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    COVID-19 in the UAE: Masks are no longer mandatory

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    If we cast our minds back to March 2020, the world was grinding to a halt as an official pandemic was declared by the World Health Organisation following the outbreak of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.
    Stay-at-home guidelines were implemented for countries around the world, flights were grounded and everyday life as we knew it came to a standstill.
    From the get-go, the UAE was proactive in its approach to combatting the virus, implementing health and safety guidelines, social distancing measures and a mask mandate which came into effect on March 26, 2022, and has been strictly monitored since then.
    Now, two and a half years later, it’s been announced by UAE officials, masks will no longer be mandatory to wear in almost all instances.

    #NCEMA: During our media briefing today, we announce the loosening of COVID-19-related restrictions nationwide, as well as the updates to all sectors, which will be in force from 28th September, 2022. #TogetherWeRecover pic.twitter.com/GoUCp0uih4
    — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) September 26, 2022

    It was announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) on Monday night during a briefing that from September 28, 2022, wearing face masks would now be optional in most open and closed facilities and spaces across the UAE, as well as in Dubai private schools, early childhood centres, universities and training institutes. Masks, however, do remain mandatory inside medical facilities, mosques and on public transportation.
    In addition, masks are no longer mandatory on flights, but airlines have the power to mandate them if deemed a necessity.
    Furthermore, the isolation time period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 has been reduced to five days and the green pass on the Al Hosn app has been extended from 14 days to 30 days.
    And while we’re finally seeing almost all restrictions ease, it was noted by the NCEMA that “despite the current stable situation, the pandemic is still ongoing, and the next phase will require community responsibility”.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Will there be a long weekend in the UAE next week?

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    39 mins ago

    If you’re looking to plan a small getaway, there might be a long weekend to look forward to next week.
    Another public holiday will be marked in the UAE next weekend for the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday which will fall on 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal.
    In the Gregorian calendar, this is predicted to be on Friday, October 7, 2022, or Saturday, October 8, 2022. So, if the public holiday falls on a Friday, UAE citizens and residents will enjoy a three-day weekend. However, we need to await confirmation from authorities on when the public holiday will officially fall.

    #UAE announces holidays for public, private sector for 2021-2022.#UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/vq7Aoy2RGQ
    — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) December 19, 2020

    While the long weekend next weekend is still yet to be confirmed, citizens and residents across the UAE will enjoy a four-day weekend to mark Commemoration Day and National Day at the beginning of December.
    UAE Commemoration and National Day
    The next long weekend is will take place for the country’s Commemoration Day and National Day on December 1 and 2. It will fall on a Thursday and Friday this year, with the official days off for these dates being Thursday, December 1 until Sunday, December 4, 2022.
    As always, the final and official dates and public holiday eligibility for public sector employees and private sector employees are determined by UAE authorities.
    For more information visit u.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Instagram @mindz.eye More

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    UAE leaders pay tribute to the Kingdom on Saudi National Day

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    3 hours ago

    As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia marks its 92nd Saudi National Day, the leaders of the UAE have paid tribute to the country affirming unilateral ties between the two nations.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, shared a congratulatory message to the leaders of the Kingdom to mark the occasion alongside a series of photos which included some from the archives.

    #MohamedBinZayed: Congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, my brother Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people on the occasion of Saudi National Day. May God bless the Kingdom with continued progress and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/2aoewoTEsK
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 23, 2022

    “Congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, my brother Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people on the occasion of Saudi National Day,” the UAE’s President said. “May God bless the Kingdom with continued progress and prosperity.”
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also posted a message of congratulations to the people of Saudi Arabia as well as a video showing the unified relationship between the Kingdom and the UAE.

    في اليوم الوطني السعودي أهنئ المملكة.. وأهنئ الملك سلمان بن عبدالعزيز وولي عهده.. وأدعو الله أن يديم عليهم الخير.. للمملكة وشعبها مشاعر حب في قلوبنا.. هم أهلنا وأخوتنا.. ونفخر بتلاحمنا.. فخيرنا معا.. وعزّنا معا.. وحاضرنا ومستقبلنا معاً أبداً بإذن الله.. pic.twitter.com/EGLLrrTYVC
    — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) September 22, 2022

    “On Saudi National Day, I congratulate the Kingdom. I congratulate King Salman bin Abdulaziz and his Crown Prince,” he said. “I pray to God to perpetuate goodness for them. We have feelings of love in our hearts for the kingdom and its people.
    “They are our family and our brothers. We are proud of our cohesion. Our present and our future together.”
    UAE marks Saudi National Day

    #UAE to celebrate #SaudiNationalDay#WamNews https://t.co/nuTLVvQ8Al pic.twitter.com/qm36vwYohu
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 22, 2022

    Over the course of this weekend, the UAE is set to celebrate Saudi National Day by lighting up iconic Dubai landmarks, fireworks, entertainment, retail promotions and more.
    Under the theme of ‘Together Forever KSA-UAE’, affirming the strong bond between the two GCC nations, the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Ain Dubai, Museum of the Future and More will light up in green, representing Saudi Arabia, and will also be emblazoned with the Saudi flag.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/WAM More

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    6 of the best desert cafés to visit in Sharjah this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With the weather cooling down and winter fast approaching in the UAE, soon it will be the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler weather by spending time outdoors.
    Encouraging people to embrace their natural surroundings, many different desert dining concepts emerged last season, particularly in Sharjah, and we’ll most definitely be paying a visit this year.
    With that, we’ve outlined the very best places to dine in a sophisticated setting whilst basking in the serenity of the desert.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    The Uncommon

    If you’re on the hunt for something different, this space is designed especially for you. Created against the backdrop of the picturesque Sharjah desert skyline, there’s a series of delectable hot and cold beverages to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surroundings. Known for its stunning mirrored display, visitors can capture those Instagrammable selfies or unwind at this relaxing spot. Designed to relish an array of delicious bites including baked goods in the heart of the desert, this sophisticated spot is unlike any other. You can book a spot to The Uncommon on the Requeue app.
    One Degree Café

    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.
    Common Winter

    With a minimal aesthetic in the heart of the Sharjah desert, this gorgeous area is converted into a refreshing hotspot with a range of delectable and premium coffee. As an unmissable experience, this winter pop-up is designed with dispersed mirrors, unending views of the scenery, making it another gem in the middle of the desert. Situated near Al Faya Desert, this popular spot has already gained quite a bit of traction, making it everyone’s favourite spot who visits. Located in Al Fayah, it’s open from 3pm to 1am.
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    Coffee House

    This sophisticated setup almost gives a wedding-like feel with flowy curtains and rattan chairs that set it apart from the rest. From croissants to carefully prepared beverages ranging from hot chocolates to coffees, guests can surely dine in style with the glistening skies above the setting. With the luxe décor featuring modern-day lights and the sandy desert combined, you’re sure to make multiple visits to this pop-up.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @_aljp More

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    UAE declares three-day mourning period to honour Queen Elizabeth II

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    8 mins ago

    The UAE will observe three days of mourning to mark the demise of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-serving monarch.
    The flags across public and private sectors in the UAE and in the country’s embassies abroad will be lowered to half-mast, starting Friday, September 9, for a period of three days, the official news agency WAM reported.
    Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, at the Balmoral Castle in Scotland at the age of 96. A respected figure across the globe, Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the throne on February 6, 1952.
    In June this year, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Platinum Jubilee as a British monarch, marking 70 years of service to the people of the UK, the Realms and the Commonwealth.
    The former Prince of Wales, who is now king, succeeds his late mother as monarch. The late Queen laid out her hopes for the future when she marked her Platinum Jubilee.
    UAE leaders offered their condolences on the demise of the British monarch. Leaders from across the world also extended their condolences and paid their respects to the Queen.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai offered his heartfelt condolences to the British royal family minutes after the news was shared by The Royal Family on Twitter.
    In his message, Sheikh Mohammed said, “We join the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, a global icon who represented the finest qualities of her nation and people. Her incredible life of service and duty to the United Kingdom is unparalleled in our modern world.”
    This article was originally published on Gulf Business and has been repurposed here with permission.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @theroyalfamily More

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    Celebrating the life of Queen Elizabeth II: 9 times she visited the GCC

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 9 IMAGES
    Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in the United Kingdom’s history, died aged 96 on September 8, 2022.
    Her Majesty died “peacefully” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, according to Buckingham Palace.
    Her son, now to be known as King Charles III, will now ascend to the throne, making Prince William the new heir to the UK throne.
    This year, Queen Elizabeth became the first-ever British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne.
    Throughout her seven decades on the throne, Her Majesty maintained a close relationship with the GCC countries, having visited the region on many occasions.
    To mark her incredible life, we look back on the decades of friendship with other GCC royals.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @theroyalfamily More

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    5 times Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum was an inspiration to us all

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES
    With the UAE royals always known to give back to society, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum continues to carry on the same legacy.
    As our April 2020– The Gratitude Issue cover star, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, founder of Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery, shared how she has always been inspired but Dubai and the infinite opportunities the emirate has to offer.
    “The persistence to always move forward and improve in Dubai trickles down from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and flows through the veins of every resident of the city,” she previously told Emirates Woman. “That mindset is infectious and helps me strive to do better every day.”
    As a young entrepreneur, she has been grateful for all that has been achieved so far and is never hesitant to extend a helping hand to others.
    Besides working on her jewellery brand, Sheikha Sana has always gone out of her way to give back to the UAE’s local community and inspire future generations.
    Looking back on all these awe-aspiring experiences, we take a look at all those special moments that touched her royal fans’ hearts.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Emirates Woman April 2020 cover shoot – The Gratitude Issue  More

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    September’s – The Entrepreneur Issue with Salama Mohamed

    Fashion

    by Amy Sessions
    32 seconds ago

    Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Žiga MihelčičCover Star: Salama MohamedFashion Editor & Production: Dan RobinsonProduction: Olivia MorrisMakeup & Hair: Michel Kiwarkis at MMGVideographer: Ahmed AbdelwahabFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephBespoke Suit: Suited & BootedWith special thanks to Stellar Studios
    Welcome to The Entrepreneur Issue.
    We are proud to have partnered with PEACEFULL for our cover shoot with Salama Mohamed in Made with Love. A powerhouse of a woman, Salama is an exceptional example of what it means to be an entrepreneur, combining both strength and femininity to build her platform and beauty brand, which celebrates its first anniversary this year.
    In this issue, we champion those who have built something incredible from the ground up, have walked the extra mile and shown the grit and determination to grow something from a vision into full-scale success.

    Rania Fawaz discusses launching her own brand MORPHO in Making Moves, serial entrepreneur Ingie Chalhoub tells us what it takes to keep growing in The Trailblazer, and Port Tanger, the eyewear label inspired by Tangier shares its journey with us in The New Nostalgia.
    We also have exclusive interviews with the founder of Marli New York, Maral Artinian in A New Leadership, – Fajer Fahad on launching her new beauty and wellness platform, Beauline Beauty in Next Level Beauty and Francis Kurkdjian, Co-Founder of Maison Francis Kurkdjian discusses the launch of new fragrance 724 in A Master of Innovation.
    Inspired by Adventure is where we discuss exclusively with Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud, founder of The Traveling Panther, the creativity behind curating exclusive experiences on a global scale, we look at the next generation of geniuses in Coding the Future and inspiring female entrepreneurs share what they attribute their success to in The Entrepreneurs of Now.
    The Runway Report is your guide to FW22 dressing for the season ahead.
    The best way to predict the future is to create it.
    September’s – The Entrepreneur Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More