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IN PARTNERSHIP: Engaging your child’s creative side is an incredibly important part of the nurturing and growing process, however, it doesn’t have to take an entire day of your time.Sparking the imagination of little ones’, LEGO® DUPLO® Bricks are the ideal play pieces to stimulate your child’s mind creatively, whilst also having fun.Whilst playtime can be chaotic and also messy, encouraging your child to play without any setbacks and blocks is key to unlocking their potential as it helps to develop their core socio-emotional, physical, creative and cognitive skills. By age three, there are over 1000 trillion connections between the brain and neurons, putting into perspective how important assisting your child to thrive is.Helping to pave the way for their future, the large bricks in the LEGO DUPLO sets put your mind at ease that they are safe in their building endeavours, no matter what adventure they choose to envisage.Prompt creative conversations with your little one By making creative conversations part of everyday life, a child naturally develops an imaginative way of thinking. Creative conversations can be as easy as playing word association games in the car or making up a simple story before bed. Prompts like “Where would you go if you were a bird?” can allow your child’s imagination to run wild.[embedded content]Let them lead Every so often it is important to let your child make the decisions. This could start with going to the park for half an hour, letting them lead the way on a walk at their pace. Or tell them they will make the plan and encourage them to talk about all the amazing things they could do when they get there.Encourage positive conversation with questionsEvery night before bed, establish a routine where you both talk about the positive points of the day. This allows your child to reflect on their day as well as helping you to understand what they enjoy doing from a young age. If you don’t always have a lot of time, this is a quick way to engage your child’s creative mind.Give them freedom with playtimeFreedom to play in an unstructured way is vital for development. You could give your child a box of bricks and watch them build, rather than instructing them what to create. Afterwards, try to be specific and ask them what it is and what it can do.It’s okay to make creative mistakes [embedded content]Experimentation is creativity for children, some of their creations may look slightly strange, however, they could have just learnt something new, like how a brush moved on the page. The most important part of playtime is ensuring they have fun, whilst also providing education.Don’t worry about the mess Yes, messiness can be good sometimes, plastic sheets and lots of space can allow your child to be free and get messy to their heart’s content. Feeling safe to try anything will allow your child to build confidence in their creative abilities. And If you’re lucky, you might be able to convince them that tidying up is a fun game too.Perfect for small hands and curious minds, LEGO DUPLO bricks are double the size of the regular LEGO brick; twice the length, height and width making them easier to handle for younger builders aged 1.5-5 years old.As your child grows, they can move onto traditional LEGO bricks, but don’t worry the LEGO DUPLO bricks are completely compatible, meaning your child can continue to use them in their more advanced building endeavours.The Hero Buys

LEGO DUPLO Alphabet Truck

LEGO DUPLO T. rex and Triceratops Dinos

LEGO DUPLO Spider-Man Headquarters

LEGO DUPLO My First Car Creations

LEGO DUPLO Mickey & Minnie Birthday Train

LEGO DUPLO Minnie’s House and Café

LEGO DUPLO Number Train – Learn To Count

LEGO DUPLO Space Shuttle Mission

LEGO DUPLO is available at all good toy retailers including Toys R Us, ELC & plus online stores such as First Cry, Noon, Amazon, Mumzworld. And of course, our very own LEGO® certified stores.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages/Media: Supplied More

The perfect way to escape from the busy crowds and bright lights of the city is amongst the tranquility of the Arabian desert. This is why Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, is the ideal place to take a break for the wellbeing of your mind, body and soul. Just under an hour’s drive from the city of Dubai, Al Maha offers wellness and tranquillity in the secluded setting of the Arabian desert with vast views of undulating dunes and the Hajar Mountain massif.This unique resort currently offers two luxury staycation packages to suit every guest who needs to recharge and revitalize. For those seeking to escape the city for a night or two, take advantage of Al Maha’s ‘Spa Indulgence Staycation’ package (Dhs4,650 for two adults per night) where you can choose from the selection of therapeutic, deep tissue and body massages, which embody the secret aromatherapy traditions of the Middle East and South-East Asia. The package also includes breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant, Al Diwaan.Al Maha’s ‘Desert Romance’ staycation package is the ideal getaway for couples looking to spend quality time together amongst the seclusion of their own suite at the resort with its own private pool, looking out on the plains of the Arabian Desert. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed with a premium sparkling beverage. Later in the evening, a gastronomic dining experience awaits at Al Diwaan. The stay also includes a romantic deck dinner, camel trekking for sundowners, an additional desert activity of the guests’ choice and a 60-minute spa treatment.Those who are looking to get away from it all just for the day can opt for the ‘Spa Indulgence Day Package’ (Dhs640 per person) or the ‘Wellness Package’ (Dhs525 per person). The first includes access to Al Maha’s Timeless Spa facilities for the day, its infinity pool, gym, a 60-minute Timeless Therapeutic Massage of your choice and three-course lunch. The second offers yoga in the desert every Tuesday and Saturday at 8am with a one-hour mediative session with one of Al Maha’s certified resident instructors. The package also includes full-day access to Timeless Spa facilities, main infinity pool and gym with a three-course lunch at Al Diwaan.Al Maha also encourages guests to take advantage of the tranquil surroundings, taking in all that nature has to offer in the Arabian desert. For those who prefer to switch off, while keeping their mind occupied with adventure – which also benefits your overall health and wellbeing for the mind and body – take part in the resort’s desert activities. ‘The Bikers Deal’ is the perfect package for those who love adventure by exploring the desert on a two-wheeler. Ride amongst the sand dunes for the day with the chance of being accompanied by Arabian Oryx and gazelles. A special breakfast and lunch menu is also available priced at Dhs115 and Dhs215 respectively.The ‘Discover Epicurean Experiences – Al Maha Activities Package’ (Dhs995 per person) takes guests on an exploration of the local surroundings with an expert field guide who will give you invaluable insights into the importance of the conservation programmes and precious wildlife with guided camel treks and horse riding. For those who are feeling adventurous, opt for an education dune and wildlife drive. You can also learn about the indigenous desert culture with a demonstration on the Art of Falconry, with the field guide sharing the history of falconry and its importance in the Gulf region.For reservations, call 04 832 9900 or visit al-maha.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

As the world gears up to watch Friends: The Reunion, where the cast from the iconic soap – Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer – will reunite for the first time in 17 years on-screen.It was announced the reunion would be available on US streaming giant HBO Max, but you’ll also now be able to watch it in the UAE and the Middle East.OSN, the leading entertainment hub for the MENA region, will have Friends: The Reunion available on all its streaming platforms on May 27, 2021, meaning subscribers will be able to watch The One Where They Get Back Together as it airs with the rest of the world.READ: Here’s where you can watch the Friends reunion in the Middle EastIn order to watch you’ll need to download the OSN streaming app on all iOS and Android devices to watch it or access via stream.osn.com.As the sitcom centring about the famous six-some Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler and Ross remains as popular today as it was when it aired with an audience spanning across three generations, Emirates Woman decided to take a trip down memory lane outlining the show’s most iconic moments ahead of the reunion’s premiere.Where it all beganIt doesn’t get much more iconic than where Friends first started. All of the gang are at Central Perk when Rachel Green enters in a wedding dress after leaving her fiancé, Barry, at the altar. We’re introduced to all of the rest of the cast professional chef Monica Geller; her palaeontologist brother, Ross Geller; masseuse Phoebe Buffay; struggling actor Joey Tribbiani, and Ross’ college friend, Chandler Bing.When Ross and Rachel share their first kissAfter Ross finds out about Rachel having feelings for him, the pair share their first kiss after hours at Central Perk.When Joey wears every single item of Chandler’s clothingFighting over a chair, Joey decides to get revenge on Chandler by wearing every single item of his clothing – and is also “commando”.When Ross and Rachel were on a break (or were they?)To this day it’s still a point of contention – were Ross and Rachel on a break? We’re set to see this discussed during Friends: The Reunion.Smelly catIt’s fair to say Phoebe’s musical taste and creativity is, er, interesting. However, Smelly Cat will forever be one of her most iconic songs.When Ross says Rachel’s name at the altarQuick recap: Ross started dating British woman Emily. Six weeks later they get engaged, four weeks later they plan their wedding. Rachel opts not to go, but then changes her mind at the last minute. She sees Ross just before the ceremony is about to start. Then, in an almighty twist of events, Ross says Rachel’s name at the altar, not Emily’s. Spoiler alert: the marriage didn’t last.When Phoebe has tripletsIn order to help her brother and his wife, Phoebe agrees to be their surrogate. To everyone’s shock, gets pregnant with triplets and gives birth in season five.When everyone finds out about Monica and ChandlerWhilst in London, Monica and Chandler began their relationship which they kept secret from everyone. Over time, each friend started finding out and it all culminated when Ross decided to get a new apartment just across the street from Monica and Rachel’s place and you can see everything in the window.When Ross & Rachel get married[embedded content]Just one year after his failed marriage to Emily, the gang heads to Las Vegas. While Monica and Chandler intended to get married, they bump into a very inebriated Ross and Rachel on their way out of the chapel having said their “I dos” to one another.The “routine”Monica and Ross resurrect their dance routine from high school in order to try and get on television.Monica and Chandler’s weddingWhile one of them nearly didn’t make it down the aisle, it was a happy ending for Monica and Chandler.The red sweaterAfter Rachel announces she’s pregnant, there’s a question mark over who the father is. However, the red sweater revealed it all.Brad Pitt guest starringFriends had a whole host of incredible guest stars over its 10-year run, but Brad Pitt definitely was one of the best.Ross’ spray tanWe’ll just leave this image here…When Rachel got off the planeA moment that still has us in tears when we watch.Reminisce about these iconic Friends moments and more by watching Friends: The Reunion on OSN on May 27.OSN Streaming can be accessed via websites and all mobile iOS and Android devices. The service costs $9.5 per month and includes a 7-day Free Trial, Stream now on stream.osn.com.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages & Media: Getty / Warner Bros. / HBO Max More

IN PARTNERSHIP: With travel restrictions being curbed globally, a simple escape to unwind from the overwhelming city life might seem off the radar for quite a few of us.However, nestled on the shores of the Dubai Creek Marina, the luxury oasis that is the Park Hyatt awaits as this rustic retreat combining Mediterranean influences with regional trademarks and Emirates Woman has an exclusive staycation deal for you to take advantage of.With idyllic surroundings, there are enough activities onboard for guests to be entertained including a luxe haven for the perfect golf escape as guests experience a unique holiday in its iconic clubhouse building while being surrounded by lush greenery. While first-class tennis lessons are also provided by the experts at Park Hyatt, including fitness assessments and programmes at FitLab from the resident professionals.No luxury staycation is complete without a world-class dining experience and Park Hyatt certainly delivers with its multiple eateries designed in a modern space make the overall stay even more enticing. The Thai Kitchen which is an award-winning restaurant features three live kitchens, with a traditional feel to transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand, through exceptional flavours.Being of the most iconic Spanish restaurants in the UAE, Casa de Tapas, located at the Dubai Creek Yacht Club features classic dishes by a team of renowned chefs, as it serves everything from paella to tapas, making it a mouth-watering dining experience in the heart of Dubai. Meanwhile, NOÉPE offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the creek in a relaxed environment with a selection of creatively served beverages.Offering unparalleled views of the Creek, QD’s, being one of Dubai’s most popular hotspots makes for the perfect arena to unwind with your friends as you witness the emirate’s picturesque views along with Brasserie Du Park to ensure you experience those chic, summery feels.With a combination of elegance and drama showcased in the architecture, this Creekside hotspot consists of 223 luxury rooms with 34 suites and a stunning 25-metre adults-only swimming pool, with in-set palm trees and four whirlpools for a tranquil oasis as you recharge your batteries.Emirates Woman, in partnership with Park Hyatt, is offering our readers an exclusive special one-night stay deal for two on June 4, 2021, for Dhs899++. The package includes breakfast, dinner at Casa de Tapas with a complimentary drink, plus an additional 20 per cent off on F&B at selected restaurants for the duration of the day.There’s only limited rooms available, so we suggest you book now.For more information or to make a reservation visit parkhyattdubai.com.com.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

IN PARTNERSHIP: While being known for their contemporary designs, Sara AlHarbali, the Syrian Architect and founder of Tajrid.ae has exclusively partnered with Marina Home.From an unconventional Islamic art-inspired theme by urban authentic Arabian culture, Sara’s art collection entitled ‘Revelation –  Spectrogram Art collection by Tajrid’ will be showcased in the gallery exhibiting a unique concept by depicting the verses of the Holy Quran in the visual representation of spectrograms.Based on the recitation of Qari Abdul Basit Abdul Samad, one of the best reciters of the century, for the selected chapters, as the collection carries a deep story with an inspiring message for this auspicious month.With the collection epitomising the traditional Arabic calligraphy wall art, the designs were created to cater to the modern consumer as each artwork tells a deep story and is her own from aesthetic depiction, while Al Harbali has also won a Grand Award for the  Emerging Artists Prize at World Dubai 2021.Take a sneak peek inside the exhibition below.The exclusive showcase gallery of the Revelation Spectogram Art collection by Sara Alharbali will be on display only at the Marina Home showroom at Mall of the Emirates, Level 1 until May 15, 2021 which is open from 10am to 11pm. For more information regarding the location visit hereFor more information visit marinahomeinteriors.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Supplied More

IN PARTNERSHIP: The Holy Month of Ramadan is a time for giving, reflection and connection, and this is exactly what Crate and Barrel is doing this year.Championing local and regional designers from the Middle East as part of harnessing community spirit this Ramadan, Crate and Barrel has collaborated with a number of local talents to create bespoke pieces this Holy Month.Not only does the collection harness the power of local talent, but a percentage of the revenue made from all pieces sold on Crate and Barrel during Ramdan will also be donated to support those who are vulnerable members of the community. With that, the interiors brand has partnered with Carrefour and Emirates Red Crescent this year, with the aim to feed over 25,000 people by buying and distributing Ramadan boxes pre-packaged with essential food items across the UAE.This month, Crate and Barrel has also launched an array of collections for Ramadan all celebrating elements of the region including Bedouin traditions, desert colours and fragrances of the region.Firstly, the timeless pieces – ranging from Dhs30 to Dhs300 – from the Sarb Collection pay tribute to the Arabian Peninsula’s most beloved birds.Meanwhile, pieces from the exclusive Sadu Collection are inspired by patterns and shapes from the traditional Al Sadu weaving done by the Bedouin tribes.The Ozlem Tuna Collection pays homage to the geography and nature of the region, encompassing the reflection the desert surroundings can create for people. In the pieces from this collection, which range from Dhs150 to Dhs360, blacks and golds are used to represent the nights and mornings in the desert, which are completely different from each other.As for the Tala Collection, which ranges from Dhs100 to Dhs1,000, pieces are reminiscent of a midnight garden, reflecting the shapes and shadows of palm trees after dark.With a love for sharing coffee in the region, the Mellow collection plays homage to this notion and also comes in exclusive colours at Crate & Barrel. Meanwhile, the Deluxury Deco collection also ties in with this featuring a range of luxury tea and coffee glass cups and trays.Finally, Crate and Barrel has also partnered with Lava Candles, a local brand founded by Sheikha Amna Abdulaziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, to create a series of candles that exude the reflective mood of Ramadan perfectly. Fragrances include jasmine, spicy vanilla and crisp apple.Crate and Barrel will also be collaborating with homegrown brand Loom Pop to create a series of bespoke pieces.Hand-painted by local artists from the UAE, the pieces in the very limited edition collection feature Arabic calligraphy, moons and stars.For more on the Ramadan collections visit crateandbarrel.me. Store locations include Mall Of The Emirates, City Center Mirdif, The Dubai Mall and City Center Al Zahia, with opening times from 10am to 10pm daily.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

IN PARTNERSHIP: Working in publishing, one day is never the same.One day an editor could be in and out of meetings all day, another could call for a day of events and another may entail a cover shoot or shoot for next month’s magazine, all the while ensuring features for both print and online are completed, as well as social media channels being updated.It’s an all-encompassing fast-paced job, which often requires you to be here, there and everywhere, which means you need the right technology to assist you to get the job done.This is why the ASUS Zenbook 13 OLED is an ideal laptop for those who are on the go.8amI log on from home on the ASUS laptop and schedule prepped features to ensure the website is consistently updated with all the latest in fashion, luxury lifestyle, beauty and travel. With its 13.3-inch display screen and OLED HDR NanoEdge display that supports 1920 x 1080 resolution, I’m able to check and edit everything precisely and clearly with ease. Once that’s done, it’s out the door at 8.30am to head to the office.12pmAfter a morning of catching up with the team, writing and planning upcoming shoots, it’s time to log on to a Zoom meeting to learn about an exciting upcoming launch. The ASUS Zenbook 13 makes it easy to conference in on video calls, which has been particularly important in the last year. The laptop’s video conferencing tool makes it easy to communicate with clear voice quality, this includes ASUS AI Noise Cancelling Audio, which lets users select from one of four modes: Normal, Balance, Single presenter or Multi-presenter.3pmAfter a busy morning and early afternoon in the office, it’s time to head out for a couple of meetings and the ASUS laptop makes it convenient and easy to ensure I’m connected at all times in case an urgent story needs to go up, emails need to be responded to or an edit needs to be made. Given that the device only weighs 1.14kg with a side profile of only 13.9mm and the overall surface being 13.3-inches, it’s ideal for being on the go. Given the memory bandwidth too – a 16GB memory and 1TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD – it means I can store everything I need and more on the device. Similarly, it has all the necessities for full connectivity including two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a standard HDMI 2.0 port, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port and a microSD card reader.6.30pmAfter a busy afternoon, I reach home ready to log on for the final time of the day and given I’ve been out all day, the ASUS Zenbook 13’s battery has lasted the test of time. We all dread running out of charge, particularly if we forget our chargers. The laptop offers a 13-hour battery life and if that happens not to suffice, there’s a fast-charge function that powers the device up in record time – you can go from two per cent to 60 per cent in under 50 minutes.Other convenient aspects of the ASUS Zenbook 13 OLED include the ErgoLift hinge which lifts the rear of the laptop when opened, a small detail but incredibly helpful when you’ve been typing strenuously all day as an editor.Similarly, you can easily log on using face identification as your form of password as the front infrared (IR) camera recognises your face in seconds. You can also easily connect your smartphone if you’re an Android user and use it as an extension of the laptop.In the age of digital nomadism and remote working, it’s a great machine to assist those who are consistently on the go with busy schedules.For more information on the Zenbook 13 OLED visit the ASUS website.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More