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    UAE launches compassionate relief effort for Gaza, extending a helping hand

    In a compassionate initiative, the UAE has launched the ‘Tarahum’ campaign to offer essential humanitarian support to Palestinian families and children affected by the conflict in Gaza.
    Emirates Red Crescent has established multiple donation centers throughout Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, where the public can contribute food, hygiene essentials, and healthcare supplies for the humanitarian aid packages.

    In Dubai, collections can be made at Emirates Red Crescent Headquarters in Al Quoz, Umm Ramool, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Al Shindagha, City Centre Meaisem, City Centre Mirdif, and Arabian Centre.
    In Sharjah, donation centers are available at Nekheelat Authority Office, Sharjah Co-operative Society in Helwan and Al Dhaid, as well as Lulu Hypermarket in Al Hazana.

    In Abu Dhabi, donors can drop off contributions at various Emirates Red Crescent locations, including the headquarters, Carrefour on Airport Road, Marina Mall Caravan, Shahama, Baniyas Co-operative Society, Khalifa City, Baniyas City, and Al Shawamekh.
    Fujairah also joins the cause with seven donation sites, including the Emirates Red Crescent Headquarters, Al Bustan Hall, Masafi Council, Bidiyah Council, Hawaya Suburb in Khorfakkan, Suhaila Suburb in Kaiba, and Dibba Fujairah Co-operative Society for Fishermen.
    The donations will be categorized into three humanitarian aid packages for children, women, and food. For those seeking guidance, a comprehensive list of required items for each category is available. Alternatively, cash contributions can be made through the official Emirates Red Crescent website.
    Notably, H.H Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has already allocated Dhs73.5 million in humanitarian aid, while H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, directed an additional Dhs50 million for this humanitarian cause.
    This aid will be channeled through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Emirates Red Crescent More

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    6 of the best Sharjah desert cafés to visit this winter

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    15 hours ago

    With the weather cooling down and winter fast approaching in the UAE, soon it will be the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler weather by spending time outdoors.
    Encouraging people to embrace their natural surroundings, many different desert dining concepts emerged last season, particularly in Sharjah, and we’ll most definitely be paying a visit this year.
    With that, we’ve outlined the very best places to dine in a sophisticated setting whilst basking in the serenity of the desert.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    The Uncommon

    If you’re on the hunt for something different, this space is designed especially for you. Created against the backdrop of the picturesque Sharjah desert skyline, there’s a series of delectable hot and cold beverages to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surroundings. Known for its stunning mirrored display, visitors can capture those Instagrammable selfies or unwind at this relaxing spot. Designed to relish an array of delicious bites including baked goods in the heart of the desert, this sophisticated spot is unlike any other. You can book a spot to The Uncommon on the Requeue app.
    One Degree Café

    Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.
    Common Winter

    With a minimal aesthetic in the heart of the Sharjah desert, this gorgeous area is converted into a refreshing hotspot with a range of delectable and premium coffee. As an unmissable experience, this winter pop-up is designed with dispersed mirrors, unending views of the scenery, making it another gem in the middle of the desert. Situated near Al Faya Desert, this popular spot has already gained quite a bit of traction, making it everyone’s favourite spot who visits. Located in Al Fayah, it’s open from 3pm to 1am.
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    Coffee House

    This sophisticated setup almost gives a wedding-like feel with flowy curtains and rattan chairs that set it apart from the rest. From croissants to carefully prepared beverages ranging from hot chocolates to coffees, guests can surely dine in style with the glistening skies above the setting. With the luxe décor featuring modern-day lights and the sandy desert combined, you’re sure to make multiple visits to this pop-up.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @_aljp More

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    Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi on crafting the future

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    The arts, language, and her community are all lifelong passions for Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi.
    As Director of SIFF (Sharjah International Film Festival) & FANN (Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children), Her Highness uses her ability to make a difference, here she discusses nurturing the next generation and the individuals who inspired her the most with Emirates Woman.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    During the week, my first 30 minutes are always getting ready for school and work (me and my three kids, aged 13, 9 and 5 years old), school drop-offs and quickly sorting through WhatsApp/emails on my phone if ever needed during my daily commute from Dubai to Sharjah.
    As the Director of SIFF & FANN, you’ve participated in the development of the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) since 2013 and founded Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children (FANN) in 2012. Can you tell us more about it?
    I remember my first interview and being asked if I could see myself more in training or in a children’s film festival! It was not a difficult choice to make. At that time, I had been working for almost 10 years in the field of children’s education in different positions, and I was and always am a film lover! It was not an easy journey having to start from scratch, but the vision and guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi always led the way, and working in assembling a passionate team who love what they do and believe in it made the journey so worthwhile.
    Since you’ve led these entities, how has it been received?
    The best thing about FANN and SIFF is that they are focused on all things media art. It is never about me taking the helm as I will not always be here, but hopefully, FANN and SIFF will continue to thrive and make a difference. In the end, it’s about the people and giving back to our audience. If there is a continuous influx of creative minds, amazing films, and the development of media arts, this industry will continue to succeed and prosper. Most importantly it is always about Sharjah and the beauty and treasures in it.
    What is the overarching goal?
    I feel there is always more to achieve and more to offer, especially in the education and media industry. We aim for more success and achievements in the near future, whether it be small or on a global scale, it all makes a difference. When we receive positive feedback and appreciation from students, expressing gratitude, not only for the information learnt in the workshop but also for the changes in his/her personality, that is an achievement all on its own. Winning awards on our rebranding is a success. Producing the first sci-fi Arab animation series is a triumph, but we celebrate in the moment and look ahead for bigger and better celebrations.
    What has been the most pivotal moment of your career to date?
    Every year we receive incredible and wonderful feedback from guests, trainers, students, and partners, and that is a pivotal moment for me. It is when we make a difference or create change. Seeing how the team has grown to where we are now is a pivotal moment. Completing ten years is a pivotal moment this year.
    What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
    Challenges are always there no matter how far you go, every journey has ups and downs. Production was a completely new experience for us at FANN, but we overcame each challenge with an open mind and continued to learn along the way, striving to be better.
    Was there a time you have been on the receiving end of such support from other women, and how did that make you feel?
    Yes, first and foremost Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, and my mother who has been working for more than 40 years and has always supported me. Friends, family, colleagues, and a team who believe in what I do makes me feel appreciated and motivated and I am very grateful to have that support in my life.
    Who have been the female role models in your life and why do you admire them?
    Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi for her years of giving and for her focus on children and women and families, and I am humbled to be working in just a small fraction of all the tremendous work she is heading. My mother is also my role model, I have seen her work since I was a child and the way she acts and deals with situations at home or at work has made me who I am today. I always hear comments that not only do I look like her, but I speak and act like her as well, which makes me very proud.
    How do you make time for yourself daily?
    I am guilty of not making time for myself on a daily basis, but it is my goal to make time for myself because it does reflect on how your day goes (especially at 40 now!) but when I do make time for myself, I like to catch up on some of my favourite series or read.
    This is The Trailblazers Issue – how do you hope to support future trailblazers?
    In making a difference one way or another on a personal or professional level. It’s always nice to be remembered for accomplishments, but also for touching people’s hearts and souls.
    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
    Image: Supplied More

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    QASIMI by Sheikha Al Hoor launches an initiative to supports UNICEF’s efforts in Sudan

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    QASIMI, helmed by Sheikha Al Hoor of Sharjah, has responded to the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan by launching a charity initiative to support UNICEF’s vital efforts on the ground.
    The initiative aims to provide critical aid and resources to affected children and families, showcasing QASIMI’s commitment to helping those impacted by conflict. Amidst the challenges, the initiative seeks to bring hope and make a positive impact in Sudan.

    The ongoing Sudan War has brought immense suffering, particularly affecting vulnerable children through displacement, food scarcity, and medical emergencies. Recognizing the urgency, QASIMI is leading an initiative to shine a light of hope amidst adversity.
    The QASIMI Charity Initiative has several goals:

    Raise awareness about the Sudan crisis and UNICEF’s crucial role in supporting families and children.
    Donate all proceeds from the sale of HOAG T-SHIRT through the QASIMI website to the cause.
    Bridge fashion and philanthropy, providing supporters with a meaningful way to contribute.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by QASIMI  More

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    The best desert cafés in the UAE to visit this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 day ago

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
    Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
    With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
    To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    One Degree Cafe

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae. 
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    My Space

    Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
    BBQ Station

    Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
    Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
    With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
    To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    One Degree Cafe

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae. 
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    My Space

    Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
    BBQ Station

    Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Meet Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of pioneering UAE concept NOT a SPACE

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of NOT a SPACE, discusses cultivating communities through creativity throughout the UAE.
    The Story
    A graduate of the American University of Sharjah, UAE, I’m an Emirati serial entrepreneur and co-founder of NOT a SPACE, alongside other side ventures. As an explorer of life, I never intended to become an entrepreneur but I always had the fire in me to take risks. Venturing into my first business, a day spa that was built in 2011, was the biggest risk at only 21 years old. It was hard for me at the beginning with sleepless nights and limited resources but eventually, it all fell into place when you put the hard work into it. Now, I’m creating more spaces and taking more risks has become an addiction and I’m loving it. I believe everyone has a purpose in life and when you connect with that love, that’s when the magic unfolds.

    The Concept
    NOT a SPACE was launched in 2019 right before the pandemic hit with a focus on creating a community to work and play, eat and shop, and get groomed. A space for all to enjoy good music, great coffee and creating more stories and friendships. It is NOT your ordinary hangout place, NOT for egos, NOT for perfection… but a space to feel free and be you. Simply, NOT is a space with a heart, one that brings wild and kind souls together. At NOT, you can find a barbershop, a parlour, a pet grooming spa, and a community cafe right in the centre that brings all humans and pets together through the different events we create and host from music, fashion, wellness, sports, talks and workshops. During winter and summer, NOT pops up in unique locations around the UAE. One that is most popular, is our Al Faya winter annual and magical pop-up located far away in the desert where you can enjoy the breeze, live events, and peaceful mountain views attracting the sunrise explorers, sunset lovers, and the night owls under the starry skies.
    The Creative
    I’ve got both a creative and business mindset. Without being able to explore and create new ideas, I wouldn’t be able to run the business and vice versa. I spend most of my time being inspired by what’s out there and then strategically putting it into a plan to make sure it is feasible and makes financial sense. Especially, in our line of business and space, we rely a lot on creativity which gives us a competitive edge by always being different and ahead of the game in offering new experiences to the community.
    The Philosophy
    I’m a true believer in doing good and it will come back to you in time. And to always go after your dreams because it’s a chance you take on yourself and you are the driver of your own future. Only you can decide what’s good for you, control the speed and be responsible for the choices you make. You are you and that is your superpower to be truly happy.

    The Advice
    If you’ve got an idea but are not sure if it will work, go ahead and jump right in if you truly believe in it. It starts with the first step and the rest will follow. It doesn’t come easy, but it’s a beautiful journey if you do what you love.
    The Hurdles
    When we weren’t generating any revenue, my first business was coming down really fast and almost crashing before I re-strategized and started to look at things differently. This changed my perception of things and I learnt that we need to listen to the market more, invest in the right team and then put a system in place but most importantly, to keep moving and never stop believing.
    The Milestones
    I’m happy with how from starting my business at such a young age to being selected as a board member at the Sharjah Business Women Council, to organizing the first and fastest growing Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival that takes place every year gathering thousands of like-minded individuals, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Running my own business is a full-time job now at NOT a SPACE and I have never been happier!
    The Mentors
    People from all around the world of different backgrounds, mindsets, cultures and experiences that I meet and learn from every single minute of every single day. Saying yes to new adventures all the time guides you to opportunities, experiences, and learnings to be better every day.
    October’s – The Pioneer Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    6 of the best desert cafés to visit in Sharjah this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With the weather cooling down and winter fast approaching in the UAE, soon it will be the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler weather by spending time outdoors.
    Encouraging people to embrace their natural surroundings, many different desert dining concepts emerged last season, particularly in Sharjah, and we’ll most definitely be paying a visit this year.
    With that, we’ve outlined the very best places to dine in a sophisticated setting whilst basking in the serenity of the desert.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    The Uncommon

    If you’re on the hunt for something different, this space is designed especially for you. Created against the backdrop of the picturesque Sharjah desert skyline, there’s a series of delectable hot and cold beverages to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surroundings. Known for its stunning mirrored display, visitors can capture those Instagrammable selfies or unwind at this relaxing spot. Designed to relish an array of delicious bites including baked goods in the heart of the desert, this sophisticated spot is unlike any other. You can book a spot to The Uncommon on the Requeue app.
    One Degree Café

    Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.
    Common Winter

    With a minimal aesthetic in the heart of the Sharjah desert, this gorgeous area is converted into a refreshing hotspot with a range of delectable and premium coffee. As an unmissable experience, this winter pop-up is designed with dispersed mirrors, unending views of the scenery, making it another gem in the middle of the desert. Situated near Al Faya Desert, this popular spot has already gained quite a bit of traction, making it everyone’s favourite spot who visits. Located in Al Fayah, it’s open from 3pm to 1am.
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    Coffee House

    This sophisticated setup almost gives a wedding-like feel with flowy curtains and rattan chairs that set it apart from the rest. From croissants to carefully prepared beverages ranging from hot chocolates to coffees, guests can surely dine in style with the glistening skies above the setting. With the luxe décor featuring modern-day lights and the sandy desert combined, you’re sure to make multiple visits to this pop-up.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @_aljp More