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    Elevate your travel experience with exclusive tips from The Points Guy

    Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, knows how to work the system when it comes to collecting and maximising reward points.

    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    When I’m at my house in Pennsylvania, I like to have a cup of cold brew coffee with almond milk to get me going and then I like to go out and say good morning to my horses. Their energy is the best way to start the day.

    What inspired you to launch ‘The Points Guy’?
    I’ve had a good understanding of how to maximise points and miles since I was a young child. When I started working in Corporate America, I realised I could start earning a lot of points for myself through work travel. In 2010, I started The Points Guy as a blog for fun, and never in a million years did I think it would grow to what it is today. I get great satisfaction out of helping people unlock the power of points and miles. It’s the best job in the world to help people explore this amazing earth.
    What’s the best way to get started when it comes to building points for an enthusiast?
    Sign up for hotel and airline loyalty programmes as most are free and a great way to earn points when you fly and stay at ho- tels. Second, credit cards are the biggest way to earn points from not only travelling but through everyday purchases. The best way to earn lots of points sustainably is to have a multifaceted approach – earn from travel, earn from everyday spending, and book smartly.

    What are the top 3 tips you can share to get started?
    My top three tips to get started are first, it’s important to get the right credit card that rewards you for what you spend the most on. Secondly, always shop through online shopping portals for extra miles and points and lastly leverage social media and travel platforms to find the best deals such as Scott’s Cheap Flights, The Points Guy and Google Flights.
    What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
    Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Some of my best trips have been to less popular destinations such as Israel and Rwanda which really open your eyes to amazing and different cultures, wildlife, and cuisines.
    What is the best thing you’ve been able to afford through the points you’ve collected?
    It’s been amazing to travel with my parents and take them on memorable trips. For example, we flew the Emirates A380 together and I made my mom take a shower to experience doing so at 40,000 feet in the sky. We also use points and miles to support an amazing nonprofit organisation called PeaceJam and visit their communities in Ghana, Liberia, South Africa and Guatemala. So, using points and miles to both giveback and travel with my parents has been my ultimate dream.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    10 restaurants in Dubai with luxe private dining areas

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    14 mins ago

    When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver.
    However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?
    With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.
    From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.
    Indochine

    There’s a piece of New York City right here in Dubai that you can enjoy – Indochine. Whether you wish to host a private event for a new launch or simply want to celebrate a special occasion, this is the place to be. The French-Vietnamese restaurant brings its classic dishes to the table with an in-house indie DJ for some eclectic tunes all night long. The restaurant can seat large parties of 10 to 20 guests in a luxurious private dining setting. Guests can relish a five-course menu served family-style accompanied by an evening of conversation and laughter in this intimate setting. Hosts also have an option of full or partial buyouts for larger gatherings.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com.
    Amazonico

    This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.
    Shanghai Me

    Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.
    For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. 
    Le Guépard

    Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.
    For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.
    Cé La Vi

    With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.
    For more information visit celavi.com.
    Roka

    If there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. 
    GAIA

    This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.
    At.mosphere

    In the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.
    For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. 
    Zuma

    By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb More

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    Vacheron Constantin collaborates with Aljoud Lootah for its new Dubai flagship

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Vacheron Constantin has unveiled its new flagship store in Dubai Mall.
    Seamlessly fusing the craft of watchmaking with the UAE’s heritage, the sophisticated horologist collaborated with Emirati designer Aljoud Lootah, to bring the brand’s four artistic installations to life in the new store.

    Exhibited through the flagship store, the Atrium’s entrance features three custom-built installations of external windows.
    With falcon feathers as the focal point of inspiration, Lootah seamlessly showcases immaculate attention to detail between watchmaking and nature to showcase its meaning of pride and unity.

    Designed with a mesmerising colour palette, the designer embraces the vibrancy of the region through blue, gold and silver hues. These timeless pieces represent Emirati cultures through each colour resonating with the UAE’s features. The colours highlight different elements with blue depicting clear skies, gold being the sand dunes and silver evoking the UAE’s skylines to give depth to each piece.
    With meticulous details, carefully selected beads, and traditional techniques, the brand continues to pass on a profound sense of legacy that’s rooted in Emirati heritage.
    Located on the Ground Floor at The Dubai Mall, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to 12am and for more information visit vacheron-constantin.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The Emirates Woman-approved guide to the best restaurants in Dubai

    Dubai is never short of restaurants, as new spots continue to open on a daily basis.
    Home to a variety of cuisines and Michelin-starred havens, finding a restaurant that goes beyond the décor and its views, might sometimes be a tricky task.
    So, to give you some culinary inspiration the Emirates Woman team have shared their favourite spots around Dubai.
    Amy SessionsEditor / Associate Publisher – Emirates Woman/Man

    Bvlgari Yacht Club

    This is my go-to when I feel like I need a taste of Italy but can’t travel. The Veal Ragu is next level and if it’s seasonally available, Chef will make Cozze off the menu – it’ll take you straight to Capri!
    Pier Chic
    I’m oyster obsessed, and the Gillardeau oysters here are incredible. It’s a completely different level now Beatrice Segoni is Head Chef and the cosy atmosphere reminds me of the Belmond trains still on my travel list.
    Comptoir 102
    If you need something clean this is a great place to catch up over a coffee. Their almond milk is homemade and the All Green Salad will give you an immunity boost in one bowl.
    Olivia MorrisDigital Editor – Emirates Woman/Man

    Roka
    If you’re looking to find me anywhere in Dubai on the weekend it’s at Roka. You could say I’m now part of the wallpaper at this restaurant as I go so regularly – at least every other week, if not once a week! With great food and impeccable service to match, Roka is a great spot for a big group dinner with friends or for just a few bites and vinos at the bar (my favourite thing to do on a Friday!). I couldn’t recommend this spot more.
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Hands down the best restaurant for Italian cuisine in Dubai. Located in Jumeirah Al Naseem, the food is always mouthwateringly good and the welcoming staff are always on hand to sure you have an exceptional experience. I love to visit this restaurant with my girlfriends sitting at the bar just chatting the night away to everyone!
    INTI Dubai
    When it comes to Nikkei cuisine you don’t get much better than INTI. This restaurant only burst onto the Dubai dining scene earlier this year, but it’s quickly become one of my favourite spots. The design of the restaurant is particularly special, paried with a spectacular menu and an unrivalled Downtown Dubai view it’s a must-try.
    Shanghai Me
    If you love art-deco and retro style, then Shanghai Me is definitely one you need to visit. I love going here for both a sit-down meal or a few drinks at the bar – whatever the occasion, Shanghai Me always delivers. If there’s one thing you need to try it’s the duck salad. You can thank me later.
    Dan RobinsonFashion Editor – Emirates Woman/Man

    NAMMOS
    Nammos is a staple for lunch meetings or dinner in the evening when family and friends visit. The stunning sea views and Mediterranean ambience always feel like I’m out of Dubai and on a Mykonos beach. The truffle Gyoza and spicy tuna rolls always hit the spot.
    Pier Chic
    Pier Chic is the perfect spot if you’re looking for something a little more special. The sea views of the gulf are uncompromising. The restaurant has an upscale out-at-sea feel. I have celebrated a few occasions here, and the service has always been outstanding. The restaurant has a great-tasting menu with Italian flavours and dishes of Sea bass, yellowtail tartare, and calamari.
    The Maine
    Frequently visiting all the Maine venues in JBR, Business Bay, and Studio City, it’s safe to say my favourite location is the Business Bay branch with the dramatic chandeliers, large windows, and narrow New York brasserie feel layout. In the evening, the restaurant comes alive with an ambient crowd. Specializing in steak and seafood, the restaurant has something for everyone. My favourite dishes are the No-meat short ribs and classic poutine. The venue is known for its shuck-me Oysters. After dinner, a nightcap at the bar is always the way to finish the evening off.
    Sarah JosephJunior Style Editor, Emirates Woman

    Mimi Kakushi

    By bringing back a hint of the 1920s, this Japanese fine-dining haven serves a host of delectable dishes such as salmon sashimi, foil gras gyoza and paired with signature cocktails to compliment the evening. Located at Four Seasons Dubai, this restaurant is hands down, one of my favourite fine-dining spots in Dubai.
    Bull & Bear
    As an ode to the 80s, this signature restaurant offers a twist to New York’s Wall Street. This one-of-a-kind dinner is the perfect gastronomic affair with key dishes such as lobster linguine and alligator pear, which brings a new meaning to avocado. With glistening views of Dubai and a relaxing atmosphere, this restaurant is highly recommended.
    Roberto’s
    This contemporary Italian restaurant has won the hearts of many, including ours. With fresh ingredients flown in from Italy, each dish is crafted to perfection. From oysters to Rawberto’s platters, this restaurant is a seafood delight. A must-try from their dessert menu is the freshly made in-house pistachio ice cream served with extra virgin olive oil. What was once a mistake, has now become a signature for tourists to try from around the globe. The restaurant is located in DIFC, Gate Village 1.
    Avli by Tashas
    This Greek-inspired restaurant is inspired by modern Athens with ingredients sourced directly from Greece. With its minimal interiors and an array of delectable dishes to choose from, this fine-dining haven is an absolute winner. A must-try from the menu is the sea bass ceviche and feta saganaki, which creatively bring the heart of Greece onto a plate. Situated in the heart of DIFC, Gate Village Building 9, this restaurant is the perfect venue to dine with friends and family and is most definitely one of our favourite places to dine at.
    Joelle AlbeainoGroup Marketing Manager

    La Cantine du Faubourg
    Amazing food and ambience. La Cantine has the best Truffle pizza and crunchiest pommes frites. The way the place transforms from a calm dinner to a dance floor where you can show off your best moves. They have the friendliest staff and the best DJ in town. Love everything about this place.
    SĀN

    The boho chic ambience makes you feel like you’re on a tropical island. Delicious food and great entertainment. The place is so serene and aesthetically beautiful. You just never want to leave.
    SAL
    The ultimate place to treat yourself to a fancy pool day. Perfect to unwind with calm music, delicious cocktails and mouthwatering food. SAL is the best place to take photos in front of the Burj and the endless water views surrounding it.
    Chaitali KhimjiGroup Sales Manager

    CÉ LA VI Dubai
    I love the ambience of this restaurant. Diners can witness the pristine skyline of Dubai, making it the perfect backdrop for Instagram pictures.
    La Cantine
    With a Parisian menu designed to perfection, this restaurant has a great ambience with delightful food and drinks.
    Kinara at JA Resort

    I recently tried this restaurant out, as I love Indian food. The restaurant is very authentic and deep-rooted to my heritage as the dishes are curated by Michelin chef Vikas Khanna.
    Anna ChipalaSenior Sales Manager, Emirates Woman

    Zuma
    This fine-dining spot is the perfect combination of Asian food and ambience, with top hits played during the weekend.
    Caviar Kaspia

    This restaurant is close to home. I highly recommend the Caspia potato and Medovik cake, which I absolutely love.
    Flamingo Room
    When it comes to interiors and the concept, this restaurant has done a fabulous job. The food is always delicious and the staff are always friendly.
    Nicole LittleContent Solutions Executive

    Mythos
    Located in Jumeirah Lake Towers, Mythos transports you from the skyscrapers of Dubai to a modern but cosy Greek taverna. Their menu boasts traditional Greek cuisine that is not to be missed, I order the spanakopita religiously. Every time I bring friends to this restaurant, they comment on how it feels like a ‘hidden gem’, ‘hole in the wall’ no gimmicks atmosphere. It’s the food, service, and Mediterranean vibes that keep me coming back time and time again.
    SEVA Table
    Since 2014, SEVA has been a trailblazer in the region as the first 100 per cent plant-based, gluten-free, cane-sugar-free, and GMO-free venue. While you may come for the delicious, healthy and environmentally conscious food and beverage options, you’ll stay for the secluded and laid-back vibes. This place embodies a Sunday morning kind of vibe. It’s casual, healthy, and holistic, making it a great place to decompress with a meal away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai.
    LPM Restaurant & Bar
    Offering some of the finest dining and atmosphere in the Emirate, LPM is an experience that we at Emirates Woman can’t get enough of. The attention to detail in the dining, service and energy of the restaurant will be sure to satiate your expectations. LPM’s gastronomy is an absolute treat, and I’d go as far as to say they serve the best burrata in Dubai.
    The Beach Bar & Grill by Mauro Colagreco

    The Beach Bar & Grill by Chef Mauro Colagreco has a stunning menu. Located on the beachfront at The One & Only Royal Mirage Hotel, the setting and South American flavours will transport you to that ‘on vacation’ feeling upon your arrival. This is a perfect spot for a catch-up with friends or a laid-back date night.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @beachbarandgrill More

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    Queen Rania steps out to make a powerful speech in an equally powerful outfit

    Fashion

    by Olivia Morris
    23 mins ago

    Her Majesty Queen Rania of Jordan always delivers in the style stakes, but her latest look may prove she is the most stylish royal ever.
    The wife of King Abdullah II stepped out in Lisbon, Portugal on Wednesday to deliver a keynote speech at the 2022 Web Summit.
    Ensuring she looked en pointe, Queen Rania turned heads in an edgy ensemble wearing a cropped metallic tweed jacket by Alessandra Rich paired with Bottega Veneta trousers and a handbag.
    But seriously a queen wearing a cropped jacket? Truly iconic.

    A powerful speech
    Not only did Her Majesty step out in a powerful outfit, but she also had a powerful message to share at the summit where she delivered a speech about “Battling built-in biasses”.
    Queen Rania’s speech touched on the problems of relying too much on technology.
    “The real progress we need is not better machines but for all of us to be better humans,” she said, adding society had become “hooked” to their mobile phones and other technology devices.
    She cited the Digital Global Overview Report from 2022 which outlined the average time spent online has increased by four minutes each day. This equates to one day per person, per year.

    “I am concerned that we’re undervaluing the most precious currency of all — our time,” she added. “I am concerned that, even as virtual reality improves by the day, we’re neglecting the needs of our actual reality. And our mental health is suffering, too.”
    Per the Jordan News Agency, Her Majesty also highlighted the world’s response to the Ukraine refugee crisis showcasing what can be achieved through joint efforts, but she also spotlighted the “difference in generosity, tone, and urgency” for refugees from countries including Syria, South Sudan and Myanmar. that extended to refugees from countries such as Syria, South Sudan, and Myanmar.
    “It’s hard not to wonder if skin colour and religion affect the global community’s humanitarian instincts and whether the impulse is to lend a helping hand or look away,” she questioned. “Addressing that prejudice isn’t an algorithm’s job. It’s up to us.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Queen Rania Instagram More

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    ‘Not to be missed’: Region’s largest Porsche showcase to take place in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    18 mins ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: The Middle East’s largest Porsche showcase is set to take place in Dubai at the end of November.
    Icons of Porsche will return to the Dubai Design District for its second-ever instalment following its hugely successful launch last year.
    Just like its 2021 inaugural event, the two-day Porsche extravaganza will showcase the largest gathering of Porsches in the region, with a huge turnout expected, surpassing the 7,000 visitors from last year.
    This year in d3, Icons of Porsche will take visitors on a safari-themed journey to celebrate Porsche’s rallying heritage, as well as spotlighting the passionate Porsche community in this region.

    Amongst its expansive 17,000 square-metre venue, Porsche enthusiasts will be able to enjoy a host of experiences including a huge showcase of classic Porsche cars, entertainment acts from across the region, art installations from renowned artists and a host of F&B vendors.
    It’s a spectacle which, as described by Porsche Middle East’s CEO Dr Manfred Bräunl, that is “not to be missed”.
    “The safari theme for this year’s event will deliver a lot of exciting moments and engaging experiences,” he said. “Attendees can expect to see some famous Porsche vehicles from throughout our rich history, with pedigree and success off-road as well as on the race track.
    “We are planning to deliver a calendar event that is not to be missed. It will be the ultimate platform to experience classic car nostalgia in connection with art, culture and the community.”
    As part of this experience, the two-day festival will feature five zones, each with its own theme, immersing each visitor into what the Porsche heritage represents.

    The Adventure Camp will showcase the adventurous side of Porsche; Community Village will encourage attendees to embrace the lifestyle of the heritage car brand; Design Factory will be a hub for the artistry behind the classic cars; Electric Field will act as a zone for the thrill-seekers with a passion for speed; and finally Art Valley will showcase a number of unique artworks from renowned international and local artists who have been inspired by Porsche.
    It doesn’t end there, Icons of Porsche will also mark several key milestones of the German automobile manufacturer throughout its history including 20 years of its first SUV model, the Porsche Cayenne, as well as 50 years of Porsche design. Seventy years of Porsche clubs will also be celebrated, with the festival acting as a meeting place for Porsche Clubs in this region.
    The 2022 Icons of Porsche is certainly one not to be missed.

    Register for the two-day festival free of charge at iconsofporsche.com and follow the #IconsofPorsche hashtag on social media.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    9 inspiring accounts to follow on Instagram this month

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    A curated guide of all the inspiring accounts to #follow
    Rae Joseph@theraejoseph

    Fashion entrepreneur and vintage collector.
    Delvaux@delvaux

    Exceptional, timeless designs since 1829.
    Rimowa@rimowa

    Suitcases engineered to perfection.
    Edge of Ember@edgeofember

    Luxury jewellery designed from recycled metals and lab-grown diamonds.
    Leila Heller Gallery@leilahellergallery

    One of the most influential art spaces in the region.
    Nostalgia Classic Cars@nostalgiaclassiccars

    Every classic car enthusiast’s dream.
    Hublot@hublot

    Unique timepieces combining tradition and innovation.
    Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi@bodouralqasimi

    An advocate for books and literacy as Chairperson of Shurooq.
    NOBU@noburestaurants

    Sleek Japanese Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of Dubai.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @theraejoseph More

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    The internet’s best reactions to the premiere of Netflix’s Dubai Bling

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    The latest reality show to premiere on Netflix is all about Dubai.
    Showcasing the opulent and affluent side of the emirate, Dubai Bling has already taken the world by storm after launching on October 27.
    As one of the most highly anticipated shows, the emirate’s exuberant displays of wealth were accompanied by drama, drama and more drama as each episode progressed.
    With rivalries, romance and a lavish lifestyle being the focal point, the world had a lot to say about the diamond city’s high-flying social circle and whether it’s a façade or not.

    Each protagonist is known for their strong character leading its own dose of friction amongst them and more entertainment for the audience.
    The world binge-watched the show and so did we. By taking the streaming platform by storm, here’s what the internet had to say.

    Zeina will say how she feels to your face and I love that. #DubaiBling pic.twitter.com/iAqAmQlVun
    — maya own business (@saltybuthappy) October 27, 2022

    “My love language is receiving gifts 🎁”
    Say what? How is that YOUR love language, or am I missing something? 🤔 #DubaiBling
    — Nicola Ellegaard (@banafsaji) October 28, 2022

    Dubai Bling is not for financially weak people like myself.🤣🤣
    — Sania (@notyoursania) October 28, 2022

    I’m glad there are more and more reality shows where the men are gossiping and causing drama #DubaiBling #blingempire #sellingoc
    — Basically Like Heather (@maaagicadespell) October 28, 2022

    Ebraheem on Dubai Bling Netflix is just like Kane on Bling Empire. There has to be that one guy that gossips and I’m here for it. pic.twitter.com/RMfcFMQOm3
    — Hachi (@_PetiteAda) October 27, 2022

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