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      13 visa on arrival and visa-free entry countries for UAE residents

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      If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, there are myriad of countries around the globe offering visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents.
      With visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents, you can plan ahead without leaving your plans for the last minute.
      While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
      When is Eid Al-Adha?
      Eid Al Adha 2024 break is when it shall be. With June around the corner,  UAE, residents can start planning for a potential extended weekend. While the specific date for Arafat Day is subject to confirmation by a moon sighting committee, it is anticipated to occur around Saturday, June 15, or Sunday, June 16.
      Following Arafat Day, Muslims around the world observe Eid Al Adha.  This joyous occasion, occurring on the 10th day of Dhuʻl-Hijjah, is marked by communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Families and friends come together to share meals and celebrate, while also extending kindness to those in need.
      In 2024, Eid Al Adha is projected to commence on the evening of Sunday, June 16, or Monday, June 17, depending on the moon. The celebration traditionally lasts for three days, providing ample time for individuals to engage in religious observances and spend quality time with loved ones.
      Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
      Morocco

      Georgia

      All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Armenia

      With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
      Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Azerbaijan

      Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
      Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Japan

      If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
      Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
      For the latest visa requirements visit here.
      Maldives

      For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Seychelles

      With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Nepal

      Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Serbia

      For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
      Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Indonesia

      With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
      Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Mauritius

      Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
      Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Sri Lanka

      All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the ETA, initially limited to 30 days. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
      Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Thailand

      UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass, it takes up to 1 to 2 hours. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme, you can stay up to a period of 30 days.
      Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      6 spots in the UAE for a horse riding experience

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. With horse riding being one of the most sought-after activities it’s worth a try even if you’re a beginner.
      So, get your equestrian hat on to enjoy the outdoors and experience nature at its finest.
      As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse-riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year, especially now.
      Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

      With a state-of-the-art polo and equestrian community located in Dubailand, with over six million square feet of land, it consists of four world-class polo fields, a polo academy, a riding school with a dedicated riding aren’t emulating that Andalusian elegance with an oasis of excellence and uncompromising luxury. The instructors help fine-tune your skills with the well-schooled horses as it operates from Sunday to Saturday, 6am to 12am. Prices start at Dhs240 for beginners in a group setting and Dhs475 for a private beginners class.
      For more information visit poloclubdubai.com
      JA Equestrian centre

      Featuring its own air-conditioned stables with a vast expanse at JA, The Resort. This wonderful place for horse riding in the UAE provides expert qualified instructors for both experts and beginners in a fully-equipped schooling environment where regular riders can venture out and enjoy the natural desert environment, making it available all year round. The stables operate from 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm.
      For more information visit jaresortshotels.com
      Dubai City stable

      This family-friendly oasis located in Umm Sequim district, being only 10 minutes from Dubai’s Downtown area is perfectly suited for city residents who are either trained or wish to begin their horse riding journey as this stable is truly the perfect point for all horse desert adventures as they offer both private and group tuition for beginners through various events too. Starting at Dhs190 for 45 minutes, this place is definitely one to visit.
      For more information visit dubaicitystable.com 
      Sharjah Equestrian and Racing club

      Being one of the first equestrian clubs in the UAE established under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, this riding club is located on Al Dhaid Road. It’s home to one of the largest indoor riding facilities in the Middle East ensuring that its well equipped with qualified trainers and riding instructors who have advanced their technical skills. The riding school is closed on Tuesday and is open from morning 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
      For more information visit serc.ae
      Emirates Equestrian centre

      Whether you’re interested in horse riding or simply wish to experience a tranquil equine desert escape, riders of all levels are welcome and also have the opportunity to learn about show jumping, dressage, eventing, join the pony club or visit the riding school. With fully qualified instructors being able to answer your queries, polo events also take place for you to simply visit. The lesson hours are available from 7am to 11am and 4pm to 7pm and is located on Al-Ain Road, Dubai.
      For more information visit emiratesequestriancentre.com
      Al Wadi Equestrian Centre
      Located at the Ritz Carlton resort Al Wadi in Ras Al Khaimah, this equestrian centre offers lessons and experiences for guests of all ages and skill levels. Group and private lessons are available for experienced and beginner riders, including children. Spacious paddocks and a horse-walking arena are among the facilities.
      For more information visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/

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      Mukesh Ambani gifts son Anant a $77.3 million villa in Dubai

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      Lifeby Ruman Baig3 hours ago Mukesh Ambani, India’s richest man, is known for his grand gestures, and his son Anant’s upcoming wedding is no exception. Everything to know about the extravagant villaSneak-peek of the villa in Dubai Ambani recently purchased a stunning $77.3 million beachfront property on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, sparing no expense for his son’s future home.This opulent villa isn’t just any residence; it’s reportedly one of the most expensive in all of Dubai. Boasting a sprawling 3,000 square feet, the mansion features 10 luxurious bedrooms and a private beach stretching a staggering 70 meters. The interior reportedly features exquisite artwork, Italian marble, and statement lighting, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled grandeur. This contemporary haven offers every amenity imaginable, catering to the lavish lifestyle of a billionaire family.The Dubai villa is just one piece of the extravagant puzzle Ambani is creating for his son’s wedding. News reports indicate that he also spent a staggering INR 1259 crore (approximately $158 million) on pre-wedding celebrations held in Jamnagar, India. These festivities reportedly featured a performance by international pop star Rihanna, further amplifying the luxurious nature of the event.This isn’t the first time Ambani has opened his wallet wide for his children. His daughter Isha’s wedding in 2018 was a multi-day extravaganza, featuring performances by Beyonce and Bollywood A-listers. Clearly, Mukesh Ambani knows how to celebrate in style, and his son Anant’s wedding is shaping up to be no different.Everything to know about Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivitiesNow, as per another report, it is said that the Ambani’s Sangeet ceremony will take place in Abu Dhabi. However, there’s no official announcement on the same as of yet.With more details to be released yet, stay tuned on what’s next on the roster of events and A-listers to be invited to perform.Spotted in DubaiThe couple was also recently spotted shopping in Dubai, a video of which was shared on social media. He arrived at the popular Dubai Mall in the UAE city in an orange Rolls Royce Cullinan Black Badge and had a tight security cover.More details were revealed as per an auto enthusiast on the internet who said there was a fleet of 20 escort vehicles in Ambani’s convoy that included Cadillac Escalades, GMC Yukon Denalis, and Chevrolet Suburbans.Pre-wedding functionThis 3-day pre-wedding extravaganza, was put together to celebrate the joyous union of the Ambani’s and Merchant.Anant is the son of billionaire tycoon Mukesh Ambani, the richest man in Asia. No expense was spared, however, this is only just the beginning as the wedding is set to take place in July 2024.From special performances by Rihanna, Akon and the first Indian singer to perform at Coachella, Diljit Dosanjh, this star-studded affair created a buzz unlike any other.As one of the most talked about pre-wedding galores, several highly-reputed Arab businessmen and government members attended the wedding in Jamnagar.Stay tuned for more wedding updates to follow.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram More

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      7 calling apps to install in the UAE for a hassle-free conversation

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      With an expat-oriented community, connecting back home through calling apps during the week becomes part of everyone’s routine in the UAE.
      As some apps continue to be limited in the UAE, there are a host of other paid and free apps to make high-quality audio and video calls.
      For legal purposes, only a limited set of apps are available for usage on both iOS and Android, with a plethora of additional features on each.
      Below, we’ve curated a list of what to download for that next virtual happy hour or family catch-up.
      GoChat
      As part of Etisalat’s latest initiative, Etisalat launched GoChat Messenger with a new free voice and calling to the UAE. The requirements include a mobile number for registration on both iOS and Android app stores. The international 50 minutes package starts at Dhs50, with more options to choose from. The app includes additional features such as bill payment, games and even food delivery services.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      BOTIM
      While available to download for free, users will need an internet calling plan for usage. Using Botim is not tied to a calling plan or Du or eLife. You can use it with any data plan you have or only on WiFi.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.

      Image courtesy of Pexels @antonishkraba
      Microsoft Teams
      Used mainly for professional purposes, this service enables colleagues to interact with each other on a one-to-one basis and have access to audio, video, chat and screen-sharing features. The app can be downloaded on your computer, tablet and mobile device. Additionally, the app provides 10GB of file storage for the entire team including 2GB of personal storage for each individual.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      Skype for Business
      While users were previously allowed to use Skype from their personal accounts, the app is only limited to users from a business account now. Other features include a meeting with up to 10 persons without a subscription, URL invites, PowerPoint uploads for further discussions, screen sharing services and instant messaging services to send across during meetings.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      Zoom
      Amid COVID-19, Zoom became a popular app to conduct virtual classroom discussions for educators to teach remotely. Used for both video and audio calling, this app was made available during lockdown after previously being banned. Without the membership, users are allowed up to 40 mins of uninterrupted calling until they have to send a new link. From intimate weddings to special family occasions, everything can be shared with this multiple-user platform.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      Google Meet
      To register, users in the UAE need to link their Gmail accounts and can host a call with up to 100 people. For a smooth invitation process, users can simply be invited via a shared link.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      Voico
      For customers to stay in touch with their loved ones, Etisalat also introduced Voico app that gives both audio and video call services to UAE residents. The app allows users to share photos, videos, and other files to stay connected.
      You can download the iOS and Google Play versions.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Are you eligible for the UAE’s Golden Visa? Take the quiz now…

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago With numerous individuals in the UAE and globally being granted the Golden Visa, a tool was officially launched in 2022 to check your eligibility for the same.Through a short quick quiz available on the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, users can answer a few questions relating to their contribution to the country’s economy and additionally find out more about the supporting documents needed for each criteria.After first being implemented in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa residency programme was introduced as a means for expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years without the need for a sponsor.Based on the information provided by VisaGuide.World “Authorities in Abu Dhabi have announced that the Golden Visa scheme will be valid for a period of ten years instead of five years. The new changes have been confirmed by the Director of Operations at the Abu Dhabi Residents Office, Mark Dorzi.”Several talented individuals such as Chef Izu, content creators Ola Farahat and Karen Wazen, actor Shah Rukh Khan and others have already been granted this visa after their notable achievements within the industry and beyond.With immense benefits for Golden Visa holders, the visas extend to immediate family members to ensure expats can keep their members can keep their family members live in the country hassle-free.EligibilitySo, are you eligible for a Golden Visa? The UAE government has made it easy to see if you are with a two-minute quiz which you can take here.Below, we’ve also outlined the key players who are eligible for the Golden Visa.EntrepreneursWith the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.Real estate investorsThe visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.‘Exceptional talents’The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.Scientists & researchersAny notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.Outstanding studentsStudents in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.Skilled workersWorkers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.How to apply once eligible?Eligible candidates will need to follow the six-step process via the Dubai Smart Application after downloading the GDRFA application, then create a new user account, select the required service, follow the attachment of the required documents, pay the fees and ultimately submit the request.Candidates can also apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa through AMER Center, if they wish to physically submit the documents and make the payment.If you think you’re a potential candidate to receive a Golden Visa, take this two minutes quiz on smartservices.icp.gov.ae to find out your eligibility.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram @Dubai More

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      Want to get your driving license? Here’s the VIP packages to book in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      You can now get your driver’s license in some seriously high-end cars in the UAE.
      From a G-Wagen to a Tesla, these luxury cars ensure a seamless booking with the added advantage of booking classes via WhatsApp.
      Overall, Students have a guarantee that they will get their license in as little as one week, with pick up and dropped off at home by the driving school and have access to a VIP lounge and realistic driving simulators.
      With long hours at work or multitasking with numerous items on your to-do list, booking a VIP experience can make the task a whole lot easier without any added hassle.
      So, to avoid the procrastination, swipe through our guide of schools in the UAE offering the best services to ensure flexibility in your daily schedule.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How Café Kitsuné is now making waves in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      16 mins ago

      Cafe Kitsuné shares how the French-Japanese brand has created the magic recipe for success in the Middle East after opening their first cafê in Dubai.
      Talk us through the concept of Cafe Kitsuné.
      We opened our first Café Kitsuné locations in 2013 in Tokyo’s Aoyama district followed by another one in Paris’ iconic Palais Royal Gardens. Since then, Café Kitsuné has grown to a network of 28 cafés in 20 cities across Europe, Asia, North America and the Middle East, and it has achieved cult status amongst specialty coffee lovers around the world. Everywhere in the world, visitors will find chic and convivial venues, with a Paris-meets-Tokyo feel, a clean and minimalist aesthetic, combined with local-inspired elements.

      The ubiquitous fox logo is everywhere – talk us through the creative inspiration behind it on the merchandise.
      Kitsuné is the Japanese word for fox, a symbol of versatility. Legend has it, the fox possesses the power to change its appearance. It translates directly to our cafés as well: we don’t have one single café with the exact same interior design and atmosphere. Each of our cafés has its own identity while expressing the distinctive Café Kitsuné Art de Vivre.
      As a highly popular coffee shop in Paris and Tokyo – how did the brand decide to bring it to the UAE?
      We really love Dubai, its lifestyle, its modernity, its versatility and the overall vibrant atmosphere of the city. You can feel an undeniable energy. It is an inspiring and innovative city, especially for the Food & Beverage scene. Nowhere else in the world is quite like Dubai. We feel very honoured to be able to open our very first Café Kitsuné location at H residence, in the iconic Jumeirah. We can’t wait to further share our Café Kitsuné Art de Vivre and savoir-faire with the Emiratis.

      What are the key dishes at Café Kitsuné Dubai?
      The global culinary imprint of the brand is still apparent and can still be savored even in a menu that is exclusively curated for Dubai. At Café Kitsuné Dubai, visitors will be able to taste our Café Kitsuné unique savoury and full-bodied coffee blend and to pair it with our signature pastries as our Fox-shaped Shortbread, our signature matcha eclair… The café also carries local exclusives such as a rose blossom cake, a Tropézienne tart, that will evolve according to seasons. Café Kitsuné Dubai also offers a delightful savory menu, presenting the brand’s special recipes: the French toast, the shakshuka and our iconic sandos. The menu features unique dishes such as the smashed burger, the breakfast sandwich and the lobster roll with homemade potato crisps.
      The coffee is highly sought-after – tell us more about the source and brewing process.
      Whether it’s in Tokyo, Paris, Seoul or NYC, the coffee served at the Café Kitsuné is a tasty and a balanced combination of two single origin arabica beans, where aromas of chocolate and honey blend perfectly with fruity flavors. It can be enjoyed in situ or as a take-away and comes as an espresso, macchiato, americano, latte, cappuccino, cortado, flat white or mochaccino. From Brazil and Guatemala, the coffee beans are roasted with the utmost care.
      Talk us through the interiors.
      Kitsuné’s in-house architecture and design studio recognized the importance of presenting Café Kitsuné with a global brand identity together with Middle Eastern aesthetics. The cafe’s minimalistic architectural design seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Featuring Café Kitsuné’s iconic herringbone pattern, the idea is to pay homage to traditional craftsmanship while adding a contemporary touch. Though not imposing, guests can also appreciate the intricate placement of brass and Arabesque elements across the restaurant.
      What lies ahead for Café Kitsuné?
      We opened our first Café Kitsuné location 11 years ago and we only started to expand internationally six years ago. We took time to learn more about coffee culture, the process of roasting, to find the good partners etc. For all our activities, the key has always been to go deeper and constantly improve the quality of our offer, our savoir-faire and propose an outstanding service to our customers. Our customers will soon be able to enjoy Café Kitsuné in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by the end of 2024. In the UAE more specifically, our brand has strong ambitions, with the opening of several new Cafés, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
      Located in H Residence, this café is open from Monday to Sunday from 8am to 11pm and more information can be found on maisonkitsune.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      8 outdoor activities to try in the UAE before summer arrives

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      As temperatures soon rise in the UAE, outdoor activities should still be on your list for the last few weeks of cool weather.
      From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
      To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
      Go sky high

      The first to operate balloon flights in the northern Emirates, ActionFlight, has recently launched in Ras Al Khaimah. The flight will take visitors soaring over the rolling terracotta dunes for awe-inspiring sunrise views of the Emirate’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Operating seven days a week during the ballooning season, the picturesque experience sets afloat in the Al Wadi desert, where guests will board the 450,000 cubic feet balloon standing at a colossal 34.6m. Taking flight just before sunrise, the journey lasts approximately 60-minutes where visitors can marvel at the illuminated desert dunes, majestic Hajar mountains and glistening coastline and might even be able to spot special appearances from the indigenous wildlife. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. Guests can relax and unwind as they indulge in a decadent selection of dishes and be treated to a fascinating bird of prey show with native Arabian falcons, owls and hawks. Post-trip, all passengers will take home a souvenir flight certificate signed by the Balloon Pilot as a memento from the extraordinary experience. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. The family-friendly flight has the capacity to carry up to 20 passengers and for those looking for a more intimate experience, private compartment and flight bookings are available on request. ActionFlight will run flights seven days per week, flight availability may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Kids under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets start at Dhs1,315 per adult and Dhs1,155 per child inclusive of the flight and return transport.
      For more information visit actionflight.ae
      Book an alfresco dining experience

      It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
      Try a glamping experience

      If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
      For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
      Visit this famed desert café

      With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. 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. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
      For more information visit onedegree.ae
      Hone your equestrian skills

      From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
      Swing your best shot

      For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
      For more information visit topgolf.ae
      Go ziplining

      Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
      It’s time to trek

      Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
      To make a booking head to visithatta.com
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      Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More