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    Meet Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of pioneering UAE concept NOT a SPACE

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of NOT a SPACE, discusses cultivating communities through creativity throughout the UAE.
    The Story
    A graduate of the American University of Sharjah, UAE, I’m an Emirati serial entrepreneur and co-founder of NOT a SPACE, alongside other side ventures. As an explorer of life, I never intended to become an entrepreneur but I always had the fire in me to take risks. Venturing into my first business, a day spa that was built in 2011, was the biggest risk at only 21 years old. It was hard for me at the beginning with sleepless nights and limited resources but eventually, it all fell into place when you put the hard work into it. Now, I’m creating more spaces and taking more risks has become an addiction and I’m loving it. I believe everyone has a purpose in life and when you connect with that love, that’s when the magic unfolds.

    The Concept
    NOT a SPACE was launched in 2019 right before the pandemic hit with a focus on creating a community to work and play, eat and shop, and get groomed. A space for all to enjoy good music, great coffee and creating more stories and friendships. It is NOT your ordinary hangout place, NOT for egos, NOT for perfection… but a space to feel free and be you. Simply, NOT is a space with a heart, one that brings wild and kind souls together. At NOT, you can find a barbershop, a parlour, a pet grooming spa, and a community cafe right in the centre that brings all humans and pets together through the different events we create and host from music, fashion, wellness, sports, talks and workshops. During winter and summer, NOT pops up in unique locations around the UAE. One that is most popular, is our Al Faya winter annual and magical pop-up located far away in the desert where you can enjoy the breeze, live events, and peaceful mountain views attracting the sunrise explorers, sunset lovers, and the night owls under the starry skies.
    The Creative
    I’ve got both a creative and business mindset. Without being able to explore and create new ideas, I wouldn’t be able to run the business and vice versa. I spend most of my time being inspired by what’s out there and then strategically putting it into a plan to make sure it is feasible and makes financial sense. Especially, in our line of business and space, we rely a lot on creativity which gives us a competitive edge by always being different and ahead of the game in offering new experiences to the community.
    The Philosophy
    I’m a true believer in doing good and it will come back to you in time. And to always go after your dreams because it’s a chance you take on yourself and you are the driver of your own future. Only you can decide what’s good for you, control the speed and be responsible for the choices you make. You are you and that is your superpower to be truly happy.

    The Advice
    If you’ve got an idea but are not sure if it will work, go ahead and jump right in if you truly believe in it. It starts with the first step and the rest will follow. It doesn’t come easy, but it’s a beautiful journey if you do what you love.
    The Hurdles
    When we weren’t generating any revenue, my first business was coming down really fast and almost crashing before I re-strategized and started to look at things differently. This changed my perception of things and I learnt that we need to listen to the market more, invest in the right team and then put a system in place but most importantly, to keep moving and never stop believing.
    The Milestones
    I’m happy with how from starting my business at such a young age to being selected as a board member at the Sharjah Business Women Council, to organizing the first and fastest growing Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival that takes place every year gathering thousands of like-minded individuals, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Running my own business is a full-time job now at NOT a SPACE and I have never been happier!
    The Mentors
    People from all around the world of different backgrounds, mindsets, cultures and experiences that I meet and learn from every single minute of every single day. Saying yes to new adventures all the time guides you to opportunities, experiences, and learnings to be better every day.
    October’s – The Pioneer Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    In pics: Royal pilot Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum gets a taste of Dubai’s flying car

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    4 hours ago

    Earlier this week the world’s first public flight of the two-seater eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) flying car X2 took place in Dubai.
    The flying car, designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng, made its debut at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in the emirate.
    With over 100,000 visitors to the convention, one of the people to get a taste of the revolutionary flying vehicle was none other than Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum.
    The Dubai royal made a visit to the biggest technology conferences in the Middle East earlier this week where she explored what the future of technology has to offer.

    The former Emirates Woman cover star shared a series of photos on her official Instagram page and in one of the snaps Her Highness is seen sitting in the eVTOL flying car X2 getting an experience for what it’s like – but on the ground for now.
    “A vision for the future from visionary leadership… From Metaverse to self-flying Cars, what an exciting future ahead of us … #gitex2022,” she captioned the post.
    Given that she’s a qualified pilot – she’s actually the first Emirati royal who qualified as a commercial pilot for Emirates Airline – we’re sure Her Highness would have no problem taking this vehicle to the skies.
    The eVTOL flying car X2 took to the skies on Monday at the Dubai Marina completing a 90-minute test flight, marking an era of short-haul flights and intelligent mobility solutions.
    The two-seater eVTOL flying car X2 is equipped with an intelligent flight control system and autonomous flight capabilities and is developed by XPENG’s affiliate XPENG AEROHT. The X2 emits zero carbon dioxide and is designed with low-altitude city capabilities, with a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres per hour.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikha Mozah Instagram More

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    UAE introduces new laws to protect domestic workers, fines of up to Dhs10m

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    6 hours ago

    The UAE is continuing its mission to improve the protection and rights of employees across the country.
    The latest update to policies and laws is set to help and protect UAE domestic workers.
    According to the Khaleej Times, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation stated that as of December 15, 2022 all employers will need to be licensed when hiring domestic workers.
    “The new law stipulates that the recruitment or temporary employment of domestic helpers shall not be allowed unless after obtaining a licence from the ministry,” the Ministry stated.
    Strict rules and regulations will now be in place for recruitment agencies which are licensed and offices to follow in order to protect the working environment of maids, nannies, housekeepers, cooks and more.

    Take a look at the new Domestic Helper Law and learn more about how it safeguards the rights of employees, employers and recruitment agencies. #UAE #MoHRE pic.twitter.com/pZCI2A041S
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) October 10, 2022

    In the new framework announced, all domestic workers are entitled to one paid day off per week; are entitled to 30 days of leave per year; a return ticket home is granted to the employee at the cost of the employer; and more.
    “The UAE continues to establish a legislative framework that safeguards domestic helpers, in line with its mission to establish the country’s pioneering status as a preferred global destination to live and work,” the ministry stated.
    As part of these new laws, new fines have also been introduced to those who do not adhere to regulations.
    Fines of up to Dhs10 million will be enforced for those who employ unlicensed domestic workers, according to The National.
    The outlet also reports a slew of other fines are also in place if laws are not adhered to. This includes a Dhs200,000 fine if workers under the age of 18 are employed and fines of up to Dhs1 million if anyone attempts to employ a worker without a permit or misuses the online portal provided by the ministry.
    For more information visit mohre.gov.ae/mohre.domestic.ui/home/. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Unsplash  More

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    Meet the UAE’s 9 female cabinet ministers making a difference

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s cabinet ministers have a powerful voice to bring about change.
    Designed to handle the execution of all internal and external affairs, the UAE’s cabinet ministers play a pivotal role in shaping what lies ahead.
    Be it technology or other future-focused sectors, the female cabinet team is pushing the envelope in each sector and making a change to boost the UAE’s global competitiveness.
    The UAE’s current ministers have all taken their oaths to diligently carry out their duties and meet the people’s expectations without sparing any effort from their end.
    To delve into their roles and responsibilities, Emirates Woman sheds light on all the inspiring female ministers in the UAE making a difference.
    HE Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth

    Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi is also an Emirati businesswoman alongside her role as Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development for the United Arab Emirates. She has held the position since October 2017. Previously she was the Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs from February 2016 to October 2017. Moreover, Al Kaabi was previously appointed as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) from Abu Dhabi.
    HE Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment

    As a leader to protect the country’s ecosystems, Her Excellency is constantly implementing effective measures, policies and initiatives to bring about environmental changes. Her role prior to this was Minister of State for Food and Water security to make decisions pertaining to channeling investments in food and water technology. She is on a mission to strengthen the UAE’s long-standing bilateral ties with nations globally and prepare for upcoming prestigious events such as COP28.
    HE Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimi, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation

    Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi was hugely instrumental in Dubai’s winning bid to host Expo 202o. As well as being Director-General for the Dubai Expo 2020, she is also the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation. She became a cabinet minister in 2008. She is also chair of Dubai Cares, a children’s education charity established by Sheikh Mohammed in 2007.
    HE Shamma Bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs

    After taking on the role in 2020, her tasks are focused on representing youth issues and aspirations and setting strategies to improve their capabilities and further utilize their energy in various fields. Her Excellency previously worked in. private equity and also as a public policy analyst at the UAE Mission to the United Nations after receiving a distinction from the University of Oxford in 2015.
    HE Sarah Bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology

    For women in science, Her Excellency is paving the path for women to pursue a career in this field. With new scientific discoveries, Sarah is equipping future generations with the tools to take on tomorrow’s world. As the UAE continues to spearhead other such programmes including the Emirates Mars Mission as its Deputy Project Manager.
    HE Sara Mussallam, Minister of State for Early Education

    Since taking on her role in May 2022, Her Excellency supervises the Federal Authority of Early Education and has promoted digital and coding skills in the classroom to make it accessible to future generations. Her portfolio also includes her position as Chairwoman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. With a key say in leading the region’s talent, several schools are making technological advancements in the future of education. She has previously worked as a chartered financial analyst and in the finance industry.
    HE Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State

    Her Excellency joined the Federal Government in 2008 as Minister of State. She has participated in several conferences globally including representing the UAE at UN organisations. With a Ph.D. in Sociology she has authored a series of books, research articles and various fields, especially development, women and education. Her previous  roles such as the president of Zayed University and presiding over the Marriage Fund have made her equipped for her role as Minister of State.
    HE Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing

    Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi has launched a plethora of initiatives including the 100-day happiness plan and five-month positivity training programme for local CEOs after taking up her role in 2016. She has previously held prestigious positions such as the first Arab member of the Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) and Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office.
    HE Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development

    With a key role in actively promoting family cohesion, Her Excellency empowers women through new policies and legislation that encourage a happy and sustainable marriage. By implementing the National Family Policy, National Policy for People of Determination and other such measures, she has confidently carried out her duties since 2017.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Instagram More

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    UAE nationals can now obtain passports online in 30 minutes

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    42 mins ago

    Emirati travellers now have a solution for the expiry, loss and damage of passports.
    To curb this issue, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) has launched its e-document service for UAE travellers returning from abroad.
    With this new electronic service, the government ensures a seamless service to speed up the issuance of emergency passports without any charges or the need to visit an embassy or consulate to receive the travel documents.
    Abdulaziz Al Hebsi, Director of the UAE Nationals Affairs Department at the Ministry, said the ministry’s Service Development Team has worked relentlessly to simplify and facilitate relevant procedures, adding that the service was enhanced in response to customer feedback.
    Thus, UAE nationals can obtain the travel document at any time and from any place to receive it via e-mail without any added hassle.

    Introduced to keep in line with the UAE’s visionary leadership, the ministry is working towards providing outstanding digital services and offerings as per the highest quality standards.
    To apply for the service, Emirati travellers can simply opt for the service on the ministry’s website at mofaic.gov.ae or log on to the smart application UAE MOFAIC available on both iOS and Android stores.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Unsplash @corinne-kutz More

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    Mabrook! Sheikh Mohammed’s daughter, Sheikha Maryam, welcomes third child

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    The Dubai royals have welcomed a new addition to the family.
    Her Highness Sheikha Maryam bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and her husband His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan have welcomed their third child together.
    The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the joyous news on Instagram.
    Sheikha Maryam shared a picture of a blue heart with the words “It’s a boy”, tagging her husband Sheikh Khaled on Instagram. She also placed the date 10/10/2022 at the bottom of the post indicating the date of the little one’s arrival.

    It’s the third child for the couple who already have two boys – Mohammed bin Khaled Al Nahyan, born September 58, 2020 and Hamdan bin Khaled Al Nahyan, born August 25, 2021.
    As of yet, the name of the newborn hasn’t been announced.
    Congratulations to the couple on their growing family!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    Watch: Flying car takes off in Dubai

    Emirates Man

    by Team Emirates Man
    4 hours ago

    The world’s first public flight of the two-seater eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) flying car X2 took off on Monday at Skydive Dubai.
    After taking off from Dubai Marina, the X2 flying completed its 90-minute test flight, marking an era of short-haul flights and intelligent mobility solutions, per WAM.
    Dubai International Chamber, one of three Chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, hosted the test flight, designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng.
    The two-seater eVTOL flying car X2 is equipped with an intelligent flight control system and autonomous flight capabilities and is developed by XPENG’s affiliate XPENG AEROHT. The X2 emits zero carbon dioxide and is designed with low-altitude city capabilities, with a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres per hour.

    Dubai International Chamber hosted today the world’s first public flight of the pioneering eVTOL flying car X2 designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer @XPengMotors at Skydive Dubai. pic.twitter.com/LgplPPMQD5
    — Dubai International Chamber (@DxbChamberIntl) October 10, 2022

    The event was attended by Li Xuhang, Consul-General of China in Dubai; Hassan Al Hashemi, acting president and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Dr Brian Gu, vice chairman and president of XPeng; Mohammad Al Kamali, deputy CEO, Dubai Industries and Exports and other government officials and members of the business community.
    Dubai has been at the vanguard of introducing technology-fuelled initiatives to encourage the usage of autonomous transport. The emirate’s self-driving transport strategy aims to convert 25 per cent of total mobility journeys to driverless journeys by 2030.
    A new programme to enable drone transportation in Dubai has been launched, to explore the use of drones in several sectors, including health, security, shipping and food.
    This story was originally published on Gulf Business and has been republished here with permission.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    9 questions you should ask yourself to check your own mental health

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    This World Mental Health Day we are encouraging people to check in on themselves as well as others.
    In the fast-paced world of technology and a hectic year of uncertainty with the COVID-19 pandemic, the conversation surrounding mental health has never been more prevalent than ever.
    While, of course, we want to ensure others are okay, you also need to check in on yourself from time to time to ensure your own mental health is okay.
    With that, here’s nine questions to ask to “check-in” on yourself and your mental health.

    How am I feeling today?
    What is my mood like every morning? Am I energetic, lazy, motivated or uninspired?
    How am I performing with my daily life activities?
    How is my appetite? Has it increased or decreased?
    How are my sleeping habits? Am I feeling rested? Do I wake up tired?
    What are my areas of interest?
    What are the things that keep me happy?
    How do I perceive life?
    What are the thoughts floating around in my mind?

    By asking these simple questions, it could help identify some mental health issues you may be going through and pinpoint whether you should seek further help or not.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Pexels More