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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
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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

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    7 incredible women discuss how they find clarity in their lives

    When it comes to self-care, prioritising yourself is of utmost importance.
    Even small steps can make a big difference and Emirates Woman spoke to several inspiring women to understand how they find clarity in their daily lives.
    Wdeema Al MheiriContent Creator @wdeemajay

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    I stay on a clear path by focusing on myself and what I want. I avoid listening to other people’s judgments or opinions so as to not distract me from my own goals. I decide my own path.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    I am a firm believer in speaking things into existence. Manifesting the things I want allows me to maintain clarity. I set my affirmations for every era of my life and whatever is meant to happen will happen. I also believe it’s important for me to surround myself with great people that have good intentions that encourage me to maintain this clarity.
    Nadya HasanContent Creator @nadyaa

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    With the work that I do, it’s very hard to separate personal life from business and that could lead to burnout, which happens in my case all the time. So I try to disconnect with travel which I do very often and it helps me have a clear mind and be able to continue to do what I love.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    In my everyday life, clarity doesn’t come that easy, so my husband and I take an hour off all social media and any electronics and take long walks around our neighbourhood and talk and have deep and meaningful conversations.
    Nora Al RamadhanCEO of Apotheca Beauty @apotheca_beauty

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    What I have found works for me is to set achievable, short-term goals on a monthly and quarterly basis that I strive towards. I make sure that these goals are not so out of reach and celebrate any small wins throughout the journey. When I focus too heavily on the long-term, the path towards achievement does not tend to be as clear and can change drastically. However, my overall views are to align my actions and goals with things that bring me happiness and peace of mind.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    In order to maintain everyday clarity, I try to stay as organized as possible and create several lists for things such as discussion points for meetings, overall daily to-do lists, household tasks that need to be done, etc. I tend to create lists sporadically on my phone and add to them as things come to mind throughout the day. All of my tasks, meetings and appointments are also put into my calendar – both work and personal, so that I can make sure nothing is missed and I have it all in front of me. Separately to keeping organized, taking time for self-care every day is incredibly important and necessary. This would include prioritizing morn- ing work-outs, cooking (which I love and find therapeutic), and quality time with friends and family. I try to listen to my body and give it rest when needed.
    Asma LootahFounder of The Hundred Wellness Centre @thehundredwellness

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    I have learned over the years that gaining clarity begins with asking yourself many questions, especially questions you might be avoiding that could trigger changes you may feel unprepared for. I don’t always have the answers, however, it gives me more of a sense of direction. I really believe it is also important to pay attention to what you want or need every day. Making small decisions – it can be as simple as choosing between tea or coffee, these small steps help build your confidence around what you want out of life. When you gain that clarity of what drives you, you can manifest anything you want. These small steps build the foundation that will allow you to pursue your goals without fear. Mental clarity gives me the awareness to stop and see things as they are in the present, appreciate life, celebrate what makes me happy and healthy and feel content. When you live in the moment, you have greater control over your mind, body, and emotions, and that moment you experience is the only moment you can control.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Clarity is a work in progress, as life isn’t clear cut, however making time for myself to be still, to reflect and detach from the noise of the outside world is vital. Whether that is praying, sitting still and making mental notes or enjoying my morning ritual of sencha green tea, I believe looking deep within yourself, embracing self-awareness, and trusting your intuition is powerful, and ultimately gives you inner peace and clarity. I also believe in living life intentionally, a life that is aligned with your core values and one that promotes self-growth. It is important to have a purpose behind every decision you make, not to underestimate the importance of loving yourself, your uniqueness, and being present in the moment gives you and your life more clarity and meaning.
    Asma Al QassimContent Creator @asmaqassimm

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    In terms of my career, I’m always focused on presenting the product in the best way possible. I put myself in the designer’s eye and make sure to make the best out of it. I believe that every design should have its chance to be seen correctly. Every photoshoot I car- ry out, it feels like it’s my first time, so I make sure it’s the best one ever.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Maintaining clarity means being clear about what makes me happy, healthy, loving, and with less confusion and doubts. But to reach there, this requires clearing out my mind from all distractions, then through a commitment to my designers who are looking for the best out of their designs, and then prioritizing my priorities and identifying what matters to me and my customers, get creative, and lastly to bring out the best of that day by enjoying what I do and sharing my day to day life, coffee, and drive with my followers to feel them close and special.
    Amna Banihashem

    Emirati Showjumper & Mechanical Engineer@amnabanihashem
    How have you managed to stay on a clear path throughout the years?
    Faith plays a major role in my stability and clarity. It helps me focus and maintain my internal strength. When things get tough or confusing I use a method of introspection and self-reflection. My faith has helped me achieve this and self develop. Everyone needs a compass that brings them back on course, it is very important for each person to find his/her own.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    Faith plays a major role in the clarity of the mind. It reminds one that life is fleeting and the only certainty is death. A heavy reality, but it remains a reality. Thus, improving clarity on certain aspects of life like goals, family, and reactions. Taking the time to pause and think about what is truly important, and what is important enough to spend one’s energy on is crucial to maintaining clarity in an increasingly distracting world. The quality of our lives is heavily dependent on our perspective. Remembering that we have a limited time helps us make better decisions, stay present and create clarity on what is worth our precious and limited attention and time.
    Rhea JacobsModel & Creative@therjacobs

    How have you managed to stay on a clear path through- out the years?
    By respecting myself enough to relearn the true meaning of balance. I’ve placed it such that I work towards my goals giving it my best and yet am learning to prioritise my happiness and peace of mind – happiness to me means spending time with people I love, self-care moments, being present, letting go of negative and toxic baggage. Most of all, learning that it’s always about the journey rather than the destination. Every stumble is a lesson learned and rightfully so.
    In everyday life, how do you manage to maintain clarity?
    By understanding that a lot of times things may seem unclear… and that’s part of the journey teaching you something. And mainly realising that you can’t pour from an empty cup. To replace what you take from your- self with introspection, kindness, self-care and love.
    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    6 of Sheikha Latifah’s best equestrian moments

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    It’s no secret the UAE royals have an affinity for horses and Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum is no exemption.
    As the niece of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikha Latifah has been raised with a passion for horses. So much so, that she has carved herself a successful career in the equestrian space.
    From showjumping to polo, this royal has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. As a three-time UAE national champion and Olympic-level show jumper, sports has always been at the forefront of her career.
    To champion all her sporting equestrian moments, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all her most inspiring moments surrounding horses.
    A powerful Emirates Woman cover star

    For September’s – The Power Issue, Sheikha Latifah shared what it takes to keep her mind in champion mode. Shot at the Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club, our cover star is seen in her truest form as she’s captured focusing on a passion, that she’s most proud of.
    Sharing a touching story with her horse Fattaan

    Sheikha Latifah shared a heartfelt post expressing how she felt towards her five-year-old horse Fattaan. She touched upon details of how he’s improved over time despite not completing a show that season. In the caption of the post, she said, “Give the horses the time they need and they will tell you when they are ready.” Her empathy and connection with horses can clearly be depicted through the post.
    Tasting success at the nation’s cup

    With hours of rigorous training and persistence, this royal rider participated in a showjumping event in February 2019 at the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation. As a true leader, she shared a post thanking the entire team for their support and commitment to making this event a success including the Saudi Arabian Olympic showjumper, Ramzy Al Duhami, who was also her trainer.
    Making history at the Beijing Olympics 2008

    Making history for women in the region, Sheikha Latifah took sports representation to new heights in 2008 when she became the first woman to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics. With it being the highlight of her career at only 22 years old, she trained hard to make a mark in the competition. Having started showjumping at a high level only one year prior to the competition, she surely made the UAE proud.
    Her first international competition

    With an upward career trajectory since then, this royal has proved that no challenge is hard enough for her. In 2006, she made it to the international stage at the Asian Games with participants from all around the globe. Held in Qatar, she participated as a member of the UAE team, taking her passion for endurance racing to a global level. Without any expectations, she brought back the bronze medal, and return to the UAE with a token of her hard work. Without limiting herself to just one Asian Games event, she made it to four later on.
    Her first taste of success

    Back in 2003, Sheikh Latifah got her first taste of triumph at the UAE Showjumping Championship when she was only 18 years old on a national level.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Celebrating 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II: 8 times she has visited the GCC

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    Queen Elizabeth II is the first-ever British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne.
    The year of her Platinum Jubilee began on February 6, 2022, after the then Princess Elizabeth ascended to the throne following the death of her father, King George VI.
    As the UK prepares for a long weekend of celebration to mark the Platinum Jubilee, including the famous Trooping the Colour, we look back at the Queen’s long-standing relationship with the Middle East.
    After 70 years of dedicated service, Her Majesty has paid a visit to the GCC on several occasions.
    From widening the bond between the nations to appreciating decades of friendship with other GCC royals, it comes to show, that this monarch is certainly well-travelled.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Everything to know about the cast of the Real Housewives of Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    The Real Housewives of Dubai has officially landed.
    The newest instalment of one of the most drama-fuelled reality franchises, premiered on Bravo TV in the US on June 1 and June 2 in the Middle East on OSN+ highlighting Dubai and all its glamour.
    While the premiere highlighted Dubai in all of its glamour, it begs the question: how much do we all really know about these leading ladies?
    Get to know the six key protagonists of the show – Caroline Stanbury, Caroline Brooks, Dr. Sara Al Madani, Nina Ali, Chanel Ayan and Lesa Milan – below.
    Caroline Stanbury

    Known for living life unapologetically, Caroline Stanbury has nothing less than a lavish life in this concrete jungle with her husband, former Real Madrid player Sergio Carrallo.  she certainly shows her hawk-eyed fans, that one can fall in love once again, especially after her divorce. With an international presence, Stanbury previously starred in three seasons of Ladies of London and is a podcast host on the series Divorced Not Dead. The star was previously married to Turkish financier Cem Habib, with whom she has three children. As a brave-hearted woman with a strong personality, she’s sure to bring some enticing drama to the table.
    Caroline Brooks

    Caroline Brooks is a proud first-generation American and Afro-Latina. Regarded as a real-estate guru, she’s self-made, driven and only focused on achieving more. Originally from Newton, Massachusetts, Brooks has made Dubai her home for the last 11 years and has lived a life nothing less than luxurious ever since. As her journey was filled with challenges, she had to work herself up after being left with nothing from her divorce. Her experiences have made her a woman of grit and she’s certainly a force to be reckoned with.
    Dr. Sara Al Madani

    This Emirati entrepreneur and public speaker is a combination of both modern and traditional. Having started her business at an early age, Dr Sara Al Madani has made a mark in the UAE as the youngest board member of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce, a renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur. With her forward-thinking approach to life, she’s on a mission to break the cultural barrier and social stigma that surrounds single working women who can balance both their personal lives and career.
    Nina Ali

    Nina Ali is a well-known content creator in the Middle East. Originally hailing from Lebanon, Ali lived in the USA with her husband, Munaf Ali, before relocating to Dubai together. Known as Lipstick Mommy on Instagram, the mum-of-three is consistently sharing her daily life with her 521,000 followers.
    Chanel Ayan

    As the first Kenyan origin model from the UAE, Chanel Ayan has been featured in a host of beauty and fashion campaigns in the Middle East. Ayan has been modelling since the age of 18 and has worked with a host of luxe fashion brands throughout the years including Rami Al Ali, Valentino, Tiffany & Co. and more. She continues to wear many hats, which include being a mum, owning her own makeup brand, running a talent agency and now will soon add reality TV star to the mix.
    Lesa Milan

    Lesa Milan is a fashion designer and entrepreneur who has been living in Dubai with her husband and three sons for many years. She has previously won the title of Miss Jamaica in 2010. By balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Milan proves that everything is possible. As a high-maintenance woman and an over-achiever, we’re eager to see how she fits into the show.
    So mark your calendars, as this popular reality TV show airs on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, on Bravo TV.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More