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    Abu Dhabi & Dubai voted the most liveable cities in the MENA region for 2022

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    The UAE’s biggest cities have topped the rankings for the best places to live in the MENA region for 2022.
    In a list compiled from the Economist Intelligence Unit’s global survey which includes 173 global cities ranked based on their liveability.
    The rankings are calculated based on five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education and infrastructure.
    Out of the 173 cities, Abu Dhabi was the highest-ranking city in the Middle East placing number 77, with Dubai closely following at 79.
    It’s the fifth year in a row that these UAE cities have been ranked as the most liveable cities in the MENA region.
    However, as for the top 10 cities, most of the highest-ranking ones were based in Europe. See the top 10 most liveable cities in the world below.

    Vienna, Austria
    Copenhagen, Denmark
    Zurich, Switzerland
    Calgary, Canada
    Vancouver, Canada
    Geneva, Switzerland
    Frankfurt, Germany
    Toronto, Canada
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
    Osaka, Japan and Melbourne, Australia

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

    Feature image: Instagram @demoisellezakia More

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    This app enables residents across the UAE to recycle for free

    Lifestyle

    by Nicole Little
    1 minute ago

    With sustainability being a big priority for everyone nowadays, recycling has never been more important.
    However, when it comes to the UAE, finding where to recycle your waste sometimes proves to be a challenge.
    But we’ve found a free-of-charge app which is game-changing for recycling.
    RECAPP App, which is available in both the App store and Google Play, is the first free mobile app in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for on-demand door-to-door recyclables collection services.
    The service is available in the entire city of Abu Dhabi and in certain areas of Dubai. You can ensure that pick-up is available from your home address by downloading the app and registering.

    The initiative aims to support local communities as they strive to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle by providing the opportunity for individuals, businesses, and government entities to exchange recyclable and reusable material through an online platform. By donating your recycling to RECAPP, you will contribute to reducing the waste that ends in landfills.
    With the service, you can recycle all transparent plastic bottles (think water bottles), all opaque plastic bottles (think detergent and skincare bottles), and all-metal cans. While for now, they focus on plastic bottles and metal cans, they plan to gradually extend their service to cover other recyclables.
    Using the service is as simple as:

    Separate your recyclables from general waste
    Ensure your recyclables are empty and clean
    Download RECAPP and create your account
    Schedule a pick-up time.

    If contributing to sustainability isn’t enough to convince you to use RECAPP, they even offer a rewards program for recycling. You can collect more points the more you recycle and the points can be redeemed into gifts offered by their partners.
    So, will you be downloading it?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: @emitaz Instagram  More

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    This new Emirates service takes the check-in process to a whole new level

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    Emirates Airlines is continuing to push the boundaries when it comes to a superior travel experience.
    The Dubai-based airline has now introduced a new service where passengers can complete the whole check-in process from the comfort of their own homes.
    Introduced by the airline’s partner DUBZ, this service can be availed on a complimentary basis for both Dubai and Sharjah first-class passengers. Other Emirates customers can enjoy the service at exclusive rates starting from Dhs177.
    By reducing the hassle of reaching the airport on time, this seamless concept sends a check-in staff member and a car to the passenger’s home to complete the formalities and pick up the suitcases.
    As part of the procedure, customers will receive their boarding passes upon document verification and checking in of any bags to be able to effortlessly board their flight.

    So, how does it all work?
    The service needs to be booked at least 24 hours prior to flight time, with the latest check-in for home service being six hours before departure.
    However, for any last-minute baggage additions, there is an allocated counter for any excess check-ins for first-class passengers.
    Upon arrival, travellers can also proceed straight to their home or hotel without the need to wait for baggage collection. The land and leave service comes at a price of Dhs93 per bag, for collection, clearing through customs, sanitisation and doorstep delivery.
    To add to the long list of perks, first-class passengers can also avail of the limousine drop-off services at no extra cost. This can be booked through the Emirates chauffeur service.
    For more information visit emirates.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @emirates More

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    Meet the inspiring UAE sheikhas breaking the mould

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    There are many women in the UAE inspiring the next generation of changemakers including from the royal family themselves.
    From equestrian talents to philanthropic efforts, there are many young sheikhas paving the way for the future, while carrying the legacy of their ancestors.
    With each of their stories being a reflection of their achievements, Emirates Woman looks at the many different royals who are becoming role models for many across the globe.
    Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

    As Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Art Authority and member of the Dubai Council, Sheikha Latifa is a leading figure in protecting and fostering the creative industry in the region. Whether technology or art socio-culture initiatives, her role has contributed to the steady growth of the UAE’s cultural ecosystem by transforming it into a haven of lifelong learning. In addition, in her role as Vice Chairman of the Emirates Literature Foundation, she has promoted the advancement of literature and strives to inhabit the culture of reading, ensuring her contributions are truly impactful.
    Her Highness Sheikha Maitha Bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

    As a keen sportsperson, Sheikha Maitha has led the way for women in the sporting realm. A keen athlete herself, she made it all the way to the Olympics in Beijing in 2008 participating in the taekwondo 67kg female category. Her Highness also became the first woman to present the UAE carrying the national flag. Just like her father, Sheikh Mohammed, she has a keen passion for horses and went on to found Team Z7 which has become one of the most competitive sports horse stables in this region under her leadership. Several horses bred by Team Z7 have gone on to win awards on the international stage.
    Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum

    As a proud equestrian, Sheikha Latifah qualified for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, when she was only 22 years old. It was a history-making moment for the country as she became one of the first women to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics. She has gone on to carve an impressive equestrian and showjumping career.
    In an interview with Emirates Woman as September 2020’s cover star, Sheikha Latifah said, “I always try to create small goals that amount to a larger big-picture goal.” Deemed a perfectionist, no task is completed without full dedication for this sheikha. Overall, this Emirati International showjumper has been an Olympian and three-time UAE national champion.
    Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

    Emirates Woman’s April 2021 – The Gratitude Issue cover star, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum is a successful entrepreneur having founded her eponymous jewellery brand, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery in 2020, and a philanthropist. Sheikha Sana has been a pioneer in pursuing various philanthropic deeds, consistently giving back to her local community. From being part of the Al Noor Training Centre’s 50th UAE National Day to giving back to the Dubai Community through Emirates Red Crescent, her work constantly focuses on various humanitarian deeds.
    Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

    Our Emirates Woman November 2020, The Fine Jewellery Issue cover star has been a role model for women in the world of aviation. From being a First Lieutenant Pilot at Dubai Police in 2019 to now becoming the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotator, this royal has definitely made headlines on several occasions.
    With immense love for her nation, she previously told Emirates Woman, “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.” With a go-getter attitude, she has managed to reach soaring heights after being the youngest student at the Oxford Aviation Academy.
    Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum

    As an ode to the late His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikha Latifa released a book entitled Through My Eyes: The Life of Sheikh Hamdan as Told by His Daughter. The book touched upon his philanthropic principles and generous acts as he improved the lives of many.
    Published by Motivate Media Group, Sheikha Latifa during the launch said, “To the UAE and the world, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum was a diplomat and regal figure who represented his people internationally. I wish people could have known his fatherly side.”
    Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
    By always taking effective steps towards further empowering women in line with international practices, Sheikha Manal is the President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, President of Dubai Women Establishment and the wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. She is constantly enhancing the country’s leadership vision with an array of wide-ranging positive benefits.
    Per the Media Office, she said, “Increasing women’s representation on boards of directors contributes to achieving the objectives of the UAE Gender Balance Council to narrow the gender gap in all fields and increase women’s representation in leadership and decision-making positions in both public and private sectors.”
    Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation

    As the Mother of the Nation, Sheikha Fatima has reinforced the UAE’s leadership commitment to empower Emirati women and support their progress on a global scale. By preparing the nation for the next 50 years of growth, she is a proud supporter of women’s rights and advancements.
    Her Highness has headed a plethora of regional organisations including her role as the chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood combined with her humanitarian efforts to help women and children worldwide achieve peace and stability.
    Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan

    As an advocate for combating climate change, Sheikha Shamma is the founder and CEO of the Alliances for Global Sustainability. By carrying the eco-conscious legacy of her grandfather, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan forward, she is building a system focused on the circular economy principle to move towards a more environmentally friendly method of operating. Her mission is to empower women and the youth, and to focus on sustainable initiatives that create change. In November 2021, Sheikha Shamma also signed five sustainability agreements at the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    7 of Sheikha Latifa’s most profound quotes about Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and member of the Dubai Council celebrates her birthday today.
    As a role model to many, she constantly aspires to build an environment that’s conducive to empowering women and uplifting Dubai’s creative arts scene.
    To mark this special occasion, Emirates Woman digs through the archives to bring to light some of Sheikha Latifa’s most profound quotes about Dubai, women empowerment, collaboration and more.
    On moving towards a creative economy

    This month Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, attended the first ever graduation ceremony of the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) which was held at Dubai’s Museum of the Future.
    As graduates completed the region’s first integrated bachelor’s degree in Design, Sheikha Latifa said “The graduation of the first Bachelors of Design class from DIDI represents another milestone in our progress toward a new vibrant creative economy.”
    “DIDI, the first multidisciplinary design programme in the Middle East of its kind, is one of the many pioneering programmes that encapsulate Dubai’s forward-looking spirit. For us to achieve our ambition for Dubai’s creative economy, we need to make sure the infrastructure and the right programmes and institutions are in place for future and current creatives to develop, grow and flourish,” she highlighted at the ceremony.
    On Dubai becoming a growing hub for knowledge enthusiasts

    At the inauguration of the Big Bad Wolf Books exhibition held between April 14 to 24, 2022, Sheikha Latifa toured the event and shared her positive feedback. With over 190 nationalities present across all fields including scientific, literary and humanitarian, this exhibition was launched to promote the concept of exchanging information.
    During the event, she said, “A strong culture of reading enables members of society to make significant contributions to the development of the Arab region and the advancement of their countries, in addition to driving creativity and innovation in various fields.”
    On collaboration
    With a major focus on enhancing the emirate’s cultural ecosystem, Sheikha Latifa has always laid emphasis on exploring different forms of collaboration.
    “Collaboration is integral to building a thriving creative and cultural sector,” she said during the World Conference on Creative Economy 2021 (WCCE) last year.
    She highlighted how Dubai Culture actively focuses on sustainable initiatives that make it a game-changer in the region. Through new collaborations, Dubai Culture is becoming a leading centre for blending artistic, educational and technological activities in the city.
    On the thriving artistic scene

    As global and regional talent continues to be at the helm of Dubai’s burgeoning art scene, Sheikha Latifa shared how Dubai Culture continues to nurture and grow this sector on a daily basis.
    “Everything I do within the Culture and Arts Authority is geared towards supporting the industry, is geared towards taking our creatives to a global stage, where they can be recognised internationally,” she told CNN in a previous interview.
    “A thriving cultural scene is actually a sign of a very stable country, a thriving country, a stable government.”
    On turning a vision into reality
    Dubai culture officially launched on March 8, 2008, under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    Showcasing the growth of the initiative, Sheikha Latifa launched ‘Dubai’s Culture & Heritage’ project on Google Arts & Culture, which she outlined was thanks to the innovation and foresight of her father.
    “Thanks to the vision and guidance of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai now holds a distinguished position on the global creative map,” she said. “We are proud that the city has truly become a global centre for arts, culture and creativity, a place where we empower and enable our home-grown talents, and welcome creatives from all over the world, offering them a home where they can thrive on a professional and personal level.”
    On praising the future generations
    As the Dubai arts and culture scene continues to flourish and grow, there’s a continuous stream of emerging talent and it’s something Her Highness is championing with the Global Grad Show, of which Dubai Culture is a strategic partner.
    With the launch of the event last year, Sheikha Latifa said: “Through the efforts of the thousands of brilliant young minds who engage with the program every year, a better future is being shaped, and enabling their growth means creating a more prosperous society for everyone. From Dubai we can all contribute to a better future.”
    On female empowerment

    Sheikha Latifa is consistently empowering women here in the UAE and across the globe, and it’s something she continues to highlight. Back in 2020 at the Global Forum Dubai, Her Highness emphasised the importance of supporting women.
    “It’s important to support women in whatever they want to do,” she said. “I believe the support of the government is crucial in driving women forward. I see women continuing to go from strength to strength.”
    As she continues to foster her role at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, she’s constantly vouching for women to achieve great things and to receive more opportunities in the country to flourish.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @latifamrm1 More

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    Will Justin Bieber still perform in Dubai?

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    Last week, Justin Bieber made an announcement on his Instagram that completely shocked his fans.
    The Canadian singer revealed he is suffering from a rare medical condition known as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, which has resulted in partial facial paralysis.
    This resulted in the 28-year-old cancelling several upcoming shows in order for the performer to recuperate and rest before other upcoming shows.
    Will Justin Bieber still perform in Dubai?
    The star is set to perform in Dubai later this year and it’s been announced the highly anticipated shows – set to take place on October 8 and 9, 2022 – are still to go ahead.
    Owner of TOP Entertainment, Thomas Ovesen said, “Health always comes first and all of us here at TOP Entertainment wish Justin a speedy recovery.”
    What is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?

    In the video Bieber shared unveiling his condition to his fans, the singer showcased how he wasn’t able to move one side of his face.
    “As you can see, this eye is not blinking,” Bieber said. “I can’t smile on this side of my face. This nostril will not move.”
    “So, there’s full paralysis on this side of my face. So for those who are frustrated by my cancellations of the next shows, I’m just physically, obviously, not capable of doing them. This is pretty serious, as you can see,” he added.
    Per the Mayo Clinic, the condition Bieber is suffering from is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is also known to cause chickenpox and shingles.
    The virus causes irritation and inflammation of facial nerves, leading to facial palsy and a rash affecting the ear or mouth. The extreme symptoms of this syndrome can include a painful rash inside the ear canal and outside the ear, at times attacking the tongue and roof of the mouth, along with vertigo and tinnitus.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @justinbieber  More

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    The UAE is set to attract the highest number of millionaires in the world

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    As the UAE continues to affirm its position as a global hub for business, a new report has found the country is set to attract the highest number of millionaires this year.
    According to the newest Henley Global Citizens Report, published by Henley & Partners, over 4,000 millionaires are set to relocate to the UAE beating out countries including Australia, Canada, Switzerland, USA, UK, Singapore and more.
    At present, per the report, the accumulated private wealth in the country is over $966 billion. This includes 92,600 millionaires with over $1 million net worth; 4,000 millionaires with over $10 million net worth; and 251 individuals with over $100 million net worth.
    So, what exactly is attracting these high net worth individuals (HNWIs) to the UAE? Per the report, it’s down to a number of reasons including the success of Expo 2020 Dubai, the country’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the many major changes to UAE visas and so on.
    “The UAE has become the focus of intense interest among affluent investors and is expected to see the highest net influx of HNWIs globally in 2022, with 4,000 forecast – a dramatic increase of 208 per cent versus 2019’s net inflow of 1,300 and one of its largest on record,” the report states.
    With a focus on attracting tourism and trade, the country has seen a major increase in its passport rankings and business acumen, all making it a hub for wealth individuals to relocate to.
    It’s the UAE’s “agile approach” to adaptation, Philippe Amarante, Head of Henley & Partners’ Dubai office and managing partner, explains the increase in HNWI’s attraction to the UAE.
    “The UAE has spearheaded this surge with its competitive, agile approach to adapting regulations and remains a powerful magnet for capital and talent. Investors from all over the world continue to relocate to the country either in a private capacity, with their businesses, or both,” he said.
    “This seemed to have been a temporary effect due to the UAE leadership’s efficient pandemic management, but roots in the UAE are now becoming a must-have asset in every high-net-worth investor’s portfolio.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Inside the coolest new wellness centre in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    If you’re looking for a 360-degree wellness hub, this new spot in Dubai is where you need to book in ASAP.
    The new integrated multi-wellness destination, Blended, combines fitness with a host of pampering options, making it a one-stop for all your self-care needs.
    Founded by Dominique Laird, the concept began with her vision to redefine the meaning of beauty standards in the region. After addressing her own mental health issues, Laird wanted to create a space where individuals can feel at home and focus on improving their own self-care needs.
    For women to look and feel their best, Blended Salon has dedicated an area for an all-encompassing beauty experience. Be it an eyelash lift or a bespoke blowout, there’s an unending list of treatments that can help visitors feel camera ready at any given point of the day.
    With a more medical approach to aesthetics, this venue offers an extensive array of cutting-edge treatments such as botox, fillers, threads, or even an IV Drip to boost energy levels. With a team of highly experienced experts, Blended Aesthetics has joined hands with Beverly Hills Wellness and Aesthetics for a holistic approach to cosmetics.

    To uplift your mood, the Blended Spa offers a host of rejuvenating treatments in a serene environment. With four treatment rooms, guests can enjoy an organic facial, massage, salt therapy, scrub or wrap in the hands of well-equipped experts. For after-care services, luxe facilities such as the salt cave, sauna and plunge pool are open for use to feel at ease during any visit.
    To recover from within, meditation is given a new meaning by internationally trained life coaches, therapists and spiritual guides who explore the options of both couples and one-on-one sessions, to feel clear from the inside out.

    If you want to focus on your fitness goals, this professional environment offers personal training sessions and group classes for workouts such as yoga, Pilates, or spinning. By changing the norm from a one-size-fits-all approach, guests can choose a routine that best fits their health needs.

    For a post-workout recovery mode, customers can replenish their fuel with a juice, coffee or protein shake from the Blended juice bar, to ensure every aspect of all the fitness routines is taken care of.
    With a complete approach to any wellness needs, visitors can feel at home from the second they enter this haven. Without having to book appointments in different locations, this all-inclusive experience saves both time and planning.
    Situated in the luxe surroundings of The Dukes, The Palm Jumeirah, Blended Fit is open daily from 6am to 10pm and the salon, barbers and spa is open from 10 am to 10pm.
    For more information or to make a booking visit blendedwellness.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More