole.
      The advanced high-speed capabilities of the broadband will enable Emirates passengers to stay connected with family and friends, browse the internet, and enjoy social media, all from the comfort of their seat.
      Emirates also confirmed an investment of over US$ 350 million to equip a 50-strong fleet of A350s coming in 2024 with enhanced passenger connectivity via Thales’ AVANT Up system and Optiq – the first smart display in the industry to offer two Bluetooth connections, built-in Wi-Fi for passengers to pair multiple devices including phones, tablets, headphones or even game controllers, while supporting up to 60 watts USB-C to fast-charge personal devices.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: @emirates More