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      Where to Sip: 20 cafés redefining Dubai’s coffee culture

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      Life

      1 hour ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 20 IMAGES
      With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these aesthetic cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
      Dubai’s burgeoning food scene is growing by the day. Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.

      From Scandinavian-inspired coffee shops to nature-fuelled cafés, these spots not only offer delicious food but also provide a visually appealing atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning photos.
      If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      16 designer luggage pieces to elevate your summer soirées

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      Life

      2 hours ago

      As the golden hues of summer beckon, so does the allure of jet-setting in unparalleled style, with a designer luggage.
      Whether you’re escaping to the sun-drenched shores of Saint-Tropez, indulging in a chic city break in Capri, or making a grand entrance at a glamorous soirée, your luggage should be nothing short of a statement. After all, luxury isn’t just about where you go, it’s about how you arrive.
      From heritage houses to contemporary craftsmanship, these 16 designer luggage pieces promise to transform your travels into a seamless symphony of sophistication. Each piece is a testament to impeccable design, uncompromising quality, and an unwavering commitment to elegance.
      For the art connoisseur, Hermès’ handcrafted RMS Cabin Suitcase offers a canvas of exquisite leatherwork, while monogram enthusiasts will adore Louis Vuitton’s iconic Horizon 55 with its signature print. Minimalists can opt for The Row’s understated denim duffle, eco-conscious travelers will appreciate Paravel’s sustainable Grand Tour bag, and those seeking quiet luxury will find perfection in Loro Piana’s cashmere-lined weekender.
      Fashion-forward jetsetters can make a statement with Fendi’s bold FF duffle, while tech-savvy travelers will admire Tumi’s precision-engineered packing case – proving that whether your style leans classic heritage or contemporary edge, there’s a designer piece to elevate every journey.

      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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      Disneyland in UAE: How Abu Dhabi is bringing the magic to the Middle East

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      Life

      11 mins ago

      Abu Dhabi is transforming into a world-class destination of fantasy and wonder with the upcoming arrival of Disneyland, the Middle East’s first Disney theme park.
      Set on the vibrant Yas Island, this landmark development will place the UAE capital firmly on the global map of luxury entertainment and immersive experiences.

      The historic announcement was delivered by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, alongside Disney CEO Bob Iger during an exclusive event at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. The collaboration represents a significant moment in Disney’s 102-year legacy, introducing a park that promises to blend the brand’s iconic storytelling with the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi.
      Developed in partnership with Miral, Abu Dhabi‘s leading creator of immersive destinations, the waterfront resort will attract international visitors from across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. While Miral oversees construction and operations, Disney’s Imagineers will lead creative direction, ensuring the park delivers the same level of magic and detail found in its global counterparts.

      Disney’s portfolio includes twelve parks across North America, Asia, and Europe, from the original Disneyland in California to the fairy-tale castles of Disneyland Paris. Now, Abu Dhabi joins this prestigious list, marking a new era for themed entertainment in the region.
      Though specific details remain under wraps, the resort will feature signature Disney attractions, luxury accommodations, and world-class dining, all infused with the sophistication of Emirati hospitality. Positioned alongside Yas Island‘s existing attractions, including Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, Disneyland Abu Dhabi will further establish the emirate as a premier destination for families and luxury travelers alike.
      As anticipation builds, the project signals more than just a theme park—it represents a cultural milestone, where Disney’s timeless enchantment meets Abu Dhabi’s visionary ambition. The world will be watching as this magical kingdom rises from the desert sands, ready to welcome dreamers of all ages.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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      5 Dubai chocolate inspired pistachio kunafa desserts you absolutely need to try

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      Life

      4 hours ago

      The viral pistachio kunafa flavor—fondly dubbed ‘Dubai Chocolate’—had taken the city by storm, evolving from a single decadent treat into an entire culinary movement.
      From luxurious cakes and pastries to creamy ice creams and even perfumes, this irresistible fusion of rich chocolate, buttery kunafa, and nutty pistachio has become a symbol of Dubai’s innovative dessert scene.

      The credit, of course, goes to Sarah Hamouda, founder of Fix Pistachio Kunafa, who first introduced this iconic flavor. Its popularity skyrocketed so much that even Sheikh Hamdan collaborated with the brand to create his own exclusive version. As we celebrate the legacy of this beloved flavor, we’ve rounded up the top 5 Dubai Chocolate-inspired pistachio kunafa desserts you must try across the UAE.
      Chunk – Pistachio Kunafa Choco Dreamcake

      A masterpiece in every bite, this freshly baked cake from Chunk Bakehouse layers rich pistachio cream, crispy kunafa, and moist chocolate sponge, all crowned with a glossy chocolate disc. It’s the ultimate indulgence for kunafa and chocolate lovers.
      Discover them on @chunk.uae.
      Habib Bakery – Nutella Nest Kunafa

      Layers of crispy kataifi pastry filled with luscious Nutella, this indulgent dessert is topped with roasted hazelnuts for the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. A chocolate lover’s dream come true.
      Discover them on www.habibbakery.ae.
      French Bakery – Pistachio Kunafa Mono Cake

      A luxurious creation featuring marble sponge, dark chocolate ganache, and crunchy pistachio kunafa filling, all finished with slivered pistachios. The contrast of smooth and crisp textures makes this cake unforgettable.
      Discover them on @frenchbakerydubai.
      Break by Mara – Kunafa Pistachio Chocolate Cake

      A modern twist on the classic, this dessert layers chocolate sponge, pistachio kunafa, vanilla syrup, and milk chocolate for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s a must-try for those who love a balanced sweetness.
      Discover them on www.maralounge.com
      L’ETO – Dubai Cheesecake

      This isn’t just any cheesecake—it’s a decadent fusion of chocolate cheesecake, tahini, and crunchy pistachios, all resting on a kunafa base. The mix of Middle Eastern tradition and contemporary dessert artistry makes it a standout.
      Discover them on @letocaffe.official.
      Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dubai Chocolate or new to the trend, these five pistachio kunafa desserts are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. Indulge in the rich layers of Chunk’s Pistachio Kunafa Choco Dreamcake, where every bite combines creamy pistachio with crispy kunafa. Or try Habib Bakery’s perfectly balanced creation that brings together velvety chocolate and nutty goodness. For something truly luxurious, French Bakery’s Mono Cake offers an elegant mix of marble sponge and dark chocolate ganache. Break by Mara’s modern interpretation delivers delightful sweetness, while L’ETO’s innovative Dubai Cheesecake reimagines tradition with its kunafa base.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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      In the office with Dominique Laird, founder and CEO of Blended

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      Dominique Laird, Founder and CEO of Blended, Partner and Creative Director of Solutions Group shares the conception and creation of its newest location at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi.
      How long have you been in this space?
      I’ve been deeply involved in the wellness and hospitality industry for over a decade now. The journey with Blended began several years ago from something quite personal – the simple desire to enjoy massages at home, in my own space. That moment of craving comfort and calm sparked what would become a much larger vision.
      Most recently, we proudly opened the doors to our newest home at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi in Dubai Marina. This marks an incredibly exciting chapter; a full-spectrum wellness and lifestyle hub, where beauty, movement, and deep rest exist in harmony. From state-of-the-art fitness studios to elevated spa and salon experiences, and exclusive access to premium hotel amenities, it’s a 360º space that serves the mind, body, and soul. We’ve brought our signature classes and treatments, including Pilates, yoga, sound healing and massages, and introduced new elements, like Mini Blends for mums and children.
      This latest destination is more than just a wellness space; it’s experiential design in action. Every corner is intentionally crafted to evoke emotion, invite presence, and allow people to interpret the space in their own way whether that means movement, stillness, connection, or escape. For me, this evolution represents years of vision, growth, and an unwavering commitment to building a community grounded in well-being, confidence, and self-love.
      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      At Blended, we’ve always believed that design should be as healing as it is beautiful. So, the space has been carefully curated – not just styled, but intentionally built to support the wellness journey in subtle and powerful ways. We’ve custom-built many features throughout, from our signature treatment beds designed for optimal comfort and ergonomic support, to a grounding salt cave layered with three tiers of banquet seating that creates a deeply restorative atmosphere. Our multi-use suites are fitted with bespoke bi-fold doors, offering seamless transitions between individual and couple treatments, and everything from our sculptural lighting to our furniture pieces is created with intention.
      “The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it”
      The layout itself is an experience, following the natural flow of energy through the space, gently guiding guests from arrival into relaxation. Whether you’re entering from the ground-floor salon with its beauty bars and styling stations perfectly positioned by the valet or ascending to the 30th-floor spa with its panoramic views of the Dubai Marina skyline, every element works in harmony to deliver both form and function. We’ve embraced neutral tones and natural textures to bring warmth and calm, punctuated by accent features and gentle curvature; not to jar, but to intrigue, to soften, to invite. The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it. It allows guests to bring their own energy and take what they need from the space, whether it’s stillness, self-reflection, or renewal. It’s experiential design in its truest sense.
      How do you think the interiors reflect you?
      The interiors at Blended are a direct extension of my personality, my values, and how I see the world. I’ve always believed that true wellness is layered – it’s not just about what we do with our bodies or what we put on our plates. It’s about the way a space makes us feel. And, so, the design is a gentle reflection of that philosophy. It’s luxurious but never loud. Elevated yet grounded. It’s about clean lines softened by soulful details – tactile materials, soft ambient lighting, quiet corners that invite you to linger.
      It reflects my love for serene environ- ments that allow people to simply be. The neutral palette is warm, not stark. The textures are earthy, comforting. Curves and arches bring in flow and femininity – just enough to catch the eye and stir emotion, but never overwhelm. Every detail is layered with intention but leaves space for personal interpretation because I don’t believe wellness should ever feel prescriptive. It should feel open, spacious, welcoming – like an extension of home.
      At its core, the space mirrors my belief that wellness is not one-size-fits-all. It’s an ever-evolving experience. So, we created something fluid, something that moves with the individual. The interiors are part of that journey – holding space for the mind, body, and soul to reconnect, realign, and rise. That’s what Blended means to me.
      Describe your taste in three words.
      Sophisticated, serene, intentional.
      Scroll through the gallery below for a tour inside Blended’s newest address:

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      30 summer-inspired chic décor pieces to upgrade your home

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      Life

      7 mins ago

      Summer has finally arrived and with that comes the warmth of hosting gatherings at home rather than being outdoors. With a few décor pieces to add, transforming your abode has never been easier.
      By infusing the calming elements of summer, anyone can add a few décor pieces to completely revamp their space.
      So, as temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the season’s ecelectic energy and infuse your living spaces with a breath of fresh air. Embracing what suits your home the best can be a hassle – from figuring out what colour suits your rooms the best to what furniture looks best in your living space, the options are seemingly endless.
      Sometimes, it can be as simple as adding a cute seashell-shaped throw pillow or switching out your plates for ones with a colorful pattern to transform your home into the summer oasis of your dreams.

      Each of these pieces, can make a splash throughout the joy-filled month, trust us when we say there are plenty of choices that are *add-to-cart worthy*.
      For the host or the bachelor, try a fresh color scheme or incorporate new materials as the season changes. Start small and focus on one area of a room, or if you’re feeling bold, transform the whole room into a summery haven. This extra special and extra hot time of year is also the perfect time to embrace decor inspired by coastal design, like beachy color palettes and nautical nods, and tropical motifs, like summer fruit and palm leaves galore. Hence, Spruce up your dining area with our best summer decór ideas—from table setting and furnishing inspiration to mesmerising lighting touches for an escape without taking a long-haul flight. Without spending too much, it’s always easy to add a few touches to make your home a relaxing haven.
      If you’re looking to revamp your space, you’re in the right place as we can allow you to elevate your home’s style and create a refreshing retreat for yourself.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      7 luxury perfume launches you’ll love in 2025

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      The world of haute perfumery is ever-evolving, with iconic and niche brands unveiling breathtaking new luxury perfume launches that captivate the senses. From fresh cologne-inspired compositions to bold scents, 2025 brings an array of luxurious launches worth exploring. Here are seven standout perfumes that promise to redefine elegance, each with its own story, craftsmanship, and allure.
      Henry Jacques – IL Y AVAIT UN JARDIN…

      Henry Jacques continues to redefine haute perfumery with its new cologne-inspired collection, IL Y AVAIT UN JARDIN… (“There was a garden…”). This exquisite duo—I and II—draws inspiration from sunlit Italian orchards, blending citrus, herbs, and woods into a symphony of freshness. I opens with sparkling bergamot, lemon, and bitter orange, softened by the delicate embrace of lavender and orange blossom, while sandalwood and benzoin add a refined warmth. II, on the other hand, is a radiant burst of lemon, mandarin, and bergamot, deepened by nutmeg, creamy tonka bean, and earthy vetiver for a lingering, sophisticated trail. These fragrances are a testament to the brand’s dedication to nature’s beauty, encapsulating the essence of an idyllic garden in every spritz. Perfect for those who appreciate timeless elegance with a modern twist, these scents are designed to evoke nostalgia while remaining effortlessly chic.
      Available on www.parfumshenryjacques.com
      Christian Louboutin Beauté – Fétiche Le Cuir

      Celebrating a decade in beauty, Christian Louboutin introduces Fétiche Le Cuir, a daring luxury perfume fusing supple leather and intoxicating florals. Encased in one of the brand’s signature sculptural bottles—this time adorned with intricate detailing, the fragrance is as much a visual masterpiece as it is an olfactory one. The scent opens with a bold leather accord, softened by velvety floral notes that add a touch of femininity, while a base of smoky woods and musk ensures a seductive, long-lasting trail. Designed for those who embrace both power and sensuality, Fétiche Le Cuir is a statement-making fragrance that demands attention. Whether worn for an evening out or as a signature scent, it embodies the fearless spirit of Louboutin’s iconic designs.
      Available on www.christianlouboutin.com
      Chloé – Nomade Lumière d’Égypte

      A stunning new flanker to the beloved Nomade line, Lumière d’Égypte pays homage to Egypt, the homeland of Chloé’s founder, Gaby Aghion. This fragrance is a poetic journey through the Nile’s freshness and the desert’s warmth, opening with crisp aquatic notes before unfolding into a heart of lush florals and exotic spices. The drydown reveals a sensual blend of amber and woods, leaving an enigmatic trail that lingers like a desert breeze. Housed in the brand’s signature ribbed bottle, this edition features a woven blue cord inspired by the sacred blue lotus flower, symbolizing rebirth and eternal beauty. Light yet profound, this scent is perfect for the modern wanderer who seeks both elegance and adventure.
      Available on www.sephora.me
      12 perfumes to refresh your scent wardrobe this summer

      Gucci – Guilty Love Edition Pour Femme

      Blurring the lines between traditionally masculine and feminine fragrances, Guilty Love Edition Pour Femme is a bold yet romantic composition of luxury perfume. It intertwines the honeyed sweetness of lilac with the rugged depth of patchouli, creating a scent that is both tender and intense. The base of amber musk adds a velvety softness, making it irresistibly addictive. The bottle, a matte violet hue with a dual-tone design, represents the harmony of two souls in one love story, making it an ideal gift for those who believe in passion without boundaries. Whether worn day or night, this fragrance is for the confident individual who embraces duality and complexity.
      Available on www.sephora.me
      Jean Paul Gaultier – Le Beau Flower Edition

      Jean Paul Gaultier reimagines masculinity with Le Beau Flower Edition, a fragrance that blends fresh florals with woody, spicy depth. Launched in April 2025, this scent surprises with its delicate floral nuances, adding softness to the original’s tropical coconut and tonka bean heart. The iconic male torso bottle gets a vibrant makeover, crafted in emerald green glass adorned with floral motifs—symbolizing the balance between wild energy and refined beauty. Designed for the modern man who isn’t afraid to embrace his sensual side, this fragrance is both playful and sophisticated, perfect for daytime wear with a lingering allure.
      Available on www.sephora.me
      Parfums de Marly – Valaya Exclusif

      Valaya Exclusif is a luxurious new chapter for Parfums de Marly, blending rich citrus, velvety florals, and deep woods into an opulent amber embrace. This luxury perfume exudes regal sophistication, with a sparkling opening of bergamot and mandarin that gradually deepens into a heart of jasmine and rose, all anchored by warm sandalwood and musk. Housed in the brand’s signature flacon, a symbol of timeless elegance, this scent is designed for those who appreciate heritage and modern grandeur. Whether worn for a gala or as an everyday indulgence, Valaya Exclusif is a true masterpiece of perfumery.
      Available on www.parfums-de-marly.com
      Sisley – Limited Edition Eau du Soir

      Reinterpreted through the artistic lens of Luke Edward Hall, Eau du Soir’s limited edition captures the enchantment of twilight in Seville’s Alcazar gardens. This floral-chypre fragrance opens with crisp citrus and green notes before unfolding into a lush bouquet of rose and ylang-ylang, resting on a base of oakmoss and patchouli for a timeless, elegant finish. The collector’s bottle, adorned with Hall’s whimsical illustrations—transforms the scent into a wearable work of art. Perfect for those who cherish both classic perfumery and artistic expression, this edition is a must-have for fragrance connoisseurs.
      Available on www.galerieslafayette.com
      2025 is set to be a remarkable year for fragrance enthusiasts, with each of these luxury perfume launches offering a distinct olfactory journey. Whether you’re drawn to the sunlit gardens of Henry Jacques, the rebellious luxury of Louboutin, or the poetic wanderlust of Chloé, there’s a scent that will resonate with your soul.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How Gymshark founder redefined entrepreneurship and built a community-first fitness brand

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      Gymshark’s journey from a modest garage to a global fitness powerhouse is a testament in entrepreneurial spirit.
      At the centre is Ben Francis, founder and CEO, who dreamt up the idea of Gymshark after spotting a missed opportunity for quality gym apparel. What started as a dropshipping business model quickly evolved into a brand that placed community over transactions.
      Here, Ben shares his fitness routine and talks us through his journey that led him to redefining modern-day entrepreneurship with a new blueprint rooted in resilience, a few smart pivots, and a deep understanding of his audience – qualities that have propelled Gymshark into a billion-pound success with a loyal following.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      It’s a pretty simple one really. Wake up, get breakfast and ready for work!
      You founded the company at age 19 and have built an extremely successful global fitness empire. What advice would you give to your younger self?
      Don’t be afraid to fail. Gymshark was actually my seventh business venture. When the other six failed, I was hard on myself. But I learned from each and every one of them, which helped inform and structure Gymshark.

      What was the catalyst to launch GYMSHARK? Did you always want to work for yourself?
      When I first went to the gym when I was 16, I instantly fell in love with it. I knew immediately I wanted to do something that involved it. I was initially going to just put on muscle, but I soon realised that the clothes that were available were either skintight or made me look like I was wearing my dad’s suit. So, I thought, “Why not create something that me and my mates actually want to wear?” And that’s where the concept was born.
      The brand is opening its first store in Dubai Mall. How important is the Middle East region to the brand – was it a market you always want to expand into?
      Absolutely – I’ve visited the region a number of times, and I’m always blown away by the appetite for exercise here. It’s clearly a city that is obsessed with fitness. So, when we knew that we were all in on an omnichannel strategy, Dubai and the Middle East were always very high on our radar.

      What influenced the expansion and how did you manage scaling while retaining quality?
      We really want to be where our community are. And, as I say, there is a vast fitness community in Dubai. When we moved into bricks and mortar, we knew we wouldn’t instantly open 100 stores but rather be in iconic locations with amazing footfall. Take our first flagship store – it’s on Regent Street in London, one of, if not the most significant shopping street in Europe. And, it doesn’t come more iconic than The Dubai Mall in terms of both reputation and footfall. We also think that this ‘gentle’ approach enables us to ensure we retain quality in both our product, our people and our brand.
      Which category drives sales consistently and what separates GYMSHARK apart and ahead from other brands?
      We recently launched our brand platform, WE DO GYM. That’s there to tell everyone that we aren’t a sports brand, we aren’t an athleisure brand, we are a gym brand. It raised a few eyebrows at the time; some thought we might be narrowing our audience. We don’t look at it like that. We want to be the brand that represents the gym and be the first to bring the gym to the high street. As a result, our POWER range for men and our VITAL range for women are the real consistent performers, as these are the ranges that really give our community the confidence and style in the gym.
      Having a passion for fitness yourself, what are the common values and lessons to be learned that translates into business?
      Harking back to what I said about the falling in love with the gym when I was younger, when I started going, it gave me discipline, routine and structure. I was still at school and my grades dramatically improved almost overnight. And I’ve absolutely taken this into business – having this structure and routine.
      Talk us through your wellness routine. What are your daily non-negotiable practices to set yourself up for an optimal body and mind?
      I look to lift four or five times a week. We are very lucky to have a gym, The Lifting Club, on our campus, so I always try and make use of that. I have gotten more into running this year and am looking to bring my 5k time down.
      What is your advice to those wanting to launch their own business?
      Find something you love. For me, it was the gym, and I now believe that I have the best job in the world.

      What are the key qualities does one needs to succeed today?
      Resilience, humility and a bit of naive ambition.
      As a founder, what is the greatest risk you’ve faced in growing your business and how did you know it was one you should take?
      When you consider that Gymshark was a solely D2C (direct-to-consumer) brand, the COVID-19 pandemic had just happened, and there had been reports of the death of the high street for years, opening a store on Regent Street probably falls into that category. However, we often say we like to zig when others zag and go against the grain. I’d say this was a ‘seismic zig’, but as soon I saw the way Regent Street arcs to the left, the historic buildings and some of the incredible brands there, I knew it was the next step for Gymshark.
      Alternatively, are there any milestones you are most proud of?
      Well, the opening of Regent Street (and Dubai, of course too), naturally falls into that category. But I think I’m most proud when I see us bring our community together, as that shows me what we have built and that we are having a genuine, positive impact on people’s lives. So, whether it be our Lift events at cities around the world, store openings or even weekly run-clubs, there’s nothing better than seeing our community come together in real life.

      How do you see the future of the brand – are there any category expansions and new goals on the horizon?
      You will see more stores and more lines. You’ll see the evolution of POWER and VITAL, for sure. And our goal remains the same – to become the most iconic British brand in history.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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