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    HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar is getting married

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Recently, the news of the impending nuptials of His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, the youngest son of the former Emir of Qatar, broke. The highly anticipated wedding is set to take place on December 6th and 7th, 2023.
    Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani spilled the beans about his upcoming wedding at a Doha function (which was captured on video).

    Who is HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani ?
    The groom, a prominent figure in Qatar, is known for his dynamic personality and dedication to public service. Currently serving as the Minister of Interior, Sheikh Khalifa is the youngest person to hold such a high-ranking position in the Arab world. His impressive academic background includes a Public Policy degree and a Master’s in Public Diplomacy from the University of Southern California.

    Who is HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani marrying?
    The bride-to-be, Sheikha Fatima bint Nasser bin Hassan Al Thani, is a private individual who prefers to stay out of the public eye. Despite her reserved nature, her family is deeply rooted in Qatari society, with her father, Sheikh Nasser bin Hassan Al Thani, having served as the team manager of Al Wakrah Football Club.
    Everything to know about the Qatari royal wedding
    The royal wedding is expected to be a grand affair, drawing dignitaries and royalty from around the globe. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the groom’s mother, is renowned for her elegance and influence, and she is set to host a lavish dinner banquet on December 6th at Al Wajba Palace. The men’s celebration will take place the following day at Al Wajba Citadel.
    A new chapter for the Qatari royal
    As the wedding approaches, anticipation is building for the spectacular event that will blend Qatari tradition with modern elegance. The union of Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikha Fatima marks a new chapter in the lives of two young royals, and it is a testament to the enduring power of love and family.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @khk and @arabianroyalagency  More

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    HH Sheikha Jawaher: All about her royal visit to the UK

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    The United Kingdom welcomed a distinguished guest this week as His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, arrived in Britain for a two-day official visit. Accompanying the Emir was Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad Al Thani, whose elegant fashion choices have captivated global attention.

    A Warm Welcome

    The royal couple’s visit commenced with a grand welcome at Kensington Palace, where they were greeted by His Royal Highness Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and Her Royal Highness Catherine, the Princess of Wales. The warm reception set the tone for a series of diplomatic engagements and cultural exchanges.

    A Regal Soirée

    A highlight of the visit was a lavish state banquet hosted by His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. Sheikha Jawaher made a striking impression at the event, donning a custom-made burgundy gown by Jean Paul Gaultier. The opulent ensemble, complete with a velvet cape, exuded regal elegance and showcased Sheikha Jawaher’s impeccable taste.

    Diplomatic Honors

    During the visit, significant diplomatic honors were exchanged between the two nations. His Highness the Emir of Qatar bestowed the prestigious Sword of the Founder upon His Majesty King Charles III, the highest decoration awarded to foreign heads of state. In return, His Majesty conferred the Most Honorable Order of the Bath upon the Emir.

    A Fashionable visit 

    Sheikha Jawaher’s fashion choices throughout the visit have been nothing short of spectacular. Her airport look, a custom Dior coat from the Spring/Summer 2022 collection, paired with a L’LOR handbag and sophisticated pumps, epitomized understated luxury.

    For her public engagements, Sheikha Jawaher opted for a stunning red long dress, complemented by exquisite diamond jewelry. The ensemble, believed to be a Valentino Haute Couture piece from the Fall/Winter 2011 collection, further elevated her regal status.

    The visit has also sparked much anticipation for a potential fashion face-off between Sheikha Jawaher and Catherine, the Princess of Wales. Both women are renowned for their impeccable style and grace. Their interactions have been closely watched by fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

    Through diplomatic exchanges and cultural interactions, the visit has strengthened the ties between the two nations. And with each elegant appearance, Sheikha Jawaher has solidified her position as a global fashion icon.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @arabianroyalagency & Getty Images  More

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    7 restaurants to try in Qatar’s capital city Doha

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    18 hours ago

    From sensational interiors to an array of unforgettable dishes, Doha boasts a flourishing restaurant scene.
    For all the must-try fine dining havens, Emirates Woman has created a guide of all the places to embark on in Qatar’s bustling capital.
    Hakkasan

    This globally renowned restaurant brand opened in Qatar’s capital back in 2013. Located in the opulent St Regis Hotel, Hakkasan Doha has two private dining rooms, an elegant main dining room, an outdoor terrace and a bar and lounge. It’s open from Monday to Sunday, 6pm to 11:30pm and on Fridays and Saturdays for brunch and lunch respectively from 12pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit hakkasan.com
    Morimoto

    Drawing inspiration from both Japanese tradition and Western culinary techniques, Morimoto offers hidden layers of flavour through every dish. With a luxurious dining experience in a 16-seat sushi bar or the main dining area, guests can enjoy the sophisticated area for exclusive dinners and business meetings as it’s open daily from 6pm till 11pm. Located at West Bay Lagoon in Doha, Morimoto offers the best in the fine-dining world.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    IZU

    With another of Chef Izu’s delightful creations, IZU explores the gastronomic world of culinary as each dish is inspired by the chef’s varied works and travels. Promising a memorable dining experience, it uses the finest produce as the restaurant comprises of three seating areas overlooking the Barahat Msheireb. Open all day from 9am to 11pm, it’s located at the Mandarin Oriental hotel.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Nobu

    Perched right above the Arabian Gulf, is Chef Nobuyuki’s signature haven with new-style Japanese cuisine at the world’s largest Nobu restaurant in Doha. From the famous black cod to the Nobu style wagyu beef, guests have an array of dishes to choose from. Located at the Four Seasons, it’s open from Monday to Saturday 6pm to 11pm and for brunch on Friday from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit noburestaurants.com
    Three Sixty Restaurant

    This unique restaurant is located on the 47th floor of the torch in Doha, making it the only revolving haven in the city. Making it a must-visit for any visitor, it offers Mediterranean cuisine and breathtaking panoramic views of the Doha skyline. It’s open on weekdays from 6pm to 10:30pm and weekends from 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit thetorchdoha.com.qa
    Mosaic

    Serving classic dishes from around the world, Mosaic takes center stage with a lively ambience and an authentic dining experience as it offers a mesmerizing backdrop of the city. Influenced by local materials and shapes, the restaurant’s interiors are inspired by the country’s pearling heritage. From an Arabic grill to the traditional bread oven, the dishes are designed for a culinary journey inspired by the famed Silk Route. Located at the Mandarin Oriental, it’s open daily from 11am to 11pm.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Spice Market

    With the best of southeast Asian street food served on a plate, Spice Market is a luxe dining space with handcrafted screens created for intimate moments which are sure to illuminate your night. The delicious dishes are curated by Chef Vongerichten and the restaurant also offers picturesque views of the city’s skyline. Spice Market is open daily except for Friday from 12pm to 4pm and dinner from 7pm to 11:30pm and Thursday & Friday until 12am. The restaurant is located at W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay.
    For more information visit spicemarketdoha.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @hakkasan More

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    Lionel Messi’s historic FIFA World Cup jerseys to be auctioned at Sotheby’s

    Emirates Man

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    In an exciting move in the world of sports memorabilia, Sotheby’s is set to auction a remarkable collection of six match-worn shirts donned by football legend Lionel Messi during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
    Expected to become the most valuable sports memorabilia collection ever sold, these jerseys, worn in the Final, Semi-final, Quarter-final, Round of 16, and key Group Stage matches, provide fans and collectors a tangible link to Messi’s triumphant journey.
    The auction, orchestrated by US-based tech startup AC Momento, showcases Sotheby’s role in the thriving sports memorabilia market. Attracting a new wave of collectors, more than 50% of bidders and buyers are newcomers to Sotheby’s, with half under the age of 40.
    The auction house, known for setting benchmarks with memorabilia from icons like Michael Jordan, Diego Maradona, Kobe Bryant, and Tom Brady, recently earned the title of The Official Game Worn Source of the NBA.

    This momentous event marks the one-year anniversary of Messi’s historic World Cup victory. After captivating the world with a stellar performance, Messi and Argentina triumphed over defending champions France in what is widely regarded as the greatest football match of all time. The shirts, meticulously preserved by AC Momento, are now estimated to fetch over $10 million in the upcoming auction.
    Beyond the excitement of the auction, there’s a philanthropic touch. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the UNICAS Project, a collaboration between Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children’s Hospital and the Leo Messi Foundation. This initiative aims to support children suffering from rare diseases, building on the foundation’s existing work with the SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital Pediatric Cancer Center.
    From November 30 to December 14, the public will have the opportunity to view this extraordinary collection at Sotheby’s New York in a free exhibition. The shirts, steeped in the history of Messi’s monumental achievement, serve not only as coveted collector’s items but also contribute to a noble cause.
    As the auction unfolds, all eyes are on whether Messi’s jerseys will surpass the current sports memorabilia records. Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals jersey holds the top spot at $10.1 million, followed closely by Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ shirt, which sold for $9.3 million. Sotheby’s, a trailblazer in the realm of sports memorabilia, is once again poised to make history with this iconic collection from the world’s greatest football player.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @lionelmessi More

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    Major milestone: Official approval granted for common GCC tourism visa

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    In a groundbreaking move, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have given the green light to a revolutionary GCC tourism visa, reminiscent of the Schengen model.
    This momentous decision was announced by Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, during a gathering of regional interior ministers at the GCC summit in Muscat, Oman, on November 8.
    Emphasizing the significance of this new visa, the Secretary General hailed it as a remarkable achievement for the region. He also stressed the need for the timely implementation of the GCC tourist visa within a specific timeframe.
    A recent statement by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, indicated that the unified tourism visa could become a reality by 2025. The minister explained that the rollout would be contingent upon the development of specific regulations and legislation. If all internal systems of the participating countries are prepared, the launch is anticipated between 2024 and 2025.

    | “أقرَّ أصحاب المعالي والسمو مواضيع هامة أبرزها:١- التأشيرة السياحية الخليجية الموحدة.٢- ربط المخالفات المرورية إلكترونيًا بين دول المجلس.٣- إعداد استراتيجية شاملة لمكافحة المخدرات.”
    |بيان الأمين العام معالي جاسم البديوي عقب الاجتماع الـ40 لأصحاب السمو والمعالي وزراء… pic.twitter.com/zo8OFXAs03
    — Hala FM | هلا أف أم (@Halafmradio) November 8, 2023

    The introduction of a GCC common tourism visa is set to revolutionize travel in the region. Once operational, visitors can utilize a single tourism visa to explore all six GCC states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
    This visionary initiative aligns with the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, aiming to boost the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP by fostering increased inter-GCC travel and raising hotel occupancy rates. The ultimate goal is to position the GCC as a premier global destination for both regional and international tourists, as articulated by the UAE Minister.
    The UAE’s Minister of Economy highlighted that this tourism visa is not only a simplification of travel logistics but also a catalyst for an upsurge in tourism across the region.
    This strategic move is poised to make regional travel more accessible and attractive within the next two years.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @visitdubai More

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    GCC nations set to unveil unified tourist visa by 2024-25

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    In a significant development for tourism in the GCC region, the UAE Minister of Economy, Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri, has disclosed plans to introduce a unified Gulf tourist visa within the next two years. This visa will grant travelers access to all six GCC countries.
    The decision to launch this unified visa was unanimously agreed upon during the seventh meeting of GCC tourism ministers, which took place in Oman earlier this month. While the specifics and legislation for this initiative are yet to be finalized, the expected implementation timeframe is set between 2024 and 2025, contingent on the readiness of each GCC member state’s internal systems.
    Minister Al-Marri has also revealed that the UAE is gearing up to welcome international tourists in the wake of the unified visa’s introduction. Simultaneously, the UAE is diligently crafting a tourism route connecting its seven emirates.

    #GCC unified tourist visa to be introduced between 2024 and 2025: Al Marri tells WAM #WamNews https://t.co/K43AJqU080 pic.twitter.com/BYeSCKX3je
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) October 23, 2023

    Emphasizing the broader vision, Minister Al-Marri told Emirates News Agency (WAM), “This initiative is an integral component of the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, aimed at increasing the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP by fostering inter-GCC travel and bolstering hotel occupancy rates, thereby positioning the GCC as a premier global destination for both regional and international tourists.”
    Currently, the tourism sector contributes 14 percent to the UAE’s GDP, and the goal is to elevate this figure to 18 percent, aligning with the nation’s strategic tourism objectives.
    Furthermore, the GCC countries’ joint tourism strategy for the period 2023-2030 targets an annual increase of 7 percent in inbound travel to the region. Notably, the number of visitors to GCC countries surged to 39.8 million in the previous year, marking a remarkable 136.6 percent increase over 2021.
    With a single visa, tourists will gain the opportunity to explore the six-member Gulf bloc, which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. According to Minister Al-Marri, the visa is on track for implementation in 2024 or 2025, pending the finalization of regulations and procedures.
    This forward-looking step mirrors the aspirations of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s 2030 strategy, which seeks to heighten the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @visitdubai More

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    7 of the best restaurants in Qatar’s capital city Doha

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    43 mins ago

    From sensational interiors to an array of unforgettable dishes, Doha boasts a flourishing restaurant scene.
    For all the must-try fine dining havens, Emirates Woman has created a guide of all the places to embark on in Qatar’s bustling capital.
    Hakkasan

    This globally renowned restaurant brand opened in Qatar’s capital back in 2013. Located in the opulent St Regis Hotel, Hakkasan Doha has two private dining rooms, an elegant main dining room, an outdoor terrace and a bar and lounge. It’s open from Monday to Sunday, 6pm to 11:30pm and on Fridays and Saturdays for brunch and lunch respectively from 12pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit hakkasan.com
    Morimoto

    Drawing inspiration from both Japanese tradition and Western culinary techniques, Morimoto offers hidden layers of flavour through every dish. With a luxurious dining experience in a 16-seat sushi bar or the main dining area, guests can enjoy the sophisticated area for exclusive dinners and business meetings as it’s open daily from 6pm till 11pm. Located at West Bay Lagoon in Doha, Morimoto offers the best in the fine-dining world.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    IZU

    With another of Chef Izu’s delightful creations, IZU explores the gastronomic world of culinary as each dish is inspired by the chef’s varied works and travels. Promising a memorable dining experience, it uses the finest produce as the restaurant comprises of three seating areas overlooking the Barahat Msheireb. Open all day from 9am to 11pm, it’s located at the Mandarin Oriental hotel.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Nobu

    Perched right above the Arabian Gulf, is Chef Nobuyuki’s signature haven with new-style Japanese cuisine at the world’s largest Nobu restaurant in Doha. From the famous black cod to the Nobu style wagyu beef, guests have an array of dishes to choose from. Located at the Four Seasons, it’s open from Monday to Saturday 6pm to 11pm and for brunch on Friday from 1pm to 4pm.
    For more information visit noburestaurants.com
    Three Sixty Restaurant

    This unique restaurant is located on the 47th floor of the torch in Doha, making it the only revolving haven in the city. Making it a must-visit for any visitor, it offers Mediterranean cuisine and breathtaking panoramic views of the Doha skyline. It’s open on weekdays from 6pm to 10:30pm and weekends from 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit thetorchdoha.com.qa
    Mosaic

    Serving classic dishes from around the world, Mosaic takes center stage with a lively ambience and an authentic dining experience as it offers a mesmerizing backdrop of the city. Influenced by local materials and shapes, the restaurant’s interiors are inspired by the country’s pearling heritage. From an Arabic grill to the traditional bread oven, the dishes are designed for a culinary journey inspired by the famed Silk Route. Located at the Mandarin Oriental, it’s open daily from 11am to 11pm.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Spice Market

    With the best of southeast Asian street food served on a plate, Spice Market is a luxe dining space with handcrafted screens created for intimate moments which are sure to illuminate your night. The delicious dishes are curated by Chef Vongerichten and the restaurant also offers picturesque views of the city’s skyline. Spice Market is open daily except for Friday from 12pm to 4pm and dinner from 7pm to 11:30pm and Thursday & Friday until 12am. The restaurant is located at W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay.
    For more information visit spicemarketdoha.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @hakkasan More

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    New Schengen-style visa for GCC countries will ease travel across the region

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    31 mins ago

    The Schengen-style approach will allow travellers to roam across all GCC countries in a hassle-free manner.
    Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. After this change is implemented, tourists from across the globe can plan a trip to all these countries without worrying about multiple visas.

    The important announcement came under light at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM). Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Bahrain said,”We see that happening very soon because we see people flying from abroad to Europe usually spending their time in several countries rather than in one country. We really saw the value this can bring not to each country but all of us.”
    Pointing to last year’s FIFA World Cup as a successful “test pilot” in terms of GCC collaboration, she further added, “We have huge opportunity, the effort is in how to unify all the countries in the GCC. We had 9.9 million visitors in 2022. How? There was one key initiative that year, we started to co-promote Bahrain as a unified destination with the GCC.

    With tourism becoming a major money-making arm across GCC, this initiative will further accelerate the revenue that travellers bring in.
    While there is yet to be an announcement about the offical implementation and the timeline, but so far, this unified effort feels like a step in the right direction.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More