More stories

  • in

    This luxe concept store is a must-visit in Riyadh and the UAE

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Imagine a place where you can dine, shop and host events all under one roof.
    Enter Wabi Sabi, a concept store which first opened in Saudi Arabia’s capital in 2019. Since then, the Kingdom’s first vegan dining haven has expanded into a conscious community with a venue now in the UAE. By adopting a holistic approach, the concept draws inspiration from its name which translates into beauty in imperfection.
    To ensure wellness remains at the forefront, the Japanese concept caters to the health-loving community of the region. With a focus on luxury clothing items, art and essential oils, the experts have taken a 360-degree approach to create an all-rounded creative space.

    A host of ethical brands across fashion, beauty, health and more are available which reflect the space’s eco-initiatives. This includes IAmBetter which offers health and beauty products that believe in the power of plants, technology, and human empathy. Through natural supplements, oils, balms, tonics and elixirs, the products take care of everything from hair, skin, nails, immunity and gut health.
    For energy healing, Piedras brings a range of healing stones that focus on vibration, energy, and handmade ready-to-wear pieces handmade in Venezuela. For contemporary and genderless upcycled pieces, Salad offers a host of upcycled timeless keepsakes that stand the true test of time.
    As a wellness sanctuary for events, the team of chefs and experts can create a bespoke experience according to the requirements of each brand. For like-minded individuals to grow, the space ensures each visitor connects with the other in the retail and well-being arena.

    By thinking beyond the Kingdom, the concept eventually opened in Al Quoz in Dubai in 2021 and in Mirdif and Sharjah with further plans for expansion.
    For customers to embrace a new era of healthy living, Wabi Sabi has something for everyone who enters.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Instagram  More

  • in

    Elevate your travel experience with exclusive tips from The Points Guy

    Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, knows how to work the system when it comes to collecting and maximising reward points.

    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    When I’m at my house in Pennsylvania, I like to have a cup of cold brew coffee with almond milk to get me going and then I like to go out and say good morning to my horses. Their energy is the best way to start the day.

    What inspired you to launch ‘The Points Guy’?
    I’ve had a good understanding of how to maximise points and miles since I was a young child. When I started working in Corporate America, I realised I could start earning a lot of points for myself through work travel. In 2010, I started The Points Guy as a blog for fun, and never in a million years did I think it would grow to what it is today. I get great satisfaction out of helping people unlock the power of points and miles. It’s the best job in the world to help people explore this amazing earth.
    What’s the best way to get started when it comes to building points for an enthusiast?
    Sign up for hotel and airline loyalty programmes as most are free and a great way to earn points when you fly and stay at ho- tels. Second, credit cards are the biggest way to earn points from not only travelling but through everyday purchases. The best way to earn lots of points sustainably is to have a multifaceted approach – earn from travel, earn from everyday spending, and book smartly.

    What are the top 3 tips you can share to get started?
    My top three tips to get started are first, it’s important to get the right credit card that rewards you for what you spend the most on. Secondly, always shop through online shopping portals for extra miles and points and lastly leverage social media and travel platforms to find the best deals such as Scott’s Cheap Flights, The Points Guy and Google Flights.
    What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
    Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Some of my best trips have been to less popular destinations such as Israel and Rwanda which really open your eyes to amazing and different cultures, wildlife, and cuisines.
    What is the best thing you’ve been able to afford through the points you’ve collected?
    It’s been amazing to travel with my parents and take them on memorable trips. For example, we flew the Emirates A380 together and I made my mom take a shower to experience doing so at 40,000 feet in the sky. We also use points and miles to support an amazing nonprofit organisation called PeaceJam and visit their communities in Ghana, Liberia, South Africa and Guatemala. So, using points and miles to both giveback and travel with my parents has been my ultimate dream.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    UAE National Day 2022: 7 heritage sites to visit in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    59 mins ago

    After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several spots that mark its rich heritage.
    This year on December 2, 2022, the UAE will celebrate 51 years since its unification and there are many sites that display the nation’s history.
    As a homage to the UAE’s long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai.
    Coffee Museum

    Designed to pay homage to the UAE’s coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country’s heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture.
    For more information visit coffeemuseum.ae
    Etihad Museum

    Designed to highlight the nation’s history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE’s archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm.
    For more information visit etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae
    Old Souq

    This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai.
    Hatta Heritage Village

    Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai’s mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature’s beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE’s traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers’ inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway.
    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding

    Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood.
    For more information visit cultures.ae
    Arabian Tea House

    To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city’s past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.
    For more information visit arabianteahouse.com
    Dubai Museum

    To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch’s base and highlights the history of the UAE.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @abusaif4446 More

  • in

    12 fabulous things to do in Dubai (and Abu Dhabi) this weekend

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    4 hours ago

    Your ultimate guide to this weekend in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – November 18 to November 20, 2022.
    F1 in Abu Dhabi

    The F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is making its return for 2022 this weekend with the best in racecar driving set to descend upon the UAE capital. In tandem, there’s also plenty happening in the emirate including huge post-race concerts – Kendrick Lamar will be performing on Saturday night, while Def Leopard will take to the stage on Sunday.
    Brunch time

    Dine in style for brunch this weekend at Ongaku, the hidden bar within Clap. The popular nightlife hotspot comes alive in the day every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm. The luxe brunch includes a huge sushi station, prawn cocktail tower, fresh oyster section, dedicated ceviche station and more – and this is just the starters! For mains enjoy the black cod, pistachio crusted baby chicken and beef sando and an indulgent surprise courtesy of the chef, all served family-style with sides of grilled vegetables and wasabi mash. Prices for the brunch start at Dhs495.
    Dior arrives at Nammos

    A unique Dior pop-up store has recently opened its doors for the second year at Nammos in the Four Season Hotel in Dubai. The fascinating architectural installation of the pop-up unveils the latest Dior Cruise 2023 collection with an exclusive selection available only in Dubai.
    A picture of health

    Biolite, Dubai’s premier aesthetic clinic for over 15 years, has launched the region’s first Healthness Centre, offering a personalised and preventative approach to aesthetics, health, and longevity with the aim of optimizing the client’s overall health and ageing process. The concept is formed of carefully crafted health and wellness modalities supporting longevity, nutrition, and sleep, developed, and designed through years of research by the Biolite advisory board and founder, Mona Mirza. The new centre takes you on a health journey with a comprehensive consultation with an integrative medicine doctor, IFMCP certified. Unlike a typical GP visit, the examination starts with innovative preventative diagnostic testing and extensive health intake designed to accumulate as much information as possible. Genetic testing, tracking of functional biomarkers, microbiome analysis are just some of the tests clients do in the process. Visit their website for more details.
    Italian feast

    Enjoy a classic rituale Italiano at Fi’lia – the Aperitivo. Traditionally known as a way of ‘opening the palate’, guests can enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages paired with light bites from 4 to 6pm daily. The perfect way to relax and unwind, the Aperitivo is served in the lounge area adjacently located to Fi’lia and guests can expect Italian classics such as beef tartare, vitello tonnato and an antipasti platter amongst other culinary delights.
    Kick-off time

    World Cup fever is officially underway. Taking place in Qatar, the official kick-off takes place this Sunday, November 20. If you haven’t been able to snag yourself a ticket to the live action in Qatar, there’s plenty of places to watch here in Dubai. Take a look at our Emirates Man edit here.
    The Dubai Run

    This Sunday, November 20, the fourth edition of Dubai Run – one of the key highlights of Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) – will take place. Runners of all ages and fitness abilities are able to register and enjoy a once-a-year chance to run along Dubai’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Road with two routes to choose from: a 10km route and a 5km route. Register for the Dubai Run here.
    Escape to the desert

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE. Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future. With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts. To keep you in the know, we’ve rounded up some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter – click here to read the full edit.
    A fashion pop-up

    Homegrown fashion label Second Summer has teamed up with beachside hotspot Koko Bay to launch a month-long pop up La Sol Shop. KoKo Bay will play host to an immersive pop up with Second Summer’s consciously curated collection of seasonal lines made up of effortlessly cool pieces that will be retailed at the Bali inspired restaurant. Given that the cooler weather is finally here, it’s the perfect time to visit this seasonal pop-up.
    The Lion King comes to Abu Dhabi

    This weekend marks the first of The Lion King musical in Abu Dhabi after launching on November 16. The popular Broadway musical is being performed at the Etihad Arena until December 10 and you can book tickets here.
    Burger time

    Indulge this weekend on some succulent sliders from London Slide this weekend. Located at Bluewaters Island, the casual dining venue brings the “grace of essence” of London to the shores of Dubai. From sliders packed with shredded blue lobster to Wagyu beed with shaved truffle, this haven offers bite-sized eats with something on offer for everyone.
    Pick up the latest copy of Emirates Woman

    For November, we are proud to present The Collectors Issue. We are proud to have partnered with Louis Vuitton for our cover shoot – an incredibly fitting brand for the theme of this issue as their luggage is a multi-generational icon. We shot their CR23 collection with rising star and Saudi model Taleedah Tamer. In this issue, we share an incredible collection of stories, women and voices. For us, depth is a priority as without this there is no value. We champion collected wisdom, learnings and understanding as paramount in importance, as well as the aesthetic symbols which bring peace or sentiment. Pick up a copy in stores now or download the issue here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Nadya Hasan Instagram More

  • in

    UAE confirms public holiday dates for Commemoration Day and National Day

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    35 mins ago

    The UAE cabinet has confirmed the public holiday dates Commemoration Day and National Day this year.
    It was announced via state news agency WAM that the public holiday will commence on Thursday, December 1 and will be observed through to Saturday, December 3, with work set to resume on Monday, December 5.
    December 1 will mark Commemoration Day, which was previously known as Martyrs’ Day. The day is held in remembrance of those who served as members of the UAE armed forces and gave their lives to their country in service.

    #UAE Cabinet approves holidays of the Commemoration Day and the #UAENationalDay51 for 2022.#WamNews pic.twitter.com/Jl3FE47Xfp
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) November 17, 2022

    The following day, December 2, is UAE National Day which marks the unification of the seven emirates and the creation of the UAE as a nation. This year the UAE will celebrate its 51st National Day.
    While it is presumed both the public and private sectors will have the same number of days off to mark Commemoration Day and National Day, it remains to be confirmed by relevant authorities.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Instagram @dubai.uae.dxb More

  • in

    Where to buy your Christmas tree in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    55 mins ago

    The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching (six weeks and counting…).
    With that, now is the time to start thinking about decorations and the most important of them all… your tree.
    Luckily, there’s plenty of places in the UAE where you can buy the perfect tree to celebrate the festive season with your loved ones.
    Real Trees
    Ferns N Petals

    If you’re looking to decorate a real Christmas tree before Santa’s arrival Ferns N Petals has the ideal option – a five-foot tree coming complete with decorations. Priced at Dhs999, this option just made Christmas time a whole lot easier.
    To purchase visit fnp.ae
    Bloombox

    Grown in Billund Denmark, this Danish Nordman tree from Bloombox is approximately six to seven feet and priced at Dhs740.
    To purchase visit bloombox.ae
    ACE Hardware

    One of the most affordable options for a real Christmas tree is from Ace Hardware. Currently, the UAE-based store has ‘Fraser Fir Fresh’ Christmas trees available with prices starting at Dhs399.
    To purchase visit aceuae.com
    Kibsons

    The Nordmann Fir Christmas Trees are sourced from sustainable farms in Denmark. While being pet-friendly this 5ft tree has a classic shape with dark green glossy needles making it much more resilient to heat while giving off a fresh, clean, citrus smell too and is priced at Dhs245.
    Pre-order on kibsons.com
    Fake/Faux Trees
    Crate & Barrel ME

    Want a real tree but don’t want the hassle of the upkeep? This artificial tree from Crate & Barrel offers some of the most real-looking trees. With this 6ft Abies Nordmann Deluxe Xmas Tree you won’t be able to tell the difference.
    Bloomingdale’s

    This artificial Christmas tree comes with exotic branches and luxe LED lights for the ultimate seasonal décor and is priced at Dhs2,200. All the ornaments to complement the tree can be availed at this popular e-commerce platform too.
    To purchase visit bloomingdales.ae
    Irony Home

    Looking to celebrate Christmas in style and go all out? Well, Irony Home should be your go-to place for all things festive in Dubai. Priced at Dhs10,450, this 9.5ft pre-lit white tree with 1250 LED lights will make for a truly luxe Christmas.
    To purchase visit ironyhome.com. 
    West Elm

    Designed for a realistic feel, this simple tree can be spruced by adding your favourite lights and pieces to ring in the festive season. Priced at Dhs2,650, the faux unlit tree is 9ft and is generously created with all its branches.
    To purchase visit westelm.ae
    Dragon Mart

    If you’re on more of a budget, opt for this artificial Christmas tree from Dragon Mart. Priced at Dhs135, this 6ft Christmas tree adds to the vibrancy in any home with its clever design.
    To purchase visit dragonmart.ae
    Home Centre

    This faux Christmas tree from Home Centre is decorated with berries and cones to ensure a classic finish to be reused every year. Priced at Dhs499, this tree is 6ft in height.
    Available for purchase on homecentre.com
    Home Box

    This Alaska Christmas Pine Hook Tree is designed for easy maintenance and utmost convenience to add to the festive season in any home. Made with good durability, it’s priced at Dhs299.
    To purchase visit homeboxstores.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    Andy Warhol’s ‘vibrant and iconic works’ to be showcased in Saudi Arabia

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    2 hours ago

    Some of the most iconic artworks by legendary artist Andy Warhol are to be showcased in Saudi Arabia at the beginning of 2023.
    Arts AlUla is set to present a new exhibition, ‘FAME: Andy Warhol’, starting February 17, 2023.
    Some of Warhol’s most profound pieces will be on display in a specially curated exhibition for Maraya, the stunning and unique mirrored building located in the desert canyon of the Ashar Valley in AlUla.
    Paintings and prints by Warhol, who is known to have a personal fascination with fame and celebrity, that are set to be showcased will include Hollywood stars, sporting legends and musicians such as Elizabeth Taylor, Muhammad Ali and Dolly Parton among others.

    Nora Aldabal, Executive Director, Arts and Creative Industries for Arts AlUla has described the exhibition as a “homage to a heritage built by diverse cultural perspectives”.
    “We aim to drive a new era of cultural exchange, including exhibitions that feature the most important regional and international artists from the mid 20th century to the present day,” she added.
    Meanwhile, Patrick Moore, director of The Andy Warhol Museums shared his excitement at having Warhol’s |vibrant and iconic works to this monumental landscape”.
    “FAME is intended to be an introduction to the aspect of Warhol that I believe is most fascinating to many young people, including Saudi youth, as Andy Warhol’s journey, which started as a child staring at the movie screen and collecting publicity stills, is becoming more common through the rise of social media,” he added.
    FAME: Andy Warhol will be on display at Maraya from February 17 until May 16, 2023. For more information visit experiencealula.com. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    Emirates launches groundbreaking fast-track service at Dubai airport

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    Standing in long immigration queues for international passengers is now a thing of the past courtesy of Emirates’ latest partnership.
    Travellers can soon move hassle-free within Dubai International Airport terminal 3 due to the innovative biometric technology that will give passengers a smart check-in option starting in 2023.
    As per an agreement between Emirates and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA), the official announcement was made by the Dubai Media Office on November 15, 2022.

    .@emirates signs an agreement with @GDRFADUBAI offering international travellers the opportunity to speed up their airport experience by consenting to the use of biometric data starting from 2023.https://t.co/OHFAJfK7uj pic.twitter.com/r4XP993H8A
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 15, 2022
    While this service was previously only available to UAE residents and GCC nationals, it’s now open to everyone. Through its pre-populated biometric database, the technology can seamlessly identify travellers at multiple points in the airport. With facial recognition systems paired with artificial intelligence, this instant identity will improve traffic efficiency inside the airport.
    “Dubai is one of the world’s most aspirational destinations, and 2022 has already seen more than eight million tourists arrive in the city,” said Lieutenant General Mohamed Ahmed Al Marri, director general of the government body.

    How does it work?
    All passengers can provide their official consent through the Emirates app, at Emirates self-check-in kiosks, or in person at the desk.
    This experience will add to the myriad of other services that contribute to the Emirates travelling journey which include the self-check-in kiosk, checking in online 48 hours before, dropping off luggage a night before travelling and using the app to receive all the updated flight information.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Emirates Instagram, Feature Image: Rimowa Instagram More