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    10 fabulous things to do in the UAE this July

    Life

    June 30, 2025

    Staying in the emirates this summer? These are the reservations to make, the things to do and the events to bookmark in the UAE this July…
    If you’re not travelling this summer, there’s endless activites to look forward to to keep your schedule full and your creativity at an all time high. From elevated new restaurants to chic Pilates studios, here are the best things to do in the UAE this July.
    Check out a refined new Sunday brunch

    Bringing a taste of La Dolce Vita to Jumeirah Mina Al Salam is Cala Vista. While alfresco dining may be off the agenda, head chef Luca and manager Pasquale have curated a new relaxed Italian Sunday brunch, reminiscent of family Sundays in their native Italy. Available from 12.30pm to 4pm, enjoy sharing starters, theatrically cooked pasta mains, and a collection of indulgent homemade desserts. A roaming band adds to the lively ambience. Packages start from AED375.
    @calavistadubai
    Create your own permanent jewellery in the capital

    It’s already a popular spot for beautiful, personal permanent jewellery in Dubai, and now Aglaiia has landed in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall. The modern and minimalistic space invites you to create bespoke jewellery in white gold, yellow gold or rose gold, customising it with diamonds and gemstones and permanently fixing it for you. Bookings can be made via Fresha, with sessions from AED45.
    @aglaiiapermanentjewelry
    Catch up over a new ladies’ night at J1 Beach

    We know you’ve likely discovered the fabulous array of daytime dining and high-octane imbibing at J1 Beach’s gorgeous hotspots. But there’s a new reason to make plans around this exciting Dubai destination after dark with the launch of Gitano’s new ladies’ night. Every Thursday, there’s complimentary drinks at the bar for ladies from 8pm to midnight, perfect for mid-week get-togethers.
    @gitano.dubai
    Stretch it out at a new Pilates studio

    A self-described curated space for body and soul, get stronger, leaner and more flexible at Soulmvnt, new in Dubai Design District. Opt for the Lagree class for next-level strength training, or try the high-energy mat Pilates session for maximum impact. Lower-tempo classes come in the form of yoga and sculpt. Classes start from AED169 for Lagree, and AED129 for all other sessions.
    @soulmvnt
    See an iconic popstar perform in the capital

    One of the biggest pop icons on the planet, JLO touches down in the UAE capital with her Up All Night world tour on July 29 for one night only at the Etihad Arena. Fans of the hitmaker behind era-defining tracks like On The Floor, Get Right and Love Don’t Cost A Thing can expect an electrifying performance of her biggest hits from across her legendary career. Tickets start from AED295.
    @etihadarena.ae
    Stretch out summer days with a night swim

    The latest craze to sweep through Dubai this summer is night swims – and they’re taking over some of our favourite beach clubs and pools across the city. There’s options to suit all styles – from loofty rooftop pools to laidback luxe beach clubs, but for a taste of Ibiza, we’ll be booking the Noches de Verano night swim at Balearic-inspired Tagomago. Taking place every Friday and Saturday, sip, swim and bask in the moonlight, with an AED150 minimum spend.
    @tagomagodubai
    Make reservations at Dubai’s newest restaurant

    An institution on London’s dining scene since 1968, Mr Chow is now renowned worldwide for its signature take on contemporary Beijing cuisine. With restaurants in Beverly Hills, New York, Miami and Riyadh – its now landed in Dubai. Adding to the gourmet cuisine scene in DIFC, Mr Chow is now welcoming guests to discover why it’s known and loved by A-Listers across the globe in Gate Village 3. Order the handmade noodles for the theatrical presentation and the iconic Beijing duck.
    @mrchowdifc
    Shop vintage pieces at the new So Much Trouble store

    Dubai’s premier in-store experience for all things vintage and designer, So Much Trouble has a new home at Atlantis, The Palm. Inside, you’ll find a curated edit of founder Dominique Laird’s most beloved brands, as well as handpicked pieces it’s impossible to find anywhere else. Perfect for a day of retail therapy.
    @somuchtroubledubai
    Check-in for a relaxing retreat on the shores of Ghantoot

    Tucked away along Abu Dhabi’s coast, Anantara Santorini offers a serene, adults-only escape inspired by the Greek Isles. With the Santorini Couple’s Serenity package, couples can enjoy sea-view luxury, wellness breakfasts, private yoga, and signature spa experiences designed for total relaxation. Rates start from AED2,950.
    @anantarasantorini
    Relax and re-centre with full moon yoga

    Beyond Wellness are behind some of the UAE’s premier wellness experiences, with their viral floating wellness sessions taking place across the emirates. But they also offer an array of other classes – from sound healing and meditation to yoga and sculpt classes. On July 8, they will be hosting a full moon yoga and sound healing session at 7.30pm at Raffles The Palm. Bask in the serenity as you gather under the Capricorn moon. Sessions are AED199 + VAT, with yoga mats provided.
    @beyondwellnessdxb
    yasmine.zahran

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

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    Founder & CEO of onezone on harnessing tech to create a curated lifestyle discovery app

    Natasha Zone, founder and CEO of onezone app, on harnessing the power of tech to create the ultimate curated lifestyle discovery app.
    Natasha Zone, founder and CEO of onezone
    What was the idea and catalyst behind building onezone?
    The idea and catalyst behind onezone is rooted in the observation of existing luxury concierge services and recommendation/discovery platforms, which either target ultra-wealthy clients or are social media platforms lacking quality control and trust. This highlights a significant gap in the market for a digital hospitality marketplace that offers curated discovery for affluent individuals with high disposable income seeking out the best of hospitality in their city, who have no trusted brand or service available to them to do so. onezone fulfills the need of a trusted brand and reputable platform for this audience, as well as a new generation of digital-first consumers desiring to discover and book the best experiences. Additionally, onezone brings this valuable community, and new customers, to restaurants and hospitality brands who seek quality clientele that prioritise exceptional experiences.

    What pillars of DNA define onezone as a brand?
    The pillars of DNA that define onezone as a brand include:
    1. Curation, our USP: onezone prioritises curation on both sides of its digital hospitality marketplace, establishing a trusted brand and consistent standards that provide value to both users/ consumers and hospitality brands/businesses.
    2. Community and Brand Value: The curated element of the brand fosters a valuable community on one side, and quality experiences on the other. This specialist curation is highlighted in our bespoke imagery, intentional organ- ic growth, real-time content and intuitive app/platform.
    3. Diversity and Sustainability: onezone is committed to supporting female-founded, Black-owned and sus- tainable businesses, alongside community heroes and minorities; editorially on the app, consistently on social media and through our team in real life.
    4. Industry Support: onezone actively contributes to the hospitality industry, as recognised by industry leaders, operators and owners. The development of new features – including private dining/events to drive more incremental revenue to our partners – demonstrates one- zone’s dedication to supporting the industry as a whole.
    These pillars collectively reinforce onezone’s commitment to quality, trust, community and diversity in the digital hospitality space.

    What sets onezone apart from other city guide apps in the market?
    onezone distinguishes itself from other apps in several significant ways:
    1. Curated Discovery: Unlike many social discovery apps that rely on influencers and friends for content, leading to unreliable and outdated information, onezone focuses on curated content. This approach ensures that users receive valuable, trustworthy and real-time recommendations as soon as they open the app.
    2. Content Quality and Relevance: onezone offers bespoke content that is relevant to our specific audience/community and vetted for quality. This level of curation enhances user trust and satisfac- tion, setting us apart from com- petitors that may not prioritise these aspects.
    3. Comprehensive Aggregation: onezone integrates discovery, booking and social features into a single platform. By curating across all verticals and price points, and integrating seamlessly with all traditional reservation softwares, onezone provides a unique holistic experience that allows users to discover, plan, book and trust the outcome, all in one.
    4. Trustworthy Brand Alignment: onezone builds a brand that resonates with users, positioning itself as a trusted service in the crowded app/discovery market. This alignment fosters a loyal user base that seeks a reliable and comprehensive solution for city discovery/exploration.
    5. Addressing Distrust in Existing Platforms: Traditional discovery platforms often rely heavily on user reviews, which can lead to distrust due to the potential for negative bias. New-age discovery platforms often deliver hype and viral moments rather than authentic recommendations and trustworthy reviews. onezone’s curated approach mitigates these issues, offering a more enjoyable and reliable user experience.
    Overall, onezone’s emphasis on curated, high-quality content, along with its comprehensive features, makes it a unique and valuable tool for discovering and booking.

    How do you continuously refine the user journey experience and manage user retention?
    We’re obsessed with feedback. We see how users move through the app, where they drop off, what they save, and where they click out. Then we iterate and refine. We use hot tip hacks, curated content drops, industry insights and smart notifications to keep people coming back. We also run surveys, ask questions and trial quickly/adapt swiftly, until we get it right. Ultimately, people return because they trust us, and we work hard to earn that trust. onezone has the finger on the pulse on the coolest city hot spots.

    What does it take to curate each city?
    Curating the world requires a curated team with a unique set of skills:
    1. Deep Hospitality Knowledge/Expertise: Our team possesses extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry, enabling us to identify and evaluate the best places that align with our vision for onezone.
    2. Understanding of Audience Needs: We have a keen understanding of what our audience, community and users desire – be it the latest brands, culinary trends, ambiance or service standards. This insight helps us curate experiences and a platform that truly resonates with our users.
    3. Unmatched Work Ethic: Our team is committed to excellence; willing to rise at any time to capture the best content for the app; spending hours with our partners/industry operators to listen and understand their challenges; and constantly revising, adapting and improving to create the best product and service for our users.
    This dedication reflects our desire to curate the best platform for both users and partner brands, always striving to do our utmost and whatever it takes.
    How many people are in your team now and did you start out alone?
    I began this journey as a solo founder, with past experience making me aware that co-founders can sometimes introduce strife and turmoil in a business. Over the past three years, I have carefully built a lean team of five experts. Each team member has ownership of their respective department, allowing us to fill each other’s blind spots, and be accountable to one another, for our combined success. We passionately support each other, operate at a high level and continuously challenge each other to improve and aspire to be better. This collaborative spirit is instrumental to our growth and success.

    As a tech entrepreneur, what would you advise for those looking to follow the same path and those who are starting out?
    ∙ Be grateful and stay humble – not everyone has the opportunity to do something extraordinary.
    ∙ Prepare yourself to sacrifice the “normal” – if you see this as your life, you’ll do good. If it’s a job, if it’s “work”, you probably won’t.
    ∙ Be obsessed with your industry. I live and breathe hospitality. Be outrageously persistent, knock down every door, and always find another way forwards.
    ∙ Stay scrappy, pivot quickly and make decisions; there is no right or wrong. Be careful who you take advice from and be extra careful who you take money from.
    ∙ Find your team – they will make every day better.
    ∙ Ultimately surrender. Do everything you can and then believe it will be.
    What were the challenges you overcame and how did you tackle this?
    Being a female founder in the tech industry can be particularly challenging. Female founders often face disparities in securing funding and high valuations as males tend to favour male-led startups, leading to a significant gender gap in investment opportunities, from both angels and venture capitalists. Gender biases can also lead to stereotypes that undermine the credibility of female founders. This can affect how our ideas are received, how seriously we are taken in male-dominated environments, and it can be harder for us to establish connections, mentors and networks. Our company ethos does not allow bias and stereotypes to prevent progress. We have strengthened our business with an advisory board and strategic investors who share their expertise and experience to advance onezone’s mission.
    This is The Discovery Issue – what has been a recent game changing discovery?
    We see a unique opportunity to develop an AI product based on our curated dataset. In an industry where artificial intelligence has struggled to deliver expert recommendations due to a reliance on broad data scraping, onezone can leverage its specific, high-quality, curated content to provide meaningful insights and recommendations that truly resonate with our users. This discovery enhances our value proposition and positions us for future growth and innovation in the hospitality sector.
    Another exciting discovery has been the recent realisation that our platform is actively driving consumer trends. More users are exploring new places thanks to our app, which highlights incredible spots in their vicinity. We’ve received feedback from self-proclaimed foodies who initially downloaded the app skeptically, only to find themselves pleasantly surprised by the number of exciting restaurants they had never known existed nearby. Additionally, we’ve discovered that the next generation of consumers lacks a centralised, curated source for private dining rooms and event spaces. By building a trusted brand, onezone has the opportunity to fill this gap in the market, meeting the needs of both our users and partners. This emphasises the value of building a two-sided curated hospitality marketplace.
    “Curating the world requires a curated team with a unique set of skills”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The Cullinan in Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab raises the steaks in Dubai’s dining scene

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    7 seconds ago

    This new fine steakhouse concept at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab not only comes with a renowned group behind it, but its fine meats do the talking.
    There are many excellent restaurants in Dubai, with new ones opening almost every week. The latest addition to the roster, The Cullinan, adds to the vibrant steak scene. The Cullinan carries the DNA of FoodFund International Group, a family-owned and family-run restaurant empire that has been around since 1976, with a focus on fine dining and impeccable service. Over four decades, the f&b enterprise has been redefining luxury dining with its roster of exceptional dining concepts.
    THE MENU

    Culinary veteran and visionary entrepreneur Johnny Tomazos brings his love for robust cuts to The Cullinan. The menu serves an array of familiar comforts with a modern twist showcasing 25 premium steaks – impeccably cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection – for the meat lovers to relish. For those who abstain from meat, there are fresh seafood as options too. Celebrating a special occasion or looking for something more indulgent to pair with the meal? There’s a world-class vintage grape selection available that guests can also enjoy under the guidance of an esteemed sommelier. Open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm–2am. Prices start from Dhs62 for appetizers; Dhs120 for mains; and special packages are available upon request, starting from Dhs550/person.
    THE AMBIENCE

    The lavish steakhouse concept showcases an impressive space to indulge in rich and succulent steak experience with 180-degree views of the Arabian Gulf, the iconic Burj Al Arab and the Dubai skyline. It also houses a cosy bar and lounge area perfect for remarkable celebrations or those seeking privacy, a meat display, and boasts of the largest kitchen on a restaurant in the UAE. The interiors-an exquisite mix of marble, leather, and wood-are a perfect blend of opulence and modernity that form a sophisticated atmosphere.
    For more information, visit thecullinandubai.com. For reservations, call +971 4 570 4551 or email reservations@thecullinandubai.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    12 fabulous things to do in the UAE this February: from fashion pop-ups to festivals

    Life

    by Alice Holtam-Pargin
    1 min ago

    Your editor-approved guide to the coolest events across the emirates this month…
    February 13 and 14: Prada Mode touches down in Abu Dhabi

    Storied Italian fashion house Prada’s haute social travelling hub – Prada Mode – has landed at MiZa in Mina Zayed. Making its Abu Dhabi debut, the all-encompassing celebration of contemporary culture promises . It’s open to the public on February 13 and 14, with pre-registration required.
    Register at pradamodeabudhabi.eventbloomer.com/public
    Until February 17: Poubel pops-up in DIFC

    Tiktok sensation Gstaad Guy launched Poubel, a kitsch charm-based jewellery brand last year. And now you can shop its colourful, customisable charms through an oh-so-Instagrammable pop-up at ICD Brookfield Place. Running until February 17 from 10am to 10pm, it features a matcha bar as well as limited-edition clothing merch.
    Shop now at ICD Brookfield place and ounass.ae
    February 15, 20, 21 and 22: Sensational popstars grace the stage at Saadiyat

    It’s the final month of Abu Dhabi’s open-air concert series, Saadiyat Nights, and closing out the show are some of the biggest names in pop music. On Saturday February 15, Christina Aguilera brings her Genie in a Bottle to Abu Dhabi. On Thursday February 20 it’s your invitation to Get Right with Jennifer Lopez, then Friday February 21 it’s time for The Sweet Escape to Saadiyat with Gwen Stefani, before Lionel Richie says Hello on the final night of Saturday February 22. Tickets start from AED 295.
    Book via ticketmaster.ae
    Until February 15: Louis Vuitton presents exclusive pieces at Anantara Santorini

    Louis Vuitton’s exclusive Savoir Rêver has taken over Anantara Santorini, for an immersion into the elegance and craftsmanship of the House’s most extraordinary métiers. By invitation only, it invites those who snap up an appointment the opportunity to peruse high jewellery, watchmaking, luggage, leather goods and RTW collections.
    Find out more at me.louisvuitton.com
    February 22: A glamorous day at the polo for Dubai Gold Cup

    The city’s polo season concludes with the final match of the season at Al Habtoor Polo Club & Resort. The region’s premier polo tournament features six elite teams competing for the coveted championship in the Dubai Open, with various packages available including Party at the Polo brunch packages for AED 490, and VIP Garden access for AED 1,500 per person. Dress to impress.
    Tickets via platinumlist.net
    February 19 to 23: Dubai Boat Show brings Riviera chic to Dubai Harbour

    The global luxury and lifestyle hotel returns to Dubai Harbour, bringing with it the opportunity to peruse dazzling superyachts for swoon-worthy days by the sea. But away from Superyacht Avenue, there are also nautical fashion exhibitions, watersports, a dive pool, supercars and a stylish pop-up from Nikki Beach. Tickets are AED 40.
    Tickets via platinumlist.net
    Daily: Elevate your workout at a new Pilates studio

    Aussie-born Pilates studio Strong has landed in Dubai, and now invites you to discover its sweat-inducing sessions in a calm and contemporary studio in Jumeirah. The Reformer classes promise a full body workout, with options of Pilates only, or sessions with cardio, HIIT, and weight-based training. Classes start from AED 100.
    Find out more at @strong_jumeirah
    February 13: A ladies’ night with a twist at Roxy Cinemas

    Dinner and drinks is out, girlie cinema nights are in: If you’re looking for a ladies’ night with a difference, book a Galantine’s film night screening on Thursday February 13. For AED 189, Roxy Cinemas is screening Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy, with unlimited mocktails in the VIP lounge pre-screening, plush reclining seats with blankets in the Platinum cinema, popcorn, a main course, and a gift from Rituals Cosmetics to take away. It’s available at locations including The Beach, City Walk, Dubai Hills, and Galleria Mall Barsha.
    Book via thereoxycinemas.com
    Throughout February: Luxury staycations elevated at Anantara Al Yamm

    Escape the city and embark on a retreat to serene nature with an elevated staycation of unbridled luxury at Anantara Sir Bani Yas. The 30-villa retreat on the shorefront of the island, Anantara Al Yamm features villas with private pools, a roster of activities like snorkelling and horseback riding, and serene natural views. Rates start from AED 1,587.
    Book via anantara.com
    February 14 to 16: Culinary stars align at Taste of Dubai

    Some of the biggest names in the city’s food scene descend on Dubai Media City Amphitheatre for three days of world-class chef appearances, restaurant pop-ups and cooking demos. Plus, there’s live music, family-friendly entertainment, and even a VIP lounge. Tickets start from AED 75.
    Tickets via platinumlist.net
    February 14: A comedy favourite graces the stage at Coca-Cola Arena

    British comedian Jack Whitehall returns to Dubai on Friday February 14, this time with his father Michael in tow, bringing their laugh-out-loud Travels With My Father show to the Coca-Cola Arena. Dubai fans can look forward to some hilarious backstories that take you through family anecdotes, rare revealing photographs, and humourous father-son moments. Tickets start from AED 350.
    Tickets via coca-cola-arena.com
    Daily: A taste of Paris at ME Dubai

    Gourmands and locals alike queue around the block to dine at Le Relais de L’Entrecôte in Paris, the beloved bistro famed for its single-dish menu of steak, crispy fries and secret sauce. But now you don’t need to go to the French capital to get your fix, as the brand has opened inside ME Dubai. You might still have to queue – but it’ll be worth it for the two-course menu of walnut salad and sirloin steak cooked to order for AED 155.
    Book via @relaisdelentrecotedubai More