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    8 celebrity-approved luxury hotels for a staycation in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    58 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    While being titled as one of the most luxurious capitals in the world, Dubai is a hub to millions of visitors every year, some of which include celebrities.
    Emirates Woman has curated a list of A-list-approved hotels where popular faces from around the world have chosen to have a getaway.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Getty (Kevin Mazur) More

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    13 luxurious hotels to book with private pools in the UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    58 mins ago

    As the sweltering heat is here to stay for the next couple of months, there’s nothing like cooling off in the privacy of your own private pool.
    From temperature-controlled swimming pools to luxe views of the UAE’s skyline, these exotic properties offer their own private swimming facility to unwind with friends and family.
    Emirates Woman has curated a list of must-visit resorts located both in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, that offer their own space to unwind as you book a premium villa or suite that best fits your needs.
    Abu Dhabi
    Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

    If you’re looking for a city escape in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this urban waterfront retreat offers an expanse of mangroves with waterfront swimming and mangrove kayaking during your stay as you unwind at the Mangrove pool suite. It offers a host of privileges from an abundance of space to basking on your terrace or in the mini plunge pool, which elevates your stay in UAE’s capital.
    For more information visit Anantara.com
    Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island

    Located on the pristine white beach of Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking Saadiyat Island, this one-of-a-kind five-star property features a striking modern Arabic architecture with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Starting with the one-bedroom beach villa, guests can rejuvenate at their very own large private plunge pool with a fully furnished terrace, as they absorb unrivalled sea views that are reminiscent of an elegant beach house with a location that is hard to beat.
    For more information visit Rotana.com
    Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

    Rooted deep within the desert landscape of Al Wathba, an intimate retreat with natural beauty lies at the hallmark of this hotel experience, with guests ready to embark on an individual wellness journey, immersed by privacy. With a secluded plunge pool, guests can take in serene views of the Arabian Desert from their villa with a generous amount of space as they lay back and absorb the beauty of the property.
    For more information visit alwathbahotel.com
    Dubai
    One&Only The Palm

    This glittering sanctuary with lush gardens is secluded on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah with opulent hotel rooms, while also featuring beachfront villas with their own private swimming pools as you witness breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. The premium villa allows you to step into the world of luxury with complete relaxation as you’re surrounded by lush private gardens and can cool off in your private temperature-controlled swimming pool with a majlis-style space shrouded by an oversized gazebo.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    Anantara The Palm

    With a private sanctuary that overlooks the beach and Arabian Gulf beyond, you can enjoy luxurious sunny days by the poolside with private concierge services at the Villa with options for one or two bedrooms as you unwind in style with oversized daybeds featuring a lagoon that is made into something special.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

    With a relaxed yet effortless atmosphere, Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts prides itself in providing guests with an unrivalled luxury lifestyle experience, while offering guests contemporary dining with an enhanced Nikki Beach experience. The Nikki beach pool villa is pleasant to the eye, with a uniquely designed space featuring an external shower pool and vast recreational areas that are perfectly conceived down to the smallest detail. With a perfect combination of white, light blue and beige colours in the interiors, the outdoor area is fitted with high-quality furniture offering a unique area for private dining or relaxing.
    For more information visit nikkibeach.com
    Melia Desert Palm

    This urban oasis offers lush green surroundings with an elegant oasis in the one-bedroom hideaway villas with ground floor living and dining spaces that extends to the spacious outdoor as guests enjoy a home away from home for the ultimate privacy with an alfresco dining area, complemented with a stone-walled courtyard for utmost serenity. With fascinating views of Dubai’s skyline and your own space to unwind at, there’s enough of room in this superlatively designed area to relax with friends and family.
    For more information visit melia.com
    Bulgari Resort Dubai

    Bringing the Mediterranean style to the Middle East, while being surrounded by ocean views with a nautical spirit imbibed at the property, guests can unwind at the luxurious beach view villas with stunning landscaped gardens and a temperature-controlled pool, as the villas offer the perfect amount of space to have the ultimate luxury gathering with the feeling and privacy of being at home, while enjoying the details of a sunken marble bathtub in the layout.
    For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
    Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Dubai
    Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Dubai’s newly renovated Royal Penthouse boasts a panoramic rooftop terrace with a private 7-metre outdoor swimming pool and a sleek firepit and lounge area for ala fresco dining with epic, unobstructed views of the Arabian Gulf that only you and your guests can exclusively enjoy.
    For reservations, call +971 4 777 2222
    Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

    Just under an hours drive from the city of Dubai is Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa. This luxury hotel, which resembles a luxurious Bedouin encampment, is the perfect escape for a weekend recharge. While the resort’s location already ensures maximum privacy for guests, Al Maha’s 42 suites take luxury and privacy to the next level. Each suite boasts a private temperature-controlled pool overlooking the infinite desert views, alongside opulent interiors which pay tribute to Arabian heritage with handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artefacts.
    Ras Al Khaimah
    The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

    Escape to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah at The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach resort which has 32 luxurious villas that each have their very own private pool, as well as direct beach access.
    The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

    For those seeking a desert escape in Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert resort is ideal. Similar to its sister resort, there are 100 villas available each with its own private pool.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @oothepalm More

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    6 luxury staycations to book at these new hotels in the UAE

    Life by Sarah Joseph 5 mins ago Quick escapes are essential to wear down the stress levels from time to time. Sometimes the trips become more fulfilling after skipping the excessive packing, long-haul flights, jet-lag and more. 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 properties 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. 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

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    7 reasons why FIVE Zurich ensures the ultimate Swiss escape

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph3 hours ago It’s so effortless to be at one with nature in Switzerland and experience. Just 35 minutes from the airport lies one of Zurich’s most sought after property’s – FIVE Zurich.Just 7 hours from Dubai, Switzerland makes the perfect getaway during winter and summer, all throughout the year for a luxurious getaway. Situated in the heart of Uetliberg, lies this state-of-the-art property with a myriad of onboard facilities, that won’t make you miss home at all.Surrounded by surreal mountain peaks and complementing these thrills are endless metropolitan pleasures within the hotel, that provide a much-needed escape without ensuring you don’t miss home too much. With the best of both worlds, guests can experience both the Swiss Alps and the city, with the hotel’s prime location.So if you’re looking for a hassle-free escape, here’s why FIVE Zurich is the perfect choice.High-Tech RoomsThis lavish property boasts 45 luxurious suites and 42 suite sized lifestyle rooms. Firstly the Amazing Rooms located in the East Wing annex building are ideal for today’s globetrotters whether for business or leisure, with all the plush FIVE amenities including a state-of-the-art rain shower. The Gorgeous room exudes a contemporary luxury featuring modern art elements, king size bed and all the amenities. For more room, the luxe suite with a balcony is an electric mix of contemporary art inspired design with king size bed, bathtub and rainfall shower, and two balconies boasting the best Zurich views from city to The Social Pool. For all the party lovers, the come play suite invites you to hit play and dive into the whirlwind of FIVE’s wild side. Bold in design, this 78 sqm suite is the ultimate playground. Designed to keep sleep in mind, Designed with more than sleep in mind, the epic suite is a glamorous playground with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, elegant dining room and fully fitted kitchen, generous living room to socialize and host, walk-in wardrobe and 8 balconies boasting mountain and city views. Prices for the rooms begin at CHF215 without breakfast (Dhs897).Stunning rooftop viewsZurich’s only rooftop restaurant, lounge and nightclub in one, The Penthouse Zurich is the city’s must-visit hot spot. This exquisite nightlife concept brings the very best of its Dubai line up to Zurich. With international DJ’s such Lost Frequencies, Hugel, Korolova and Themba are set to hit the decks from time to time – this one-of-a-kind escape is the perfect getaway. As plenty of Instagrammable moments await you at Zurich’s most glamourous rooftop, guests can also opt fort he set menu with 3 drinks for CHF85 (Dhs354) per person every Wednesday. Overall, the Penthouse offers contemporary Japanese cuisine paired with creative artisan cocktails. Whether indoors surrounded by opulent interiors, in an exclusive private dining area, or on the outdoor terrace with unparalleled views, every moment becomes a memorable evening without having to leave the hotel.International CuisineFIVE’s award-winning restaurant brand Soul Street has also opened its first international location at the new FIVE Zurich. Here, guests can experience a variety and vibrancy of global street food. Soul Street head chef Orlando Acevedo has created a lavish international street food menu, which is complemented by bespoke street art adorning the interiors and lively tunes. This irresistible sharing-style tapas experience will create an explosion of flavours as you immerse yourself in Soul St’s unique blend of street food, art and lively tunes. Every Monday and Tuesday, from 5pm onwards guests can indulge in a special tasty tapas menu priced at CHF65 (Dhs271) per person for 3 starters, 2 main course and 2 desserts.Indulge in fine Italian dishesFort he finest Italian meal, Zurich’s newest culinary jewel is masterfully curated by Chef Antonio Satta. Drawing from his esteemed tenure at iconic venues like Cinque Dubai and the Michelin-starred Armani Ristorante, Chef Satta offers a genuine taste of Italy to Zurich’s discerning diners. The menu celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine, emphasizing the freshness of Mediterranean seafood including Balfegó tuna, Skye scallops, and Sicilian Prawns from Mazara dell Vallo. Explore a diverse selection of dishes that echo the lush Swiss landscape, featuring Fassona beef carpaccio, Castelmagno cheese-filled bottoni pasta, and wild mushroom risotto. For a sweet finish, indulge in delights like with our irresistible Toblerone soufflé, complemented by smooth pistachio ice cream and more.A luxurious outdoor & Indoor poolFramed by picturesque forest views, this hub to meet and mingle invites you to pool days and tantalising cocktails at The Social Pool. During summer, this expansive pool hosts an afternoon BBQ party by its star-studded 25 m length. This outdoor entertainment deck features a jacuzzi, comfy sunbeds and comfortable sun lounges, music, and a pool bar, but now has a culinary add-on — a BBQ station. Altogether, the ideal, fun spot to spend your Sunday in Zurich with friends, solo, or as a couple. The green views of the Uetliberg mountain and city skyline as your backdrop simply make the experience even more relaxing. For a spa-like feel, the indoor pool is the perfect option.360-degree relaxationDetox before you retox at the lavish wellness spa with indoor pool and hot tub. Guests can explore a selection of handpicked facials, massages and special treatments. Split across the sophisticated five treatment rooms, a Spa Suite with jacuzzi and steam bath, a sauna area, a relaxation room, as well as interior and exterior swimming pool each with integrated jacuzzi at ReFIVE Spa. As the perfect urban wellness retreat, you can completely unwind while looking at the unmissable snow alps while being in a heated environment. For some post-treatment workouts the bespoke gym comes fully equipped with TechnoGym equipment including treadmills, bikes, weights and jump ropes.The perfect locationThis state-of-the-art hotel overlooks the city center from Zurich’s stunning Uetliberg plateau and is within a 10-minute drive to the city center and main attractions; and a 20-minute drive to Zurich’s main airport. Direct access to public transport is within a 2-minute walk.Book your table and room and let FIVE Zurich elevate both your dining experience and stay to new heights. For any bookings visit zurich.fivehotelsandresorts.com/– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    How I got my job as…General Manager of Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businessmen 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.
    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Burcak Orak, General Manager of Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island.
    Burcak’s three decades of leadership in the hospitality industry, showcased by his dedication to Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, reflect a commitment to excellence. His exceptional leadership, training, and talent recognition have solidified his position as a respected figure in the industry. Here, we talk to him about his extensive expertise across hospitality departments and his vision for the future.

    Can you share some insights into your leadership style and how it has contributed to the success of these properties you’ve worked at?
    In my role as a General Manager, I place a strong emphasis on a combination of strategic vision, team collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences. In the luxury hospitality industry, attention to detail is paramount. I am meticulous in ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence. At Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, we strive to create an immersive and unforgettable experience, where every interaction, every nuance, contributes to the creation of lasting memories for our guests.
    Club Privé by Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island has been described as a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Could you elaborate on the strategic vision behind its launch and how it has impacted the overall performance of the property?
    Elevating luxury to unprecedented heights, our Club Privé villas redefine opulence by seamlessly blending ultimate relaxation. Club Prive villas combine the ultimate relaxation and privacy with the All-Inclusive All-Exclusive way. Club Privé butlers are on hand from day until night to guarantee high-end comfort and timeless elegance throughout your stay. Our guests can enjoy Club House restaurant, where we extend the luxury of 24-hour access for casual fine dining with our menu offering an exquisite array of culinary treasures crafted to perfection. Our commitment to the “Next level of luxury” is not just a phrase; it’s a promise.

    Your expertise spans various key hospitality departments. How do you leverage this extensive knowledge in your role as a General Manager, especially in terms of pre-opening hotel setups and post-opening strategizing?
    My diverse expertise across crucial hospitality departments significantly influences my approach to both pre-opening hotel setups and post-opening strategising. In the pre-opening phase, I leverage my extensive knowledge to meticulously plan and execute the integration of various departments. This involves developing streamlined workflows, implementing comprehensive training programs, and establishing effective communication channels to guarantee a smooth operational launch. Our limitless concept allows guests to discover a new sense of freedom and a world of possibilities through our premium product and service offerings, including award-winning international cuisines, stylish scenic accommodations, revolutionary entertainment, immersive spa experiences, fun-packed activities for all ages, and an Exclusive Sports Club.
    Can you share some specific steps you’ve taken to promote responsible consumption, reduce single-use plastic, and engage in socially responsible investments within the hospitality sector?
    Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island has achieved the prestigious GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) Sustainability Certification, underscoring our steadfast dedication to sustainability and establishing us as trailblazers in the region. Additionally, we have been accepted and approved by the Blue Flag International Jury. The ‘Blue Flag’ is a certification that can be obtained by a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator, and serves as an eco-label. We have taken significant strides towards eliminating guest-facing single-use plastics. Furthermore, we are actively engaged in forming partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the region to fortify our commitment to sustainability. In addition, we are diligently calculating and addressing our carbon footprint through comprehensive CO2 emission assessments.
    The strategic vision and business acumen you bring to the table have significantly contributed to the success of the hotels. How do you stay ahead of hospitality trends and develop innovative pricing and distribution strategies to maximize profits?
    In order to consistently lead in the dynamic landscape of the industry, I employ a proactive strategy that encompasses ongoing research, collaborative initiatives, and a vigilant awareness of emerging market trends.
    The hospitality landscape is dynamic. How do you adapt to changing market trends and ensure that your properties remain a preferred choice among travelers?
    Our commitment to remain the preferred choice among travelers in the face of changing market trends is grounded in a dynamic and guest-centric approach. Keeping up-to-date to industry reports, scrutinizing customer feedback, and closely monitoring emerging trends in travel, technology, and consumer behavior are pivotal elements for achieving success and effectively adapting to changes in the dynamic landscape of the luxury hotel industry.

    What piece of advice would you give to individuals wanting to join the hospitality business?
    Respect for the Environment and People; Understanding the impact of your actions on the environment and nature that you are living in and treating everyone with respect is crucial. Prioritize Family and Health; Maintaining a healthy work-life balance and prioritizing family and health. Self-Respect; Recognizing the value of self-respect is a powerful reminder to maintain personal integrity and uphold ethical standards in your professional life. Career Choice and Job Satisfaction; If you find yourself in an environment that doesn’t contribute to your happiness, change it. Invest in Education and Self-Improvement; Commit to ongoing personal and professional growth by investing in education and continuous self-improvement, fostering a path to enhanced skills, knowledge, and long-term career success. Financial Planning; Allocate a strategic 25% of your income towards creating passive revenue streams, cultivating a foundation for financial stability and long-term wealth accumulation.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    7 reasons why Waldorf Astoria Bangkok is the perfect property to unwind at in Bangkok

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    It’s time to switch off and why not take a quick trip to Bangkok, known for its pristine beaches, underground bars and close by tropical islands.
    Bangkok is only. a six-hour trip from Dubai, and with four direct flights per day from Dubai International Airport, it’s the ultimate destination to visit. As a sprawling megacity, finding the right property to stay at can enhance your experience and Waldorf Astoria Bangkok is definitely worth the trip.
    If you’re planning a trip there, we got the perfect property for you to stay at in the heart of Bangkok with world-class amenities and excellent services, for you to experience everything under one roof.
    Located in the heart of the city
    Situated on the ultra modern Magnolia Ratchadamri Boulevard, this expansive property is only a few minutes walking distance from the centre. Be it shopping or dining at, all the main districts are close by to the property. The BTS Skytrain is nearby, and the property is within 25 minutes of the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

    Technologically advanced rooms
    Centrally controlled by an iPad, everything can be easily adjusted with a push of a button. Overall, guests can enjoy abundant light through floor-to-ceiling windows, a fully stocked minibar, a marble spa bathroom with a soaking tub and twin vanities for a comfortable experience.

    Put wellness first
    Going on holiday can always lead to intaking some extra calories. If you want to stay fit, even while you’re away, book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa or visit the 24-hour fitness center for a quick workout. Also, you can warm up in the sauna or steam room before – or after your workout. For those who wish to opt for bespoke treatments, a rejuvenating massage can be designed to eleva
    Get soaked in the outdoor infinity pool

    The 25-meter heated pool comes with a fantastic view of the city including the golf course. Guests can enjoy pool service, fresh fruit, and refreshing cold towels and can even relax on a lounger, in a private cabana.
    Minimal interiors
    The interior’s Carrara marble, soaring ceilings, rich woods, and bronze accents bring cool comfort to the Thailand’s bustling capital. With a blend of art nouveau and art deco design, guests can channel 1930s New York glamour.
    Unwind at this luxe rooftop
    This New York-inspired bar, accessed by a statement spiral staircase to the 56th floor, The Loft takes inspiration from the original 1935 Waldorf Astoria Bar Book. Steeped in the romance of Art Nouveau, the artisanal spirits and forgotten cocktails are crafted to the modern palate using a great collection of house-made ingredients, accompanied by gourmet bar bites. Arriving at The Loft exudes a feeling of walking into an artist’s studio from a bygone era, stylishly curated to show the artist at work. You can channel your SoHo energy as the shelves are filled with vintage paint tools – tins filled with brushes and tool carousels. You can experience picturesque panoramic views of the city.

    Indulge in some delectable food
    Offering a menu of authentic home-style Thai cuisine, experience the eight distinctive flavors of Thai cuisine introduced by the talented Front Room team. The menu features a variety of appetizers, main dishes and dessert that share unique childhood memories of the chefs, which simply remind diners of “Ros Mue Mae” or home cooking by mum. Additionally as a Waldorf Astoria tradition, the signature Peacock Alley serves fine afternoon tea and pastries, light meals and elegant evening drinks, with views overlooking the Royal Bangkok Sports Club. Iconic Waldorf dishes are served, including the Waldorf salad and Eggs Benedict.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    7 celebrity-approved luxury hotels for a staycation in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    While being titled as one of the most luxurious capitals in the world, Dubai is a hub to millions of visitors every year, some of which include celebrities.
    Emirates Woman has curated a list of A-list-approved hotels where popular faces from around the world have chosen to have a getaway.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Getty (Kevin Mazur) More

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    Long weekend: 8 of the best hotels to book for a much-needed escape

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    If you’re looking to take a break over the long weekend or even extend your holiday to make a trip out of it, we’re here to help.
    There is a myriad of sophisticated properties around the globe, that will ensure you switch-off and feel rejuvenate before we’re back again for the last month of the year.
    From tailor-made butler services to overwater bungalows, it’s never too late to book a quick escape this weekend for utmost relaxation.
    With the UAE declaring a three-day public holiday for both public and private sectors this weekend, it’s time to start booking.

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