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      8 luxurious properties to unwind at in the Maldives

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      21 mins ago

      Thinking of taking a break from the city life, then Maldives is the best option to resort too.
      If you find solitude amid nature, Maldives is now shifting from a romantic vacation destination. It is now a country to visit with friends, families or even go solo for a much-needed break.
      Located just 5 hours from Dubai, this easy-to-access destination also promises a visa-free experience for UAE residents. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay. Also, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
      Surrounded by clear blue waters and pristine white sand beaches, guests can enjoy snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
      Each resort offers an unparalleled luxury and personalised service, making them ideal destinations for those seeking an indulgent retreat. With sky high calibre, these world class hotels are spread out on their own private islands. They also include state-of-the-art spas and multiple restaurants amongst lush jungles, pristine beaches and house reefs.
      By taking it a step further, these resorts even have their own conservation projects and coral programmes. Guests can plant their own coral reefs in the ocean and even monitor their growth over time. Some resorts have also adopted a plastic-free approach to ensuring sustainability reigns supreme.
      So for your next visit to the Maldives, swipe through our editor-approved guide of resorts to unwind at for the ultimate tranquil escape.

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

      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wendyswan @raz_kind More

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      9 famous celebrities with their lookalike children

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      From an uncanny resemblance to an undeniable touch of familiarity, the offsprings of these celebrities are a spitting image of their parents.
      So much so, some of them could even be twins. Hence, we take a look at celebrities who have inherited their looks from their mother’s including similar mannerisms.
      Emirates Woman has rounded up a list of A-listers and their lookalike kids, some of which you’ll have to do a double-take.
      Chrissy Teigen and Luna

      Luna, daughter of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, is regularly seen with her A-list mum. Luna is regularly seen on her mother’s Instagram, from pool selfies to celebrating occasions, they look absolutely chic, every time they pose for the camera. The duo definitely stand out in the world of celebrities.
      Catherine Zeta-Jones and Carys Douglas

      When the actress shared a breathtaking snapshot of her daughter by the beach, fans were stunned to see the resplendent features of her little one.
      Reese Witherspoon and Ava Phillippe

      With a photo shared on the actresses’ Instagram page, her fans found it hard to believe the age difference and mother-daughter relationship. With this holiday-themed image breaking the internet, the duo almost look like twin sisters.
      Gwyneth Paltrow and Apple Martin

      The founder of Goop and her daughter have been seen on social media numerous times, with her little one also promoting the beauty brand’s new eCommerce line while she also embarks on a career of her own. From bonding during at-home workouts to lounging under the sun, the two get along really well while we can’t get over how alike they look.
      Elizabeth Hurley and Damian Hurley

      By inheriting his mother Elizabeth Hurley’s striking looks, Damien has followed in his mother’s footsteps starting a career in modelling and acting.  By taking after his mum, as shown in different campaigns, this model is also known for his long tresses and soft features.
      Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber

      While taking after her supermodel mother, Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford could easily be mistaken for sisters. Just like her mother, Gerber has gone on to make a name for herself in the fashion industry working with big brands including Versace, Marc Jacobs and Chanel.
      Zoë Kravitz and Lisa Bonet

      While turning heads as they walked the red carpet together to sweet snapshots shared on social media, Lisa Bonet and Zoë Kravitz share a striking resemblance, taking twinning to a whole other level.
      Yolanda and Bella Hadid

      With Yolanda passing down her Dutch genes to her famous daughters of the moment, there’s no doubt that Bella Hadid has received her mother’s strong features and grit when it comes to pursuing her dreams in the modelling industry.
      Kate Moss and Lila Grace

      With near-identical model looks inherited from her mother, Lila Grace quickly entered the industry by already becoming the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty at a very young age as she embraces her mother’s flawless features.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Getty More

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      Set your alarms: Coldplay ticket prices for the Abu Dhabi concert revealed

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      Coldplay to take over Abu Dhabi: Affordable tickets and an unforgettable experience await.
      Calling all Yellow armband enthusiasts and those yearning for a night of anthems, Coldplay is gracing the UAE with their Music of the Spheres World Tour, and the best part? Tickets are surprisingly affordable.

      The British band will take the stage at Abu Dhabi’s massive Zayed Sports City Stadium on Saturday, January 11th, 2025. This marks not only their only Middle Eastern date but also their first UAE performance since 2022’s Expo City show.
      This is a rare chance to witness Coldplay live, gear up for a night filled with nostalgia, chart-topping hits, and a spectacular display of lasers, fireworks, and LED wristbands.
      Here’s the news that will make your heart sing (pun intended): ticket prices start at a mere Dhs195 (around $53 USD) for standard seating.
      Here’s the complete breakdown:
      Standard Seating: Dhs195
      Bronze: Dhs295
      General Admission & Standing: Dhs395
      Silver: Dhs495
      Gold: Dhs595
      Ruby: Dhs695
      Premium: Dhs995
      Deluxe (with exclusive perks): Dhs1495
      Mark your calendars, here’s how to snag your tickets:
      Artist Presale: Head to Coldplay’s official website on Wednesday, September 25th, at noon.
      Live Nation Presale: Visit the Live Nation Middle East site at noon on Thursday, September 26th.
      General Sale: The final chance to grab tickets is the general sale starting at noon on Friday, September 27th. Be prepared for a rush – this one’s likely to sell out fast.
      This show is more than just a concert; it’s a sustainability-conscious experience. Coldplay’s current tour boasts a 59% reduction in carbon emissions compared to their previous stadium tour. Additionally, over nine million trees have been planted to offset the environmental impact.
      Opening for Coldplay is the rising star Elyanna, a Palestinian-Chilean artist known for her unique blend of Arabic pop and Latin rhythms.

      Don’t miss this opportunity to sing along to your favorite Coldplay tunes under the Abu Dhabi sky. From classic hits like “Fix you” and “A Sky full of Stars” to brand new tracks from their upcoming album “Moon Music,” this promises to be an unforgettable night. Mark your calendars, set those alarms, and get ready to experience Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres live. More

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      How to move from conflict to connection with couples counselling

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      All couples experience conflict, however in the long run, counseling can help partners address and heal from emotional wounds.
      Couples learn how to express their needs and concerns more effectively, fostering better understanding. It provides a safe and structured environment where couples can openly discuss their issues with the guidance of a trained therapist. Common topics addressed in couples counseling include trust issues, communication breakdowns, emotional distance, financial stress, intimacy concerns, and differences in values or life goals.
      With Dubai taking a step forward in the world of mental health, The Wellbeing Sanctuary sheds light on various issues through personalized coaching sessions and educational programs. The space fosters a culture of understanding, resilience, and self-care, promoting lasting positive change in the lives of those you serve.
      To delve into the concept and how it can work for different couples, Emirates Woman spoke to Sarmistha Mitra, Holistic Health Expert and Founder & CEO of The Wellbeing Sanctuary Training LLC in Dubai on how it works.
      Talk us through your background
      I am fascinated by the human mind and have been studying the science behind our behavior, habits, disorders, and dysfunctions for more than a decade now. I’ve dedicated myself to exploring and uncovering the mystery of the subconscious mind and how deeply ingrained survival programs affect our conscious decisions. This journey led me to develop DecodeYou®: A Path to Self-Mastery, an approach aimed at liberating humanity from our stories of pain. My personal experiences and deep exploration into the human psyche have shaped this model, allowing individuals to rewrite their subconscious programming. At The Wellbeing Sanctuary, we focus on holistic healing, integrating mind, body, and soul.
      What are some of the key workshops offered at The Wellbeing Sanctuary?
      The Wellbeing Sanctuary is a KHDA & CMA (Complementary Medical Association) accredited training center. Currently, we offer three certified trainings for professional and personal development, DecodeYou ®, Dream Interpretation & Analysis, & Chakra Diagnosis and Attunement. Additionally, we hold Mental Fitness classes every Wednesday. Our workshops create unique experiences, such as “DecodeYour Relationships,” which helps couples understand the subconscious dynamics in their partnerships. We also offer sessions like “Emotional Mastery,” “Mind-Body Recalibration,” and specialized workshops that focus on trauma healing, generational healing, and self-esteem building. For parents and children, we have “Bonded Bliss,” a meditation program that nurtures deep connection and mindfulness. What sets us apart is our focus on integrating these learnings into practical, everyday life to ensure long-lasting transformation.
      What is your therapeutic approach to couples counseling?
      In couples counseling, I take a holistic and integrative approach. The program begins with self-discovery, as self-awareness is the key to cultivating a balanced life. This process helps uncover the subconscious survival programs that each partner brings into the relationship. By decoding these patterns, we address the root causes of conflicts, allowing couples to reprogram limiting beliefs and develop healthier, more functional relationship dynamics. I believe that the best time for relationship counseling is during the honeymoon phase, when positivity often blinds couples to early signs of potential issues. Most relationship counselors experience more failed cases than successful ones because people delay therapy until problems become severe. By investing in your relationship early, you’re setting the stage for long-term success and deeper connection. If you’re in this early stage, consider seeking professional support to ensure a strong and lasting bond.
      When a disagreement arises between couples, what’s the best advice?
      A relationship is not just an intimate companionship; it is the greatest opportunity for spiritual growth and evolution. My advice is to first understand that every disagreement brings an opportunity for growth. Instead of trying to win, ask, “What is this conflict showing us about our deeper needs and survival instincts?” When we approach conflict with curiosity, we uncover what we’ve been denying ourselves or each other. This mindset transforms disagreements into learning moments for both partners, allowing the relationship to evolve in a healthier direction.
      How do you handle power imbalances or one partner being more committed than the other?
      Power imbalances often stem from one partner unconsciously replaying a survival program that creates control or dependency. I work with couples to identify these imbalances and shift the dynamic by fostering personal responsibility. I believe no one would intentionally hurt the person they care for, which means these acts are often unmindful and projections of deep-rooted issues. The first step is self-awareness, and then I introduce the couple to the subconscious patterns of each other. We explore what threatens one partner in the relationship and how to diffuse that threat through mindful actions and communication. When each partner learns to honor their own boundaries and autonomy, the relationship can regain balance.

      How do you help couples improve communication?
      I guide couples to communicate from a space of awareness rather than reaction. Teaching them tools to transform their reactions—animalistic in nature—into responses that come from a place of psychological maturity is crucial. When we understand our own emotional triggers and survival mechanisms, we communicate with more clarity and compassion. I emphasize mindful listening, helping couples hear each other’s unspoken needs and fears behind the words. Specific techniques like mirroring and empathetic listening are tools I use to help couples bridge their communication gaps.
      What are some of the main problems you’ve noticed with couples in Dubai?
      Many couples in Dubai face challenges rooted in ancestral survival programs, particularly around gender roles. Modern women, often stepping into their masculine energy to cope with the demands of life, find themselves becoming providers or decision-makers, which can create imbalances in relationships. On the other hand, men are grappling with the transition from being solely providers to becoming equal partners, struggling to redefine their roles in the face of evolving expectations.
      This misalignment often leads to a deeper issue—many couples don’t know what they truly want emotionally. When people are disconnected from their emotional needs, they miscommunicate their desires and expectations. This disconnect leads to disappointment, resentment, and ultimately reactive behaviors such as arguments or avoidance. The DecodeYou® program helps individuals balance these energies and find alignment within their relationships.
      Additionally, many couples in Dubai also struggle with balancing individual identity alongside cultural or familial expectations. The fast-paced, high-pressure environment leaves little room for emotional connection, compounding the disconnect. Social media further fuels insecurities and comparisons, leading to unrealistic expectations, misunderstandings, and a sense of dissatisfaction in relationships. My role is to help them realign emotionally, understand their true desires, and foster healthy communication.
      How do you measure progress in therapy?
      Progress is measured by the couple’s ability to break old patterns, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts with compassion. I also observe how each partner develops greater self-awareness and takes responsibility for their emotions and reactions. Healing is evident when couples begin to experience deeper intimacy, mutual respect, and a sense of inner peace that radiates outward into the relationship.
      What is your view on the role of compromise in relationships?
      Compromise is essential, but it must be healthy. Healthy compromise happens when both partners honor their own boundaries while remaining open to each other’s needs. It’s about finding a balance where each person feels respected and valued, rather than giving up a part of themselves to maintain harmony. Recognizing the difference between compromise and self-sacrifice is key to ensuring the relationship remains balanced and fulfilling.
      With social media affecting couples in the 21st century, what’s your advice on navigating through this?
      Not everything on social media is harmful, but the key lies in our ability to discern what serves us and what doesn’t. This discernment comes from self-awareness. Without it, we can easily get swept up in false realities and adopt unrealistic standards that ultimately lead to dissatisfaction and confusion in our lives. My advice to everyone is simple: take mental fitness and self-awareness as your personal responsibility—not just for your own well-being, but for the collective well-being of those around you. When we are grounded in our own truth, we can engage with social media in a way that enriches, rather than depletes, our lives. Setting healthy boundaries around social media usage and even engaging in regular digital detoxes can help. This self-awareness also helps build a strong foundation of trust and connection, whether in relationships, friendships, or even our larger community.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @stineehonore More

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      3 tastemakers on their most-loved spots in Saudi Arabia

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      From world-renowned restaurants and favourite local haunts in Riyadh to lesser-known hidden gems in Jeddah, three tastemakers share their most-loved spots in Saudi Arabia.

      Arwa Al BanawiFounder & Creative Director of Arwa Al Banawi
      The ultimate place to be during weekends:
      The beach!
      Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend trying:
      Kuuru is my favourite place in Jeddah, it’s a blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. The nigiris and ceviche are my favourite thing on the menu, and the sliders too!
      If vegan, favourite vegan eatery in Saudi:
      Moon Shell is a lovely place to go for a coffee and enjoy one of their vegan bowls, my favourite is the açaí.
      Favourite place for coffee/tea/matcha:
      I love tea, and in Jeddah tea is done right. For me it’s my grandma Salma’s place – she makes the best tea. It’s prepared with lemon leaves that she grows in her garden or when it’s rose season in Taif which is about two hours away from Jeddah, you can add that with mint tea.
      Best-kept secret of Saudi Arabia:
      That would be Jeddah’s old town, Al Balad. Just walk around and visit the local cafeterias, the old town of Jeddah has so much heritage and stories, for example, my great-grandfather’s house is over 100 years old now. Thankfully the new vision of Saudi is to restore all the buildings in the old town and give it a contemporary take while keeping all of its old homes. It’s magical and you feel it the second you arrive, you can buy local produce, local perfumes, and some traditional kaftans, also the “mistaka bukhour” is found there, we burn it with charcoal, it is believed in our culture to purify the space from bad energy and you can buy it in the old town souk. It has a beautiful scent. A treasured hidden gem that only locals know and love: The beach islands, there are many and you go about 20 minutes by boat from the marina.
      A go-to wellness spot:
      I usually get my spa treatment at home; the best is Polish Salon.
      A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
      Our traditional way of cooking is usually fried local fish with rice made with special spices and herbs and a fresh salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. On other occasions, a special coffee we call “qahwat loz” is traditionally made at the beginning of the Islamic New Year, and it’s made with almonds, milk, and cardamom. It’s a tradition we have at my grandma Salma’s house.
      Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi Aarabia:
      Shangri-La Hotel is a beautiful place overlooking the sea, I recommend their tea time, snorkelling and diving in Jeddah is a must for those who love to do that.

      Hala AbdallahJewellery Designer & Founder of Ofa
      The ultimate place to be during weekends:
      There are a lot of amazing things to do in Boulevard Riyadh City and Bujairi Terrace.
      Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend trying:
      For the best food I’d say LPM for fine dining, and Amigos for the best casual Mexican restaurant.
      Favourite place for coffee/tea/matcha:
      There are so many places, but I think Starbucks always wins!
      Best-kept secret of Saudi Arabia:
      I highly recommend Flour & Firewood for a breakfast or brunch experience in Riyadh.
      A treasured hidden gem that only locals know – and love:
      Waking up early in the morning to go to Wadi Hanifah is so worth it!
      A go-to wellness spot:
      I will recommend Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA.
      A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
      A once-in-a-lifetime experience is to hike the edge of the world during winter in Riyadh and visit AlUla on New Year’s Eve.
      Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi:
      I can recommend people to visit a Saudi home and eat with them or learn how to make a local dish with them, you can do that through Hihome.sa platform. That is an experience like no other.

      Lina MalaikaFilm Maker & Cultural Consultant
      The ultimate place to be during weekends:
      I’m fortunate enough to live in Jeddah which is located on the coastline of the marvelous Red Sea. As an avid sea lover, I make it a point to spend every weekend at the beach, it’s my nature sanctuary. The sun, sea, salt, and sand, help me unwind and fuel for the rest of the week.
      Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend to try:
      My favourite lunch spot in Jeddah is definitely Acqua E Sale, a new authentic Italian spot located in Al Rawdah. I love their vegetarian pesto lasagna and lobster Caesar salad. My favourite dinner spot has to be Kuuru, a local Japanese- Peruvian fusion concept. It’s my go-to whenever I have any guests visiting my city and it never disappoints! I highly recommend their lemon truffle salmon nigiri and Najel ceviche.
      If vegan, favourite vegan eatery in Saudi Arabia:
      My go-to is Moon Shell with an all-day breakfast menu. I love their “Sunrays” açai bowl, but I also add their homemade peanut butter. For the savoury option, I highly suggest their vegetable rice rolls. The Nabati vegan ice cream is guiltfree, delicious and definitely worth trying!
      A treasured hidden gem that only locals know in Saudi Arabia— and love:
      Homegrown Market in Jeddah. It’s a meticulously curated concept store that offers local fashion brands, jewellery, artisans, books, collectibles, and gifts. You can never leave empty-handed!
      A go-to wellness spot:
      As for anything wellness related, I always opt for home services. For hair blowouts and nail treatments, I use The Spa KSA. For facials, the best in Jeddah is located at Spa Lounge and for massages, Spa Day – my favourite masseuse is Apple.
      A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
      A once-in-a-lifetime experience would definitely be midnight stargazing and the sunrise hot air balloon experience in AlUla during the winter. I highly recommend a weekend getaway to AlUla.
      Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi:
      One of the most underrated spots in Saudi is the south region, Asir. The highest peak is located there, Al Soudah, as well as Rijal Almaa, an ancient village located in a valley and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also, visiting the art museums dedicated to the Asiri art is an experience not to be missed. The artisans and craftsmanship are very inspiring. The entire region is rich with culture and heritage on many layers. Another recommendation would be to visit the Taif region during the springtime and flower festival season.
      September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Images: Supplied More

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      History of Saudi National Day: Everything to know about it’s origin

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      19 seconds ago

      A great nation’s birth: The history behind Saudi National Day.
      A Day of Unity and Celebration
      Saudi National Day, celebrated annually on September 23rd, is a significant occasion for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It commemorates the unification of the country under the leadership of King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932. This historic event marked the end of a period of tribal fragmentation and ushered in a new era of national identity and sovereignty.
      The Road to Unification
      The Saudi National Day celebrations trace their roots to the early 20th century when King Abdulaziz, a young prince from the House of Saud, embarked on a quest to reclaim the family’s ancestral lands. Through a series of strategic military campaigns and diplomatic maneuvers, he successfully unified the various regions of the Arabian Peninsula.

      One of the most pivotal moments in this unification process was the capture of Riyadh, the capital of the Second Saudi State, in 1902. This victory marked a turning point in Abdulaziz’s campaign and solidified his control over central Arabia. Over the following decades, he continued to expand his territory through conquest and negotiation, eventually uniting the entire Arabian Peninsula under his rule.
      The Proclamation of the Kingdom
      On September 23, 1932, King Abdulaziz Al Saud formally proclaimed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This historic announcement marked the culmination of years of struggle and sacrifice and established a new nation in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.
      Celebrating National Day
      Saudi National Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor throughout the Kingdom. The celebrations typically include a variety of events and activities, such as:
      Official Ceremonies: The day begins with official ceremonies attended by government officials, dignitaries, and military personnel. These events often feature speeches, parades, and cultural performances.
      Public Celebrations: Throughout the country, public celebrations take place in parks, squares, and other public spaces. These events may include fireworks displays, concerts, and traditional folk dances.
      National Flag Displays: The Saudi national flag is prominently displayed everywhere, symbolizing the unity and pride of the nation.
      Cultural Activities: Various cultural activities and exhibitions are held to showcase the rich heritage and traditions of Saudi Arabia.
      Community Events: Many communities organize their own celebrations, often featuring local customs and traditions. These events may include traditional games, storytelling, and poetry recitations.
      It is a time for the people of Saudi Arabia to come together and celebrate their nation’s history, culture, and achievements. It is a day of pride, unity, and hope for a bright future.

      Saudi National Day is a significant event in the history of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It commemorates the unification of the nation under King Abdulaziz Al Saud and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Saudi people.The celebrations are a testament to the nation’s progress and its commitment to unity and prosperity.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Feature Image: Insragram @visitsaudi More

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      Saudi National Day 2024: 20 incredible women making a difference

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      Today, September 23, 2024, marks the 94th official Saudi National Day.
      As the Kingdom’s loyalty continues to shine through, this special occasion is a day to celebrate the country’s greatness and the importance of having women in high positions.
      When is Saudi National Day?
      Saudi National Day is celebrated annually on September 23 to commemorate the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz in 1932. The day marks the establishment of the modern Saudi state and the renaming of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
      Since the unification of the country by King Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud in 1932, the Kingdom encourages national pride and has been celebrating Saudi National Day annually since September 23, 2005.
      Women are a key part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is why this Saudi National Day, Emirates Woman is highlighting 20 incredible women you should know about.
      Furthermore, we celebrate all the women from the Kingdom this Saudi National Day and the amazing work they do for their country.
      HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

      Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States of America, HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar, IS the first woman in the country’s history to serve in the role of Ambassador. As part of her philanthropic work, Princess Reema became a founding member of the Zahra Breast Cancer Awareness Association in 2007. She has also been a member of the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee since 2017. Combining all her achievements together, she’s truly an inspiring role model to many.
      HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud Al Saud

      Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud is always aiming to give back to society in whatever way she can. Earlier this year, Alwaleed Philanthropies, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, launched a new homegrown brand in support of Saudi female artisans. The project entitled Mizwada is also being spearheaded by Princess Lamia, Alwaleed Philanthropies’ Secretary-General. While being known for her role as a philanthropist in society, Princess Lamia has previously shared her desire to change the world, and the newly launched brand, Mizwada aims to work with female artisans in order to promote the concept of locally resources materials that reflect the Kingdom’s heritage.
      HRH Princess Al Joharah Talal Al Saud

      Her Royal Highness Princess Al Joharah Bint Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the Chairwoman of ATLAL ALMAJD where she focusses on digital marketing, online advertising and online trading, whilst also supporting up and coming businesses. She’s constantly inspiring women at various summits around the globe and sharing her experiences as a Saudi entrepreneur.
      Aseel Al-Hamad

      Aseel Al-Hammad became the first woman to be appointed to the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation becoming the voice of female motorists in Saudi Arabia. With not much exposure to driving due to the previous legal restriction for women driving, Aseel took full advantage of the opportunities that came her way and proved to be a success.
      Noha Al-Yousef

      After beginning her professional career while being in her second year of university, Noha Al-Yousef was appointed as the youngest Saudi CEO of a group of companies in the Kingdom during her final year of studies. She went on to found the Ithraa Consulting group in 2009, located in Jeddah, which is primarily used to provide consultancy services and studies in the field of developing Saudi female employment and projects.
      Emon Shakoor

      This tech entrepreneur launched Blossom, which is the first accelerator that aims to empower women and enable startups in the Kingdom. Emon Shakoor was also previously a neuroscience researcher at the University of California and has also overseen hundreds of Pfizer clinical drug trials across North America, while being a savvy businesswoman and seizing every opportunity.
      Dina Al-Tayeb

      Being the first Saudi woman to complete ironman, Dina Al-Tayeb is a practising dentist who has completed over 100 triathlons. She made history qualifying for The Ironman World Championship as it is considered one of the most difficult races in the world.
      Yasmeen Aldabbagh

      Yasmin Al Dabbagh is known as the ‘fastest woman in Saudi Arabia’. She participated in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics this year representing her country with pride having to carry the Kingdom’s flag at the opening ceremony and inspiring an entire generation of female athletes. Through immense dedication and hard work, she achieved her long-shot dream of participating in this large scale event this year and making her country proud.
      Raha Moharrak

      Known for her remarkable achievements, Raha Moharrak is the youngest Arab and first Saudi woman to climb Mount Everest. Her trailblazing journey has inspired several young women as she’s also climbed nine of the world’s most famous summits. The 34-year-old continues to inspire the next generation of thrill-seekers with her note-worthy strides.
      Reema Juffali

      Saudi Arabia’s first female formula four driver is taking the world of motorsport by storm. From her first major win at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit in 2018 to climbing up the ranks, Reema Juffali is definitely a pioneer in her industry. She’s always ready to take on new challenges by fueling her passion on the tracks. She’s also now the only female driver in the British F3 Championship.
      Mishaal Ashemimry

      Being the first Saudi woman to join NASA, Mishaal Ashemimry’s title of being GCC’s first female aerospace engineer continually inspires young women as this wish to make strides in this industry. She’s even set up her own company Mishaal Aerospace and has set her sights on nothing below the stars.
      Marriam Mossalli

      Marriam Mossalli is a Jeddah-based entrepreneur who’s the founder of luxury consultancy firm Niche Arabia. She has been a long-standing supporter of the local fashion industry in the Kingdom and belongs to a generation of Saudi women who embody a new-age spirit. Back in 2018, Marriam published her second book Under The Abaya: Street Style From Saudi Arabia which lays emphasis on the diverse Saudi fashion scene. The book became a sell-out success. One hundred per cent of the proceeds of the book scales were used to create several academic scholarships to promote women empowerment.
      Honayda Serafi

      With her designs that have reached a level of global recognition, Honayda Serafi’s namesake brand is constantly aiming to contribute to reducing waste that’s a by-product from the fashion industry. While embodying her traditional roots, the pieces are a combination of traditions with modern craftsmanship, with a core mission to empower women as supporting local fashion continues to be at the helm of it all.
      Lillian Ismail

      While being recognized as Saudi Arabia’s youngest jewellery designer, and being born and raised in the Kingdom, Lillian Ismail reignites the flame of her heritage by blending contemporary elements with Islamic-inspired concepts in her designs. She launched her namesake jewellery line back in 2013, with all her designs being handmade piece by piece locally in her hometown, Jeddah. In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “The fashion scene in Saudi Arabia always keeps growing, but what I appreciate the most, are the efforts put in developing traditional concepts in design and creating unique contemporary versions of them.”
      Shahd Al-Shehail

      Founder of the ethical fashion label Abadia, Saudi designer Shahd Al-Shehail combines traditional crafts with contemporary designs in garments that are hand-embroidered within the Kingdom. With some of her pieces previously being worn by Queen Rania of Jordan, the fashion designer focuses on luxury fabrics and handcrafted details, that seamlessly blend culture through contemporary designs, as it preserves the age-old values through the brand’s continued commitment.
      Nora Al Shaikh

      Born with the desire to cater to the modern woman, Jeddah-based designer Nora Al Shaikh has carved out a niche for herself with strong architectural lines and rich colour combinations which are emulated through all her pieces. Nora launched her luxury ready-to-wear line in 2012 and continues to fuse Saudi heritage with a global perspective. In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “Today I think a lot about how I can empower and give confidence to women around me through my clothes.”
      Arwa Al Banawi

      In just a few years, Arwa Al Banawi has become one of the most prominent designers in the fashion industry. She has beautifully blended traditional tailoring with a Middle Eastern sensibility in each of her designs. By continually working to be a part of a sustainable future, Arwa is now focusing on the multicultural side of Saudi Arabia by adapting her designs to fit accordingly. In her most recent collaboration, she partnered with Adidas to produce the Arwa Al Banawi Forum Lo sneaker.
      Fatima Al-Banawi

      The Saudi Arabian filmmaker and actress is best known for her popular television series and films Barakah Meets Barakah, A Blink of an Eye and Paranormal. She’s a renowned storyteller in the Kingdom and is continually breaking the social stigmas assigned to her country. By giving several people in her country a voice, her films have also made an impact in their own rightful manner globally. She was also recently chosen to be Cartier’s ambassador for the Middle East.
      Amy Roko

      While breaking stereotypes, Amy Roko has kept her identity a secret while still working on massive campaigns for brands such as Benefit Cosmetics, Levi’s and more. While overcoming all the hurdles, she’s managed to gain the love of all her fans as she continues to create fun content.
      Bayan Linjawi

      This entrepreneur has gained a wide social media fanbase as she shares her favourite fashion pieces and is also the founder of the online concept store 31store.sa, In addition, she’s also the founder of Blossom MENA, an accelerator that aims to connect and foster technology.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      11 luxurious hotels in Saudi Arabia to book for your next visit

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      34 mins ago

      The Kingdom has now transformed into a key tourism hotspot for many. With Saudi Arabia now being home to a myriad of luxurious hotels from rock-hewn retreats to Nobu-branded modern masterpieces, it’s the place to visit.
      With its well-preserved ruins and sophisticated new retreats, this country has become a magnet for travellers from around the world.
      Saudi Arabia is bursting with exciting hotel openings across its bustling cities, historical sights and new megaprojects. The Kingdom is welcoming big brands, from A-list favourites to sprawling resorts. So, if you’re planning to visit Diriyah, Neom, The Red Sea and beyond, there’s a hotel to suit your needs.
      So, whether you’re after a fun, fashionable or family-friendly hotel, there’s something for everyone in Saudi Arabia to suit your hospitality needs. With luxurious interiors and UNESCO protected sights, each resort is a must-visit
      So, for your next trip to Saudi Arabia, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to the luxurious properties to book.

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