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    Watched XO Kitty? Follow up with 7 other romantic dramas to fill the void

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    5 mins ago

    Author Jenny Han is back with another teenage drama, but this time, it’s focused on the Gen-Z. XO Kitty is a spin-off of Han’s original ‘To All The Boys I Loved Before.’
    This particular series focuses on the youngest Covey sister, who happens to finally live her own love story after meddling in the love lives of her older sisters. Katherine Song Covey a.k.a Kitty is possibly the bravest out of the three sisters. She goes after what she wants and isn’t afraid to wear her heart on her sleeves.
    Set in the beautiful city of Seoul (the land where all the romantic K-Dramas emerge from), XO Kitty follows the protagonist’s journey of finding love, forging a connection with her late mother and eventually finding herself amidst the chaos.
    What sets this drama apart? It could have easily been a cliché narrative where the boy meets the girl, some silly confusion and then a happy ending. Han approached a different storyline with this show — instead of giving the viewers a simple comfort watch, she toyed with the idea of sexual identity and how feelings can be fickle in your growing years.
    More than the romantic storylines in this show, it’s interesting to watch Kitty find friendships in a new country that become her ultimate source of strength through difficult times.
    Teenage dramas are typically known for pitting young girls against each other over a boy. While in the beginning, it does seem like this show will take a similar route — but through the course of ten episodes, it pivots. A refreshing departure from the girl vs. girl trope.
    Overall, XO Kitty is a perfect watch on a casual Friday night when you aren’t looking for any mind-utilising content. But after you finish the series, it will leave you in a warm and fuzzy place.

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

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    The secret is out: 15 luxe speakeasies to visit in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 15 IMAGES
    For the ultimate hidden experience, speakeasies are the best way to get to know any city.
    What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today, that has now gained popularity in different parts of the world.
    After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights. What first needed a password to enter is now open to the public, however, it’s only if you know you know.
    To champion this undying spirit, Dubai has opened a plethora of speakeasies that add a hint of mystery from the moment you enter.
    So, if you’re up for a little prohibition-style secrecy, Emirates Woman is here to help with all the underground bars that are worth a visit.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber More

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    8 minimal coffee shops for a midday break in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    We all need our daily dose of caffeine, so why not enjoy somewhere aesthetic?
    For a quick midday break or to simply catch up on some work, Dubai has a host of refined spots that are sure to cater to both your tastebuds and eye.
    From concrete interiors to a minimalist palette, Scandinavian interiors have gained huge traction over the years as spaces have sheltered away from the overcomplicated design.
    So, If you’re on the hunt for pared-back spaces with a clean design, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide on all the places to bookmark ASAP.

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

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    7 calling apps to download that work seamlessly in the UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With an expat-oriented community, connecting back home during the week becomes part of everyone’s routine in the UAE.
    As some apps continue to be limited in the UAE, there are a host of other paid and free apps to make high-quality audio and video calls.
    For legal purposes, only a limited set of apps are available for usage on both iOS and Android, with a plethora of additional features on each.
    Below, we’ve curated a list of what to download for that next virtual happy hour or family catch-up.
    GoChat
    As part of Etisalat’s latest initiative, Etisalat launched GoChat Messenger with a new free voice and calling to the UAE. The requirements include a mobile number for registration on both iOS and Android app stores. The international 50 minutes package starts at Dhs50, with more options to choose from. The app includes additional features such as bill payment, games and even food delivery services.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    BOTIM
    While available to download for free, users will need an internet calling plan for usage. For Etisalat, du and Virgin mobile, the monthly subscription fee is priced at Dhs50 and the daily fee is Dhs5 with 1GB of mobile data. For WiFi on Etisalat eLife and du Home Services, the price is Dhs100.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.

    Image courtesy of Pexels @antonishkraba
    Microsoft Teams
    Used mainly for professional purposes, this service enables colleagues to interact with each other on a one-to-one basis and have access to audio, video, chat and screen-sharing features. The app can be downloaded on your computer, tablet and mobile device. Additionally, the app provides 10GB of file storage for the entire team including 2GB of personal storage for each individual.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    Skype for Business
    While users were previously allowed to use Skype from their personal accounts, the app is only limited to users from a business account now. Other features include a meeting with up to 10 persons without a subscription, URL invites, PowerPoint uploads for further discussions, screen sharing services and instant messaging services to send across during meetings.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    Zoom
    Amid COVID-19, Zoom became a popular app to conduct virtual classroom discussions for educators to teach remotely. Used for both video and audio calling, this app was made available during lockdown after previously being banned. Without the membership, users are allowed up to 40 mins of uninterrupted calling until they have to send a new link. From intimate weddings to special family occasions, everything can be shared with this multiple-user platform.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    Google Meet
    To register, users in the UAE need to link their Gmail accounts and can host a call with up to 100 people. For a smooth invitation process, users can simply be invited via a shared link.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    Voico
    For customers to stay in touch with their loved ones, Etisalat also introduced Voico app that gives both audio and video call services to UAE residents. The app allows users to share photos, videos, and other files to stay connected.
    You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @haileybieber More

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    In pics: Hande Erçel gives us the ultimate wanderlust inspiration from her trip to Italy

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Ciao Italy! Hande Erçel made a recent trip to the country of pasta, and gelato, known for its picturesque streets, rich history and more.
    The 29-year-old Turkish actress has been travelling the world and just a few weeks ago, Erçel added Italy to our travel bucket list. After a year since her last trip to Italy, she decided to return to our country, to which she is very attached.
    Known for her stand-out sartorial choices, the actress visited the gorgeous city of Tuscany and donned an all-white three-piece suit and looked ever-so chic. With snippets of her visit to the vineyard and other stunning locations to her 30.6 million fans on Instagram.
    Known for her passion for art, she posted a series of photos on Instagram where the actress was captured on the streets of Florence, on Ponte Vecchio, and at the Uffizi Gallery. She also posed in front of Botticelli’s Venus.
    For some wanderlust inspiration on your next trip to Italy, see the actress’ photos where she looks like the ultimate tourist.

    Was it for work or vacation? Who knows. Nevertheless, the actress looked beyond stunning on her little getaway to one of her favourite destinations.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @handemiyy More

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    4 calming venues with sound healing classes in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    15 mins ago

    With the hustle and bustle of city life here, it’s important to take a few moments and cleanse the mind.
    Based on the principles of vibration, resonance and integration of the mind and body, a sound healing session is the best way to balance the mind, body and soul.
    To heal yourself from a cellular level, sound meditation uses different frequency levels to soak in the good vibrations and let go of the bad.
    If you’re looking to embark on your wellness journey, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of sound healing classes to rejuvenate you for the week ahead.
    Paus

    This wellness café and studio offers a host of calming classes, including sound healing. By making wellness easy for everyone, Paus takes visitors on a holistic healing journey through movement and spirituality. From Candlelight sound healing to sound healing for women only, these classes take everyone on a meditation journey as they bathe in the soothing vibrations of Tibetan bowls.Located at Villa 1202, Al Reef Villas, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, this wellness hub is open daily from 7am to 10pm and classes start at Dhs120 for 60 minutes.
    For more information visit pausdxb.com
    SEVA

    For a private one-on-one session, SEVA ensures everyone can embark on a solo sound healing journey by healing the energy flow through a 60-minute class effective for all. With a strong reset, everyone can find the inner piece. The vibration of the strings causes all thirty trillion cells of the body to resonate, to dance—forming patterns that release blockages that have prevented the cosmic pulsation to flow freely through our being. The private session is priced at Dhs700 for 60 minutes, for a complete cleanse. Everyone can choose from a host of sessions which include, Gong Sound Bath, Crystal Bowls Guided Sound Healing, Private Sound Healing Session and Tibetan Singing Bowls Sound Healing. Post-class, there’s access to high-quality vegan food and fresh juices for everyone to savour. Located in Jumeirah, SEVA is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    Yoga House

    This neighbourhood yoga studio promises a breathing community in the heart of Dubai. Designed as a place to connect with each other, the sound healing sessions are taken in combination with other journeys such as the cacao ceremony and more for a more impactful session. The sound of the Crystal Bowls creates a feeling of peace in a loving and compassionate way, bringing everyone back into perfect balance and harmony. The sessions start at Dhs250 and take place in both Greens and Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit yogahouse.ae
    DNA Health & Wellness

    This premium wellness centre DNA offers a range of holistic well-being classes, including evening sound healing with crystal bowls led by the expert practitioner and meditation facilitator Prem Amit. When the body’s systems become stressed or compromised certain frequencies become out of tune and everything can become affected. With sound healing, utilising various instruments and tones, the body is gently brought back to its natural state of harmony. The first session is priced at Dhs80 and each single session is later priced at Dhs125. Located at Al Manara on Al Wasl Road, Dubai Marina and Al Serkal Avenue, this clinic is open daily from 8:30am to 8pm.
    For more information visit dnahealthcorp.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pexels @magicbowls More

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    The best venues for remote working in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    With hybrid working being considered the norm after the pandemic, remote working is now more popular than ever.
    Whether you’re embracing the WFH culture or simply thinking of your next big business idea, finding a productive environment can help ease the process.
    Keeping this in mind, here are some of the best spots in Dubai to enjoy the ultimate digital nomad experience.
    Twiggy by La Cantine

    With subtle hints from the sixties making its way back, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant combines the beach with an elegant atmosphere that will want to make you stay all day long. Designed with a 100-metre infinity pool and endless blue skies, this Parisian-inspired venue is the new hangout spot in which you can both work and play. From sushi to a plethora of desserts, guests can work in style at either the restaurant or the sun-dappled terrace. Located at Park Hyatt Dubai Lagoon, it’s open daily from 12pm to 2am.
    For more information visit twiggy.ae
    NETTE at The Matcha Club

    This urban sanctuary is the perfect escape from bustling city life. With both fitness and food in one haven, guests can relish someone’s mouthwatering dishes and drinks as they work and eventually end the day with a game of padel tennis, to keep those creative juices flowing. From iced matcha to avocado toast, the options are endless, making it the perfect place to stay focused on work all day. As a modern blend of French-Japanese cuisine, this laid-back dining concept has gained popularity in no time. It’s open daily from 8am to 10pm and is located in Al Quoz.
    For more information visit matcha-club.ae
    Ula

    This newly opened venue offers relaxation and time to unwind all day, allowing one to work in a tranquil environment. From fresh dips to delectable desserts such as churros, there are plenty of options to choose from the menu. With views of the glittering waters of the Arabian Gulf, the beachside restaurant brings you closer to nature and lets you get inspired by the energy of the earth. Located at Dukes the Palm hotel, a Royal Hideaway Resort, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 1am and Friday to Sunday 9am to 1am and is all set to give you the ultimate Bali feels.
    For more information visit uladubai.com
    Caya

    This Mediterranean-inspired eatery is inspired by coastal tones that are served in a distinctive environment and atmosphere. From the classic shakshuka to a delicious summer salad, there are a wide variety of options to keep you fuelled as you work throughout the day. With minimal interiors and delicious desserts, guests can switch off and work productively during the day. Located at Town Square Park, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
    For more information visit linktr.ee/cayauae
    Social Distrikt

    The experimental food haven brings several homegrown food brands under one roof. From workshops to a recording studio, the options for innovating are endless. This brand new food and bar hall allows diners to sample food from around the world with alfresco options to experience the outdoors. Located at The Pointe in Palm Jumeirah, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 9am to 1am and Friday to Sunday 9am to 2am.
    For more information visit socialdistrikt.com
    Risen Café & Artisanal Bakery

    This café warms you from within with its alluring aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries. With a strong focus on sustainability and locally produced ingredients, guests can stay here for hours without being disturbed and can focus on their work without any distractions. Located at Millennium Plaza Hotel, it’s open daily from 7am to 10pm.
    For more information visit risendubai.com
    21 Grams

    Inspired by the Balkan Peninsula, this café is the first of its kind in the UAE with daring dishes that are sure to tingle your taste buds. With pastries handcrafted from scratch and irresistible coffee, this restaurant has become a popular place to network and work from. Located in Meyan mall, it’s open on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8am to 6pm and Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 11pm, with Mondays being closed.
    For more information visit 21grams.me
    The Arts Club

    This private member’s all-exclusive club housed in the heart of Dubai provides guests with a sophisticated haven for like-minded individuals to work and socialise together. From entrepreneurial workshops to a rich cultural programme of events, this vibrant community of people is connected through their love for the arts. Besides its exclusivity, members also have an opportunity to experience artist studio visits and panel discussions. Located at the ICD Brookfield, it’s open on weekdays from 8am to 2am and on weekends from 10am to 3pm on Saturday and 10am to 2am on Sunday.
    For more information visit theartsclub.ae
    Remaliya Cafè

    This exclusive café is nestled in the heart of Dubai with an array of healthy options including hero dishes such as a smoothie bowl or an almond porridge. With an array of facilities including the beach which guests will have access to, the space is the perfect place to work, be it a group project or simply if you’re in the need of inspiration. Located inside the Dubai Ladies Club in Jumeirah, it’s open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit dubailadiesclub.com
    Friends Avenue

    With a fresh blend of all your favourites including Açai bowls, gourmet burgers, a breakfast-style menu and healthy smoothies, Friends Avenue Café lets you enjoy your food completely guilt-free. Aimed to provide food that reminds you of home, this concept launched in 2015 and has been a hit ever since. Located in Fortune Executive Tower, Cluster T, It’s open daily from 7am to 10pm.
    For more information visit friendsavenue.ae
    Splendour Fields

    Bringing a fresh new concept to JLT is the newly opened dining destination, Spendour Fields. This chic neighborhood eatery occupies the entire ground floor of The Park with its Instagrammable views. Designed for breakfast, lunch and a relaxing dinner, this one-of-a-kind destination promises a welcoming experience with its earthy tones, allowing visitors to take a quick break from the city. With a healthy produce-driven menu, this serene venue promises delectable delights such as baked goods, a coffee bar and carefully prepared dishes. The restaurant is located at The Park in Jumeirah Lakes Towers.
    For more information visit eatx.com
    Planet Terra

    For a new vegan spot in Dubai, Planet Terra has opened its doors with a myriad of dishes to tantalise your taste buds. The restaurant was born out of a desire to create a space where diners can eat intentionally and nourish both their body and mind. With dishes such as Kimchi Pad Thai and organic coffee, guests are spoiled for choice. At the newly-opened family-run café, guests will discover an entirely vegan menu created with animal-free ingredients that are sourced fresh from ethical and sustainable suppliers, locally and internationally. Located within the residential community of Greens in Panorama Building and is open from 7:30am to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit planetterra.life
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Pexels @avel-chuklanovo More

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    Royal baby: Sheikh Mohammed’s daughter Sheikha Latifa welcomes a baby girl

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    50 mins ago

    Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of the ruler of Dubai has been blessed with a baby girl.
    Sheikha Latifa is married to Sheikh Faisal bin Saud bin Khalid Al Qasimi, the couple tied the knot in 2016 and already have three children together (two sons and a daughter).
    Princess Latifa is also the Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and a Member of the Dubai Council. Through social media, she loves giving the public a glimpse of her life, which includes sharing adorable moments between her kids and their grand father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE.
    Announcing the happy news via Instagram, Sheikha Latifa shared the name of her precious fourth born, “We were blessed today with a baby girl, Hind bint Faisal.”

    Just a couple of months ago, Sheikha Latifa’s brother and the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan also welcomed his third child, a baby boy named Mohammed.
    As the Dubai Royal family welcomes a new generation of family members, here’s wishing them congratulations.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @latifamrm1 More