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    It’s time to prepare for deep transformation amid Mercury Retrograde

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 hour ago

    Words by Kirstyn Lewis – Founder of The Karmic Soul
    Let’s once again pay attention to some big changes that are around us all as we are in the middle of not only a Mercury Retrograde cycle but also in the middle of an Eclipse series.
    The Universe asks you to focus on your thoughts, feelings, and conversations around your future. The lunar Eclipse on 5 May forces you to let go of what is no longer useful around topics in your Scorpio house.
    During Mercury Retrograde, the stars see intolerant, vengeful or secretive conversations with friends, groups, and companies. If you feel your current situation is not right, it’s not. It could signal a ‘no going back’ energy around what is said. You will soon be ready to move forward with things you have always wanted to do and, excitingly, with a better team around you. Have you already started talking about a different future? Being true to your spiritual self and your journey will be important.
    Remember, mighty Pluto has moved into Aquarius, where he intends to stay until January 2044. However, this small but powerful misfit still needs to do something in Capricorn. On 12 June, he will saunter back to try to finish a chapter in your life that kept you inhibited, stuck, or plodding along. This is the time to tie up any loose ends relating to long-term commitments, especially if you don’t want a ball and chain around your ankle. Do it before Pluto stations back into Aquarius on 22 January 2024. If the risk-averse miss this opportunity, they will have one last chance in September 2023, waiting until November 2024 to taste freedom. Do you want to be ahead of the pack or fight for a position?

    Pluto insists you move into a new way of thinking, so he has given you a sneak peek of his abstract, compulsive influences that will affect you for the next 20 years. Pluto always represents the end of an era. The curtain is coming down on a significant part of your life over the next 18 months.
    Obsessive and addictive Pluto ultimately pushes you into uncomfortable situations. Look at the house topics Pluto rules for you in your natal chart. Don’t forget to check Pluto’s natural ruling position in the chart, the 8th House of sex, death, other people’s money, addictions, secrets, tax, government, and your partner’s finances. They all point to deeply transformative and hidden messages that shape the quality of our life. What are the themes you will need to contend with? This is the time to prepare for the inevitable so that you can buffer any shock. Remember, life determines your character when things aren’t going well.
    Pluto’s reforming and destroying urges shake up the status quo. It will be heartening to know that if anyone close to you passes, they will ‘return’ to lend a helping hand to guide you through any difficulties. Be assured that you will be very spiritually aware of their presence.
    Although doubling down on the painfully slow-moving and highly regulated Pluto-Capricorn energy, the Pluto-Aquarius transit represents progress and independence, suggesting you may be more ‘in it alone’ than you imagine. We have prepared you with ample guidance for this reason.
    Reflect upon the past six weeks. What events or thought processes changed that led you in a new direction? Since Mercury Retrograded on 21 April, you have been making serious decisions with respect to your future. Saturn will station retrograde in Pisces in mid-June, giving you extra time to toil for your dreams by giving you more time to consider the structure around what is still not clear.
    It may seem an age away, but 2025 is when you feel you are finally moving forward, know the Capricorn lessons that haunted you are finished, and for the next 30 years, you will embark on the next significant cycle that defines your legacy.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @sarashakeel More

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    4 plush locations to witness and celebrate King Charles III’s Coronation from Dubai

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    The big day for British monarchy is just around the corner. King Charles III is all set to take the throne, as the official coronation will be held on May 6 and 7, 2023 at London’s Westminster Abbey.
    To commemorate his journey as the new King, celebrations will continue to take place across the weekend. While fans of the monarchy within the country will fill up the streets of the United kingdom in joy — back in Dubai, if you wish to watch the iconic moment live and celebrate along, here are a few places you can visit.
    Speakeasy Dubai

    The classic neighborhood lounge in the heart of JBR will be hosting the live screening of the coronation of King Charles III across the weekend on Saturday May 6 and Sunday May 7. To be a part, head to Speakeasy and enjoy the screening on massive indoor and outdoor screens while relishing the All Day Royal Breakfast, Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie.
    Venue: Speakeasy Dubai, Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach
    Date: Saturday and Sunday, 6th and 7th of May, 2023
    Timings: 1:00 pm onwards
    Price: Various deals and offers
    Reservation Details: +971 4 439 8881 or visit www.speakeasydubai.com
    QE2 Dubai

    For an authentic feel of the actual celebration, spend the evening at the QE2 Hotel, attending the King’s Coronation Charity Gala Ball. In the UK, the King has urged people to make the most of the public holiday and participate in “THE BIG HELP OUT” – where people will volunteer to help all sorts of charities and community projects. Following a similar sentiment, this gala is origanised to provide aid for initiatives like Gulf For Good and Larchfield Children’s Home, Tanzania. 
    The event line up includes a Royal Marines Corps of Drums, a Royal Marines Piper, a brilliant string duo, a DJ to encourage you to the dancefloor and Dubai Eye’s own Tom Urquhart will be your host for the evening. Along with these fun activities, for every place booked at ball, the organising committee will be donating Dhs50 to the charities. There will also be Raffle prizes and an auction held on the same evening.
    Date: Friday 5th May 2023
    Time: 7:30 pm onwards 
    Price: Dhs750
    Venue: Queen’s Room, QE2 Hotel, Port Rashid
    Dress code: Black tie, Formal or National Dress
    Age Policy: 21 years+
    Reservation Details: visit theatrebyqe2.com
    At.mosphere Dubai
    Situated at the level 122 of the mighty Burj Khalifa, this restaurant is inviting everyone to enjoy the screening of the coronation with a perfect-for-the-occasion afternoon tea deal. To make it even more fun, the high-end eastery is also offering an English sparkling beverage package.

    Date: Saturday 6th May 2023
    Time: 6pm-11pm
    Price: Dh350
    Venue: Atmosphere Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
    Reservation Details: 04 888 3828
    Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

    The newest hot spot at the recently opened Atlanis The Royal is offering a five-course tasting menu, influenced by the dishes served at Britain’s previous coronations. The menu will include nostalgic gastronomical items from the coronation of the previous monarchy like that of British King Henry V in 1413 and George IV in 1821.
    From a rendition of the chicken tart that was served at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 to the exquisite beef royale — the unmissable meal pays the perfect homage to the British Royal family.
    Date: May 5th  to May 14th
    Time: 12.30pm-3.30pm
    Price: Dhs1,250 per person
    Venue: Atlantis The Royal, The Palm Jumeirah
    Reservation Details: 04 426 2444
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    Lacoste unveils a special collection inspired by 8 Netflix shows

    Fashion

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Combining fashion and entertainment together, the Lacoste X Netflix collaboration is a unique moment in pop culture.
    Celebrating some of Netflix’s most beloved shows like Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Lupin, Money Heist, The Witcher, Sex Education, Shadow & Bone and Elite — the fashion label unveiled a line of clothing inspired by these fan-favourite series.
    From whether polos, sweatshirts and tracksuits — everything has been reimagined from the Upside Down to Las Encinas high school with the signature crocodile being a constant element.
    “We are delighted with this collaboration which has resulted in a unique encounter between our two worlds and two global references of creativity and innovation, both with anunparalleled power to bring together communities from all walks of life. The collection born from our collaboration is the embodiment of this powerful encounter, of our respective codes, influences and know-how,” shared Catherine Spindler, Lacoste Deputy CEO.
    “We think products can be a powerful medium for storytelling and partnering with Lacoste presents a unique opportunity to blend the worlds of fashion and entertainment, expressed Josh Simon, VP, Consumer Products, Netflix. “This collection is a compelling and creative way for fans to express their love for our stories and characters.”

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

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    UAE Green Visa: Here’s how freelancers and skilled workers can get 5-year residency

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    If you want to move to UAE without being tied to an employer, the UAE Green visa is tailor-made for you.
    UAE’s Green visa allows its holder to sponsor themselves for 5 years without the requirement of a UAE national or employer to do the same.
    As per Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO), the vision behind this new visa is to make the job market more felxible and invite extraordinary talent from across the globe to UAE. It comes with  not just a long-term residency solution but also serves more benefits to the families of the visa holder, as opposed to those with a standard residence visa.

    Who is eligible for this visa?
    Freelancers, self-employed and skilled employees can apply for a Green visa.
    Benefits of the Green Visa
    Removes  the need for employment to reside in the UAE.
    Allows sponsorship for sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters of any age.
    The Green Visa also offers an extended grace period of six months after the 5-year validity is over.
    Application criterias for freelancers and/or self-employed people
    Freelancers and/or self-employed need to submit a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources.
    Emiratisation proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma.
    Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to not less than AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
    Application criterias for Skilled employees
    Must have a valid employment contract.
    Should be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per Ministry of Human Resources.
    Hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
    Have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
    Application criteria for investors
    Approval from the ICP on the investment as per the investors’ rating system.
    Investment proof, if the investor/partner has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated accordingly.
    Approval from competent local authorities.
    Green Visa process and cost
    Visit www.gdrfad.gov.ae or download the GDRFA-Dubai application.
    Create a new user account.
    Select the required service – Issuance of entry permit for green residence under Entry Permissions
    Click on the relevant subcategory: Skilled worker, investor, partner or freelance work
    Attach the required documents
    Pay the fees due for the service (Dhs2,280)
    Submit the request
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Instagram More

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    Eid Al Adha 2023: UAE residents to potentially have a six-day long weekend

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    42 mins ago

    Dealing with holiday blues after the Eid Al-Fitr weekend? Fret not, the next long break is just around the corner.
    According to UAE’s official calendar of public holidays, the next potential holiday will fall on the Day of Arafah and Eid Al Adha. As per the Islamic calendar, it will fall between Zul Hijjah 9 to 12, resulting in a four-day long break. But since these dates are chalked right before the weekend, residents of UAE might just enjoy a hefty break of six days.
    Based on Astronomy expert Ibrahim Al Jarwan’s video, the Islamic month of Zul Hijjah will begin on Monday, June 19. Which means, Eid Al Adha will most likely be on Wednesday, June 28. The Day of Arafah falls a day prior and will be potentially observed on Tuesday, June 27.
    Keeping all the significant dates in mind, the Eid Al Adha break in UAE might begin from Tuesday, June 27  to Friday, June 30 — the weekend addition will extend the holiday by two extra days.
    Although, just like every other Islamic holiday, the confirmation of this depends on the moon-sighting.
    Now that you have a head start, plan your next vacation accordingly. To make the rest of your year hassle-free here is the complete list of remaining holidays for the year 2023.
    Arafat Day: June 27Eid al Adha: June 28, 29, 30Islamic New Year: July 19The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday: September 27Commemoration Day: December 1National Day: December 2, 3
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Instagram More

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    Zendaya takes over Coachella as a surprise performer

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Zendaya is not a jack of all trades, she is pretty much a master of everything she does. Case in point: The Euphoria star joined artist Labrinth on stage as they performed popoular tracks from the show at the Coachella music festival.
    The Emmy-winning actor, who is also a singer, hasn’t performed live for almost six years. This was until she broke the internet over the weekend, by singing not just one but two tracks (All For Us andI’m Tired) from the crowd-favourite HBO show.

    “Thank you all for welcoming me back on that stage with open arms. It’s been a very long time, so I appreciate it. I have never heard screaming like that in my entire life. As soon as I turned the corner, I couldn’t hear anything.” The Dune star acknowledged her fans and their heartfelt response to her performance in a series of Instagram stories. She also thanked Labrinth for making this iconic moment happen in the eleventh hour. “Thank you to Lab for inviting me and making all this happen so last minute.”
    Fun fact: Zendaya isn’t just the soul of Euphoria as Rue, but she also plays a poignant part in making the music for this infamous series. Apart from originally singing All For Us, she has also co-written Still Don’t Know My Name, alongside Labrinth and Muzhda Zemar-McKenzie.
    Taking a 360° pivot from her style on the show, Zendaya wore a flirty pink mini dress on a white tank top and clubbed it with a pair of thigh-high boots.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images:Instagram  More

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    8 incredible women share what small things elevate their own lives

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Words by Sarah Joseph & Camille Macawaili 
    We ask some of the most incredible women we know, what small things elevate their own lives and how they uplift all the women they’re surrounded with.

    Zoya SakrFounder of The Flower Society

    What small things elevate your life?
    Spending time with my family and friends elevates my life morally and emotionally, listening to my kids, advising them, discussing my worries, my plans, and things that give me drive in life and taking the opinions of my loved ones elevates me.
    How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
    I love taking care of my family, making my mom happy means the world to me, we just came back from an escape in the Maldives for her 80th birthday, and spending full days with my family brings joy to everyone. Being there for family, colleagues and friends elevate their lives, time is the most precious thing you can offer them.
    Amna Mohammad KarmostajiFashion designer & founder of Elna Line

    What small things elevate your life?
    Every morning, I make it a priority to start my day with a fresh and optimistic mindset. I believe in clearing my mind of negative thoughts and accepting what I cannot change and so my social circle consists of individuals who bring positivity, happiness, and joy into my life. I am a firm believer in setting personal and professional goals, and I find immense pleasure and satisfaction in achieving them. I am also a believer in constant growth and development, both mentally and physically, and I strive to learn new skills and acquire knowledge by surrounding myself with individuals who have similar aspirations and goals. Doing so motivates me and offers fresh perspectives and inspiration. It is a fantastic way to grow and share ideas with like-minded individuals. In my free time, I engage in activities that bring me pure joy, such as practicing yoga, going on beach trips, spending girls’ nights with my closest friends, and exploring new places.
    How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
    I always strive to maintain a positive outlook, as I believe that positivity is infectious. Leading by example is also a principle that I adhere to and make a point of keeping my promises and showing that I am committed through my actions. This builds a strong foundation of trust and loyalty, which is crucial when building and maintaining relationships. My loved ones know that they can always count on me, no matter how trivial their problems may seem as having a support system is essential. While it’s easy to celebrate success, true friends are the ones who stand by you during your lows and lift you up when you’re feeling- ing down. Small acts of kindness can go a long way, and I try to make it a habit to give compliments to my colleagues, peers, and friends as little reminders of their worth. As part of the Elnaline brand, we have always been involved in social causes to uplift and support women. I feel privileged to be in a position to positively impact the lives of those around me through small gestures. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s the little thoughtful things that people remember and appreciate the most.
    Nayla Al KhajaFirst Female Film Writer, Director and Producer in the UAE

    What small things elevate your life?
    Welcoming my children with open arms every day after school invigorates my life with joy and purpose. Strolling through our lovely neighbourhood in the morning while chatting with my dear brother uplifts my spirits and sets a positive tone for the day. Receiving an unexpected “I love you” message from my beloved husband fills my soul with an elevated sense of love and contentment.
    How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
    My mission is to uplift and inspire those in my circle by sparking innovative ideas and collaborating to bring them to fruition. Sharing delicious meals and performing small acts of kindness are just a few of the ways I seek to elevate those around me. However, I believe that the most powerful tool for elevating the human spirit is laughter, which has the ability to heal, connect, and transform lives.
    Nadine KansoFounder of Jewellery Brand Bil Arabi

    What small things elevate your life?
    I think what elevates my life is my need for human interaction. I love to socialise, meeting new people and learning about new things truly inspires me and allows me to foster my personal growth and development. I love to be surrounded by positive and loving energy. That, I believe really elevates life! Having a support system builds resilience. When we choose to surround ourselves with positive and loving people, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and potential. It all starts with the energy that we choose to bring into our lives. I thrive on what adds value to me and allows me to grow.
    How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
    In return, I elevate the lives of those around me by making sure to be there for them when they need me, always trying to offer all the love and support I have. Giving love and support to those around us is one of the most powerful ways to make a positive impact. When we take the time to show kindness and compassion to others, we not only elevate their lives but also enrich our own.
    Honayda SeradiFashion Designer

    What small things elevate your life?
    Any positive gesture elevates my life. And it is indeed the smallest things that elevate it. Like waking up to a shining sunrise, listening to music, dancing, seeing people happy, doing sports, and accepting life as it is! But also whatever nourishes my soul. I long for adventures, discovering new cultures and visiting heritage sites. Every trip brings inspiration and elevates my mind.
    How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
    From a philanthropist perspective, I thrive to always make an actual positive change in the lives of those in need. Whether through my activities with the children of AlOula NPO, or the craftswomen of Alwaleed Philanthropies. I believe myself to be lucky, to be able to impact other people’s lives positively through my brand, specifically women, as well as the young talents of the Kingdom who I accompany as a mentor through my role with the Saudi 100 brands programme and King Abdul Aziz University.
    Arwa AlKadiFashion Designer
    What small things elevate your life?
    A good cup of coffee in the morning, writing three things I’m grateful for everyday, exercising, focusing on my spirituality and spending quality time with family and friends. Working in a creative industry with like-minded people also really inspires me.
    How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
    My relationships are important to me, whether that’s family, friends or colleagues. I try to be there for the people around me, support them in what they need and lift them up.
    Sophie Bille BraheJewellery Designer

    What small things elevate your life?
    The colour of the sky, a walk with my dog, a drawing from my daughter. I try to remain sensitive to all the beautiful things surrounding me.
    How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
    Taking care of the people around me is the most important thing I can do. I want to be as present as I can for them. I try to see people where they are and meet them at that exact moment. It can be difficult, but it is so important. Time is so scarce, so giving your time to others is the best gift you can give. I try my best to be there for the ones I love, to gather them around the table to share as much as can be.

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

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    The Ned Doha redefines elevated luxury

    Lifestyle

    by Amy Sessions
    1 hour ago

    Founded in 2017, The Ned originated in London in the former Midland Bank headquarters, designed by Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens in 1924, and opened its second location, The Ned NoMad, in the renowned 1903 Johnston building in New York City in 2022.
    This third Ned location is set over five floors in the former site of the Ministry of Interior, overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Doha’s skyline, and features 90 bedrooms and suites, seven public restaurants, a pool and club lounge, a health club with spa, salon, and fitness centre, and a new 775sqm (8,350sq ft) event space for large-scale conferences, events, and receptions.
    “Five years after launching The Ned in London, we are excited to open in Doha. We are really excited to occupy one of the city’s most architecturally significant buildings, comprising of a hotel, multiple restaurants and its own private members’ club” said Gareth Banner, Group Managing Director, The Ned. “We look forward to providing our guests and members with a distinct experience, welcoming them to stay, connect, eat and have a good time.”
    The Stay
    Originally designed in the 1960s by Lebanese architect William Sednaoui, the unique brutalist style building has been redesigned by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin with interiors by Soho House Design. Since the property is one of the most historically important in the destination, all renovations and design touch points were implemented in line with Qatar’s noble mission to preserve, modernise, and repurpose its significant buildings.
    The Dining
    The Ned Doha offers seven restaurants open to all. Situated in the centre of the hotel, Cecconi’s serves Northern Italian classics from hand-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas to Venetian-inspired seafood dishes, with an open kitchen, and a centered, walk-aroundbar with high-back seating serving cocktailsand an international wine selection. Kaia serves Pan-Asian cuisine, with signature dishes from Southeast Asia and Hawaii including sushi, poke bowls, and mains slowcooked on a robata grill, served in a space with a marble-topped counter, jade-green cushioned seating, and bulbous chandeliers.
    The Wellness
    Situated on the top floor with panoramic views of the city is Ned’s Club Spa, offering members and hotel guests a menu of treatments using skincare brands such as Cowshed, as well as sauna, steam room, and traditional Hammam. The health club is also home to Ned’s Club Gym, a fitness and studio space with state-of-the-art equipment, a wide range of classes ranging from Zumba to kickboxing, and a separate, private gym space for women.

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