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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
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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
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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
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    19 luxe Saturday brunch spots in Dubai to try this year

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    56 mins ago

    As you unwind from a stressful week, each upscale brunch located around Dubai is sure to let you relax. While you get your money’s worth with a specially curated menu of cocktails and delicious food accompanied by splendid views of Dubai’s skyline.
    It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go.
    From Japanese to Italian, each restaurant offers a myriad of delectable dishes are all crafted to perfection with live music and an enchanting ambience to let guests begin their weekend in style.
    Also, if you’re on the lookout of what to wear. Comfort is key—so it’s best to rely on those easy breezy slip dresses and co-ords. To not make dressing up feel like a chore. Be it Massimo Dutti or Cos, these free-flowing midi dresses can be worn all year round. Overall, the simplest piece can really add depth to the laziest of outfits, and leave you feeling put together for what really matters: gossip shared over mimosas and your favourite playlist. We’ve also compiled the best high-street pieces we use as brunch fit inspiration all year.
    To help you whittle it down, Emirates Woman has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

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

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    20 luxe Saturday brunch spots in Dubai to try this year

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    July 25, 2024

    As you unwind from a stressful week, each upscale brunch located around Dubai is sure to let you relax. While you get your money’s worth with a specially curated menu of cocktails and delicious food accompanied by splendid views of Dubai’s skyline.
    It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go.
    From Japanese to Italian, each restaurant offers a myriad of delectable dishes are all crafted to perfection with live music and an enchanting ambience to let guests begin their weekend in style.
    Also, if you’re on the lookout of what to wear. Comfort is key—so it’s best to rely on those easy breezy slip dresses and co-ords. To not make dressing up feel like a chore. Be it Massimo Dutti or Cos, these free-flowing midi dresses can be worn all year round. Overall, the simplest piece can really add depth to the laziest of outfits, and leave you feeling put together for what really matters: gossip shared over mimosas and your favourite playlist. We’ve also compiled the best high-street pieces we use as brunch fit inspiration all year.
    To help you whittle it down, Emirates Woman has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

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

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    6 staycations to book at these UAE hotels opened in 2024

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 mins ago

    Quick escapes are essential to wear down the stress levels from time to time. With a myriad of new hotels opening in the UAE this year, it’s time to visit this luxurious properties to feel like you’ve escaped the city.
    Quite often, trips become more fulfilling after skipping the excessive packing, long-haul flights, jet-lag and the never-ending lines at airport security.
    If you’re thinking of a much-needed escape and have probably ticked off every property on your must-visit list, we’re here to help with all the newly opened hotels and resorts in Dubai this year, that are beyond stunning.
    From ultra-luxury interiors to Michelin-star chefs spearheading the fine-dining havens, these resorts can now be booked for a quick getaway with your friends, partner or even a solo getaway. Whether you’re after a fun, fashionable or family-friendly hotel, there’s something to suit your hospitality needs. Here are all of the new hotels opening in the UAE.
    Be it Anantara Mina Al Arab with its lush gardens, an infinity pool and a natural mangrove sanctuary or One&Only One Za’beel with its ultra-modern health and wellness facilities, each cityscape welcomes guests to feel like they’re in a different country. With a much-needed change in environment, the picturesque resorts allow each guest to take a break from the bustling city life.
    So, if you’re planning to book a staycation in advance, swipe through our guide of newly opened properties and soon-to-open hotels in the UAE.

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