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      12 inspiring Saudi female content creators to follow on Instagram

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph22 mins ago VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGESSaudi Arabia is a hub for fashion, creativity and content creation. So much so, there’s an array of Saudi content creators we just can’t get enough of keeping us up to date with the latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle trends.Known for working with some of the biggest brands while also having their own business, these Saudi influencers continue to inspire us.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Insragram @thehala  More

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

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      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 best cafés for remote working in Riyadh

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      As the world embraces remote working as the new norm, cafés have become a go-to spot.
      With Riyadh constantly opening up new eateries, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with numerous options and we’re here to help.
      Whether you need a tranquil space to fuel up on caffeine and get creative or you’re simply wanting to change your desk for the day, the Kingdom’s capital has enough and more places for you to work from.
      Ensuring you have plenty of options to choose from, Emirates Woman has curated a guide for all the remote working inspiration.
      Elixir Bunn Coffee Roasters

      With speciality coffee beans and a perfect haven for caffeine enthusiasts, this quaint spot is exactly where you need to be. With aesthetic interiors and high-quality offerings, this brand has many branches in Riyadh, allowing guests to choose one that best fits their needs. Located in Turki Square branch, Al Hamra Branch and Palm Branch, it’s definitely a place to add to your list.
      For more information visit elixirbunn.com
      Five Elephants

      Known for its impeccable service and multiple roasters concept, this coffee shop is the perfect place to focus at. Regarded as one of the most popular cafés in Riyadh, this bustling hotspot is often flooded with young ambitious individuals making it an inspiring place to work from. It’s located on King Abdul Aziz Road, Alyasmin and is open on Friday from 8am to 1am, Saturday to Wednesday 6:30am to 12am and Thursday 6:30am to 1am.
      Namq Café

      To keep you going all day this rustic café serves an array of mouth-watering dishes and desserts, that is quite irresistible. This easygoing destination is airy and offers the perfect combination of style and taste. It’s designed as an elevated co-working space that’s created with a subtle hint of greenery. It’s located on Anas Ibn Malik Rd, Al-Malqa and is open 24 hours.
      For more information visit namqcafe.com
      Cacti

      This 24-hour quaint eatery has a variety of dishes to choose from. By coming art with food, this popular spot is cosy place for people to work and catch up with friends and family. If you’re in the need of some creative inspiration this beautifully designed space is ideal to sit down and work from for hours. It’s located on Ath Thumarah Rd, Qurtubah and it’s open 24 hours while the Tahliyah location is open on Thursday from 7am to 2am and Friday 4pm to 2am.
      Inner Circle

      For something a bit more contemporary and to go back in time, this archival café, sheds light on the country’s long-standing history. To dig into the Kingdom’s history, this space was born as it’s inspired by the world’s masterpiece, AlUlaa. From white mochas to flat whites, each dish was created to cater to everyone’s palate. Located in Al Takhassoussi, An Nakheel, it’s open on Thursday and Friday from 12pm to 2am and Saturday to Wednesday 7am to 1am.
      HOLA

      By incorporating bohemian elements this stylish eatery is the ideal place for a delicious coffee and some delectable bites. Whether a group study session or if you need to catch up on some reading, this luxe spot gives you all the inspiration you need. From their signature lattes to refreshing mojitos, there’s something for everyone who visits. Located on Al-Malqa, it’s open on Friday from 1pm to 1:30pm, Saturday to Wednesday 7am to 12:30am and on Thursday from 7am to 1:30am.
      Andarena Café

      Whether you’re writing your next book or seeing inspiration for a new business idea, this cosy space is all about creating a positive ambience to stay productive in. If you need a break and wish to play a game of chess, that’s possible too. Designed to replicate an intimate home, this welcoming space is designed to make everyone feel at ease. From freshly brewed coffees to grilled sandwiches, you could stay here all day. It’s located on Abi Jafar Al Mansour St, Ghirnateh and is open on Friday 1pm to 1am, Thursday and Saturday 7am to 1am and Sunday to Wednesday 7am to 11pm.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Instagram @namq_cafe More

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      Major milestone: Official approval granted for common GCC tourism visa

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      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

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      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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      All you need to know about the first-ever Riyadh Fashion Week

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      The heart of the Saudi capital is set to come alive from October 20 to 23, as the first-ever Riyadh Fashion Week makes its debut.
      This four-day event promises a captivating blend of style and spectacle that’s bound to captivate fashion enthusiasts.
      With a carefully curated lineup featuring 16 runway shows, this event invites attendees to embark on a journey that delves into the burgeoning fashion identity of Saudi Arabia.

      Featuring over 30 designers presenting their collections from October 21 to 23, this ambitious endeavour aims to foster the vibrant local fashion scene and industry. It pledges to focus exclusively on local talent, setting it apart from many emerging style capitals.
      Notable designers, such as Yousef Akbar, Atelier Hekayat, Adnan Akbar, Tima Abid and many more will be part of this exciting showcase.
      Riyadh Fashion Week is hosted by the Saudi Fashion Commission, with a vision to expedite the growth of to local creatives and their sustainable craftsmanship.
      “Riyadh Fashion Week is the next step in our efforts to nurture the local fashion sector, led by emerging Saudi talents,” says Burak Çakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: Feature Image: riyadhfashionweek More

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      8 luxurious hotels in Saudi Arabia to book on your next visit

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      16 hours ago

      The Kingdom has now transformed into a key tourism hotspot for many.
      With its well-preserved ruins and sophisticated new retreats, this country has become a magnet for travellers from around the world.
      So, for your next trip to Saudi Arabia, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to the luxurious properties to book.

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

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

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      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.
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      Feature Images: Supplied; Instagram @moonshell_sa More