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    Find out where the UAE ranks in the latest 2023 passport index

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    With travel back on everyone’s mind, visiting visa-free destinations has become of utmost importance.
    Per Henley’s 2023 Passport Index, UAE passport holders can access 178 out of 228 countries either without a visa or visa on arrival.
    As a mirror of the country’s day-by-day advancements and awe-inspiring progress, the visa-free travel option with this passport promotes freedom of movement to many countries around the world without any added hassle. The index overall compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations.
    According to the latest data released, it shows that the country has made remarkable progress since 2006 when it then ranked 62nd on the index. With its commendable leap, the UAE continues to remain the strongest in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
    At the bottom of the ranking is Afghanistan with 27 visa-free destinations, followed by Iraq with 29 destinations and Syria with a score of 30. The other countries on the list are Pakistan at 32 destinations, Yemen at 34, Somalia at 35, Nepal at 38 destinations and North Korea at 40 destinations.
    The most powerful passports in the world
    1. Japan2. Singapore and South Korea3. Germany and Spain4. Finland, Italy and Luxembourg5. Austria, Denmark, Netherlands and Sweden6. France, Ireland, Portugal and the UK7. Belgium, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and the US8. Australia, Canada, Malta and Greece9. Hungary and Poland10. Lithuania and Slovakia11. Latvia and Slovenia12. Estonia13. Iceland14. Malaysia15. Liechtenstein and the UAE
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    Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz to find out now…

    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.
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    7 glamping spots to book in the UAE for a premium escape

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Looking for a quick cityscape? Your staycation experience in the UAE is about to get a whole lot more luxurious.
    For a big city detox, the UAE is home to a myriad of unique glamping spots that undoubtedly offer the best of both worlds. With scenic views of nature accompanied by utmost comfort, this bespoke staycation is an experience you simply can’t miss out on.
    So, if you’re ready to pack your bags this winter, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the must-visit glamping spots for a getaway with your loved ones.
    Mysk Moon Retreat, Sharjah

    Discover a stay under serene skies and stunning surroundings with a dome or tent of choice. Developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the eco-friendly destination will be the ideal place for a unique overnight stay. This experience comes fully equipped with private pools and a majority of lodgings to choose from. As for activities, guests can enjoy stargazing at night and during the day hikes through the incredible landscapes of Mleiha or visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Prices start at Dhs1,350 inclusive of breakfast with pristine mountain views.
    For more information visit myskhotels.com
    Sedr Trailers at Hatta Resorts

    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
    Pura Eco Retreat, Abu Dhabi

    For a complete wellness experience, this bespoke retreat lies in the heart of Jubail Mangrove Park with several activities such as kayaking, waterslides and yoga sessions surrounding nature. There are also several options for your camping experience, such as individual camping, serviced camping, and luxury camping. With minimalist chic domes with neutral hues and a hands-on active camping experience in the tents, guests can wander amid nature in utmost tranquility. The domes with breakfast start at Dhs1,750 for the packages and are not to be missed out on.
    For more information visit staypura.com
    Longbeach Campground, RAK

    This is the perfect getaway to get close to nature with various recreational facilities such as beach yoga, sea view aerobics, kite flying and exhilarating water sports. If you’re looking for a fun-filled camp, kids will be far from bored with all the host of onboard activities for them to try out during the stay. There’s also a pleasant site of farm animals for kids to interact with at the petting zoo. Starting at Dhs249 for the authentic deluxe tent with a comfortable setting, this will make the perfect home for your next camping trip in Ras Al Khaimah.
    For more information visit bmhotelsresorts.com
    Bedouin Oasis, RAK

    You can live like a bedouin for a day with luxury in the middle of nowhere with thrilling desert experiences, and traditional hospitality at its best all set in the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah with a traditional style setting offering a host of exciting activities as you witness a touch of the Arabian culture with beautiful landscapes on the trip starting at Dhs750 for three adults.For more information visit bedouinoasis.org
    Banan Beach, RAK

    If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy glamping spot, Banan Beach effortlessly transports all its guests to Greece. With infinity pools, bars and enchanting views of nature, this venue should definitely be on your list this season. Starting at Dhs650 for a tent, guests can prolong their stay for more than two nights for the ultimate escape.
    Starlight Camp, Dubai

    This unique glamping destination is found 45 minutes from Dubai. Designed only for one couple at a time, the dome comes with a crystal roof and a relaxing four-poster queen size bed as well as outdoor dining space, so you can tuck into an inclusive breakfast while admiring the surroundings with utmost comfort. At the venue, guests can prepare their own stargazing feasts with the BBQ facilities provided to dine in style. Starting at Dhs 2,400, this one-of-a-kind experience comes fully equipped with onboard amenities.
    For more information visit starlight-camp.com
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    6 places in the UAE for an unforgettable horse riding experience

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    58 mins ago

    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.
    So, get your equestrian hat on to enjoy the outdoors and experience nature at its finest.
    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, especially now.
    Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

    With a state-of-the-art polo and equestrian community located in Dubailand, with over six million square feet of land, it consists of four world-class polo fields, a polo academy, a riding school with a dedicated riding aren’t emulating that Andalusian elegance with an oasis of excellence and uncompromising luxury. The instructors help fine-tune your skills with the well-schooled horses as it operates from Sunday to Saturday, 6am to 12am. Prices start at Dhs240 for beginners in a group setting and Dhs475 for a private beginners class.
    For more information visit poloclubdubai.com
    JA Equestrian centre

    Featuring its own air-conditioned stables with a vast expanse at JA, The Resort. This wonderful place for horse riding in the UAE provides expert qualified instructors for both experts and beginners in a fully-equipped schooling environment where regular riders can venture out and enjoy the natural desert environment, making it available all year round. The stables operate from 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm.
    For more information visit jaresortshotels.com
    Dubai City stable

     
    This family-friendly oasis located in Umm Sequim district, being only 10 minutes from Dubai’s Downtown area is perfectly suited for city residents who are either trained or wish to begin their horse riding journey as this stable is truly the perfect point for all horse desert adventures as they offer both private and group tuition for beginners through various events too. Starting at Dhs190 for 45 minutes, this place is definitely one to visit.
    For more information visit dubaicitystable.com 
    Sharjah Equestrian and Racing club

    Being one of the first equestrian clubs in the UAE established under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, this riding club is located on Al Dhaid Road. It’s home to one of the largest indoor riding facilities in the Middle East ensuring that its well equipped with qualified trainers and riding instructors who have advanced their technical skills. The riding school is closed on Tuesday and is open from morning 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
    For more information visit serc.ae
    Emirates Equestrian centre

    Whether you’re interested in horse riding or simply wish to experience a tranquil equine desert escape, riders of all levels are welcome and also have the opportunity to learn about show jumping, dressage, eventing, join the pony club or visit the riding school. With fully qualified instructors being able to answer your queries, polo events also take place for you to simply visit. The lesson hours are available from 7am to 11am and 4pm to 7pm and is located on Al-Ain Road, Dubai.
    For more information visit emiratesequestriancentre.com
    Al Wadi Equestrian Centre
    Located at the Ritz Carlton resort Al Wadi in Ras Al Khaimah, this equestrian centre offers lessons and experiences for guests of all ages and skill levels. Group and private lessons are available for experienced and beginner riders, including children. Spacious paddocks and a horse-walking arena are among the facilities.
    For more information visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/

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    UAE to ban single-use plastic bags from 2024

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    By making a conscious effort to protect the environment, the UAE will ban the production and circulation of single-use plastic shopping bags from January 1, 2024.
    As per the state news agency WAM, the resolution prohibits the import, production and circulation of single-use plastic shopping bags from next year.
    Additionally, the government has told authorities, retailers, suppliers and consumers to prepare “suitable, sustainable and multi-use alternatives in all shopping stores, retail stores and sales outlets on a permanent basis,” as reported by the agency.
    A rule has already been implemented in Dubai since last summer for a nominal 25 fils charge on plastic bags in Dubai on plastic bags with most plastic bags banned in Abu Dhabi since last year.
    In order to ensure, certain produce remains fresh, thin bag rolls will be excluded from this decision and will require a clear label in order to proceed with in the future. Other bags made with recycled materials shall also be exempted from the rule.
    Without limiting to plastic bags, the UAE will also ban plastic products such as cups, plates, cutlery, containers, straws, stirrers and boxes from January 1, 2026.
    With four emirates having already regulated the use of plastic and announcing bans, others will soon become part of the vision to follow sustainable practices and for the UAE’s pledge to reach net zero by 2050 was a first for the MENA region.
    Looking for plastic bag alternatives? Swipe through our full edit below

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    Reset with the region’s first fully integrated wellness experience

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    How the founder of ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort, Ameer Said has created an immersive wellness experience with a holistic approach in the UAE.
    Talk us through your career.
    I built my career in corporate business development, working for renowned Saudi companies including Saudi Binladen Group and SOOJ International for Development of Economic Cities. I took everything I built throughout my 30 years of experience and focused it on my passion – health and wellness.
    ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort is the region’s first fully integrated experience. What inspired you to launch it?
    After losing my wife and sister to a long battle with cancer and witnessing my mother’s suffering and struggles to perform daily functions in her last years, I recognised the need for prevention over cure. Hence, ZOYA was born out of a determination to address the ailments of the modern world, and to create a special place that protects, nourishes, and invigorates the mind, body, and soul.

    The retreat has a 360-degree focus on the body, mind and soul. Why was it important to incorporate all three?
    The journey towards peace, balance, and rejuvenation comes with focusing on all elements of our being. Unfortunately, we are always more focused on physical health and well-being and tend to forget that without a healthy mind and soul, we cannot transcend into a state of wellness. At ZOYA, we combine unique cutting-edge medical science, physiotherapy, conscious nutrition, and the latest advances in aesthetics to nourish the body and invigorate the mind. Our methods are non-toxic, non-invasive, drug-free, integrative, and holistic – we offer various treatments to create bespoke well-being retreat journeys.
    Oxygen therapy sessions are growing in popularity – tell us more.
    Oxygen therapy is an all-natural treatment that facilitates and optimises the oxygen utilisation of cells and tissues. It improves circulation and reduces heart rate while enhancing physical performance. It also regulates the autonomic nervous system, helps maintain the shorter resting pulse, and aids recovery after exertion by reducing lactic acid build-up. These treatments help with muscle tension, accelerate the healing of wounds and injuries, skin rejuvenation for younger-looking skin, and improve mental wellbeing by boosting relaxation and balance. Our goal is health optimisation; therefore, we offer oxygen therapy sessions as part of all our retreat programmes, where a dedicated team of medical and wellbeing experts will guide guests and provide them with the best-personalised programmes for their healing journey after a detailed health assessment.
    How does medical wellness seamlessly fit into this wellness retreat?
    Medical wellness is infused within our guest journey. Guests’ experience at ZOYA starts with a doctor’s consultation, diagnostics, a detailed wellness consultation, and a nutrition plan selection based on each guest’s needs and requirements to ultimately create a personalised weekly programme to achieve optimal levels of physical and mental wellbeing. We believe that tangible health and wellbeing require knowledge and expertise. At ZOYA, we have a team of professional specialists, from visionaries to doctors, and therapists, who combine their expertise to create individually customised well-being plans suitable for everyone.
    The resort offers a therapeutic culinary experience – can you elaborate on this?
    ZOYA offers various holistic therapeutic fasting, calorie control, detox, and vegan meal plans based on proven benefits, that look beyond the body to provide support and everlasting benefits for the mind and spirit. We only use organic, fresh, and seasonal ingredients at our wellness restaurant and juice bar, where we have adopted a strict clean food policy that turns superb ingredients into therapeutic meals and fine-dining experiences.
    For those planning their first-ever wellness retreat, what tips would you recommend to prepare for the experience?
    Come with trust and an open mind. Our goal is to ensure that our guests leave our resort relaxed, balanced, and rejuvenated with the expert guidance of our health professionals. We have designed our retreat programmes to aid guests in protecting, nourishing, and invigorating their minds, bodies, and souls. While a one-time visit will definitely help, we do recommend that our guests make a habit of wellness visits in order to commit to their wellbeing and transform their lives.
    How has COVID-19 affected the wellness industry on a larger scale?
    Following the COVID-19 pandemic, overall patterns have changed significantly, bringing health and wellness to the majority of people’s top of minds, regardless of their health conditions. This has resulted in the need to maintain physical and mental well-being, driving people to seek holistic approaches to health, which in turn will only continue to boost the global wellness tourism market. With that being said, the wellness industry is vast, consisting of quite diverse offerings, from spiritual to physical practices to improve overall health and well-being. It was important for our resort to position itself as a leader in the wellness space in the region to offer a unique and holistic approach to mind and body rejuvenation, offering only the best retreat programmes curated by experts and professionals in the field with a proven track record.
    Has the need for well-being retreats grown in the Middle East in the last few years?
    Most definitely, the wellbeing retreats were definitely pushed even further following the effects of the pandemic. From launching ZOYA earlier this year, we have seen a huge demand from the GCC and wider Middle East to experience our offering and begin regularly invest- ing in improving their physical and mental health and wellbeing. We are anticipating continued growth and traction both from the regional and international markets.

    This is The Reset Issue – what’s your advice for our readers to reset in 2023?
    As the region’s first fully integrated wellness experience, we urge everyone reading to try and always place physical and mental health and wellbeing at the top of their minds to invest in their health. With our busy schedules and unhealthy routines and habits, our health is often disregarded and neglected. At ZOYA, we put a huge focus on prevention over the cure to avoid the need for medication and assistance throughout varying stages of life, and we hope that we are able to successfully create a space that inspires continuous exploration of self and promotes a wellness- led lifestyle for all ages.
    January’s – The Reset Issue – Download Now 
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    In pics: Sheikha Mahra shows us how to spend time outdoors this month

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    17 mins ago

    As the weather cools down, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum spends time to make the most of the winter season this month.
    Shared to her official Instagram page, the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, poses with her mother in a series of images seen on her feed.
    From taking selfies at one of Dubai’s most aesthetic spots, Miracle Garden and capturing the moment at Hatta, the duo is all smiles in every image shared for her fans.
    Sheikha Mahra is an admired philanthropist who is often seen celebrating the local talent of this region. Known for visiting several openings and attending new launches in the UAE, including the Icons exhibitions, Sheikha Mahra plays a pivotal role in uplifting women in the region including upcoming entrepreneurs, fashion designers and leading philanthropists.
    To take a break from her busy schedule, this royal is seen spending quality time by visiting several iconic spots around Dubai.
    Swipe through the gallery of new portraits shared on her feed.

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    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    Dubai’s LPM Restaurant & Bar becomes the first to introduce a four-day workweek

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    39 mins ago

    With the restaurant business known for its tedious long hours, LPM Restaurant & Bar has taken the first step to bring about changes in the industry.
    As a means to improve world culture, this fine-dining haven has introduced a permanent four-day working week for staff without salaries being lowered, making this a revolutionary shift in the hospitality sector.

    The official shift was confirmed by Bloomberg with LPM’s regional chief who emphasised on the importance of making the hospitality sector a more inviting place to work.
    Per the latest schedule, the three-day weekend will be given to front-and back-of-house staff and operational staff will continue to remain on a five-day working week for now at the same salary in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
    After opening in 2010, this restaurant has established itself with immaculate attention to detail from its interiors to each and every dish. Inspired by the French Riveria, the restaurant uses the finest ingredients and had recently undergone refurbishment to open just in time for the 2022 festive season with its classic selection of sought-after dishes.

    By taking a bold new step, LPM plans to introduce this new working hours system to other locations in the region.
    This must-visit haven is located at Gate Village 8, DIFC and is open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3:30pm, Saturday to Sunday 12:30pm to 4pm and daily from 6pm to 11:30pm.
    For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
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    Images: Instagram @lpmdubai More