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    National Day 2022: The ultimate weekend guide in the UAE

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Your ultimate guide to this weekend in the UAE – November 30 to December 4, 2022.
    Visit this exclusive Prada pop-up

    For the festive season, Prada has launched an exclusive holiday pop-up collection with a selection of bags and accessories at The Dubai Mall, Fashion Catwalk just in time for the season. With five traditional stalls and an evocative space reminiscent of the brand’s holiday market, visitors can experience the sparkling collection first-hand and even add their favourite pieces to their wardrobes. Open until December 12, 2022, this pop-up features a highly sought-after collection of bags, accessories and gifting ideas.
    Dine at this chic haven

    One of the most beloved restaurants in Dubai has officially opened in a new area of the emirate. Couqley Bistro & Bar first came to the UAE from the shores of Beirut in 2016 firmly cementing itself as a hotspot in JLT. Now, six years on, the restaurant has added a second location to its roster on the opposite end of the city in Business Bay. The Couqley French Brasserie has opened its doors in the Pullman Hotel, adding to the ever-growing dining scene in Downtown Dubai. The Business Bay venue will also be serving up the same weekly dining deals allowing diners to indulge in Couqley’s Business Lunch, Steak Frites Mondays and Ladies Night.
    For more information visit couqley.ae
    Pamper yourself

    Your nails have the definitive power to make or break a look, and that’s why it’s so important to take care of them. Whether you’re looking for the perfect nude for business hours or something a bit more quirky for this vacation, we’ve got you sorted. With several nail experts around Dubai, Emirates Woman has curated a guide for all the ones to visit for an indulgent experience.
    Gift your loves ones

    To mark December 2nd with family gatherings and the exchange of presents, we’ve narrowed down the list of items you can get for your friends and family to make the National Day shopping easy. From perfumes to sophisticated bags produced by homegrown brands, there are a plethora of gifts to suit everyone’s desires this year. For those nostalgic presents, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all our favourite gifts to enjoy with your loved ones.
    Watch the fireworks

    The UAE’s capital is set to glisten with an alluring firework display for the upcoming National Day celebrations. From Al Maryah Island to Emirates Palace, each venue will showcase a dramatic firework show with an all-in-one entertainment experience. So, if you’re in Abu Dhabi this weekend or plan on visiting, read our exclusive guide with the best places to see the fireworks.
    Unwind at a coffee shop

    If there’s one thing Dubai isn’t short of, it’s all the cafés that allow one to refresh in. From getting your daily caffeine fix to embracing a café with minimal interiors, there are plenty of options that offer both. From The Grey to Alchemy, each minimal space offers a revolutionised coffee experience with unique brewing techniques. For adding to your list of must-visit cafés, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to where you need to go next.
    Spend it outdoors

    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. Whether it’s an alfresco dining experience or an early sunrise trek, there are endless possibilities of activities to tick off your list over the long weekend. 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.
    Experience this street-style brunch

    Anantara Downtown is set to host you this weekend at their latest Street Art Brunch in Nine7One Courtyard in the heart of Dubai. With an explosion of culinary flavours from different parts of the world, guests can enjoy a delightful range of dishes ranging from empanadas to fresh vongole from the pasta station. With a diverse selection of dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For an elevated street-style experience, DJ Yana ensure all guests are entertained with the latest tunes. The packages start at Dhs295 per person for the soft beverages, Dhs395 for house beverages and Dhs450 for the house beverages package from 1pm to 4pm every Saturday.
    For more information visit Anantara.com
    Dine alfresco

    There’s nothing like dining outdoors with the scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures exceptional services accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. With Instagrammable-worthy spots and DJs playing your favourite tunes, there are several popular hotspots to experience in Dubai. For your next outdoor outing, Emirates Woman has created a luxe guide on where to book ASAP.
    Take a break at this staycation

    Sometimes all you need is a little escape. Spend the long weekend at 25 hours Hotel One Central with your loved ones in the heart of Dubai with a special discount. From November 30 to December 4, 2022, guests can receive upto 40 percent off the room rate with complimentary breakfast at this one-of-a-kind spot. With a host of facilities and dining venues such as Tandoor Tina, Monkey Bar and more, visitors will be spoiled for choice this weekend. The offer is subject to availability and can be booked in advance.
    For more information visit 25hours-hotels.com
    Bring on the World Cup fever

    With Dubai in full swing for the World Cup and you haven’t been able to get a hold of a ticket to witness the live-action in Qatar, we have the perfect solution for you. Whether you will be hardcore watching every game, supporting your favourite team, or just wanting to join the festivities. The energy will undoubtedly be undeniable as we witness this landmark in the Middle East and football history. For which spots to visit, Emirates Man lists the top places where to watch the World Cup in Dubai.
    Visit a heritage site

    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, we’ve created a guide of seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai.
    Go on this nostalgic tour

    To explore the roots of the emirate, Rove Hotels in collaboration with Project Chaiwala and Frying Pan Adventures will be launching an exclusive food and walking tour in Old Dubai. Those joining the tour will start their experience at Rove City Centre, where they’ll enjoy a cup of steaming hot Karak brewed by Project Chaiwala, and then leave the hotel to explore some of the more unknown spots in the city to explore the hidden gems and rediscover the city’s love for tea. This exclusive tour will take place on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 8:45am to 11:45am and 11:45am to 1:45pm for Dhs125 per person.
    For more information visit fryingpanadventures.com
    Pick up our December Issue

    For our cover, we are proud to have partnered with global skin guru Dr. Barbara Sturm. In The Skin Superwoman, we discuss what it takes to build and scale without compromising on quality. Sturm is everything you would expect from a powerhouse who has built a brand from the ground up, with laser-sharp attention to detail and second-to-none wit that reflects deep-rooted intelligence. In this issue, we get you ready for party season to close out 2022 and look at taking a break in climates both hot and cold. Soft Touch compiles an edit of the best tactile textures for FW22, The Edit delivers the coolest attire for a vacation en piste and Alanui shows us how to look cool while staying cosy in Après-Ski Attire.
    You can download December’s – The Winter Escape Issue here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @beeoncloud9 More

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    UAE National Day 2022: Where to watch the fireworks in Abu Dhabi

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s capital is set to glisten with an alluring firework display for the upcoming National Day celebrations.
    So, if you’re in Abu Dhabi this weekend or plan on visiting, here’s the best places to see the fireworks.
    Al Maryah Island

    As a depiction of the UAE flag, a special red, green, black and white fireworks display will take place on December 2 and 3, to mark the UAE’s 51st National Day. While watching this spectacular show, customers can try out a variety of restaurants on the stretch including 99 Sushi, Bentley Kitchen and more at The Promenade.
    For more information visit almaryahisland.ae
    Emirates Palace

    This luxurious property will showcase a dramatic firework display to elevate the celebrations for all its guests. By taking guests on an exhilarating culinary adventure with afternoon teas priced at Dhs485 for two and a family picnic starting at Dhs350 in the lush gardens, making it the ideal venue to witness the remarkable air show and fireworks display. For a closer view, guests can experience a special five-course meal at Martabaan accompanied by a dramatic firework show.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Yas Island

    This all-in-one entertainment destination featuring Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World and more will present a spectacular firework display on December 2, 2022, at 9pm. To further celebrate the occasion, visitors can pose against the UAE flag backdrop at Ferrari World and learn more about Emirati culture and experience a host of other activities such as face painting and henna.
    For more information visit yasisland.ae
    Yas Bay

    After opening in 2021, this iconic venue has been known to present spectacular shows at this waterfront destination. This one-of-a-kind island will showcase spectacular shows over multiple days along with dedicated entertainment for National Day from December 1 to 3 and a leading display igniting the sky on Friday, December 2, from 9pm onwards.
    For more information visit yasbay.ae
    Sheikh Zayed Festival

    After breaking multiple World Records for their NYE celebrations, the audience can witness an extravagant kaleidoscopic extravagant display on both December 2 and 3, starting from 4pm onwards. With a host of weekly shows taking place during the four-month long at Al Wathba festival.
    Bawabat Al Sharq Mall

    With a myriad of activations taking place, visitors can participate in all the carnival fairs, arts and crafts workshops and a shop-to-win promotion raffle prize to potentially win a Lincoln Nautilus SUV. On December 2 at 9pm sharp, visitors can witness the magnificent firework display to celebrate the occasion.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    UAE’s public holidays confirmed for 2023

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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