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      UAE’s public holidays confirmed for 2023

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      44 mins ago

      As residents gear up for the last public holidays of 2022, it’s time to mark your calendars with all the upcoming public holidays in 2023.
      If you’re looking to plan for next year in advance, the UAE cabinet has approved the official holidays for the UAE’s public and private sectors for 2023 to ensure employees of both sectors have equal time off.
      Below, Emirates Woman outlines the official public holidays in the UAE for 2023.
      New Year’s Day
      There will be an official holiday to mark the first day of the calendar year – January 1, 2023.
      Eid Al Fitr
      The first day of Ramadan is predicted to fall around March 22, 2023, in the Gregorian calendar. The UAE cabinet confirmed Eid Al Fitr will be from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3. Per the Gregorian calendar, this will likely be from April 20 to April 23, 2023 with dates subject to the moon sighting.
      Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha
      A couple of months after Eid Al Fitr, the UAE will observe another public holiday, Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha will be from Dhul Hijjah 9 to Dhul Hijjah 12. This could potentially be a six-day break, making it the longest holiday next year from Tuesday, June 27 to Friday, June 30.
      Hijri New Year
      Hijiri or Islamic New Year falls on will fall on July 21, 2023, which will mean a three-day weekend for UAE citizens and residents.
      Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday
      The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday will fall on the 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal, which will be September 29, 2023. This is a Friday, so it could be a three-day weekend for residents.
      Commemoration Day and National Day
      To close out 2023, those in the UAE will have another break to look forward to with Commemoration Day, December 1, and National Day, December 2 and December 3.

      #مجلس_الوزراء يعتمد أجندة العطلات الرسمية للعاملين في القطاعين الحكومي والخاص للعام 2023 pic.twitter.com/mgZiXfbaby
      — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) November 27, 2022

      As always, the final and official dates and public holiday eligibility for public sector employees and private sector employees are always determined by UAE authorities.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @dubai, Feature Image: @rjal_alfalahi More

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      Here’s your last chance to book a spot at Dubai’s coolest party of the year

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      50 mins ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: Now the cooler weather has arrived in the UAE, we’re spoilt for choice of things to do on the weekend. However, this Sunday, we’ve got your plans sorted for you.
      Spend this weekend soaking up the sun at Twiggy Dubai in the company of DJ Valeron – but you’ll need to book in fast as spots are filling up!
      Known for his legendary live performances in party hotspot Mykonos, the world-renowned DJ will take to the decks in the emirate on November 27, 2022, at the luxe beach club at the Park Hyatt Dubai.
      With Provence-inspired decor with pastel and cream hues and touches of rattan, party the day away with your nearest and dearest.

      Opt for one of the beach club’s luxe loungers priced at Dhs350 per guest.
      For bigger groups the lounge packages are ideal – the Gold Lounge includes up to six guests, priced at Dhs6,000; the Platinum Lounge includes up to six guests, priced at Dhs8,000; and the VIP Lounge includes up to eight guests, priced at Dhs10,000. All of these packages are redeemable on F&B.
      Dine poolside as you listen to DJ Valeron hit the decks playing a plethora of club hits. With a menu curated by the expertise of Chef Fabio Luz, indulge in an array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes from the classic burrata to a refreshing lentil salad to royal prawns to black truffle pizza.
      For more information visit twiggy.ae, contact +97146021105 or book@twiggy.ae. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Watch: This video proves Sheikh Hamdan is the most humble royal

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      With the Dubai Fitness Challenge in full swing, Dubai’s Crown Prince, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum led the world’s largest fun run with total humility.
      Seen stretching and exercising before the Dubai Run, Sheikh Hamdan led the way at the most anticipated fitness event of the year on Sheikh Zayed road, which turned into a running track for athletes, UAE residents and tourists.
      A host of fitness enthusiasts spoke about the delight of running next to Dubai’s Crown Prince on Sheikh Zayed Road, with some recalling His Highness “shook our hands and waved at us”.
      Fazza shared a series of photos on his Instagram page with the caption, “More than 193,000 ran together – thank you #Dubai.”

      Post-event His Highness shared his gratitude for all those who turned out for the Dubai Run saying he was “moved by the strength of our community and seeing what we can achieve when we work together”.
      As a myriad of fitness enthusiasts of all ages, skills and abilities participated in the 5-kilometre run where he shook hands with runners and smiled at others.

      The exhilarating run spanned across two main routes of 5km and 10km, each of which went through the Dubai Canal, Dubai World Trade Centre, Museum of the Future and other prominent landmarks.
      Designed to transform the emirate into one of the most active cities, Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is an initiative that has always focused on. Through a month of all-inclusive, free fitness events and other leading fitness challenges, Fazza ensures the UAE continues to succeed in this path.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @faz3 More

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      UAE National Day 2022: 7 heritage sites to visit in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      59 mins ago

      After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several spots that mark its rich heritage.
      This year on December 2, 2022, the UAE will celebrate 51 years since its unification and there are many sites that display the nation’s history.
      As a homage 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 @abusaif4446 More

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      UAE confirms public holiday dates for Commemoration Day and National Day

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      35 mins ago

      The UAE cabinet has confirmed the public holiday dates Commemoration Day and National Day this year.
      It was announced via state news agency WAM that the public holiday will commence on Thursday, December 1 and will be observed through to Saturday, December 3, with work set to resume on Monday, December 5.
      December 1 will mark Commemoration Day, which was previously known as Martyrs’ Day. The day is held in remembrance of those who served as members of the UAE armed forces and gave their lives to their country in service.

      #UAE Cabinet approves holidays of the Commemoration Day and the #UAENationalDay51 for 2022.#WamNews pic.twitter.com/Jl3FE47Xfp
      — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) November 17, 2022

      The following day, December 2, is UAE National Day which marks the unification of the seven emirates and the creation of the UAE as a nation. This year the UAE will celebrate its 51st National Day.
      While it is presumed both the public and private sectors will have the same number of days off to mark Commemoration Day and National Day, it remains to be confirmed by relevant authorities.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Instagram @dubai.uae.dxb More

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      Where to buy your Christmas tree in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      55 mins ago

      The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching (six weeks and counting…).
      With that, now is the time to start thinking about decorations and the most important of them all… your tree.
      Luckily, there’s plenty of places in the UAE where you can buy the perfect tree to celebrate the festive season with your loved ones.
      Real Trees
      Ferns N Petals

      If you’re looking to decorate a real Christmas tree before Santa’s arrival Ferns N Petals has the ideal option – a five-foot tree coming complete with decorations. Priced at Dhs999, this option just made Christmas time a whole lot easier.
      To purchase visit fnp.ae
      Bloombox

      Grown in Billund Denmark, this Danish Nordman tree from Bloombox is approximately six to seven feet and priced at Dhs740.
      To purchase visit bloombox.ae
      ACE Hardware

      One of the most affordable options for a real Christmas tree is from Ace Hardware. Currently, the UAE-based store has ‘Fraser Fir Fresh’ Christmas trees available with prices starting at Dhs399.
      To purchase visit aceuae.com
      Kibsons

      The Nordmann Fir Christmas Trees are sourced from sustainable farms in Denmark. While being pet-friendly this 5ft tree has a classic shape with dark green glossy needles making it much more resilient to heat while giving off a fresh, clean, citrus smell too and is priced at Dhs245.
      Pre-order on kibsons.com
      Fake/Faux Trees
      Crate & Barrel ME

      Want a real tree but don’t want the hassle of the upkeep? This artificial tree from Crate & Barrel offers some of the most real-looking trees. With this 6ft Abies Nordmann Deluxe Xmas Tree you won’t be able to tell the difference.
      Bloomingdale’s

      This artificial Christmas tree comes with exotic branches and luxe LED lights for the ultimate seasonal décor and is priced at Dhs2,200. All the ornaments to complement the tree can be availed at this popular e-commerce platform too.
      To purchase visit bloomingdales.ae
      Irony Home

      Looking to celebrate Christmas in style and go all out? Well, Irony Home should be your go-to place for all things festive in Dubai. Priced at Dhs10,450, this 9.5ft pre-lit white tree with 1250 LED lights will make for a truly luxe Christmas.
      To purchase visit ironyhome.com. 
      West Elm

      Designed for a realistic feel, this simple tree can be spruced by adding your favourite lights and pieces to ring in the festive season. Priced at Dhs2,650, the faux unlit tree is 9ft and is generously created with all its branches.
      To purchase visit westelm.ae
      Dragon Mart

      If you’re on more of a budget, opt for this artificial Christmas tree from Dragon Mart. Priced at Dhs135, this 6ft Christmas tree adds to the vibrancy in any home with its clever design.
      To purchase visit dragonmart.ae
      Home Centre

      This faux Christmas tree from Home Centre is decorated with berries and cones to ensure a classic finish to be reused every year. Priced at Dhs499, this tree is 6ft in height.
      Available for purchase on homecentre.com
      Home Box

      This Alaska Christmas Pine Hook Tree is designed for easy maintenance and utmost convenience to add to the festive season in any home. Made with good durability, it’s priced at Dhs299.
      To purchase visit homeboxstores.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out…

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a new tool has officially been launched to check your eligibility for the same.
      Through a short quick quiz available on the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, users can answer a few questions relating to their contribution to the country’s economy and additionally find out more about the supporting documents needed for each criteria.
      After first being implemented in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa residency programme was introduced as a means for expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years without the need for a sponsor.

      Several talented individuals such as Chef Izu, content creators Ola Farahat and Karen Wazen, actor Shah Rukh Khan and others have already been granted this visa after their notable achievements within the industry and beyond.
      With immense benefits for Golden Visa holders, the visas extend to immediate family members to ensure expats can keep their members can keep their family members live in the country hassle-free.
      Eligibility
      So, are you eligible for a Golden Visa? The UAE government has made it easy to see if you are with a two-minute quiz which you can take here.
      Below, we’ve also outlined the key players who are eligible for the Golden Visa.
      Entrepreneurs
      With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
      Real estate investors
      The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
      ‘Exceptional talents’
      The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
      Scientists & researchers
      Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
      Outstanding students
      Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
      Skilled workers
      Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
      How to apply once eligible?
      Eligible candidates will need to follow the six-step process via the Dubai Smart Application after downloading the GDRFA application, then create a new user account, select the required service, follow the attachment of the required documents, pay the fees and ultimately submit the request.
      Candidates can also apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa through AMER Center, if they wish to physically submit the documents and make the payment.
      If you think you’re a potential candidate to receive a Golden Visa, take this two minutes quiz on smartservices.icp.gov.ae to find out your eligibility.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @Dubai More

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      7 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
      From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
      To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
      Book an alfresco dining experience

      It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
      Try a glamping experience

      If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
      For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
      Visit this famed desert café

      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
      Hone your equestrian skills

      From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
      Swing your best shot

      For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
      For more information visit topgolf.ae
      Go ziplining

      Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
      It’s time to trek

      Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
      To make a booking head to visithatta.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More