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    22 Dubai restaurants that have received the seal of approval by this royal

    Life

    August 6, 2025

    VIEW GALLERY/ 22 IMAGES
    When it comes to knowing the best restaurants to dine at in Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum always knows best.
    No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best. From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince and the UAE Defense Minister has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.
    Fazza has been spotted at some of the city’s most exclusive and trending establishments, often putting them on the map overnight. Whether it’s indulging in sushi with a view, supporting homegrown concepts, or dropping in on global Michelin-starred outposts, he continues to champion Dubai as a world-class dining destination.

    No stranger to Dubai’s ever-evolving foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s most sought-after fine-dining spots, Sheikh Hamdan truly knows best.
    From sophisticated alfresco havens to all the authentic food choices, this royal is regularly seen dining out at some of the best F&B concepts Dubai has to offer.
    So, if you’re in need of some inspiration on where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    7 short-haul summer trips from Dubai to avoid jet lag

    Life

    August 5, 2025

    It’s time to escape the Dubai heat this summer with a short-haul flights that won’t leave you jet-lagged. Just a few hours away, destinations like Salalah in Oman offer misty mountains and monsoon greenery, while Baku and Tbilisi provide charming old towns, cool weather, and rich culture.
    For beach lovers, Maldives promises coastal beauty without the long-haul fatigue. With minimal time difference and direct flights, these trips are perfect for a refreshing break without the exhaustion.
    Baku, Azerbaijan (Flight Time: Approx. 3 hours)

    Azerbaijan offers a fascinating blend of European and Asian influences. Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a stunning Old Town alongside modern marvels. For a truly opulent stay, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Baku. This iconic hotel features breathtaking Caspian Sea views, gourmet restaurants, and a luxurious spa.
    Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Baku
    Tblisi, Georgia (Flight Time: Approx. 3.5 hours)

    Culture lovers will find plenty to explore along Rustaveli Avenue, from historic theaters to contemporary museums, before winding down with soulful Georgian cuisine like khachapuri. Tbilisi’s unique blend of warmth, history, and lively energy makes it an ideal destination for a brilliant, quick getaway. Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, is a compact gem perfect for a short-haul escape.
    Where to stay: Paragraph Freedom Square, a Luxury Collection Hotel
    Jaipur, India (Flight Time: Approx. 3.5 hours)

    A few hours away from Dubai, this picturesque and opulent destination promises a unique experience for everyone. For a decadent experience, Raffles Jaipur promises a secluded escape with dazzling interiors and a service standard that offers immaculateattention-to-detail.
    Where to stay: Raffles, Jaipur
    Malé, Maldives (Flight Time: Approx. 4 hours)

    Malé, the vibrant capital of the Maldives, is the perfect short-haul getaway just a breezy four-hour flight from Dubai. Despite its small footprint, the city pulses with life: local markets bustle with fresh seafood and colorful Maldivian handicrafts. Malé packs a tropical punch without the hassle–making it an ideal destination for a soulful, sun-kissed escape.
    Where to stay: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
    Bodrum, Turkey (Flight Time: Approx. 4.5 hours)

    Bodrum is Turkey’s answer to Mediterranean glamour, an effortlessly chic coastal escape just 4.5 hours from Dubai. With its whitewashed villas, bougainvillea-lined streets, and turquoise bays, this Aegean gem strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and revelry. Wander through ancientruins by day and toast sunset cocktails at a yacht-studded beach club by night, Bodrum is where history meets hedonism.
    Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum
    Colombo, Sri Lanka (Flight Time: Approx. 4.5 hours)

    Steeped in history and culture, Sri Lanka’s biggest city is an alluring short-haul destination. With a focus on once-in-a-lifetime experiences that move beyond traditional sightseeing, Calm Palm Escapes will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
    Where to stay: Calm Palm Escapes
    Oman, Jabal Akhdar (Flight Time: Approx 1 Hour 13 mins)

    Located at a height of about 3,000 metres above sea level, temperatures in Jabal Akhdar are on average 15 degrees Celsius less than other parts of Oman. Jabal Akhdar is the ultimate destination for relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.
    Where to stay: Anantara, Jabal Akhdar 
    Your packing guide:

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    40 summer-inspired décor pieces to upgrade your home

    Life

    August 4, 2025

    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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    Need to work this weekend? Dubai aesthetic cafés to brainstorm

    Whether you’re working remotely or simply catching up on a few emails over the weekend, finding a tranquil space to work can easily increase productivity.
    So, if you’re on the lookout for a relaxing space to work from, scroll through our exclusive guide of where to visit in Dubai.
    SOUB

    A Social Club where modern heritage and heart come together, filling the winter air with warmth, connection, and stories waiting to be shared. Situated at The 77 Valley, Khawaneej, this sleek seventies Emirati-owned specialty coffee shop is well worth bookmarking.
    For more information visit @soub.social
    Toby’s Estate
    Straight out of Australia, Toby’s Estate has locations in Jumeirah 2, Dubai Hills Mall and Jumeirah. The coffee shop offers quiet from the busy roads no matter what part of town you are. Modern architecture mixed with the presence of green plants evokes a sense of luxury bliss. The bright space offers a selection of coffee beans with aesthetic interiors.
    For more information visit @tobysestate.ae
    PEAQ Wellness

    Beyond physical wellness, PEAQ fosters social connections through its in-house cafe, providing a welcoming environment for members to relax, work, and socialise. By combining cutting-edge fitness techniques with traditional healing practices and a strong sense of community, PEAQ redefines the concept of wellness, offering a transformative experience for those who seek a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle, as the first social wellness club in the Middle East.
    For more information visit peaqwellness.com
    JAOW
    This clean minimalistic cafe promises a dreamy experience with various delightful desserts such as Tiramisu, a pecan bar, vimto slush and more. Made with care and perfection, both the dishes and design is carefully crafted for a pleasant experience with each visit. Located in Jumeirah 3, it’s open daily from 8am to 12am.
    For more information visit jaowcafe.com
    Café Dori

    Known for their bespoke leather goods, guests can take a break from shopping and dine at this cafe with its all-day breakfast menu. There is an extensive menu for coffee lovers alongside iced and hot teas, fresh juices and smoothies. It’s a pet-friendly cafe so your furry friend can enjoy with you. Besides the delicious food and coffee, Café Dori also has the perfect ambience for you to relax and work from. Located in Alserkal Avenue, it’s open daily from 11am to 8pm.
    For more information visit nappadori.ae
    Bageri Form

    Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal cafe elevates classics and serves dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, this bakery also serves freshly sourced coffee for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagram-worthy.This haven is known for its clean aesthetic and cutlery to complement it. It’s located in Dubai Design District, Building 4.
    For more information visit bageriform.com
    The Grey

    This bespoke coffee haven is a minimal epicentre for creative freedom, where a subtle yet charming aura is felt throughout the space. From luxe coffees to a relaxing meeting place, for different cultures, minds and communities to unite, The Grey is definitely a must-visit here in Dubai. Located on Al Wasl Road, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
    For more information visit the-grey.co
    La Nena

    The cafe presents an avant-garde approach to interior and furniture design. As an ode to Galician craftsmanship, this cavernous space promises a calming experience from the moment you enter. Visitors can also purchase the carefully-crafted pottery and interior pieces after enjoying a delectable cupof coffee with their loved ones. Surrounded by sculptural décor, the deep clay-like tones are a delight to the eye. Located in Al Quoz,this cafe is open from Tuesday to Sunday 8am to 10pm and is closed on Monday.
    For more information visit @lanenacoffee
    ORIJINS

    It is an atmosphere where the finest cup of coffee is prepared with the greatest coffee origins. With a play on textures and curves, this aesthetic space ensures visitors can unwind with a delicious cup of freshly brewed joe crafted to perfection. Located in Gate Village 8, DIFC, it’s open on weekdays from8am to 10:30pm and on weekends from 8am to 12am.
    For more information visit @orijins
    HOOF Café

    Originating from Sharjah, every cup that they serve is the result of their passion and dedication to coffee. It is the by-product of their farmers, roasters and baristas who honed their crafts over many years. Designed with clean interiors, this cafe is situated in the heart of Fashion Avenue at Dubai Mall. The cafe is open from Monday to Tuesday and Thursday from 8am to 12am, Friday to Sunday 8am to 1am and on Wednesday from 8am to 2am.
    For more information visit behindthecup.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    August’s – The High Summer Issue with Lululemon

    Life

    August 1, 2025

    Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Žiga MihelčičStylist: Sarah RuxtonProduction: Sarah JosephVideographer: Mark MathewMakeup & Hair: Sarah SayaCover Star: Paula Cunha  at MMGLocation with special thanks to Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
    Welcome to The High Summer Issue.
    This summer, we wanted to add value to your vacation season whether you’re departing for Euro summer, exploring new cities, orstaying close to home.
    With our mindset firmly focused on delivering you the best, this issue is a thoughtful curation of content from incredible people to inspire and educate. It’s designed so you fill your time with value – ready for you to return home refreshed, revived and ready to take on the next challenge.

    Wishing you all safe travels!
    The Hero Buy

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    9 fabulous activities to book in Dubai this weekend

    Your ultimate weekend guide in the UAE, August 1 to August 3,2025.
    Experience a matcha workshop

    For all the matcha lovers, this is a new experience to try. AVANTCHA, the global avant-garde tea house, has launched an immersive Matcha Workshop at its Concept Tea Bar in Al Quoz, inviting guests to explore the vibrant world of Japanese Matcha. Designed for tea lovers and curious minds alike, the 60–90-minute session is led by in-house experts and offers a deep dive into the origins, craftsmanship, and ceremonial preparation of Matcha, including the art of traditional whisking using ceremonial-grade tea. It takes place from Monday to Saturday 9am to 7pm and can be booked via WhatsApp.
    For more information visit avantcha.com
    Feel sculpted at this Pilates session

    As part of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab’s ongoing commitment to redefining luxury wellness, Talise Spa has introduced new Reformer Pilates Classes in collaboration with HWH Studio, offering a precision-driven, results-focused approach to fitness. Designed for both in-house and external guests, the sessions take place at Talise Spa. Classes are priced at Dhs500 each or Dhs4,500 for a 10-class bundle, with the August schedule. This elevated practice joins the wider wellbeing offering across Talise Spa, Talise Fitness, and HWH Studio, supporting guests in improving posture, flexibility, core strength, and overall physical and mental wellness.
    For more information visit hwhstudiodubai.com/book-a-class
    Treat your tresses

    Sometimes your hair deserves all the love too. Dyson has unveiled Kanzan Pink, a limited-edition colourway of the Dyson Airwrap™ i.d., inspired by the delicate tones of cherry blossom and named after the Prunus serrulata ‘Kanzan’ tree. To celebrate the launch, Dyson is hosting a Friendship Day activation until August 3 at its Demo Stores in Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, inviting guests to bring a friend for a complimentary hair styling session with Dyson’s expert stylists, plus a Chitosan styling sample to mark the occasion. The Dyson Airwrap™ i.d. multi-styler in Kanzan Pink is priced at Dhs2,999.
    For more information visit dyson.ae
    Stop up your vanity closet

    Burberry has now entered the beauty world. The launch features the new Beyond Wear line, including the Perfecting Matte Foundation in 35 shades and the ultra-fine Setting & Refining Powder, both designed with Trench Protect Technology and skin-smoothing ingredients like bamboo extract and raspberry stem cells for long-lasting, breathable coverage. Adding a pop of colour, the Brit Shine Lipstick collection delivers buildable shine and up to seven hours of hydration with luxurious ingredients like Rosa damascena and safflower oil. With shades like Heritage Honey and Kensington Crush, Burberry brings its signature British elegance to Dubai’s beauty scene.
    For more information visit burberry.com
    Experience a post-brunch galore

    Get ready to turn up the tempo at Dubai’s most electric brunch afterparty as Jade, the hidden speakeasy at Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, opens its doors for a no-rules Saturday night affair. Tucked inside the famed Naughty Noodles Brunch, the Jade After Party channels the sultry glamour of 1920s China with low lighting, deep tech-house beats from resident DJs, and an energy that doesn’t quit. Expect handcrafted cocktails, immersive entertainment, and a crowd that knows how to keep the party going from brunch hour straight through to sunset. It’s prived at Dhs120 for three drinks on Saturdays from 4:30pm to 7pm at Jade, FIVE Palm Jumeirah.
    For more information visit palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com
    Unwind at this wellness day

    AWAKEN Wellness at Atlantis, The Palm invites Dubai residents and visitors to indulge in its exclusive AWAKEN Summer Wellness Daycation, available until 30th September 2025. Priced at Dhs500 per person, the experience includes a choice of a 60-minute massage blending Swedish, aromatherapy, and Reiki techniques, or a glow-enhancing signature facial, along with full access to the serene AWAKEN Spa Retreat, state-of-the-art Fitness Centre, and complimentary pool and beach access across the iconic resort. Designed to restore and revitalise, the journey includes hydrotherapy, aromatherapy steam, sauna, and a plant-powered refreshment lounge, creating a holistic escape from the everyday. Whether unwinding poolside or recharging with mindful rituals, this curated daycation promises the perfect balance of pampering and tranquillity in one of Dubai’s most luxurious wellness settings.
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Brunch it up

    With bold Tex-Mex flavors, theatrical cocktails, and an unapologetically Latin soul, Esco-bar Dubai has fast become one of Palm Jumeirah’s hottest weekend destinations. Born in Beirut and now reimagined on West Palm Beach, this beachside hotspot blends Latin street energy with Dubai’s signature flair serving up zesty ceviches, sizzling fajitas, and smoky margaritas in playful vessels. The weekend brunch, held every Saturday and Sunday from 2PM to 6PM, brings the fiesta full throttle with crowd-favorite plates, infectious music, and free-flowing drinks. Priced at Dhs299 for the House Beverage Package and Dhs350 for the Sparkling, Esco-bar isn’t just a meal it’s a full-on experience.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    30 gifts to purchase for the Leo in your life

    Life

    July 24, 2025

    As Leo season dawns upon us, leave finding a present for this extremely creative and bold Zodiac sign to us.
    When does this sign celebrate?
    Symbolised by the lion, they’re the fifth sign of the zodiac, with birthdays falling between July 23 and August 22.
    What are the best gifts?
    Designer sunglasses
    Leos live for drama and spotlight, and no accessory says “main character” better than a pair of luxury sunglasses. Oversized, gold-accented, or retro, whatever the style, it’s all about commanding attention.

    Luxury perfume
    A signature scent is essential to a Leo’s presence. Choose a perfume with warm, sensual notes like amber, oud, or spice that leaves a trail wherever they go. Bonus points for an elegant bottle to display.
    Bold print art piece
    Bright colors, abstract lines, and unapologetic visuals: that’s the Leo vibe. Gifting a vibrant art print for their space speaks to their love for drama and creativity.
    Gold jewellery
    Nothing speaks Leo like bold gold. A chunky chain, lion-head pendant, or statement earrings are perfect to match their radiant energy and love for standing out. Gold symbolizes power and warmth, two things any Leo is known for.
    Statement home décor piece
    Think sculptural lighting, a plush designer chair, or an iconic coffee table piece from brands like Tom Dixon, Jonathan Adler, or Fornasetti. They love decorating their space like an extension of themselves: dramatic, stylish, and bold.
    So, swipe through our guide of gifts to purchase, as we save your time from all the scrolling.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    7 of Dubai’s most serene summer night swim spots

    Life

    July 24, 2025

    Without limiting outdoor pools to winter, Dubai is always a step ahead when it comes to enjoying outdoor activities such as a night swim even during summer.
    Ideal for cooling off after work or starting your weekend, night swims offer spectacular skyline and sea views, cool waters, and the laid-back glamour that defines the emirate’s warmer months.
    Overall, night swims have emerged as the city’s chicest way to cool down from the week, offering a blend of serene ambience, skyline views, and elevated leisure. Whether it’s a twilight dip at AURA Skypool with panoramic vistas of the Palm, a curated evening affair at La Cantine Beach, or the understated luxury of Drift’s moonlit lounging, these after-dark escapes redefine summer in the city.
    Curated with softly lit pools, curated soundtracks, and menus designed for poolside indulgence, night swims are no longer just a reprieve from the heat, they’re the new social hour for those who prefer their summer soirées served with a side of starlight.
    So if you’re deciding where to go and what to wear, see our full Emirates Woman guide to keep you occupied during summer.
    SĀN

    Nestled along the scenic Palm West Beach, SĀN Beach invited guests to experience the allure of moonlight waters and starry skies with late-night swims. Guests can bask under the stars and experience the vibrant pool bar until 9PM. Post swim, visitors can savour a delectable dinner at the restaurant to further elevate their evening. It starts at 6pm, with access priced at Dhs300, making it full redeemable for ladies and half for gents.
    For more information visit sanbeachdubai.com
    Maison De La Plage

    Maison de la Plage is turning up the heat and cooling things down with the launch of its Night Swims experience. As the sun sets over West Palm Beach, the venue transforms into a tranquil twilight escape, inviting guests to dine, unwind, and enjoy a moonlit swim. With the beach closed for summer, all sunbeds are relocated poolside, where the water is cooled to offer the perfect evening dip. Running daily from 7PM to 11PM, the experience blends laid-back luxury with the charm of coastal nights. Guests on sunbeds can enjoy the Beach Lounge menu, while those at dining tables will indulge in the à la carte offering. Rates start at Dhs250 on weekdays (Dhs100 redeemable) and Dhs350 on weekends (Dhs200 redeemable), making this the ultimate summer sundown ritual.
    For more information visit maisondelaplage.com
    One & Only Royal Mirage

    As the sun dips below the horizon, Al Janoub Pool at The Palace shimmers to life, setting the stage for Moonlight Swim—a sultry, starlit escape held every Friday and Saturday from 7PM to 11PM at One&Only Royal Mirage. This adults-only affair transforms the infinity pool into a twilight sanctuary, where summer beats echo through the night and the views stretch endlessly across Dubai Harbour Marina and Palm Island Bay. Guests can sip handcrafted cocktails in plush private cabanas, float under a canopy of stars, or sink into loungers surrounded by lush gardens and curated soundscapes. With its dreamy setting and effortless elegance, Moonlight Swim offers a chic new way to soak in summer, where the vibe is cool, the water warm, and the night full of possibility. The minimum spend is Dhs250 for poolside access and Dhs500 for private cabanas.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    La Cantine Beach – Delano

    As golden hour fades into an indigo glow, La Cantine Beach unveiled its Après-Soleil Night Swim, an elevated twilight ritual. Running every Thursday to Saturday from 7PM onwards, this moonlit dip comes with sunbeds for Dhs249 and lounges Dhs299, both fully redeemable against a curated night swim menu. A bottle of chilled grape is also offered at a special price of Dhs400 for those looking to toast the evening in style. With ambient lighting, panoramic views of Ain Dubai, and chic summer bites by the shore, it’s your new after-dark escape—where the city’s heat gives way to something far cooler.
    For more information visit lacantinebeach.ae

    Playa Pacha

    Sun’s out? The fun’s just getting started. Dive into Nightswim at Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE — a wild, Ibiza-inspired moonlit pool party where Balearic beats, curated cocktails, and Dubai’s after-dark energy collide. Held every weekend from 7 PM onwards, this unapologetically bold experience transforms the pool into a vibrant playground with live DJs, signature drinks, immersive visuals on Dubai’s largest anamorphic screen, and unbeatable views of Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. With entry fully redeemable at Dhs 200 for ladies and Dhs 300 for gents), plus VIP areas and private cabanas available on request, Nightswim is your cue to slip into something bold and come play — because when the sun goes down, Playa Pacha turns up.
    For more information visit luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com

    Here’s your styling guide for the perfect night swim:

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    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon More