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      Craving Italian? Dubai’s 12 most elegant spots for fine-dining pasta

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      Transport yourself to the heart of Italian cuisine with Dubai’s most loved Amalfi-inspired havens.
      From freshly-baked pizzas to authentic handmade pastas topped with fresh parmesan, Italian restaurants are sure to impress on any special occasion with its universally loved dishes and romantic environment.
      To see where to book next, we’ve selected the ones that consistently come on top and have been tried-and-tested by the Emirates Woman team.
      Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

      Opened back in 2017, and has made a mark in the UAE with its sumptuous delicacy and luxe ambience. The restaurant has managed to become the hotspot in town for a casual fine dining experience within the Italian circle offering seasonal menu offerings. The hero dishes include the Bresaola di Chianina, parmesan cheese and wild rocket horseradish mousse. Located in Jumeirah Al Naseem, this one-of-a-kind Italian hotspot is a must visit.
      For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
      The Artisan

      From homemade potato gnocchi to freshly made pasta dishes, there are a host of hearty dishes that transport guests to Lombardy in northern Italy. The Artisan’s new menu is a celebration of traditional Italian food, crafted with elegance and sophistication. With dishes that highlight the flavours of every region, diners can embark on a gastronomic journey without ever leaving the comfort of their seats. Located in Waldorf Astoria in DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am.
      For more information visit theartisan.ae
      Scalini

      Captivating and contemporary artwork adorns the walls and diners are seated at elegant tables with crisp white linens, delicately accented with subtle hints of sage green soft furnishings and chic and elegantly refined tableware. Guests are invited to indulge in Scalini’s exquisite menu, with thoughtfully curated dishes that capture the essence of quintessential Italian cuisine, designed to be shared between friends, family and loved ones. Located at Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.
      For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
      Roberto’s

      This contemporary Italian restaurant has won the hearts of many, including ours. With fresh ingredients flown in from Italy, each dish is crafted to perfection. From oysters to Rawberto’s platters, this restaurant is a seafood delight. A must-try from their dessert menu is the freshly made in-house pistachio ice cream served with extra virgin olive oil which has now become a signature for tourists to try from around the globe. The restaurant is located in DIFC, Gate Village 1.
      For more information visit robertosrestaurants.com
      Cinque

      Dubai’s iconic luxury lifestyle hotel, FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s award-winning, Gault&Millau and Gambero Rosso recognized Italian restaurant, Cinque is renowned for its fun-fine dining ethos that defies culinary convention, seamlessly fusing traditional Italian flavours with Japanese-inspired, umami-infused twists. A gastronomic oasis set against the backdrop of FIVE’s Insta-famous social pool with a buzzing indoor bar, Cinque invites guests to indulge in distinct and delectable Italian dishes with Sicilian roots. Whether it’s a lively gathering with friends, a family celebration, or a romantic date night, Cinque promises an extraordinary dining experience. Arrive early for an aperitivo at our vibrant bar and lounge, or linger late into the evening as our expert mixologists craft the perfect post-dinner cocktail or digestif, completing your unforgettable culinary escapade.
      For more information visit palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com
      Luna Rossa

      To savour authentic Italian dishes, this all day dining spot is located in the heart of Dubai in Business Bay. From traditional pizzas to signature creations like the indulgent Pappardelle alla Genovese di Manzo, the freshness of our Tartare di Gambero Rosso di Mazara del Vallo, and the decadent Pizza Tartufella, our menu offers a diverse culinary journey. Each dish embodies our commitment to authentic Italian dining, ensuring a memorable experience for every palate. It’s open daily from 8am to midnight.
      For more information visit lunarossa.com
      Limonata

      Visit the new stunning beach restaurant Limonata, inspired by the vibrant nostalgia of 1960s Italian coastal char. With each dish being an outcome of a passionate odyssey through the heart of authentic flavors, guests can expect a myriad of delicious dishes including alluring antipasti, refreshing salads, moreish, which include a symphony of culinary creations that are an ode to Italian coastal culture. Located at Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, it’s open daily from 12pm to 2am.
      Chic Nonna

      The Italian restaurant Chic Nonna is the perfect date-night spot or restaurant to visit with your friends. With state-of-the-art interiors and a high-quality menu, the restaurant is complete with an open-plan kitchen, the largest wine cellar in the region and a sophisticated chef’s table. To create an inviting ambience, the space has warm cosy interiors reminiscent of a traditional Italian home. To make any visit even more memorable the venue offers engaging live entertainment with a striking DJ booth and raised stage for live performances. For the seafood enthusiasts, the terrace has an exclusive Crudo Bar that serves a selection of raw fish Located in the heart of DIFC, this sophisticated haven is a must-visit this weekend.
      For more information visit chicnonna.com
      Cipriani

      With restaurants the globe over, Cipriani made its mark on Dubai in 2016. Serving exceptional Italian cuisine, the Cipriani brand has been a universally recognized icon of hospitality for four generations since Guiseppe Cipriani Senior first opened Harry’s Bar in Venice, back in May 1931. Open all around the world in New York, Venice, Moscow, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Cipriani has made its impact in several countries as it continues to serve the finest. Located in Gate village number 10, DIFC and open daily from 12pm to 2am.
      For more information visit Cipriani.com
      L’Amo Bistro Del Mare

      Experience the outdoors at L’Amo Bistro Del Mare and enjoy a delicious meal and special beverages in the comfort of the open-air seating area. Equipped with comfortable seating, parasols for shade, and an outdoor bar, with a delicious selection of Italian dishes and drinks on the beautiful terrace, with stunning harbor views. With an array of options to choose from the menu, diners can indulge in a fresh Plateau Royale, L’Amo Bistro del Mare’s famous Seafood platter that includes Italian red prawns, Italian violet prawns, langoustine and more. Located at Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, it’s open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 11:30pm while on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 11:30pm.
      For more information visit lamorestaurant.com
      Il Ristorante – Niko Romito

      The restaurant showcases framed iconic Bulgari archive photographs and brand heritage images that recall over 130 years of Roman jewellery history. Known for using fresh Italian ingredients flown in from Italy, each dish is carefully created and takes guests on a gastronomic tour. The menu varies from dishes such as homemade pasta, Spaghetti e pomodoro and more. To end the dinner,visitors can opt for the tiramisu or one of the seasonal creations like the buffalo stracciatella cheese ice cream, balsamic vinegar and wild blackberries. Located at the Bulgari Hotel, this one-of-a-kind restaurant, can instantly elevate any evening.
      For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
      Pierchic

      Perhaps one of Dubai’s most iconic locations, Pierchic boasts unparalleled sea views, overlooking the Burj Al Arab. If you want a wow destination that makes an impact this is it. The food (especially pasta) is also exceptional, as overseen by Head Chef Beatrice Segoni. Take a short stroll post-dinner across the water and you’ll feel like you’re on vacation. Located at Jumeirah Al Qasr, this restaurant is a must-visit.
      For more information visit jumeirah.com
      Alici

      Located on Bluewaters Island, Alici Dubai brings the heart of the Amalfi Coast to the Middle East. Specialising in seafood, but doing it the Italian way, the restaurant ensures the best quality in its produce and delivers nothing but the best in quality dining, both in experience and food with dishes ranging from the seared seabass fillet to the topinanbur cream.
      For more information visit alici.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @sofierichie More

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      The Victoria Beckham Netflix series is set to release in 2025, here are all the details

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      Life

      June 17, 2025

      For decades, Victoria Beckham has been a fixture in the global spotlight. First known as Posh Spice in the record-breaking girl group Spice Girls, she later became one-half of pop culture’s most iconic power couples alongside football legend David Beckham.
      Today, she has reinvented herself as the driving force behind a growing fashion and beauty empire. This fall, Netflix will showcase this remarkable evolution in a highly anticipated documentary series focused entirely on Beckham’s journey from pop star to business mogul.
      The streaming giant announced the project on August 21, 2024, positioning it as an intimate portrait of Beckham’s personal and professional transformation. The series comes on the heels of her scene-stealing appearance in last year’s Beckham documentary about her husband, where her dry wit and candid revelations won over audiences worldwide. That viral moment where she admitted to being driven to school in a Rolls-Royce offered just a glimpse of the charm and authenticity she brings to the screen.

      This new documentary promises to go much deeper, with Netflix granting viewers unprecedented access to Beckham’s world. The series will follow her as she navigates the daily challenges of running her fashion label, expanding her beauty ventures, and maintaining her family life. It’s a rare opportunity to see the woman behind the carefully curated public image – the hardworking businesswoman, the devoted mother, and the self-aware celebrity who has learned to laugh at herself along the way.
      The timing of the documentary couldn’t be more strategic. After years of operating at a loss, Victoria Beckham Holdings Ltd. has finally turned a corner, with revenue growing by more than 50% in 2023. The company has significantly reduced its operating losses, bringing them down to £2.9 million, and appears poised to reach profitability soon. This financial turnaround reflects Beckham’s growing credibility in the competitive world of luxury fashion, where independent labels often struggle to survive.

      Beyond fashion, Victoria Beckham has successfully expanded into beauty with her critically acclaimed fragrance line and skincare collection. Earlier this year, she marked another milestone by presenting her resort collection in person for the first time, hosting an exclusive trunk show in New York for American Express Centurion members. These business achievements demonstrate her commitment to building a lasting brand rather than simply cashing in on her celebrity status.
      What makes this documentary particularly compelling is its focus on Victoria Beckham as an individual, rather than as part of a famous couple. While the Beckham series explored their shared journey, this project will spotlight Victoria Beckham’s personal story of reinvention. It will likely address the early skepticism she faced when entering the fashion world, the challenges of balancing business and family, and the discipline required to maintain relevance across multiple decades in the public eye.
      For Victoria Beckham, this documentary represents more than just another media project – it’s an opportunity to redefine her legacy. The series will undoubtedly showcase her sharp business acumen, but also reveal the humor and humanity that those closest to her have always known.

      As the premiere date approaches (anytime this year), anticipation continues to build. The documentary joins Netflix’s impressive roster of celebrity-focused content, following in the footsteps of successful series like The Super Models and Becoming. Given Beckham’s global appeal and the compelling narrative of her career evolution, the series has all the ingredients to become must-watch television when it debuts later this year.
      For fans who have followed Beckham’s journey from pop stardom to fashion prominence, this documentary offers the chance to finally see the complete picture. And for those who only know her as Posh Spice or David Beckham’s wife, it may well be the revelation of a multifaceted woman who has quietly built an empire while the world was watching.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest More

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      How creative director Gabriella Khalil translates the Palm Heights aesthetic to H&M Home

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      Get ready to vacation without leaving your space. Gabriella Khalil, the New York-based creative mind behind Grand Cayman’s cult-favourite beachfront boutique hotel, Palm Heights, has teamed up with H&M Home for a transportive home collection. Think retro stripes and sunny essentials that bring the spirit of the Caribbean straight to your living room.
      The stylish 23-piece collection, launched June 12, 2025, evokes the signature design universe and sun-drenched, glamorous spirit of the hotel, with a transporting array of objects that bring the holiday feeling into your space. “It’s about a feeling,” Khalil says, describing the ethos behind the design that invites a new way to live with vacation in mind.
      In this exclusive interview, Gabriella Khalil and Evelina Kravaev-Söderberg, Head of Design and Creative at H&M Home, share the story behind the collaboration, how the visual DNA of Palm Heights evolved into home decor, for a touch of escapism at home.
      Palm Heights is more than a hotel — it’s a fully immersive aesthetic. How did you translate its unique design DNA into this collaboration with H&M HOME?
      GK: Aside from working with the design codes, it was more about translating a feeling. AtPalm Heights, we want people to come together, relax, have a good time, and feel connected. The collection features all of these elements – from cosy bathrobes to glassware and games. I hope these speak to the experience we have tried to create.
      The 1970s Caribbean influence is palpable in both the hotel and this collection. What draws you to that particular era, and how did you reinterpret it for modern interiors?
      GK: It was a spirit of what we call the glory days of the Caribbean – moments from that time— and the architecture of the building itself, which lent itself to that era. We wanted to celebrate this moment and hone in on it. Some photography by Slim Aarons, and also Grace Jones, has been an ongoing reference.
      There’s a playful edge throughout — from the striped robes to the beach tennis set. How do you balance visual sophistication with this sense of fun? 
      GK: I always say that Palm Heights might be highly visual and chic, but at the same time, there’s a real playfulness about it.  We have tables of backgammon on the beach near the chairs. So those, I think, are super fun and colourful and a little bit ‘pop’. I just felt like it was an important addition.The collection feels deeply personal. Which piece feels most “you” — and why?
      GK: All of the pieces feel like a piece of the Palm Heights world, which in turn links to my style. I am always focused on details in spaces. Materials like the soft terry robes and towels, as well as the sandstone on the vases and candles, resonate with me. I always love to use layers of texture and movement, and I think these objects embody that. 

      Community plays a big role in the Palm Heights ethos. How did that value shape your creative process for this collaboration?
      GK: Community and collaboration have always been core values of the brand. So, collaborating with incredible creatives has been an ongoing process, and through this community was built. I took the same approach while working with H&M Home and focused on objects that express the spirit of holiday and bring people together (beautiful tabletop pieces, beach towels, and games), and this allows people to bring this to their own spaces this summer. 
      You describe this collection as bringing the holiday feeling home. What does that sense of escapism look like for you, personally?GK: My ultimate holiday is a location where I can relax but also discover. I love details, and whether that be seen in linens, service, or even the mini bar, this idea of a special curation is what makes an experience go from good to spectacular.  I tried to connect these details to the H&M Home pieces for a full experience of a holiday at home!  
      You’ve created a global design destination in the heart of the Caribbean. What excites you most about introducing Palm Heights to homes across the UAE and beyond?
      GK: Palm Heights has always had a very strong and specific visual narrative. The idea of giving guests a very elevated experience where they can also truly be themselves and relax was a key component. I hope that as we introduce the hotel to homes across the UAE that the playful and elegant spirit of the property is felt. 
      You’ve collaborated with a number of visionaries, but what was it about Gabriella’s creative universe that made her the ideal partner for this collection?
      EKS: We loved the creative universe of Palm Heights, but we became even more intrigued by the fact that there was a strong and fascinating woman behind it. Gabriella is so impressive, and it was wonderful to gain an understanding of her vision and her process.

      Palm Heights is such a visually rich space. What were the first elements that inspired your team when translating the hotel into a product line?
      EKS: I would say the colours. We talked about sunset hues — yellow as a key colour in the assortment, along with the stripes. In terms of product, the bathrobes and towels are significant because it is a beach resort. The Cayman Islands are very much about the sun and the sea.There’s a strong tactile element to the collection — from handwoven textures to teak ceramics. How important was materiality in shaping the mood of the pieces?
      EKS: H&M HOME is about democratic modern design that is done mindfully, and I think that is expressed through the materials. In general, we work as sustainably as we can and lean into natural materials for this collection, as the hotel has lots of earthy materials — travertine and other types of stone, like marble, in its design.

      This collaboration fuses design storytelling with accessibility. How do you ensure the soul of a high-end boutique hotel translates into attainable pieces for the home?
      EKS: Gabriella was true to herself and her vision for Palm Heights, but she was also open to what we could contribute, our knowledge of our customers, and commercial aspects. Our goal is to make the world more beautiful for many people, not just a select few. With homewares and objects, I think we can capture the spirit of a place in an accessible way. For example, the games are completely new product types for us. We aimed to capture the energy of the place and evoke a holiday feeling in the collection.
      The collection evokes a sense of place and time. How did you balance nostalgia with contemporary appeal in the design direction?
      EKS: I think that is a mirror of what Gabriella has achieved with the hotel: it is energetic and modern, with a bit of a retro Seventies feel, but very contemporary. For H&M HOME, we have a design-driven focus on creating modern interior objects – the collection creates a perfect fusion.
      From scent to color palette, the sensory details are incredibly considered. What role do these finer touches play in the emotional impact of a home?
      EKS: Sensory experiences, from scents, textures, to colours add so much to our homes. They create a mood and an ambiance, simply a place to feel at home. You have the functional necessities of interior objects, which can also be very beautiful, but the emotional value lies in creating something that extends beyond what the eye sees.   How do you see H&M HOME’s collaborations influencing the way consumers style their spaces, especially in an increasingly digital and design-aware world?
      EKS: Our ambition is to create accessibility for our customers and invite them to have a piece of something unique in their homes with our collaborations. With Palm Heights, we want to extend the hotel’s energy and atmosphere into our customers ‘homes.

      The Palm Heights collection launches across the region in June. What do you hope Middle Eastern customers feel when they experience it in store?
      EKS: We hope that our Middle Eastern customers will be swept away by the escapism and playfulness of the collection. The collaboration happens at the intersection of H&M HOME’s design-driven mission to create modern interior objects and Palm Heights’ unique soul of a 70s Caribbean.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      13 exciting indoor activities to book this summer in Dubai

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      Life

      June 17, 2025

      As the temperatures soar for the next few months, keeping ourselves entertained with indoor activities throughout the summer months.
      From experiencing art to visiting an independent cinema with friends and family, there’s something for everyone to experience.
      So, without reminiscing on the cooler months, it’s time to make the most of the indoors. Also one can experience the plethora of activities in Dubai that are worth every dime.
      Instead, you should be turning to the incredible indoor offerings Dubai has ready for the summer months, and believe us.Choosing an indoor summer activity can depend on various factors such as your interests, budget, and available time. Hence, we’re here to help you decide.
      Identify your interests
      What do you enjoy doing? If it’s reading, crafting, fitness or games, this guide has something for everyone. It’s also important to see if you prefer solitary activities or group activities.
      Assess available time
      How much time do you have? If it’s a few hours then opt for a sound healing session for an hour is a time bound activity. If you have the entire day, then a session at The Jam Jar is more fluid.
      Consider your goals
      To relax, laid-back activities such a spa day or a self-care zen session is the perfect option. For something new or exciting, Dubai has a myriad of options. They include TODA or a museum to open your mind and expand the horizon.
      Total people
      If it’s a group activity, finding something suitable such as a Roast lunch or The Smash Room. These activities can work best to enjoy in a collective setting.
      Take a break from the mundane trips to the mall and cinema visits. For some inspiration on your next weekend plan or midweek treat, swipe through our gallery of where to book.

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

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      UAE announces 3-day weekend for Islamic new year

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      Life

      June 16, 2025

      The UAE has officially declared Friday, June 27, 2025, a public holiday in observance of the Islamic New Year, marking the beginning of the Hijri year 1447 AH. The announcement, made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), ensures a three-day weekend for federal government employees, with work resuming on Monday, June 30.
      The Islamic, or Hijri, calendar is based on lunar cycles, with the new year starting on the first day of Muharram—one of the four sacred months in Islam. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Islamic dates shift annually by about 10-12 days, as they depend on moon sightings. This year’s holiday follows the UAE Cabinet’s pre-approved list of 2025 public holidays, with the exact date confirmed by official moon-sighting committees.
      While the FAHR’s announcement applies to federal government employees, private sector workers will follow the UAE’s labor law, which grants them the same public holidays unless otherwise stated by their employers. Residents should confirm with their HR departments to ensure alignment.
      This holiday comes shortly after the extended Eid Al Adha break, giving residents yet another opportunity to relax, travel, or spend time with family. With a three-day weekend ahead, many may take advantage of short getaways or staycations, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors.
      When’s the next long weekend in the UAE?

      What’s Open, What’s Closed?
      While government offices and some businesses will close, shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues are expected to remain open, offering special promotions and events to mark the occasion. Public transport schedules may also see slight adjustments, so commuters should check for updates.
      The Hijri New Year is more than just a day off—it’s a moment for spiritual reflection and renewal. Many Muslims use this time to set intentions for the year ahead, recite prayers, and engage in charitable acts.
      12 activities to try over the long weekend in the UAE

      As the UAE continues to balance modern life with deep-rooted traditions, this holiday serves as a reminder of the country’s cultural and religious heritage. Whether you’re planning a getaway or a quiet weekend at home, make the most of this well-deserved break.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How this fitness brand puts design and functionality at the forefront of its mission

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      We discuss changing the game in the fitness industry with Natalie Holloway, founder of Bala.
      How does your morning routine set you up for optimal success and how does this change or not according to your travel schedule?
      Sleep is incredibly important to me – especially with three little ones – so my mornings vary depending on how the night went. No two morningslook exactly the same, and I’ve learned to embrace that. I try to move my body, even if it’s just ten minutes of stretching or breathwork. Movement really helps me feel grounded and ready for the day.
      What was the catalyst to founding Bala and how did you know it was the right time?
      Bala was born out of an idea during a yoga class while traveling to Asia with my husband. We started brainstorming how we could’ve made the class more challenging – and more fun. We saw a white space where workout equipment was either overly masculine or purely functional. We realised the market was saturated with overly serious equipment, but nothing seemed playful or aesthetic. It wasn’t about the “right” time, it was about the right feeling. The idea was drawn on a napkin and the rest is history!
      What learnings did you take with you to equip you for this from previous roles, and how much did you learn as you built the brand?
      I came from a background in advertising, which definitely helped – especially with branding and communication. But honestly, most of the real learning came on the job. Scaling a product-based business is a masterclass in resilience. From navigating manufacturing to understanding community engagement, operations, and logistics – it’s been a hands-on education every single day.

      How would you differentiate Bala from what else exists and what are the key pillars the brand is built on?
      Bala is grounded in the idea that movement should be enjoyable and fun! At Bala, we believe beautiful, functional fitness equipment will change the way you move. Because we understand that your life includes exercise but is not exclusively defined by it.
      What are the core values of your brand?
      Creativity, inclusivity, intentionality, and joy. Those values are woven into everything from our product design to our partnerships. We want people to feel uplifted by the brand – like they’re part of something personal and elevated.
      What was your approach to investment and what would you advise others if they are building a brand themselves?
      We were very scrappy in the beginning. Shark Tank was a pivotal moment for us – not just in funding, but in visibility. My advice to others: know your numbers, understand your customer deeply, and only bring in partners who align with your vision.
      What do you look for in terms of partnerships?
      We look for partners who share our values – wellness, creativity, and authenticity are big for us. But honestly, the most exciting collaborations are often the unexpected ones. Our partnership with PUCCI is a perfect example – playful, bold, and totally outside the box. We love when a collab brings a little surprise and sparks joy in a way people didn’t see coming.
      The colourways you use are super aesthetic. How conscious was design as well as functionality in terms of brand positioning?
      Design has always been at the heart of Bala. We’ve said from the beginning,we’re a design-led fitness brand. We approached our products the way afashion or interiors brand might, thinking carefully about colour, material, and feel. But it wasn’t perfect from day one – it’s been a lot of trial and error, listening closely to our community, and evolving along the way. Over time, we’ve landed on core colours that really reflect who we are (Sea, Sage, Charcoal, Blush, Sand) and we’re so proud of how they’ve become such a recognisable part of the brand.

      How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
      We’re very hands-on with our manufacturing partners and have a strong internal team dedicated to quality control. We’d rather grow slowly and maintain integrity than scale fast and lose trust. Quality is non-negotiable for us! With social media constantly changing, how do you stay ahead of the curve? We try not to get caught up in chasing every trend – instead, we stay grounded by listening to our community. Platforms change, algorithms shift, but what doesn’t change is the importance of showing up with intention and authenticity. We adapt where it makes sense, but we really focus on staying true to our brand rather than doing what’s trendy.
      How has being LA-based helped or hindered the brand growth?
      LA has definitely helped. It’s a wellnessforward city with a strong creative pulse. Being here has opened doors to great partnerships, studios, talent, and visibility. That said, we’re conscious of creating a brand that resonates globally – not just in an LA bubble.
      If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
      Keep working hard. Keep trusting your gut. You are on the right path and it will all pay off in the end to lead you to your dream job and life.
      This is The Self-Care Issue – how do you stay kind to yourself during challenging times?
      As a mother of three, staying kind to myself means giving myself permission to pause. Movement is a big part of how I reset – but so is rest. Whether it’s a walk, a quick stretch, or just five quiet minutes to myself, I try to carve out little moments to recharge. I’ve learned that disconnecting when I need to is just as important as showing up. Taking care of myself helps me be more present – as a mother, a wife, and in my work – so I’ve learned to give myself a lot of grace along the way.

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

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      7 inspiring wellness communities to be a part of in Dubai

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      Life

      June 16, 2025

      Whether you’re looking to elevate your running game or simply take some time out for a sound healing class – these fitness communities are worth joining.
      As Dubai continues to be a home to a thriving wellness community that caters to holistic health, fitness, and well-being – it’s more about creative inclusive groups that support each other to achieve their goals.
      From yoga studios and mindfulness retreats to holistic healing centers and fitness collectives, the city offers a diverse range of spaces for individuals seeking balance and self-care. Whether you’re looking for guided meditation, alternative therapies, or group wellness activities, Dubai’s wellness hubs provide a supportive environment to nurture both body and mind.
      So, if you’re looking to be a part of one, scroll through our guide of trusted communities that worth joining in Dubai.
      The Pink Majlis

      The Pink Majlis is a women-focused club dedicated to fostering a safe and empowering community for like-minded individuals. More than just a discussion group, it offers a dynamic range of experiences—from Pilates workshops and entrepreneurial pop-ups to curated brunches that spark meaningful conversations. By blending connection, wellness, and support, The Pink Majlis creates a vibrant space where women can thrive together.
      For more information, visit @thepinkmajlis.
      Beyond Wellness

      From retreats to corporate wellness events, this community ensures workouts are given a new meaning. With something for everyone – the platform has a myriad of workouts every week ranging from Yin Yoga to floating sound healings. There are different packages for each session along with wellness retreats arranged internationally. Launched by Rachel Dowes, this life and business transformation hub, focuses on building a facility to grow women in the UAE.
      For more information visit @beyondwellnessdxb
      RunKwa

      This nonprofit organization works on collecting discarded running shoes and donate it to talented runners who simply can’t afford to buy them. Taking place every Tuesday, this community focuses on building a platform that makes people go from stangers to friends. With the intention of running, giving and smiling, this 5km experience every morning works on building a close knit family every week.
      For more information visit @runwa_
      The Uncommon Club

      For a nuanced approach to run clubs, The Uncommon Club is know for their unique collaborations with various cafés and restaurants around Dubai. The standard run club sessions take place every Tuesday from 5pm at Kite Beach. From coach-led sessions to community events, this members only experience focuses on building a platform for likeminded people to meet each other. Their tagline is ‘No One Gets Left Behind.’
      For more information visit @theuncommonclub
      Club Somewhere (Launching Soon)

      Launched by UAE-based entrepreneur Jannat Miranda, Club Somewhere is not just a club, it’s a culture. This members-driven experience offers immersive creative wellness events, with movement sessions, panels and artistic workshops. With a myriad of people in the creative space, this allows many of them to connect. Club Somewhere is for those who want more than just another gym, another event, or another networking space. It’s for the creatives, the movers, the ones looking for something real.
      Humantra Run Club

      The Humantra Run Club is a welcoming running community in Dubai, hosting a free “Any Pace Any Face” 5km run every Saturday at 6:45am from Jumeirah 3 Beach, near Common Grounds Cafe. Open to all fitness levels, their sessions include post-run stretching and socialising over coffee. They also organise occasional long runs on Sundays. It’s perfect for anyone looking to improve fitness and connect with like-minded runners. For an additional boost of energy – the humantra sachets can energise you through your run.
      For more information visit @humantra
      Adidas Runners Club

      Adidas Runners is a global running community that connects runners of all levels through group training, events, and personal development. In Dubai, members can join local runs, participate in training sessions, and engage through the Adidas Runners Dubai page or the Facebook group.
      For more information visit @adidasdubai
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      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @elisehoogerdijk More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      8 state-of-the-art female gyms in Dubai to discover

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      In a city that champions empowerment, luxury, and wellness, Dubai’s female-only gyms offer more than just fitness. They provide sanctuary, sisterhood, and cutting-edge training tailored to women’s needs.
      Whether you seek high-intensity workouts, holistic wellness, or a glamorous social fitness experience, these six elite destinations redefine what it means to train in style.
      Balans Studios

       This Dubai Marina sanctuary elevates women’s wellness through curated yoga, Pilates and barre sessions in a serene, Instagram-worthy space. Beyond workouts, Balans specializes in premium recovery with ice baths and saunas, while its minimalist-chic café serves artisanal matcha and superfood smoothies. Every design detail – from custom equipment to signature mirrors – creates an oasis for both intense training and complete rejuvenation.
      @balansstudios, Dubai Marina, Dubai.
      Reshape Dubai

      This women-only studio delivers targeted transformations through science-backed classes promising “maximum fat burn, beautiful glutes, and energized moods.” Their signature Barre fusion blends ballet techniques with light weights for lean muscle definition, while specialized Booty & Abs sessions and rejuvenating Stretching classes complete the offering. Every session is designed to sculpt while uplifting – because at Reshape, confidence comes as standard equipment.
      @reshape.uae, DIFC and Dubai Marina, Dubai.
      FitSocial

      FitSocial isn’t just a gym, it’s a lifestyle destination. Designed for women who want to prioritize wellness without compromising on luxury, it is Dubai’s largest female-only gym. Thefacility boasts an on-site salon for post-workout hair, nails, and makeup touch-ups. You can cool off in the olympic size swimming pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply unwind in a space crafted for both fitness and relaxation. Whether you want to break a sweat or indulge in self-care, FitSocial ensures you leave feeling your absolute best.
      @fitsocial.ae, Abu Hail, Dubai.
      Luna Ladies Gym

      Founded to provide women with a safe, judgment-free space to train, Luna x CrossFit Moon is a revolutionary concept where women can exercise comfortably, whether they choose to wear a hijab or not. Thoughtful design elements, such as covered windows and skylights, ensure privacy while maintaining a bright, energizing atmosphere. Beyond fitness, Luna fosters community with a sauna, plunge pool, and an inviting coffee shop, making it a haven for both workouts and post-workout socializing.
      @lunaladiesgym, Al Qouz, Dubai.
      Zabeel Ladies Club

      For those who demand exclusivity, Zabeel Ladies Club delivers an unmatched luxury fitness experience. The Jude Fitness Wing features top-tier cardio and free weights areas, while group classes (capped at 20 for personalized attention) cater to every training style. Whether you’re sculpting, sweating, or seeking a high-energy class, this club blends sophistication with performance.
      @zabeelladiesclub, Za’abeel 1, Dubai.
      Curvalicious

      Born from founder Iman Al-Omrani’s own post-pregnancy fitness journey, Curvalicious is more than a gym – it’s a movement. This boutique studio champions women at every stage of their wellness path, offering tailored classes in yoga, Pilates, boxing, and more. With a focus on empowerment and personalized attention, it’s the perfect place to start, or elevate, your fitness story.
      @curvalicious, Nadd Al Hamar, Dubai.
      FitnGlam

      Helena Hijazi, entrepreneur and mother of four, created FitnGlam to fuse fitness with luxury. Beyond its premium equipment and boutique-style classes, the gym features an in-house spa for post-workout rejuvenation. Here, empowerment isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a philosophy woven into every session, ensuring women leave stronger, both inside and out.
      @fitnglamgym, multiple locations across Dubai.
      FitHub Woman

      Spanning an impressive 36,000 sq. ft., FitHub Woman is a fitness utopia offering everything from CrossFit to high-energy HIIT sessions. But the experience doesn’t end with your workout – their boutique hub features curated activewear, including pieces from TULUA, a leading modest fitness brand. It’s a space where performance meets style, designed for women who want it all.
      @fithubwoman, Al Mizhar, Dubai.
      Dubai’s female-only gyms are more than just places to train – they’re communities, sanctuaries, and celebrations of women’s strength. Whether you’re after a high-octane workout, holistic wellness, or a touch of post-exercise glamour, these six destinations deliver excellence at every turn.
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