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    Sheikh Hamdan shares special photo to mark Rashid & Shaikha’s 1st birthday

    Lifestyle

    by Staff Writer
    15 hours ago

    One year ago today, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became a father for the first time after welcoming twins Rashid and Shaikha into the world.
    To mark their first birthday, the doting father shared a heartwarming photo in celebration of the special day.
    With a beaming smile on his face, Sheikh Hamdan, affectionately known as Fazza, is seen cradling the twins when they were newborns and he became a dad for the first time.

    “Feels like yesterday this picture was taken,” he captioned the post. “It’s been one year today. Happy birthday Rashid & Shaikha… and to all the children of the world.”
    ALSO READ: 7 times Sheikh Hamdan was the ultimate doting father to twins Rashid & Shaikha
    The Crown Prince of Dubai appears to have taken to fatherhood seamlessly and has shared a few special moments with his 14.2 million Instagram followers over the past year.
    Most notably, the doting dad is ensuring he is passing down one of his number one passions in life to his two children – horses.
    The dad-of-two first introduced the twins to his love for stallions last year on a trip to the UK. The family paid a visit to Godolphin stables, the Al Maktoum family’s private Thoroughbred horseracing stable.

    Sharing a photo on Instagram at the time, Sheikh Hamdan said that “training and education should start early on” as he introduced Rashid and Shaikha to their family horse Adayar.
    More recently, in March 2022, the took his then 10-month-old twins to the f3 Team stables.
    He shared a series of pictures on this memorable occasion of them petting the horses “The love for horses runs in our blood,” he said in the caption of the post.
    Happy birthday to Rashid and Shaikha!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram  More

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    Mabrook! Rihanna gives birth to first child with rapper A$AP Rocky

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    20 hours ago

    She’s a Grammy Award-winning singer, beauty entrepreneur and fashion icon and now Queen RiRi can officially say she’s also a mum.
    Rihanna has welcomed her first child with boyfriend A$AP Rocky, according to People magazine.
    The couple reportedly welcomed their first child in Los Angeles and the family is now home and new mum Rihanna and her newborn are “doing well”.
    “Rihanna is doing well,” a source told the outlet. “They are very excited to be parents. Rihanna is already a wonderful mom.”
    Meanwhile, TMZ is reporting Rihanna gave birth last week on May 13 and the couple welcomed a baby boy.

    Rihanna and A$AP Rocky announced they were expecting their first child together back in January.
    The beauty mogul was snapped by photographers in New York City on an outing with the rapper showing off her growing baby bump.
    A$AP Rocky and Rihanna started dating in 2020 after being friends for over a decade. A$AP even starred as the opener for Rihanna during her mammoth world tour for her Diamonds album in 2013.
    The singer, 33, was previously in a three-year relationship with Saudi billionaire Hassan Jameel, but the pair parted ways at the beginning of 2020.
    Back in May 2021, A$AP referred to Queen RiRi as the “love of my life” in an interview with GQ, also referring to her as “the One” and that life was “so much better” with her.
    Congratulations to the new parents!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Fenty Skin, Getty More

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    Watch: Dubai-based Manal Rostom becomes first Egyptian woman to summit Everest

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    May 19, 2022

    Dubai-based athlete and former Emirates Woman cover star Manal Rostom is known for breaking down barriers and now she’s just broken another huge record.
    The marathoner and mountaineer has become the first Egyptian woman to reach the top of Mount Everest.
    The athlete, 42, shared the history-making moment on Instagram with a video of her “on top of the world”.
    Rostom reached the top of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, at 6.30am on Monday, May 16, 2022. The following day the athlete safely reached Everest’s base camp.
    The record-breaker revealed this has been an ambition of hers since she was a teenager.

    “Can’t believe I’m now the first Egyptian woman to stand on top of the world,” she said. “A 15-year old dream has finally come true.”
    Throughout the years, Rostom has continued to break down barriers and pave the way for women.
    The Surviving Hijab founder became the first hijabi ambassador for global athletics brand Nike and she was also the Egyptian woman to complete the Great Wall of China Marathon in 2016 and the first Egyptian woman to summit Mont Blanc – the highest mountain in Western Europe – in 2018.
    Discussing her passion for running and mountaineering with Emirates Woman in 2019, she explained she felt the sport of running “chose” her.

    “When I was younger, I experimented with other sports, but I was either too short or didn’t have the right coach – until I found running,” she said. “It was as if the sport chose me, I could train myself and work as hard as I needed to on my own. It became part of my identity and the track was no longer just a place for me to have an outlet for my energy, it was my independence. It became where I found peace, growth, and stability in difficult times.
    “It gave me purpose and now, I cannot imagine myself without running, I have to keep going – not just for me, but for all the young girls after me with the same dream – this is what I live for.”
    We can’t wait to see what record this inspiring athlete is set to break next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram  More

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    7 times Sheikh Hamdan was the ultimate doting father to twins Rashid & Sheikha

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    May 19, 2022

    Nearly a year ago, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, became a father for the first time after welcoming twins Rashid and Sheikha.
    Throughout the past year, His Highness has shared tidbits of the growing twins on social media, sharing some adorable doting father moments with his 14 million followers on Instagram.
    As the twins approach their first birthday, we look back on some of the special moments Fazza has shared over the last 12 months.
    Keeping up family traditions

    The Dubai royal family have always been known for their strong equestrian bond and Sheikh Hamdan is ensuring he is passing down his love for horses to his kids. Earlier this year, in March 2022, the took his then 10-month-old twins to the f3 Team stables. He shared a series of pictures on this memorable occasion of them petting the horses, looking ever-so adorable. “The love for horses runs in our blood,” he said in the caption of the post.
    A special outing

    In January 2022, Fazza took Rashid and Sheikha on a special outing in Dubai with a visit to see the giraffes. Sharing a couple of photos on Instagram, the doting dad is seen cradling the little ones. In the first photo, he is seen holding baby Sheikha and in the second photo, he’s holding baby Rashid. Both of the twins were wearing adorable animal-themed outfits for the occasion – Sheikha wore a leopard and tiger one-piece and Rashid wore a dinosaur printed one-piece.
    A celebration of heritage

    To mark the 50th anniversary of the UAE, the Crown Prince of Dubai celebrated the heritage of his country with his two children. His Highness was dressed in traditional Emirati dress wearing a white kandura and gutra, as was his son baby Rashid. Meanwhile, baby Sheikha wore a dress emblazoned with the colours of the UAE flag on it to mark National Day. He captioned the photo with three UAE flags, perhaps representing himself and his two children.
    The best birthday present

    Sheikh Hamdan turned 39 back in November and it also marked his first birthday as a father. He shared a sweet photo of his son and daughter wearing matching outfits with a ‘Happy birthday daddy’ message for their father. “I am the best present ever,” the message on the matching baby clothes read. “Mom says you are welcome.” While the photo shared didn’t show the baby boy and baby girl’s faces, it did show the brother and sister locking arms as they wore the adorable matching outfits.
    First trip abroad

    Fazza is known for making regular visits to the UK. Marking their first trip as a family to the country, they paid a visit to Godolphin stables. The Crown Prince of Dubai was seen holding baby Rashid, dressed in blue, with their family horse Adayar.
    Family time

    Just a month after they were born, Sheikh Hamdan shared an adorable photo of his father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, holding his newborn grandchildren. Being the caring grandfather that he is, Sheikh Mohammed is seen holding baby Rashid on the left and baby Sheikha on the right.
    Welcome to the world

    Sheikh Hamdan became a father for the first time last year welcoming baby Rashid and baby Sheikha in May 2021. The caring father shared the first image of his children a couple of days after their birth was announced, where he was seen cradling the twins in each arm.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram  More

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    The best Dubai cafés for a matcha-needed break

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    May 18, 2022

    Obsessed with matcha? Us too.
    Known for its host of health benefits, matcha is best for both its energising and detoxifying properties.
    So, if you’re looking to skip coffees and adapt to a natural source of caffeine, Dubai offers an array of chlorophyll-infused beverages that we simply can’t resist.
    NETTE

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

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

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

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

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

    Designed to embody a strong Japanese aesthetic, this café expands beyond the world of coffee. With a futuristic touch to serving beverages, this haven becomes the perfect go-to spot for unwinding after a long day or a mid-day break. With latte art, this deliciously offered matcha is sure to boost your energy levels.
    % Arabica, Mall of the Emirates, City Walk, Dubai Mall and many more. arabica.coffee
    Comptoir 102

    This award-winning ethical concept is tucked away on Jumeirah road offering conscious choices with ingredients sourced from local organic farms, serving delicious food while promoting sustainability. From homemade nut milk to its famous smoothies, there’s enough and more for everyone who visits. Prepared without any added preservatives, this homemade drink is created with natural ingredients for a tasteful touch to any day.
    Comptoir 102 Beach Road, Jumeirah 1. Open daily 8am to 10pm. comptoir102.com. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Pexels @darina-belonog  More

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    Watch: The Real Housewives of Dubai first full trailer unveils a lot of drama

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    May 18, 2022

    It’s just a few weeks until the premiere of The Real Housewives of Dubai and to up the anticipation, the first full-length trailer has dropped.
    Following the lives of Dubai residents, Caroline Stanbury, Caroline Brooks, Sara Al Madani, Nina Ali, Chanel Ayan and Lesa Milan, it appears the first international version of the franchise is set to deliver in the entertainment and drama departments.
    In fact, according to the franchise’s executive producer Andy Cohen there’s a lot that will be seen that many “didn’t expect to see in Dubai”.
    “I think people are going to be very surprised how much Dubai plays into things and the rules of Dubai and what’s allowed for women there and what’s not, and I think it’s going to blow a lot of stereotypes out of the water,” he recently told Entertainment Tonight. “You’re going to see a lot of things that you didn’t expect to see in Dubai.”
    While a teaser was released at the beginning of last month, the newest trailer gives fans more of an insight into what to expect from The Real Housewives of Dubai.
    From arguments to lavish dinners to weddings, to fashion shows and more, there’s a lot to digest from the three-minute trailer. So, here’s what stood out to us.
    [embedded content]
    Drama, drama, drama
    As with any of the Real Housewives franchises, the drama is set to come in its masses. From relationship woes to gossiping to friendship fallouts, we can’t wait to see it all unfold on-screen. 
    Luxury & lavish lives take centre stage
    All of the Real Housewives series’ are known for showcasing the opulent lives of the protagonists and Dubai will be no different.
    Branded the ‘City of Gold’ by Bravo, the trailer shows a scene where housewife Nina Ali is shocked by a license plate selling for Dhs33 million.
    You’ll see some iconic Dubai hotspots

    For those who know Dubai, it’ll be fun to see which hotspots the franchise has chosen to film at. So far in the trailer, we’ve seen the housewives dining at the Palazzo Versace Hotel and the world’s largest observation wheel Ain Dubai. The cast also parties at Miss Lily’s and takes part in a photoshoot in the desert with camels.
    The women aren’t playing games
    It’s clear all of The Real Housewives of Dubai protagonists are booked and busy. In the trailer, entrepreneur Caroline Brooks discusses her new venture with her fellow castmate – which interestingly has input from two of her exes – and Lesa Milan is seen going through the motions of hosting her first fashion show.
    As Caroline Stanbury says in the trailer: “In Dubai, women are far from submissive. Most of the women are running this town.”
    Things get real

    While there’s a huge amount of glamour in the trailer, things are also set to get real and personal with the housewives. Chanel Ayan opens up about finding love and Nina Ali breaks down in tears with her cast members.
    There’s wedding bells

    Fans are set to get a look inside Caroline Stanbury’s lavish wedding to Sergio José Carrallo Pendás which took place back in December at Raffles The Palm Dubai.
    Well-known faces appear

    Some well-known faces from the Real Housewives are set to appear in the first international edition of the franchise. In the trailer we see Real Housewives of Atlanta star Phaedra Parks sitting down for a catch-up with Caroline Brooks.
    “Give me the tea, honey, I’m very thirsty today,” she says.
    Just like Parks, we cannot wait to see and hear about all of The Real Housewives of Dubai tea.
    The show is set to premiere on June 1, 2022. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images/Media: Bravo TV Instagram/YouTube More

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    In pics: Prince William meets with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed

    Lifestyle

    by Staff Writer
    May 17, 2022

    Following the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, condolences have been sent in their masses to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
    Many dignitaries from around the world arrived in the UAE over the weekend to pay their respects to the new President of the UAE.
    Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, was one of the many who touched down in the UAE to share his condolences with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in the wake of his elder brother’s passing.

    #UAE President receives more condolences from leaders of fraternal and friendly countries on passing of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed.#WamNews https://t.co/k1QvywwKpQ pic.twitter.com/pwjKjLCV7b
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) May 16, 2022

    Queen Elizabeth II, who has been having some mobility issues as of late, issued a statement following Sheikh Khalifa’s passing on Friday.
    “I am saddened to hear of the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi,” she said. “Your distinguished brother devoted his life to serving the people of the United Arab Emirates and his relationship with its allies and friends.
    “He will be long remembered by all who work for regional stability, understanding between nations and between faiths, and for the conservation cause. I offer Your Highness my sincere condolences and I extend my sympathy to the people of the United Arab Emirates.”

    The Queen has sent a message of condolence following the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi:
    — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 13, 2022

    Over the weekend, a council meeting was held at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, where Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was unanimously elected as President of the UAE.
    Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s election as president comes after the passing of his elder brother.
    Sheikh Khalifa, who was also the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, had been President of the UAE since 2004, following the passing of his father, the late Sheikh Zayed Al Nayhan, the Father of the UAE.
    Sheikh Khalifa was born in 1948 and was the eldest son of the late Sheikh Zayed.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: WAM/Instagram More

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    Why this European capital city needs to be on your must-visit list this summer

    Lifestyle

    by Staff Writer
    May 16, 2022

    With a rich history, culture, some of the most innovative gastronomical delights and a plethora of luxe hotels, Madrid, Spain is the city to add to the top of your travel bucket list.
    Madrid is the beating heart of Spain. Exuding culture, a rich heritage dating back hundreds of years and an extensive restaurant scene, this vibrant capital city is creating its own definition of luxury. Being immersed in the culture, art, heritage, gastronomy, local fashion and more, create an unforgettable experience – that’s true luxury and this is exactly why Madrid should be your next go-to travel destination.

    The Culture & Heritage
    With a history that dates back multiple centuries, the Spanish capital has an incredible story to tell. Lose yourself in the culture and heritage of Madrid at the Paseo del Prado and El Retiro Park, which has just been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Coined the ‘Landscape of Light’ combining culture, science and nature, this vast area is 75 percent green space. In this area alone you can truly immerse yourself in the heritage of Madrid with many galleries and museums all amongst this 190-hectare space. This includes the iconic ‘Madrid Golden Triangle’ which consists of the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofía Museum. There’s also the Decorative Arts Museum, the Royal Astronomical Observatory and the Botanical Gardens which await you.
    The Gastronomy
    Madrid’s gastronomy alone will take you on a historical journey. The Spanish capital holds the Guinness World Record for being the home to the world’s oldest restaurant. Dating back to 1725, Botín is one of the city’s most authentic dining experiences. As well as taking you on a historical culinary journey, Madrid is a city that’s an expert in haute cuisine. Home to 21 Michelin-starred restaurants including the three-starred DiverXo, run by innovative chef David Muñoz, there’s no shortage of culinary offerings in this pulsating capital.

    The Fashion
    Experience the quality, design and detail of Madrid’s local artisans in the areas of Las Salesas, Lavapiés, Barrio de Las Letras (Literary Quarter), Chueca, Malasaña, Conde Duque, La Latina, Madrid de los Austrias, some of which are centuries old, to invest in timeless and authentic pieces. For a newer shopping experience, explore Galería Canalejas, set amongst the famous Calle Serrano and Calle Ortega y Gasset in Barrio de Salamanca. The avant-garde shopping area is set across 15,000 metres and is home to some of the top luxury houses including Hermès and Cartier, with many more set to open in 2022.

    The Stay
    No stay in Madrid is complete without experiencing the many luxurious hotels the Spanish capital is home to. For those seeking a truly opulent stay, the Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood Villa Magna and the newly opened Four Seasons Madrid are all ideal or perhaps a more contemporary hotel like the Madrid EDITION Hotel would suit. Whatever your criteria, you’ll be sure to find it in the heart of Spain.
    For more information visit esmadrid.com
    May’s – The Finer Things Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More