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    Saudi Arabia reveals Eid Al Fitr 2024 holiday dates

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    As the holy month of Ramadan will soon come to an end, anticipation builds across the Gulf region for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
    Saudi Arabia has already set its public holiday dates, granting workers a generous six-day break from Monday, April 8, to Thursday, April 11, inclusive of the weekend. This early announcement has left many in the UAE wondering whether their own public holiday dates will align with those of their neighbour.

    ️ || موعد إجازة #عيد_الفطر_المبارك للقطاعين الخاص وغير الربحي.
    وكل عام وأنتم بخير. pic.twitter.com/GUmajTiSL7
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية (@HRSD_SA) March 23, 2024

    Traditionally, the UAE and Saudi Arabia synchronize their Islamic public holiday dates due to the similarity in moon sightings, which dictate the start and end of Ramadan and subsequently Eid Al Fitr. However, with Saudi Arabia announcing its holiday dates approximately two weeks ahead of previous years, speculation arises about whether the UAE will follow suit.
    According to estimations from UAE astronomers, Eid Al Fitr is projected to commence on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, with the preceding day, Tuesday, April 9, likely being declared a public holiday as well. This forecast sets the stage for a six-day holiday for residents across the UAE, both in the public and private sectors.
    Yet, the recent announcement from Saudi Arabia introduces a potential shift in the UAE’s holiday schedule. While alignment between the two nations is common, the UAE government has yet to issue an official statement confirming the Eid Al Fitr public holiday dates. Until such an announcement is made, uncertainty lingers over whether UAE residents will indeed enjoy an extended break.
    Despite the ambiguity surrounding holiday dates, anticipation for Eid Al Fitr festivities remains high. Families and communities eagerly await the opportunity to come together in celebration, marking the conclusion of a month-long period of fasting and reflection.
    Whether it’s travelling abroad or enjoying festivities closer to home, preparations for Eid Al Fitr are underway across the UAE. While the exact holiday dates may be uncertain, the spirit of unity and joy that accompanies this auspicious occasion prevails, promising memorable moments for all.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @futurebedouin  More

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    Riyadh secures victory: Selected as host city for World Expo 2030

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    In a resounding triumph, Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has emerged victorious in the bid to host the prestigious World Expo in 2030.
    The decision was announced in Paris, where over 160 nations participated in the selection process, ultimately favoring Riyadh over strong contenders Busan in South Korea and Rome in Italy.

    World Expo 2030: 1st round of voting
    Republic of Korea – 29Italy – 17Saudi Arabia – 119Abstentions – 0
    BIE Member States elect Saudi Arabia as host country of World Expo 2030! Congratulations Riyadh! pic.twitter.com/QPKZdBT5xs
    — BIE (@bieparis) November 28, 2023

    The bustling metropolis of Riyadh clinched the bid during a decisive general assembly session of the organizing committee for the world’s fair.
    The city secured an impressive 119 votes from the member states of the Bureau International des Expositions, signaling a clear global mandate for the event to take place in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
    This historic win marks a significant milestone for Riyadh, as it prepares to become the first-ever host of the Expo within the Kingdom. The Middle East and North Africa region witnessed a previous Expo in Dubai in 2020, and now, Riyadh is poised to carry the torch forward, showcasing the region’s advancements on a global stage.
    The extensive two-year campaign leading up to this victory saw Saudi Arabia, Italy, and South Korea rallying international support. Athletes, pop stars, and actors joined forces to amplify the message, underlining the importance of this Expo in fostering global collaboration and innovation.

    As Riyadh prepares to take center stage in 2030, the anticipation builds for a showcase of technological innovations and cultural achievements. The Expo is not merely an event but a convergence of nations, offering a glimpse into the future while celebrating the shared progress of humanity.
    Riyadh’s successful bid signifies a new chapter for the Kingdom, ready to host a world eager to explore the next wave of advancements and cultural wonders.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @visitsaudi More

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    The Tasteful: 3 tastemakers on their most-loved spots in Saudi Arabia

    From world-renowned restaurants and favourite local haunts in Riyadh to lesser-known hidden gems in Jeddah, three tastemakers share their most-loved spots in Saudi Arabia.

    Arwa Al BanawiFounder & Creative Director of Arwa Al Banawi
    The ultimate place to be during weekends:
    The beach!
    Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend trying:
    Kuuru is my favourite place in Jeddah, it’s a blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. The nigiris and ceviche are my favourite thing on the menu, and the sliders too!
    If vegan, favourite vegan eatery in Saudi:
    Moon Shell is a lovely place to go for a coffee and enjoy one of their vegan bowls, my favourite is the açaí.
    Favourite place for coffee/tea/matcha:
    I love tea, and in Jeddah tea is done right. For me it’s my grandma Salma’s place – she makes the best tea. It’s prepared with lemon leaves that she grows in her garden or when it’s rose season in Taif which is about two hours away from Jeddah, you can add that with mint tea.
    Saudi Arabia’s best-kept secret:
    That would be Jeddah’s old town, Al Balad. Just walk around and visit the local cafeterias, the old town of Jeddah has so much heritage and stories, for example, my great-grandfather’s house is over 100 years old now. Thankfully the new vision of Saudi is to restore all the buildings in the old town and give it a contemporary take while keeping all of its old homes. It’s magical and you feel it the second you arrive, you can buy local produce, local perfumes, and some traditional kaftans, also the “mistaka bukhour” is found there, we burn it with charcoal, it is believed in our culture to purify the space from bad energy and you can buy it in the old town souk. It has a beautiful scent. A treasured hidden gem that only locals know and love: The beach islands, there are many and you go about 20 minutes by boat from the marina.
    A go-to wellness spot:
    I usually get my spa treatment at home; the best is Polish Salon.
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
    Our traditional way of cooking is usually fried local fish with rice made with special spices and herbs and a fresh salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. On other occasions, a special coffee we call “qahwat loz” is traditionally made at the beginning of the Islamic New Year, and it’s made with almonds, milk, and cardamom. It’s a tradition we have at my grandma Salma’s house.
    Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi:
    Shangri-La Hotel is a beautiful place overlooking the sea, I recommend their tea time, snorkelling and diving in Jeddah is a must for those who love to do that.

    Hala AbdallahJewellery Designer & Founder of Ofa
    The ultimate place to be during weekends:
    There are a lot of amazing things to do in Boulevard Riyadh City and Bujairi Terrace.
    Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend trying:
    For the best food I’d say LPM for fine dining, and Amigos for the best casual Mexican restaurant.
    Favourite place for coffee/tea/matcha:
    There are so many places, but I think Starbucks always wins!
    Saudi Arabia’s best-kept secret:
    I highly recommend Flour & Firewood for a breakfast or brunch experience in Riyadh.
    A treasured hidden gem that only locals know – and love:
    Waking up early in the morning to go to Wadi Hanifah is so worth it!
    A go-to wellness spot:
    I will recommend Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA.
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience is to hike the edge of the world during winter in Riyadh and visit AlUla on New Year’s Eve.
    Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi:
    I can recommend people to visit a Saudi home and eat with them or learn how to make a local dish with them, you can do that through Hihome.sa platform. That is an experience like no other.

    Lina MalaikaFilm Maker & Cultural Consultant
    The ultimate place to be during weekends:
    I’m fortunate enough to live in Jeddah which is located on the coastline of the marvelous Red Sea. As an avid sea lover, I make it a point to spend every weekend at the beach, it’s my nature sanctuary. The sun, sea, salt, and sand, help me unwind and fuel for the rest of the week.
    Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend to try:
    My favourite lunch spot in Jeddah is definitely Acqua E Sale, a new authentic Italian spot located in Al Rawdah. I love their vegetarian pesto lasagna and lobster Caesar salad. My favourite dinner spot has to be Kuuru, a local Japanese- Peruvian fusion concept. It’s my go-to whenever I have any guests visiting my city and it never disappoints! I highly recommend their lemon truffle salmon nigiri and Najel ceviche.
    If vegan, favourite vegan eatery in Saudi:
    My go-to is Moon Shell with an all-day breakfast menu. I love their “Sunrays” açai bowl, but I also add their homemade peanut butter. For the savoury option, I highly suggest their vegetable rice rolls. The Nabati vegan ice cream is guiltfree, delicious and definitely worth trying!
    A treasured hidden gem that only locals know — and love:
    Homegrown Market in Jeddah. It’s a meticulously curated concept store that offers local fashion brands, jewellery, artisans, books, collectibles, and gifts. You can never leave empty-handed!
    A go-to wellness spot:
    As for anything wellness related, I always opt for home services. For hair blowouts and nail treatments, I use The Spa KSA. For facials, the best in Jeddah is located at Spa Lounge and for massages, Spa Day – my favourite masseuse is Apple.
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience would definitely be midnight stargazing and the sunrise hot air balloon experience in AlUla during the winter. I highly recommend a weekend getaway to AlUla.
    Other spots you’ll recommend to friends when visiting Saudi:
    One of the most underrated spots in Saudi is the south region, Asir. The highest peak is located there, Al Soudah, as well as Rijal Almaa, an ancient village located in a valley and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also, visiting the art museums dedicated to the Asiri art is an experience not to be missed. The artisans and craftsmanship are very inspiring. The entire region is rich with culture and heritage on many layers. Another recommendation would be to visit the Taif region during the springtime and flower festival season.
    September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Images: Supplied; Instagram @moonshell_sa More

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    Etihad Rail: Everything you need to know about UAE’s ambitious rail project

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    In 2004, the Gulf Cooperation Council’s six nations initiated a feasibility study for a regional railway network. Etihad Rail, founded in June 2009 through Federal Law No. 2, is responsible for overseeing the construction, development, and operation of the UAE’s national freight and passenger railway system.
    The primary objective of Etihad Rail is to connect key industrial and population hubs within the UAE and link them to other railways across the Gulf Cooperation Council.

    Etihad Rail links major trade hubs in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, through an extensive network of numerous depots and 593 bridges and crossings. The project will facilitate freight and passenger transport, supporting further social and economic development in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/aEpKjWlTXn
    — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 13, 2023

    Has the construction of Etihad Rail been finished?
    The UAE Network, constructed by Etihad Rail, is now finished. The 1,200 km railway spans the country, connecting Saudi Arabia’s border to Oman’s. It links key trade, industry, and population centers, enhancing trade and becoming part of the GCC railway network. Stage One has operated since 2016, moving sulphur, while Stage Two is done, connecting Emirates from Saudi border to Fujairah on the east coast.
    Is Etihad Rail intended for passenger use?
    The Etihad Rail Project encompasses a dual-purpose rail system, tailored to accommodate both cargo and commuter operations. The endeavor includes a substantial industrial facet, which has already commenced with the movement of granulated sulfur within the western region of Abu Dhabi.
    What is the estimated cost of the Etihad Rail project?
    Etihad Rail constitutes a significant 1,200km railway initiative under construction within the United Arab Emirates. Stretching from the Saudi border to Fujairah along the Indian Ocean coastline, this railway project is being built with an estimated investment of AED 40 billion ($11 billion).
    What are the planned destinations for the Etihad Rail network?

    Spanning the vast expanse from Al Sila to Fujairah, traversing through enclaves like Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi, this visionary endeavor aspires to curtail the vehicular migrations between Emirates by a notable margin of 30 to 40 percent. Anticipated travel times project the trains to gracefully glide through the landscape, with a journey of 1 hour and 40 minutes earmarked between Abu Dhabi and Sohar. In a striking contrast, the journey from Al Ain to Sohar will be an expeditious 47-minute odyssey.”

    Which nations will be linked by the Etihad Rail system?
    The Etihad Rail map displays a vast 1,200-kilometer network that links key urban areas such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain, along with industrial centers and ports. This rail system will also extend to Oman and Saudi Arabia, boosting trade and logistics.
    While cargo trains are currently in operation, passenger services will be introduced in the future.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @etihad_rail More

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    International Women’s Day 2023: Meet the 10 women redefining the region’s creative scene

    Lifestyle

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, Emirates Woman spotlights on the incredible women across the region redefining their respective industries and challenging the status quo.
    Scroll through to discover the 10 next-gen faces to watch and names to know.
    Fatma Husam, Entreprenuer

    Fatma Husam is a 28-year-old Emirati entrepreneur and influencer with more than half a million Instagram following. Proving she’s more than just a pretty face, Husam is also the founder of Kamin, a luxe abaya label loved by many for its sophisticated silhouettes and contemporary touches. On top of that, she is currently busy building a creative community space called MNBAIN, launching soon at DIFC.
    Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche, Co-founders of The Open Crate

    Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche are pioneering the future of art collection management with its first-of-its-kind platform, The Open Crate, that allows curators and collectors to digitally store and keep an inventory of physical assets. Through this, Cultural Engineers Samawi and Debbiche aim to document and preserve the cultural legacy by focusing on the Middle East and Africa.
    Rabah Saeid, Founder and Creative Director of Styled Habitat

    Dubai-based Rabah Saeid founded Styled Habitat in 2016, an award-winning interior architectural studio that boasts a portfolio of exclusive VIP clients from art collectors to entrepreneurs. With each project, Saeid puts a sophisticated touch and thoughtful approach to design to many residential, hospitality and commercial spaces in the UAE.
    Sarah Alagroobi, Founder of The Letters Project

    Sarah Alagroobi is the founder of The Letters Project, an online platform that foregrounds the anthropological and sociocultural climate of the Arab region through anonymous letters. The Emirati multi-disciplinary artist, designer and educator puts forward her knowledge and insights on Khaleeji culture and sparks conversations on notions of Emirati stereotypes within both Middle Eastern and Western contexts through her practice and social media – specifically on TikTok with her growing number of following of 21.9K.
    “I hope that my beliefs in advocating for cultural shifts are going to contribute to changes that will speak to the people, for the people, by the people.” Alagroobi tells Emirates Woman.
    Emaan Abbass, Founder of Ketish

    Emaan Abbass is a Dubai-based Egyptian-descent feminine health advocate and founder of Ketish, UAE’s first feminine wellness brand. Launched in 2021 and backed by Huda and Mona Kattan, it provides highly effective and multi-beneficial wellness formulas that are empowering and luxurious in every way.
    By entering the business of health and beauty, Abbass aims to create a safe space and empower women to gain a deeper understanding of topics we normally shy away from – all things body, arousal, desire, and wellness.
    Hessa Al Suwaidi, Designer and Women’s Well-being Advocate

    Emirati textile printed designer and women’s well-being advocate Hessa Al Suwaidi has worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion and art industries. Last year, Al Suwaidi was featured on Prada’s Ramadan and Eid campaigns called “Parallel Harmonies” alongside mountaineer Raha Moharrak and actor Rakan Bin Abdel Wahid. Notably, she has also done a collaboration highlighting traditional Emirati weaving with Bentley Motors for Dubai Design Week.
    Through her projects and works, the young creative expresses her cultural identity and pushes forth her regional roots and inspires women of her to follow their dreams.
    Lina Malaika, Filmmaker and Co-Founder of Clay

    A natural creative, (thanks to years of film production experience that runs in the family) Lina Malaika is an established filmmaker and creative consultant from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Malaika has worked on feature projects for publications in collaboration with luxury and contemporary brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chopard to name a few.
    More recently, she has co-founded Clay with designer Farah Hammad – a modeling agency that champions fresh talent by pushing for visibility to a new generation of faces to boost local careers.
    Maya Chantout, Creative Director

    Syrian creative director Maya Chantout is a revitalizing breath of fresh air.
    Chantout boasts of an impressive line up of design stints at Hermes, Chloe and Celine, as well as being distinguished by LVMH for her graduation collection. Currently she works as an art director and image consultant for fashion brands such as Mirae, Casablanca and Miu Miu where her distinctive bold energy, eclectic spirit and extravagant style have an evident influence. Her unique aesthetic reflects a collage of the two culture she’s been immersed in – from her childhood in Syria and her adult life in Paris.
    “I try my best to encourage people around me to respect their uniqueness and be true to themselves.” Chantout shares in Emirates Woman’s The Confidence Issue.
    Hala Khayat, Regional Director of Art Dubai

    In 2020, Hala Khayat joined Art Dubai as Regional Director where her extensive experience in the Middle Eastern market – specializing in Arab, Iranian and Turkish art – allows her to develop strategies for local and regional collectors’ long-term engagement, one of the driving factors for the continued remarkable success of Art Dubai.
    Khayat is also an advocate for Syria’s art community, which continues to play an integral role by championing young Syrian artists.
    Butheina Hamed Kazim, Founder of Cinema Akil

    Butheina Hamed Kazim is an Emirati founder of Cinema Akil, the Gulf’s first independent arthouse cinema in the GCC region.
    Without a doubt, Kazim has significantly contributed to the UAE’s arts and culture scene,  amplifying current sociocultural and political issues in the region through film festivals and program series. Her love for film has led her to many milestone moments including “Producing the short documentary Letters to Palestine, winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2010” she tells Emirates Woman.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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    November’s – The Collectors Issue with Taleedah Tamer & Louis Vuitton

    Fashion

    by Amy Sessions
    36 mins ago

    Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Greg AdamskiCover Star: Taleedah TamerVideographer: Mark MathewFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska by MMGAll fashion Louis Vuitton
    Welcome to The Collectors Issue.
    For our cover, we are proud to have partnered with Louis Vuitton, an incredibly fitting brand for the theme of this issue as their luggage is a multi-generational icon. We shot their CR23 collection with rising star and Saudi model Taleedah Tamer in Precious Pieces.
    In this issue, we share an incredible collection of stories, women and voices. For us, depth is a priority as without this there is no value. We champion collected wisdom, learnings and understanding as paramount in importance, as well as the aesthetic symbols which bring peace or sentiment.

    We look at the iconic luggage pieces you should be investing in for the long haul in Haute Heritage, we discuss how Van Cleef & Arpels is passing its legacy on to emerging designers in A Fine Legacy, Valérie Messika, Founder of Messika tells us what it takes to build a brand that breaks the rules while keeping it refined in The Cool Collective and we curate an edit of protective charms to pass down for generations in Talismans.
    Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi speaks to the power of knowledge in A Leader in Literacy, Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy tells us how to win at the reward collecting game in The Points Game and Leila Heller, founder of Leila Heller Gallery discusses investing in art in A Collector’s Eye.
    The Wanderlust highlights the best retreats for mountain air and serious slopes, so we can collect our thoughts.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More