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      All the luxe hotels with private pools in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      As the sweltering heat is here to stay for the next couple of months, there’s nothing like cooling off in the privacy of your own private pool.
      From temperature-controlled swimming pools to luxe views of the UAE’s skyline, these exotic properties offer their own private swimming facility to unwind with friends and family.
      Emirates Woman has curated a list of must-visit resorts located both in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, that offer their own space to unwind as you book a premium villa or suite that best fits your needs.
      Abu Dhabi
      Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

      If you’re looking for a city escape in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this urban waterfront retreat offers an expanse of mangroves with waterfront swimming and mangrove kayaking during your stay as you unwind at the Mangrove pool suite. It offers a host of privileges from an abundance of space to basking on your terrace or in the mini plunge pool, which elevates your stay in UAE’s capital.
      For more information visit Anantara.com
      Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island

      Located on the pristine white beach of Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking Saadiyat Island, this one-of-a-kind five-star property features a striking modern Arabic architecture with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Starting with the one-bedroom beach villa, guests can rejuvenate at their very own large private plunge pool with a fully furnished terrace, as they absorb unrivalled sea views that are reminiscent of an elegant beach house with a location that is hard to beat.
      For more information visit Rotana.com
      Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Rooted deep within the desert landscape of Al Wathba, an intimate retreat with natural beauty lies at the hallmark of this hotel experience, with guests ready to embark on an individual wellness journey, immersed by privacy. With a secluded plunge pool, guests can take in serene views of the Arabian Desert from their villa with a generous amount of space as they lay back and absorb the beauty of the property.
      For more information visit alwathbahotel.com
      Dubai
      One&Only The Palm

      This glittering sanctuary with lush gardens is secluded on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah with opulent hotel rooms, while also featuring beachfront villas with their own private swimming pools as you witness breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. The premium villa allows you to step into the world of luxury with complete relaxation as you’re surrounded by lush private gardens and can cool off in your private temperature-controlled swimming pool with a majlis-style space shrouded by an oversized gazebo.
      For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
      Anantara The Palm

      With a private sanctuary that overlooks the beach and Arabian Gulf beyond, you can enjoy luxurious sunny days by the poolside with private concierge services at the Villa with options for one or two bedrooms as you unwind in style with oversized daybeds featuring a lagoon that is made into something special.
      For more information visit anantara.com
      Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

      With a relaxed yet effortless atmosphere, Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts prides itself in providing guests with an unrivalled luxury lifestyle experience, while offering guests contemporary dining with an enhanced Nikki Beach experience. The Nikki beach pool villa is pleasant to the eye, with a uniquely designed space featuring an external shower pool and vast recreational areas that are perfectly conceived down to the smallest detail. With a perfect combination of white, light blue and beige colours in the interiors, the outdoor area is fitted with high-quality furniture offering a unique area for private dining or relaxing.
      For more information visit nikkibeach.com
      Melia Desert Palm

      This urban oasis offers lush green surroundings with an elegant oasis in the one-bedroom hideaway villas with ground floor living and dining spaces that extends to the spacious outdoor as guests enjoy a home away from home for the ultimate privacy with an alfresco dining area, complemented with a stone-walled courtyard for utmost serenity. With fascinating views of Dubai’s skyline and your own space to unwind at, there’s enough of room in this superlatively designed area to relax with friends and family.
      For more information visit melia.com
      Bulgari Resort Dubai

      Bringing the Mediterranean style to the Middle East, while being surrounded by ocean views with a nautical spirit imbibed at the property, guests can unwind at the luxurious beach view villas with stunning landscaped gardens and a temperature-controlled pool, as the villas offer the perfect amount of space to have the ultimate luxury gathering with the feeling and privacy of being at home, while enjoying the details of a sunken marble bathtub in the layout.
      For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
      Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Just under an hours drive from the city of Dubai is Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa. This luxury hotel, which resembles a luxurious Bedouin encampment, is the perfect escape for a weekend recharge. While the resort’s location already ensures maximum privacy for guests, Al Maha’s 42 suites take luxury and privacy to the next level. Each suite boasts a private temperature-controlled pool overlooking the infinite desert views, alongside opulent interiors which pay tribute to Arabian heritage with handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artefacts.
      Ras Al Khaimah
      The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

      Escape to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah at The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach resort which has 32 luxurious villas that each have their very own private pool, as well as direct beach access.
      The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

      For those seeking a desert escape in Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert resort is ideal. Similar to its sister resort, there are 100 villas available each with its own private pool.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ More

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      8 romantic hotels in the UAE to book for a short-haul getaway

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      In need of some quiet time with your partner, why not book a romantic staycation to relax and recharge as a couple?
      If you’re in the need of some inspiration, Emirates Woman has collated a list a of properties to have a wonderful experience with the ones you love.
      Anantara, The Palm

      Immerse yourself in island bliss as you soak up the sun and sand at this world-class accommodation with an exclusive Dubai escape including luxurious spa treatments, a stylish resort and an exclusive beach escape to unwind all day at the Palm Jumeirah hotel’s spa with views of the Arabian Gulf.
      For more information visit Anantara.com
      One&Only Royal Mirage

      Indulge in abundant space, luxurious rooms and suites, nine inspiring restaurants, and dramatic, Arabesque architecture at One&Only Royal Mirage with immaculate gardens, for you to instantly feel at home while you lead down to the one-kilometre sweep of Jumeirah Beach and dream of a magical glamorous evening.
      For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
      Burj Al Arab

      As one of Dubai’s most glamorous hotels, you can unwind in true luxury. Enjoy the private pool 150m above the ground with views of the scintillating skyline as you relax in awe of the luxurious views. While being a global icon of Arabian luxury, you’re sure to have a romantic getaway.
      For more information visit Jumeirah.com
      Palace Downtown

      Adding a dose of Arabian heritage, this tastefully decorated hotel is fully-equipped with luxurious rooms and suites, allowing the hotel to stand out for its individualistic architecture and commitment to offering the highest service standard.
      For more information visit addresshotels.com
      Atlantis, The Palm

      Nestled on the calm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, overlooking Dubai’s magnificent skyline at this world-famous Palm island in Dubai. This world-renowned resort has an array of award-winning celebrity chefs with one-of-a-kind signature suites and 360-degree views for you to stay in style.
      For more information visit atlantis.com
      Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

      Inspired by the Bedouin setup from back in the day, amidst the dunes lies one of Dubai’s most romantic hotels with its sumptuous tents complete with their own private pools, handcrafted furnishing and its very own butler service. With all the privacy you need, this luxurious getaway is definitely a romantic staycation for all.
      For more information visit mariott.com
      Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

      This Ottoman-inspired elegance on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah has an elegant design with club lounge access dedicated to awakening your senses amongst the calm of Talise Ottoman Spa definitely making it a stay to remember.
      For more information visit Jumeirah.com
      Oberoi Al Zorah

      If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, Oberoi Al Zohrah is the perfect staycation to book this weekend. Located just 25 minutes by car from Dubai and set in the midst of nature, Al Zorah feels like a world away from its bustling urban counterpart with pristine natural white sand beaches, forests, lagoons and a biodiversity of 100 species of birds. With minimalist architecture and wide-open spaces, this rejuvenating resort ensures each guest remains at utmost comfort. The resort’s 56 rooms and 33 suites and villas, including both two and three-bedroom private villas with 24-hour private butler service, are flooded with natural light and fantastic garden and sea view. Visitors can dine at the resort’s luxury beachfront restaurant Aquario and other fine-dining spots. Prices start at Dhs2,400 per night with a private garden.
      For more information visit oberoihotels.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image Instagram @burjalarab More

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      6 mental wellness clinics to book a session in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      43 mins ago

      With the high-pressure society we live in, mental health is quite often an overlooked subject.
      To delve into the matter, it’s important to provide an opportunity for people around the world to make mental health care a reality for all.
      As the UAE continues to break the stigma surrounding this, mental health clinics have gained popularity to address factors surrounding depression, fatigue, anxiety, panic attacks and more.
      With the outbreak of COVID-19, several clinics have adapted to Zoom healthcare services, adding a new meaning to virtual sessions, along with in-person sessions as per usual.
      If you, or anyone you’re aware of, might require these services, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the mental health clinics here in Dubai.
      The LightHouse Arabia

      With a team of over 30 psychologists to address different areas in one’s life, The LightHouse Arabia provides high-quality services to help with a wide range of mental health and well-being challenges. From adoption support to psychotherapy, the in-depth sessions make it one of the leading mental health clinics in the UAE. With various events hosted every month, the interactive sessions make it helpful for people to address their problems in a community-driven environment. Located in Villa 1, Al Wasl Road, Al Safa 2, it’s open daily from 8am to 8pm with Fridays being closed.
      For more information visit lighthousearabia.com
      Priory Wellbeing Centre

      Each treatment programme is tailored to the specific needs of each individual ensuring the best possible outcome is achieved. Knowing that everyone has a different pace, the sessions are tailored to each person’s potential in their own time. With a team of professionals, the therapies provide an experience to suit each patient. From cognitive behaviour therapy to individual therapy, the clinic helps everyone to work through their problems and discover more about themselves. Located in Dubai Healthcare City, Block F, it’s open on Sunday and Monday from 8am to 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8am to 6pm and Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, with Fridays being closed.
      For more information visit priorygroup.ae
      Thrive Wellbeing Centre

      In a judgment-free environment, this clinic helps clients accomplish their goals while supporting them in a warm, empathic and seamless manner. Combining the latest research, the professionals know that mental health is just as important as physical health. From parenting support to individual therapy, the expert psychologists support people through a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues and trauma. The clinic also conducts a host of workshops for people together in a group. Located in Saba Tower 1, Cluster E in JLT, it’s open from  Saturday-Thursday: 9am–8pm and Friday: 9am–5pm.
      For more information visit thrive.ae
      Wise Mind Centre

      This clinic is committed to building a sense of community and belonging ensuring that anyone who visits is never treated as an outsider. Creating a confidential space to explore and harbour lasting change, Wise Mind Center ensures its clientele is kept small for quality over quantity. With individual access to each therapist, the services are provided in Arabic, English and Dutch. Located in Lake Central Tower, 1209, Business Bay, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm, except Friday’s are closed.
      For more information visit wisemindcenter.com
      American Wellness Centre

      As the ever-increasing societal pace wears people down, the clinic was born to make the brunt of modern life a lot easier. This multi-specialty clinic ensures every session is carefully tailored as per the customer’s surrounding concerns. From mindfulness training to parenting skills training, both children and adults are looked after in a safe environment with highly qualified experts. Located in Al Faris Building 39, Dubai Healthcare City, it’s open from 8am to 10pm.
      For more information visit americanwellnesscenter.ae
      Camali Clinic

      With a step-by-step guided programme created to address any challenges, the clinic creates a personalised schedule to overcome each obstacle. By identifying the root cause of each patient’s personal challenges, clinically proven counselling sessions provide a holistic approach to addressing its client’s mental health. Various emotional and behavioural issues are addressed with love and support. With two locations, it’s situated in Block A, Ibn Sina building no. 27 in Dubai Healthcare City and Cluster M, HDS Center, in JLT.
      For more information visit camaliclinic.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & feature image: Unsplash @priscilla-du-preez More

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      Temperatures surpasses 50°C in UAE: 4 activities that will help you cool down

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      The scorching summer temperatures in the UAE have reached unprecedented levels, surpassing 50°C for the first time this year.
      On July 16, at 2.45pm, an astonishing temperature of 50.1°C was recorded in Bada Dafas, located in the Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi. This sweltering heatwave extended across the country, with Abu Dhabi city experiencing highs of 48°C, while Dubai reached 46°C in the city and 47.9°C in the desert.

      #أعلى_درجة_حرارة سجلت على الدولة هذا اليوم 50.1 درجة مئوية في بدع دعفس (منطقة الظفرة) الساعة 14:45 بالتوقيت المحلي لدولة الإمارات..#The_highest_temperature recorded over the country today is 50.1°C in Bada Dafas (Al Dhafra Region) at 14:45 UAE Local time. pic.twitter.com/1AeUlDgBsT
      — المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@NCMUAE) July 16, 2023

      When it comes to the hottest month overall in Dubai, extensive data collected by the National Centre of Meteorology & Seismology (NCMS) from 1977 to 2022 reveals that August consistently claims the title. With almost all temperature indicators reaching their peak during this month, it is undeniably the hottest period in Dubai.
      As we’re approaching the hottest month of the year, it’s time to indulge in activities to beat the heat. Here’s the Emirates Woman guide that will help you cool down (literally).

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

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      Istituto Marangoni Dubai becomes first foreign university to gain the CAA Accredation

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      Istituto Marangoni Dubai has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first foreign university specialising in fashion and design to gain accreditation from the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) in the UAE.
      The UAE’s Ministry of Education (MoE) has granted institutional licensure to Istituto Marangoni Dubai, solidifying its position as the first accredited foreign university in the creative fields in the UAE.
      Additionally, the Bachelor of Arts programs offered by Istituto Marangoni Dubai in Fashion Design, Interior Design, Visual Design, and Product Design have successfully completed the program accreditation process and are now listed in the CAA National Register.
      The CAA has awarded Istituto Marangoni a 5-year accreditation for the mentioned Bachelor of Arts degree programs, and the institution is now in the process of launching new Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in Fashion Styling, Fashion Business, Fashion Luxury Brand Management, and Interior Design.
      Istituto Marangoni, a renowned higher education institution, has been dedicated to supporting and nurturing creative talent since 1935. Its Dubai campus, located at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), opened in September 2022, expanding the school’s network of fashion, art, and design schools in Milan, Paris, Florence, London, Mumbai, Miami, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. By combining Italy’s esteemed fashion heritage and craftsmanship with cutting-edge digital technology, the institution focuses on innovation and preparing students to enter the industry.

      Continuously striving to enhance its academic offerings, Istituto Marangoni has achieved a place among the top 100 universities in the world in the field, according to the QS World University Ranking 2023.
      Commenting on the Dubai accreditation, Stefania Valenti, the Managing Director of Istituto Marangoni, expressed her honor and gratitude for this achievement, attributing it to the positive collaboration between the institution and the UAE Ministry of Education. She stated that being recognized as a university further validates their high standards and skilled teaching staff.
      Valenti added that the Bachelor of Arts degree programs at Istituto Marangoni Dubai are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to embrace the opportunities and challenges arising from the growth and prosperity of the UAE economy. The CAA’s accreditation, recognized throughout the Middle East, will enable Istituto Marangoni Dubai to attract more students from both the local and global communities, positioning itself as an appealing hub for future talented professionals in the fashion and design industry. Valenti emphasized that this achievement is only the first step toward more opportunities and projects planned by Istituto Marangoni in the region.
      Roberto La Iacona, the School Director of Istituto Marangoni Dubai, described this as a significant milestone for the institution, solidifying its position as one of the leading educational institutions in the creative disciplines. He emphasized their commitment to maintaining the highest standard of excellence and providing students with the necessary skills to succeed in today’s competitive creative arena.

      In line with the strategic objectives of UAE Vision 2030, Istituto Marangoni Dubai is adapting to the challenging education landscape in the UAE by implementing innovative teaching practices and modern education models.
      Istituto Marangoni Dubai expressed gratitude to the Commission Evaluation Team and external Commissioners for their positive response and feedback. The school reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the academic standards set by the CAA and providing the best learning opportunities for students from the UAE and abroad.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied by Istituto Marangoni Dubai  More

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      7 unique cultural sites to visit in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several spots that mark its rich heritage.
      In Dubai, there are many sites that display the nation’s history and pay homage to where it all began.
      As an ode to the UAE’s long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai.
      Coffee Museum

      Designed to pay homage to the UAE’s coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country’s heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture.
      For more information visit coffeemuseum.ae
      Etihad Museum

      Designed to highlight the nation’s history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE’s archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm.
      For more information visit etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae
      Old Souq

      This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai.
      Hatta Heritage Village

      Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai’s mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature’s beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE’s traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers’ inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway.
      Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding

      Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood.
      For more information visit cultures.ae
      Arabian Tea House

      To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city’s past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.
      For more information visit arabianteahouse.com
      Dubai Museum

      To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch’s base and highlights the history of the UAE.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dubaimuseum More

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      Eid escape: 12 countries with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

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      If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
      While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
      When is Eid Al-Adha?
      Following Arafat Day, Eid Al-Adha will commence on Wednesday, June 28. This joyous celebration honours Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The festivities will span from June 27 to July 1, marking a six-day long weekend for the private sector.
      Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
      Georgia

      All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Armenia

      With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Azerbaijan

      Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
      Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Japan

      If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
      Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
      For the latest visa requirements visit here.
      Maldives

      For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Seychelles

      With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Nepal

      Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Serbia

      For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
      Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Indonesia

      With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
      Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Mauritius

      Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
      Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Sri Lanka

      All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Thailand

      All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
      Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @aatras More

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      6 of Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum’s most memorable equestrian moments

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      43 mins ago

      It’s no secret the UAE royals have an affinity for horses and Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum is no exemption.
      As the niece of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikha Latifah has been raised with a passion for horses. So much so, that she has carved herself a successful career in the equestrian space.
      From showjumping to polo, this royal has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. As a three-time UAE national champion and Olympic-level show jumper, sports has always been at the forefront of her career.
      To champion all her sporting equestrian moments, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all her most inspiring moments surrounding horses.
      A powerful Emirates Woman cover star

      For September’s – The Power Issue, Sheikha Latifah shared what it takes to keep her mind in champion mode. Shot at the Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club, our cover star is seen in her truest form as she’s captured focusing on a passion, that she’s most proud of.
      Sharing a touching story with her horse Fattaan

      Sheikha Latifah shared a heartfelt post expressing how she felt towards her five-year-old horse Fattaan. She touched upon details of how he’s improved over time despite not completing a show that season. In the caption of the post, she said, “Give the horses the time they need and they will tell you when they are ready.” Her empathy and connection with horses can clearly be depicted through the post.
      Tasting success at the nation’s cup

      With hours of rigorous training and persistence, this royal rider participated in a showjumping event in February 2019 at the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation. As a true leader, she shared a post thanking the entire team for their support and commitment to making this event a success including the Saudi Arabian Olympic showjumper, Ramzy Al Duhami, who was also her trainer.
      Making history at the Beijing Olympics 2008

      Making history for women in the region, Sheikha Latifah took sports representation to new heights in 2008 when she became the first woman to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics. With it being the highlight of her career at only 22 years old, she trained hard to make a mark in the competition. Having started showjumping at a high level only one year prior to the competition, she surely made the UAE proud.
      Her first international competition

      With an upward career trajectory since then, this royal has proved that no challenge is hard enough for her. In 2006, she made it to the international stage at the Asian Games with participants from all around the globe. Held in Qatar, she participated as a member of the UAE team, taking her passion for endurance racing to a global level. Without any expectations, she brought back the bronze medal, and return to the UAE with a token of her hard work. Without limiting herself to just one Asian Games event, she made it to four later on.
      Her first taste of success

      Back in 2003, Sheikh Latifah got her first taste of triumph at the UAE Showjumping Championship when she was only 18 years old on a national level.
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