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    6 fine-dining restaurants in Dubai that have stood the test of time

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    16 mins ago

    Be it the pandemic or a surge of new restaurants opening in the UAE, there are certain fine-dining havens that have stood the test of time by strongly making their mark in the culinary world.
    From internationally acclaimed chefs to renowned names from around the world, Emirates Woman has gathered a list of all the restaurants which have come out stronger despite the circumstances.
    Zuma

    After opening in 2008, here in DIFC, Zuma has indeed stood the test of time as the restaurant has won numerous accolades and gained recognition worldwide. Having stayed relevant to date, this culinary haven has made a mark in the food industry with staple dishes, that are loved by all. This fine-dining concept always aims to serve the highest quality products in a sophisticated environment as guests gather to share their passion for food. Located in Gate Village 6, DIFC, it’s open from daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and Saturday to Wednesday 7pm to 12pm and Thursday and Friday 7pm to 1am.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    LPM Restaurant & Bar

    Opening in 2010 as one of the most anticipated new restaurants in the emirate, this restaurant has established itself with painstaking attention to detail that has gone into creating each and every dish. From sun-soaked artichokes to fresh seafood that’s served to perfection. With techniques that require extreme care and precision, LPM serves food that is inspired by the French Riviera. Located at Gate Village 8, DIFC, it’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 12pm to 11pm, Thursday 12pm to 11:30pm, Friday 12:30pm to 11:30pm and Saturday 12:30pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Having opened its doors in 2017 in Dubai, this fine-dining Italian haven serves excellent Tuscan cooking, all made to perfection. Whether a special occasion or especially wanting to treat yourself, the freshness of the produce can be tasted with every bite, making it a must-visit here in the emirate. Situated in a relaxing surrounding by the water, It’s located in Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel and is open daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and 7pm to 11:30pm.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    Buddha-Bar

    This hip venue has become one of Dubai’s most sought-after places over the years, with stunning interiors and exceptional views of Dubai Marina. With indulgent flavours of the Far East & Asia, its innovative menu enamours guests from around the globe as they enjoy eclectic tunes from the resident DJ. As a wealth of sensory experiences await you, Buddha-Bar has been around for a long time and continues to make its mark here in the emirate. Open daily from 7pm to 1am, it’s located in Grosvenor House Dubai.
    For more information visit buddhabar-dubai.com
    La Cantine Du Faubourg

    After opening its doors more than a decade ago, this coveted address became a must-visit place for many with its range of dining and entertainment options. This Parisian restaurant has made a mark for itself here in the emirate, as it continues to create a multi-sensory experience for all. Having recently refurbished its interiors, La Cantine du Fauboug is back and with a host of events and a stunning alfresco terrace. Located in Jumeirah Emirates Towers, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 2am, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 5pm and then 7pm to 2am.
    For more information visit lacantine.ae
    Toro Toro

    After opening its doors in 2011, Toro Toro soon became a luxury culinary concept with a menu establishing flavours from every corner of South America. While offering a stylish yet relaxed dining experience, this restaurant became the first of its kind in the emirate. With uber-chic leather furniture and aromas from Latin America, this restaurant was developed by leading chef Richard Sandoval. Located in Grosvenor House Dubai, it’s open daily from 7pm to 1am.
    For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @zumadubai More

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    6 fabulous things to do in the UAE this weekend

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Your ultimate guide to the weekend in the UAE, August 2 to 4, 2024.
    Experience a Grecian-themed Brunch

    OPA Dubai is thrilled to announce the return of its exclusive ‘Summer Brunch’, a spectacular culinary event designed to transport guests straight to the Greece Islands. This festive feast promises an immersive experience filled with the vibrant flavors, lively traditions, and warm hospitality of Greek culture. Indulge in one sharing-style appetizers, including crispy lamb hummus, tzatziki, spicy feta, fresh Greek salads, traditional homemade spinach pie, tangy tuna tartare, and a variety of bread. Experience the essence of a Greek summer with live entertainment, including traditional Zorba dances and plate smashing, ensuring an immersive and lively atmosphere. It takes place every Saturday per month from 12pm to 4pm, with prices at Dhs355 for the non-alcoholic, Dhs445 for the house beverages and Dhs495 for the premium.
    For more information visit opadubai.com
    Book a fine-dining experience

    Founded by Chef Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin, Alaya is a unique concept that celebrates the cuisine of the Middle East with Mediterranean influences. Each meal at Alaya is a journey through the mediterranean and reflects a mosaic heritage of identities. It is an ode to fresh herbs, spices, roasted prime meat, and a fresh selection of seafood that the East and the West bring together. Guests can celebrate the restaurant’s second anniversary and experience the passion and creativity that defines this fine-dining restaurant.
    For more information visit alayarestaurants.com 
    Put self-care first

    Indulge in the ultimate rejuvenation package this summer with Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre through an exclusive wellness staycation crafted in collaboration with Skin Laundry. Available throughout August and September, this tailored offering promises a blend of luxury and revitalising experiences. Curated to cater to the growing interest in wellness, the hotel’s latest package combines an overnight stay with a wellness breakfast at Peacock Alley, the property’s signature luxury 60-minute massage service, a limited-edition voucher to avail at Skin Laundry’s new clinic in DIFC and a special in room gift.
    For more information visit waldorfastoriadifc.com
    Unwind at a moonlight swim

    One&Only Royal Mirage introduces a dive into the world of energy and excitement with Moonlight Swim at The Palace’s Al Janoub Pool. Celebrating summer nights, from Thursday to Saturday, the adults-only pool will transform into a vibrant, illuminated oasis where shimmering water reflects the moonlight, creating a captivating atmosphere. It takes place every week from Thursday to Saturday 7pm to 11pm, with a minimum spend of Dhs250 per person for poolside access and Dhs500 minimum spend per person for a private cabana.
    For more information visit here.
    Watch the UFC fight live
    It’s a weekend of nonstop MMA action on Yas Island as UFC returns to its regional home in Abu Dhabi for the second time this year for a new pulse-pounding edition of UFC Fight Night. Headlined by a highly anticipated bantamweight clash between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov as they contend for the title shot, this weekend will be packed with world-class MMA action. Back at Yas Island’s iconic Etihad Arena, this event promises to deliver a night of unforgettable moments this Saturday August 3rd. From fan experiences to athlete weigh-ins and the fight night finale, UFC fans are in for an action-packed weekend. It’s Saturday August 3 and is scheduled to begin from 8pm and is available to stream exclusively on StarzPlay. Ticket prices start at Dhs695 at Etihad Arena.
    For more information visit ufc.com
    Experience a blend of cuisine and cinema

    This newest Italian hotspot TOTÓ, opening daily from 12pm, invites guests to immerse themselves in two passions that define Italy: cuisine and cinema. Inspired by the golden era of Italian cinema of the 1950s and 60s, when movies became a form of lifestyle, TOTÓ pays homage to the legendary film, Cinema Paradiso, which portrays the love of theatre post-war as a means of escapism. Located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd in Downtown Dubai, TOTÓ warmly welcomes guests to a rustic luxury setting featuring elegant wooden floors, an exceptional selection of artwork, décor, and accessories that effortlessly balance the spirit of classic Italian cinematography within a chic Dubai setting.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon More

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    30 décor pieces to refresh your home for summer

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    38 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
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @baliplume More

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    How I got my job as… the founder of this UAE-based wellness community

    This week, Emirates Woman sat down with Rhea Jacobs, Founder of Rhé , a UAE-based wellness platform.
    Her vision is to inspire and empower our community to make selfcare a genderless and ageless household practice while bringing a simplified, realistic and accessible approach towards wellness for all.
    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible wellness, fashion and beauty entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    My intention with Rhé is to build a safe, realistic and accessible space for the people of today highlighting the importance of investing in your mental health and inner peace” says Jacobs.
    With the first launch being the Rhé Of Light Journal, it’s a daily guided introspective journal designed for the busy individual of today. This comprehensive journal tackles key concerns like inner child healing, daily gratitude, goal mapping, body positivity, manifestation, relationship with money, career development and more.
    To delve into her journey more, Emirates Woman sat down with this wellness entrepreneur to see how it all began.
    What was your favourites subject at school?
    I loved Art, My major at school was Business, Environmental management and Art. I enjoyed Art so much and was always the kid who had paint on her hands and uniform. Creativity of any kind inspired me even then.
    What was your first job?
    In University I majored in BA Fashion Honors my first job was then, where I got an internship with an upcoming designer. My role was illustrations and design development.

    What brought you to Dubai?
    We grew up seeing the city change from what it was to the impeccable feat it’s reached at today, the idea that any thing is possible is a mindset you slowly adapt by observation with time. My parents moved her when I was a baby, Dubai is my home and I owe a lot of what I am today to this country and the mindset you develop while you’re raised here.
    What inspired you to enter the wellness space and launch Rhé?
    It was during the pandemic, a challenging time that forced so many of us to introspect and evaluate. Apart from the dalgona coffee, banana bread bandwagon that everyone including myself got on… I was also introduced to yoga and journaling. This acted like a catalyst and made me realize how prior to this i never really prioritised my mental health and was so out of touch with my inner self.
    I was also reading the book called Ikigai around that time and the concept revolved around how ones purpose is quite often something that they personally love and are passionate about, something they can do well, and is something that could bring value to peoples life. The benefits that I reaped entering this space was something that I definitely knew I wanted to share with the world. I always knew I wanted to take the entrepreneurial route and would often discuss this with my mother saying I wanted something that would be a true ray of light for people. We both had an aha moment and knew this was something.
    Talk us through the concept?
    Our concept and vision at Rhé is to inspire and empower our community to make self-care a genderless and ageless household practice while creating a simplified and accessible approach towards wellness for all.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    Being a founder of a nascent business, which we launched in February 2024, I find myself assuming multiple roles, ranging from design execution, quality control, to marketing strategies and sales, and even managing basic logistics. I am fortunate to have an exceptional team that greatly contributes to our progress and success. i find it essential as a founder to create a healthy working environments that has the right balance. However, for a business as young as ours, still in the process of establishing its foundation and reinforcing our core values, it is imperative as the founder to remain actively engaged and present.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My day begins around 6am, first thing I do is meditate and journal. It helps me set my intention for the day. This is usually for around 10 – 15 minutes. I then go downstairs hydrate, get my puppy Gucci fed walked make myself a cup of herbal tea, workout for an hour and shower. This is the one constant I have and prioritize no matter how different each day is since I not only have my role at Rhé, I also am a digital creator and model.
    So my day usually begins with our home office at Rhé with my team and then shuffles between Editorial sets when I’m shooting, meetings, events or creating content for my personal social media. My day usually winds down around 8pm, its at this time when I switch off completely from social media and my phone, and begin my wind-down routine with a shower, I use this time to read a little, then journal to reevaluate the day with some herbal tea and finally of to bed round 9:30pm to 10pm.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    I would say do everything with intention, it really does come through and makes a difference. Also don’t get demotivated by setbacks, every setback is a redirection.
    Tell us more about the products?
    Our inaugural product is our Rhé Of Light Journal, when I personally began journaling the first thing I thought about was, but what do people write in journals? Our Rhé Of Light Journal tackles this very issue, it’s a A simplified daily guided journal for anyone and everyone, whether you are someone who avidly journals or are new to the concept our journal is for you. We take you through a journey of deep introspection addressing topics like inner child healing, goal setting, developing gratitude, body positivity, relationship with money, career building and more. Every day we have an option for a guided prompt or a section to brain dump (vent what you’re feeling) and every 7 days we have our self help worksheets that helps to break monotony and yet still keep you in track.
    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    Nothing is impossible, any setback is only a redirection .
    And what is the worst?
    You can’t have dreams so big coming from where you do and looking like that.
    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    My biggest challenge had definitely been making myself believe I can, I had these goals but didn’t really know if I could achieve them. Fighting self doubt, procrastinating due to fear and not being brave enough to take the step is definitely the challenge that took the most out to me to unlearn. Of course there are daily challenges owning and running a business, but when it aligns so deeply with who you are and what you believe in you know there will always be a way to come out of it.
    What’s your future for the brand?
    At Rhé, our core mission is to promote mental well-being and personal growth, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating thoughtfully designed products that support these goals.Looking ahead, our strategy involves a multifaceted approach. We aim to broaden our product offerings to include a diverse range of tools and resources that cater to the holistic wellness needs of our community both in tangible and digital form
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Plan your summer Nights by the Lagoon at Creek Harbour’s hidden gem

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    5 mins ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Give summer a new meaning at the ultimate lagoon-side oasis of Vida Creek Beach by the crystal lagoon.
    If you’re looking to bask in the summer sun, Float Beach Lounge at the property makes the perfect venue for summer splashes with food and drinks. You can start the weekend right by the Lagoon with the exclusive Float Summer Nights taking place every Friday. It promises an evening of delectable dishes, refreshing beverages, live entertainment and a laid-back summer experience under the sky.
    This exquisite evening takes place every Friday from 7pm to 12am, with Lagoon Access from 7pm to 12am, Dining from 7pm to 11pm and Beverage Package from 7pm to 10pm. With an A la carte menu and free-flowing beverages, the package is priced at Dhs200 per person.
    For the ultimate getaway, the Crystal Lagoon is a tropical paradise amidst a scenic city skyline. This massive man-made lagoon is free to swim, play, and splash at. Guests can dive into the refreshing waters, soak up the sun on the sandy shores, and let the good times roll.
    At the property contemporary designs meet the allure of arabesque architecture at Vida Creek Beach. The overarching architecture is inspired by the Bronze Age of Arabia where a myriad of cultural elements come together. As the perfect retreat, staycationers can meander along the vibrant 6km promenade, pausing for joyful snapshots amidst the kaleidoscope of bright-hued art installations.

    The district offers a getaway unlike any other with its serene skyline accompanied by creek views, overlooking the man-made Lagoon and canal at Dubai Creek Harbour. During their visit, guests can also embark on a boat tour to soak inthe city’s iconic landmarks, all from the exhilarating vantage point of the water.
    Overall, the hotel offers a wide range of epic amenities and creative spaces. Complete withtop-notch business facilities, eateries, and chill spots to unwind, it’sthe place to live it up or lay low.
    For more information visit vidahotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    8 minimal coffee shops to work from in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    14 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    We all need our daily dose of caffeine, so why not enjoy somewhere aesthetic? For a minimal space, there are a plethora of minimal coffee shops to either work or switch off from completely.
    For a quick midday break or to simply catch up on some work, Dubai has a host of refined spots that are sure to cater to both your tastebuds and eye.
    Instead of offering an overwhelming array of options, minimalist coffee shops often have a concise menu focusing on quality over quantity. They may offer a few select coffee varieties prepared with precision and care.
    With a ket focus on craftsmanship, these coffee shops focus on attention to detail and craftsmanship which is evident in every aspect, from the carefully prepared beverages to the handcrafted ceramics or glassware used for serving.
    From concrete interiors to a minimalist palette, Scandinavian interiors have gained huge traction over the years as spaces have sheltered away from the overcomplicated design.
    So, If you’re on the hunt for pared-back spaces with a clean design, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide on all the places to bookmark ASAP.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @veneti.a More

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    12 Saudi female content creators to follow on Instagram

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    21 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGES
    Saudi Arabia is a hub for fashion, creativity and content creation. So much so, there’s an array of Saudi content creators we just can’t get enough of keeping us up to date with the latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle trends.
    The country has a growing community of content creators who are making waves in various fields such as fashion, travel, technology, lifestyle. These content creators reflect the diverse interests and talents within Saudi Arabia, offering a modern and vibrant perspective on The Kingdom’s culture and lifestyle.
    With content creators such as Yara Alnamlah who has a significant following on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, the social media is constantly growing and putting Saudi Arabia on a global map.
    Known for working with some of the biggest brands while also having their own business, these Saudi influencers continue to inspire us.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Insragram @thehala  More

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    How I got my job as… a UAE-based Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    This week, Emirates Woman spoke to Myrna Ayad, Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor based in the UAE.
    Welcome to the Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and business women both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    Based in Dubai, Ayad established her namesake consultancy in 2018, focusing on art advisory, cultural strategy and publishing. Overall, she develops cultural strategies and support brands and organisations to embrace art and culture within their frameworks. This way, brands stand out.
    Her expertise sees the many intersections between the worlds of art and luxury. Both forms of creation influence one another and present enduring experiences.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    English, Psychology and History.
    What was your first job?
    At a now-defunct publishing house. I started off editing one weekly student paper, Campus Journal and then launched Campus Journal in Kuwait and then came The Buzz, a Village Voice-type weekly.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    The invasion of Lebanon in 1982. My maternal grandfather owned some of the UAE’s first hotels, so we came here ‘temporarily’ and here we are, at home.
    What inspired you to enter the industry?
    Stories. Art and people tell stories.
    Talk us through the concept?
    I work independently as a cultural strategist and editor with a focus on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    Telling stories essentially. I advise organisations on what they should do within the cultural sector, and I produce books. That means I develop the concept, conceive an editorial outline, manage everything from imagery and design, to copyediting and contributing writers, and write! My favourite bit is the writing of course.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I have a wonderful office at home where I clock in and out of daily – weekends included. I’m a working mother so my day is punctuated by pick-ups, drop-offs, cooking and running errands. If I’m not seeing friends in the evening, I’ll be watching something riveting on TV with my husband.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Read. Ask. Listen. Attend exhibitions. Watch films. Listen to your heart and wonder. Make sure you document everything. Absolutely everything.
    Tell us more about the work done previously?
    Today, my clients include PepsiCo, the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth, the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, Bulgari, and Pink Tank. I also act as an external advisor to Bain, Pelham Communications, Edelman as well as Riyadh’s Misk Art Institute. I am author of Assouline’s Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy (2021), a seminal book on the late ruler of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; as well as Dubai Wonder (2021), part of the House’s iconic travel series. I am also author of The National’s monthly series, Remembering the Artist, an intimate portrayal of the lives of pioneering modernists from the region based on exclusive interviews with their relatives, friends or students. I am proud to say that I am recognised as one of the Arab world’s leading cultural commentators.
    From 2016–2018, I was Director of Art Dubai, the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and South Asia’s foremost international art fair. During my time there, the fair enjoyed its largest and most globally diverse editions to date and presented a robust non-profit programme. Preceding this, I wrote about art from the Arab world, Iran and Turkey for titles including The New York Times, CNN Online, The Art Newspaper, Artforum, Artsy, Artnet, Wallpaper* and The National, among others, as well as for artist monographs and exhibition catalogues. . Over the years, I have served as a panellist and moderator for entities such as Arab Luxury World (2019), Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (2018), Global Art Forum (2017), the Art Business Conference (2017), Alserkal Avenue (2015), 21,39 Jeddah Arts (2014) and Art Basel (2009) as well as several UAE art galleries.

    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    It will all be OK.
    And what is the worst?
    “Ignore it.”
    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    Age.
    What’s your future for the brand?
    A countless number of books on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran, and an illustrated children’s series, Noor’s Heroes, that will launch in September.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More