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      The most luxurious wedding venues to tie the knot in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Wedding season in Dubai is already and here and this destination continues to remain at the helm of all marital celebrations.
      From beachfront destinations to ballrooms that exude elegance, the emirate is home to an array of venues that are beyond sophisticated.
      For immaculate attention to detail, each property creates a bespoke proposal as per the bride and groom’s requirements.
      So, for those currently looking for the perfect place for their wedding vows, we’ve gathered a list of all the sophisticate venues for a potential wedding.
      Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach

      Combining the city’s modernity and old-time charm, this expansive venue includes the grand Dana ballroom and a plush garden for any outdoor festivities. Whether you wish to exchange your vows on the sand or in the lush seaside garden, this hotel makes any dream a reality. No matter the size, this exquisite property welcomes every guest in style. With incredible backdrops and on-side wedding experts working with them at every step makes the entire process easier.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Mandarin Oriental

      With world-class service and impeccable catering standards, the property will ensure any event is truly unforgettable. From flowers to venue decorations, Mandarin Oriental has relationships with external suppliers to ensure each detail is taken care of. For the bride to feel special on her wedding day, the property offers a magnificent suite with showcases expansive views of the Arabian Sea featuring a make-up station, a private lift, for bridal parties, and a spacious living space.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      One & Only Royal Mirage, The Palm

      This exceptional romantic beachfront resort promises a one-of-a-kind celebration with gourmet menus, serene spa treatments, and a timeless backdrop to enjoy with up to 50 guests. From catering to Moorish-style gardens to beginning a memorable journey, this venue caters to every request. Surrounded by nature, this property caters to refined pre-wedding photoshoots with pictures to capture those happy moments.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

      Couples can exchange their vows at this resort with views looking over the magnificent Arabian Gulf. Whether a small or grand occasion, the property caters to each client with world-class food, beverages menu, spa, and beauty services combined with an unending list of live entertainment. From a beach villa with a private pool for an intimate gathering to spacious ballrooms, the resort provides an exclusive service to assist customers in planning their special day.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

      To ensure each wedding is different from the other, the team of in-house experts has a keen eye for an ethereal setting. From overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to preparing a plethora of delicious canapes, every bride and groom is made to feel special Whether custom lanterns or a bespoke culinary request, the property will do its best to cater to every need.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Fairmont, The Palm

      When starting your life together, a wedding becomes an important decision in any couple’s life and the wedding planners at Fairmont bring each dream to life with bespoke celebrations. By bringing a wow factor to the venue, the Sea View Garden is ideal for an al fresco experience allowing couples to celebrate with around 500 guests. To ensure the guests’ taste is carefully considered, each chef will create a gourmet dining experience for a successful wedding for a stress-free experience.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Bulgari Resort

      With Italian luxury at its heart, this exclusive property exudes an unmatched love for luxury. This beautiful venue features a 360sq metre ballroom located in the Yacht Club overlooking romantic seaside views and a welcoming space with earthy tones. With a birch walkway and candles subtly lit across the walkway, the hotel provides seamless service to make every minute count. With bespoke packages for each guest, the space can be rented for both daytime and evening events.
      To find out about the packages visit here.
      Raffles, The Palm

      Mona Kattan and Hassan Elamin recently exchanged their vows at Raffles The Palm and celebrated one of their occasions with all their special guests prior to their wedding. Whether intimate ceremonies or lavish celebrations, each setup can be designed according to the guests’ needs. With its palatial structure and vibrancy in every corner, this property has a host of facilities to offer for guests including spa facilities and other fine-dining restaurants.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber  More

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      MENA’s 50 best 2023: Find out the top restaurants on the list

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      23 mins ago

      The region is never short of delectable havens and MENA’s 50 best has proved it.
      Last night, VIP guests attended the grand reveal for the MENA’S top 50 best restaurants in the region, hosted in the UAE’s capital in Conrad, Abu Dhabi.
      Chosen by a panel of 250 anonymous voters, seven restaurants were selected by each panelist from across the region, to release the second MENA list by the World’s 50 Best groups. Sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, the event was hosted in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism to champion winners from 14 different cities across the MENA region.

      From the complete list, 19 restaurants out of 50 are in the UAE, making this an unmissable moment for the country as its overall success is portrayed in the culinary world.
      Taking the lead this year is the famous dining bistro situated in the heart of Wasl 51. Founded by a trio of talented brothers, Orfali Bros is known for its creative dishes, that all come by pushing the boundaries of traditional cooking through their art of storytelling.
      To see the full list, scroll below
      1. Orfali Bros Bistro, Dubai, UAE2. Tresind Studio, Dubai, UAE3. Fusions by Tala, Manama, Bahrain (also named Best Restaurant in Bahrain and won Highest Climber Award)4. Ossiano, Dubai, UAE (also won the Highest New Entry Award)5. 3 Fils, Dubai, UAE6. George & John, Tel Aviv, Israel (also named Best Restaurant in Israel)7. Kinoya, Dubai, UAE8. Fakhreldin, Amman, Jordan (also named Best Restaurant in Jordan)9. Zooba, Cairo, Egypt (also named Best Restaurant in Egypt)10. Moonrise, Dubai, UAE11. Reif Kushiyaki, Dubai, UAE12. Kazoku, Cairo, Egypt13. Zuma, Dubai, UAE14. OCD, Tel Aviv, Israel (also won the Sustainable Restaurant Award)15. Lowe, Dubai, UAE16. Baron, Beirut, Lebanon (also named Best Restaurant in Lebanon)17. Gaia, Dubai, UAE18. Myazu, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (also named Best Restaurant in Saudi Arabia)19. Tawlet Mar Mikhael, Beirut, Lebanon20. Em Sherif, Beirut, Lebanon (also won the Art of Hospitality Award)21. LPM, Dubai, UAE22. Sachi, Giza, Egypt23. Marble, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia24. A by Yuval Ben Neriah, Tel Aviv, Israel25. CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Manama, Bahrain26. Hoseki, Dubai, UAE27. La Grande Table Marocain, Marrakech, Morocco (also named Best Restaurant in Morocco)28. Coya, Dubai, UAE29. Shams El Balad, Amman, Jordan30. Sachi, Cairo, Egypt31. Masso, Manama, Bahrain32. Animar, Tel Aviv, Israel33. Coya, Abu Dhabi, UAE34. La Closerie, Tunis, Tunisia (also named Best Restaurant in Tunisia)35. 11 Woodfire, Dubai, UAE36. Sufra, Amman, Jordan37. Iloli, Casablanca, Morocco38. LPM, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia39. Sesamo, Marrakech, Morocco40. Milgo Milbar, Tel Aviv, Israel41. Alee, Amman, Jordan42. White Robata, Kuwait City, Kuwait (also named Best Restaurant in Kuwait)43. Zuma, Abu Dhabi, UAE44. Jun’s, Dubai, UAE45. Reif Kushiyaki, Cairo, Egypt46. +61, Marrakech, Morocco47. 13C Bar in the Back, Amman, Jordan48. HaBasta, Tel Aviv, Israel49. Hakkasan, Abu Dhabi, UAE50. Bonjiri, Salmiya, Kuwait
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
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      Celebrate the second anniversary of this luxe beach club in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      3 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: Experience the ultimate Côte D’azur at Twiggy by La Cantine’s soon-approaching second anniversary.
      Designed with a hint of nostalgia, this pristine venue is set to celebrate in style on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, with impressive views and a memorable live performance by an acclaimed electronic music DJ.
      Known for his legendary live performances in party hotspots Mykonos and Ibiza, the world-renowned DJ Pablo Fierro, will be spinning to his popular hits at this French Riveria-inspired venue for an unforgettable day.

      With uninterrupted views of the Dubai skyline, this space is the perfect place to unwind, complemented by some of the best cuisines you’ll find in the emirate. As sunshine and the good life are put on the horizon at this whimsical venue, everyone can savour undeniably sumptuous dishes in this 360-degree dining experience.
      At this hotspot, you’re truly able to escape to the shores of the South of France not only from the delectable cuisine but also with the Provence-inspired décor.
      The prices start at Dhs350 per bed and for bigger groups up to six guests, visitors can opt for the lounge packages priced at Dhs6,000. Set to the backdrop of Dubai’s favorite beach club, Twiggy by La Cantine will open its doors from 9am, with the restaurant opening at 12pm. But you’ll need to book in fast as spots are filling up!

      With that said, see you at Twiggy very soon, where it’s all about dancing, laughing and having fun.
      For more information visit Twiggy.ae
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      18 luxe outdoor terraces to dine alfresco in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      It’s the season to be outdoors again.
      As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars.
      From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection.
      For your next outdoor outing, Emirates Woman has created a luxe guide on where to book ASAP.

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

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      Fazza visits this sophisticated Amalfi-inspired restaurant in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      As one of the most sought-after royal foodies, Sheikh Hamdan gave his seal of approval to another fine-dining Italian haven in Dubai, Ristorante Loren.
      No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emirate’s Crown Prince visited the restaurant this afternoon.
      The brand even shared an image on the official @theclubwestbeach Instagram page, with the caption, “We are honoured by the special visit of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to @ristorante.loren located at The Club at Palm West Beach.”

      With an immersive dining experience, this new Italian restaurant is located on the rooftop of the popular beach destination, SAN Beach, on West Palm Beach. The sophisticated interiors are inspired by the ‘60s and ‘70s era of the Italian Riviera, to promise the ultimate cityscape.
      From delectable dishes such as freshly made pastas, pizzas and breads, customers can experience laid-back authentic-style dining with dishes crafted to perfection.
      The restaurant offers two dining concepts – an indoor dining area with a front-row view of the open kitchen, and a beachside dining area with panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Bluewaters Island.

      The open floor plan of the restaurant includes a customised marble bar, a large open kitchen, and a wine cellar that offers some of the finest picks from Italy. Loren Ristorante evokes a luxurious and chic, yet sophisticated atmosphere, emulating the ambience of a refined Italian coastal dining experience.
      Known for his approved list of restaurants, this should be another venue to add to your list.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @theclubwestbeach More

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      7 restaurants in Dubai that have stood the test of time

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Be it the pandemic or a surge of new restaurants opening in the UAE, there are certain fine-dining havens that have stood the test of time by strongly making their mark in the culinary world.
      From internationally acclaimed chefs to renowned names from around the world, Emirates Woman has gathered a list of all the restaurants which have come out stronger despite the circumstances.
      Zuma

      After opening in 2008, here in DIFC, Zuma has indeed stood the test of time as the restaurant has won numerous accolades and gained recognition worldwide. Having stayed relevant to date, this culinary haven has made a mark in the food industry with staple dishes, that are loved by all. This fine-dining concept always aims to serve the highest quality products in a sophisticated environment as guests gather to share their passion for food. Located in Gate Village 6, DIFC, it’s open from daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and Saturday to Wednesday 7pm to 12pm and Thursday and Friday 7pm to 1am.
      For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
      LPM Restaurant & Bar

      Opening in 2010 as one of the most anticipated new restaurants in the emirate, this restaurant has established itself with painstaking attention to detail that has gone into creating each and every dish. From sun-soaked artichokes to fresh seafood that’s served to perfection. With techniques that require extreme care and precision, LPM serves food that is inspired by the French Riviera. Located at Gate Village 8, DIFC, it’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 12pm to 11pm, Thursday 12pm to 11:30pm, Friday 12:30pm to 11:30pm and Saturday 12:30pm to 11pm.
      For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
      Babiole

      After a revamp in 2019, Babiole is the jewel atop Hilton Dubai. Whether lunch or dinner, there are plenty of enticing options to choose from with a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. While boasting stunning views of the city’s glistening skyline, Babiole is known for its ultra-glam interiors and Mediterranean menu which keeps its guests coming back for more. Located in Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Level 44, it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 1am and Thursday and Friday 12pm to 2am.
      For more information visit babioledubai.com
      Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

      Having opened its doors in 2017 in Dubai, this fine-dining Italian haven serves excellent Tuscan cooking, all made to perfection. Whether a special occasion or especially wanting to treat yourself, the freshness of the produce can be tasted with every bite, making it a must-visit here in the emirate. Situated in a relaxing surrounding by the water, It’s located in Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel and is open daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and 7pm to 11:30pm.
      For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
      Buddha-Bar

      This hip venue has become one of Dubai’s most sought-after places over the years, with stunning interiors and exceptional views of Dubai Marina. With indulgent flavours of the Far East & Asia, its innovative menu enamours guests from around the globe as they enjoy eclectic tunes from the resident DJ. As a wealth of sensory experiences await you, Buddha-Bar has been around for a long time and continues to make its mark here in the emirate. Open daily from 7pm to 1am, it’s located in Grosvenor House Dubai.
      For more information visit buddhabar-dubai.com
      La Cantine Du Faubourg

      After opening its doors more than a decade ago, this coveted address became a must-visit place for many with its range of dining and entertainment options. This Parisian restaurant has made a mark for itself here in the emirate, as it continues to create a multi-sensory experience for all. Having recently refurbished its interiors, La Cantine du Fauboug is back and with a host of events and a stunning alfresco terrace. Located in Jumeirah Emirates Towers, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 2am, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 5pm and then 7pm to 2am.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Toro Toro

      After opening its doors in 2011, Toro Toro soon became a luxury culinary concept with a menu establishing flavours from every corner of South America. While offering a stylish yet relaxed dining experience, this restaurant became the first of its kind in the emirate. With uber-chic leather furniture and aromas from Latin America, this restaurant was developed by leading chef Richard Sandoval. Located in Grosvenor House Dubai, it’s open daily from 7pm to 1am.
      For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
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      12 Christmas brunches in Dubai to celebrate with your loved ones

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      Dubai is never short of festive celebrations to bring in the occasion.
      With Christmas soon approaching, brunches are all set to take place in full swing to bring on the holiday cheer.
      From renowned fine-dining havens to beachside venues, the emirate will be bustling with dining hotspots hosting special brunches with an array of mouthwatering dishes and well-crafted beverages.
      So, whether Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, there’s a brunch in every cuisine to tantalise your palate this year.
      SushiSamba

      For an exclusive festive celebration, this much-loved restaurant is bringing a blend of Japanese, Brazillian and Peruvian flavours to the table for its Christmas brunch. With a multi-sensory experience, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as black cod, crispy quinoa, beef gyoza and more. With a dynamic explosion of cocktails and scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this brunch is not to be missed out on. To make the afternoon even more enticing, DJ Megablast will play irresistible beats with the venue’s dazzling samba dancers to create an exciting atmosphere. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25 from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs649 for cocktails, hops, grape and house spirits and Dhs799 for eveything including premium bubbles. Located on the 51st floor at The St. Regis, The Palm, this spectacular brunch will promise an unforgettable afternoon.
      For more information visit sushisamba.com
      Amazonico

      This special Jungle Bell Brunch gives Christmas a Latin. With the restaurants, best-loved dishes including delectable plates, creative cocktails, tunes from the resident DJ and an afterparty at its rooftop, this Christmas brunch can’t be missed out on. Set to take place in the heart of DIFC at Dhs575 soft drinks, Dhs675 house drinks, Dhs795 Champagne on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
      For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.ae
      La Cantine du Faubourg

      For a Parisian take on Christmas, this fine-dining haven is hosting a special festive brunch with a plethora of delightful dishes. From French toast with fresh berries to wagyu beef carpaccio, the options are endless in the bed-in-breakfast-themed concept. This special 105 brunch will take place on December 24 and December 25 for three hours from 12pm to 5pm with the soft beverages package starting at Dhs360 per person, the house beverages at Dhs485 per person and bubbles at Dhs725.
      For more information visit lacantine.ae
      Fi’lia

      For a sky-high Christmas brunch with a view, this restaurant is the place to be. To ensure guests feel their best, this special brunch will serve a sharing-style menu with festive cocktails and ensure the live DJ plays your favourite hits throughout. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 12:30pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 for the soft beverages package, Dhs400 for house beverages and Dhs560 for bubbles at SLS Hotel in Business Bay.
      For more information visit sbe.com
      Cove Beach

      For a sandy Christmas, soak in the festive spirit with a specially curated Christmas Day brunch at Two.0 restaurant located in Cove Beach Dubai. This picturesque venue will serve high-class culinary delicacies curated by a team of experts on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm. The packages start at Dhs299 for soft beverages, Dhs499 for house beverages and Dhs549 for house beverages and bubbles.
      For more information visit covebeach.com
      Netsu

      For a Warayki-style dining experience visit this fine-dining haven. With Warayaki-style grills, sushi, and sashimi platters, this restaurant promises the complete package. The evening is complemented by their interiors, music, flames, and the overall Christmas feel on Sunday, December 25. The packages for children from the age of 4 to 12 is priced at Dhs250 and for adults are Dhs495 for soft beverages.
      For more information visit netsu
      Bull & Bear

      This New York-inspired restaurant will make Christmas even more special for you with a Broadway-themed menu. Guests can savour perfectly cooked turkey served with all the trimmings and desserts to share, welcomed with classic mulled grape. The brunch will take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 5pm starting at Dhs195 for children from 6 to 12 years, Dhs395 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house beverages package and Dhs795 for the bubble package at Waldorf Astoria DIFC.
      For more information visit Hilton.com
      Address Beach Resort

      For a delightful festive buffet, The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort is hosting a wholesome afternoon of culinary delights with turkey and all its trimming. To complement the afternoon, guests can enjoy enchanting performances from its soulful choir along with Santa Claus who will make a special appearance to bestow the little ones with presents. The brunch will take plac eon Sunday, December 35 from 1pm to 4pm at Dhs788 for the soft beverage package, Dhs988 for the house beverages plus half a bottle of bubbles and 50 percent off for children from ages 7 to 11.
      For more information visit addresshotels.com
      Rive Gauche

      Take a trip back in time with this vintage-themed festive brunch. Add extra sparkle to this year’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations by leaving it in the glamour-filled hands of new French dining and cabaret experience. The afternoon comes with special festive entertainment and a selection of starters, one main course, side dishes and delicious desserts. The three-course soft beverages is priced at Dhs390 per person, Dhs490 for house spirits and Dhs690 for bubbles and will take place on December 24 and December 25, from 1pm to 4pm.
      For more information visit rivegauchedubai.com
      Toro Toro

      Explore delicious traditional dishes from across Latin America with friends and family looking for a merry time this Christmas. Celebrate the holiday season with a delectable set menu bursting with Latin American flavours at the award-winning restaurant. This entertainment-fuelled evening will feature a DJ, Latin dancers and percussionists while children can expect a visit from Santa Claus. All set to take place on Saturday, December 24, 2022 from 1pm to 4pm at Grosvenor House with packages starting from Dhs457 for soft beverages, Dhs675 for house beverages and Dhs975 for house beverages and bubbles.
      For more information visit torotoro-dubai.com
      Nikki Beach

      For an all-white-themed brunch, Café Nikki is hosting a special Christmas buffet brunch with a live duo band, resident DJ and pool and beach access until sunset. This enticing brunch is set to take place on Sunday, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with packages starting at Dhs500 for children below 12 years old, Dhs650 per person for house beverages and cocktails and Dhs860 for bubbles and house spirits.
      For more information visit nikkibeach.com
      The London Project

      Get ready to sleigh this Christmas at The London Project. Guests can sit back and relish merry entertainment, from singers, musicians, and Christmas-inspired performances. The brunch is filled with a host of delicious Christmas cocktails, festive food, jolly music and other dishes. Let The London Project do all the hard work, for a truly unforgettable day on December 25, from 1pm to 4pm starting at DHs495 for the soft beverages package, Dhs595 for house package, dhs696 for the premium package and Dhs895 for the bubbles package with a 50 percent discount on the soft beverages package for children from 6 to 12 years.
      For more information visit thelondonproject.com
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      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Chanel Fine Jewellery 2021 Campaign More

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      How I got my job… as Co-Founder of this Dubai-based artisanal Italian restaurant

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs 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 we chat with Mohamed Jamal Alshamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Monno, which is home to artisanal Italian food using the finest ingredients.
      This exclusive Italian haven brings the most cherished culinary traditions to the forefront with recipes passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizzas to decedent desserts such as tiramisus, each dish is crafted to perfection as a true taste of Italy.
      Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about his career path and how he converted his love for food into a full-time business.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      In school, I mostly enjoyed business studies.

      What was your first job?
      I studied to become a pilot, so that was my first job and is still what I do today – as well as being a first-time restauranteur with the opening of Monno.
      How long have you lived in Dubai?
      I am Emirati and was born and raised in the UAE.
      What inspired you to launch Monno Ristorante?
      Me and my business partner – the co-founder of Monno Hamad Hamad Abdelsalam, who is also a pilot, also shares a deep passion for Italy. Through flying there very regularly, we both developed a love for the country’s food and culture and noticed that there is a huge lack of quality and authentic restaurants in Dubai that fit in the casual Italian dining sector, so we decided to establish Monno.
      Talk us through the inspiration being your restaurant and its menu.
      At Monno, we focus on quality, value for money and authenticity. Fresh and natural ingredients imported from Italy are carefully calibrated and prepared, to deliver a nostalgic journey of the country’s most cherished culinary traditions. From exclusively using San Marzano tomatoes to importing artisanal Italian cheeses and olive oils for handmade pasta and genuine Neapolitan pizzas, our menu also features a range of antipasti, main courses and traditional desserts. Inside the restaurant, expect interiors and an ambiance inspired by that of a classic Trattoria found on the back streets of quaint towns in Italy.

      What are the key elements of your role?
      The key elements of my role are handling all things related to the food and beverage – so working with our chef to create the menus, food tastings, the development of special menus and more. I also handle the marketing and PR side of the business, while my partner, Hamad is our Chief Financial Officer and handles all things related to finance and accounting, then for general operational requirements, we do everything together.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      As a pilot, my daily routine depends on my flight schedule that week. If I’m flying that day, I go to work and complete my pre-flight procedures then take to the sky, however, if I’m not, my days are spent at Monno and with my family and friends.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps of opening a restaurant in Dubai?
      First and the most important advice is to think of something special and unique, something new that no one in Dubai has thought of before. Once you have a unique idea, work to execute it well.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      The best advice I ever received and believe in is simply ‘don’t rush’. Take things slowly and think twice before making your move, it will pay off in the long run.
      And what is the worst?
      The worst was to always be spontaneous and do things on the spot. I believe this connects to my best piece of advice, which is not to rush. I believe good things take time and we should think wisely before acting.

      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome when opening a restaurant in Dubai?
      The biggest challenge was when our opening fell close to the end of the pandemic. It was a huge challenge as there were so many restrictions in place at the time, so we could only accommodate a small number of guests at any given time, which is hardly what any new restaurant wants. We thankfully made it through that challenging time.
      What are the future plans for your brand, Monno?
      At Monno, we’re working on a couple of collaborations, which we will be able to announce in the coming months. We’re also working on an exciting pop-up for Monno that we hope to launch early next year. Watch this space!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More