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      6 of the best Sharjah desert cafés to visit this winter

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      15 hours ago

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

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

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

      Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.
      Common Winter

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

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

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

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      Get a fresh bouquet of flowers delivered in 60 minutes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Have a last-minute request for a bouquet to gift to your loved ones? Flowers.ae promises a world of petal perfection with its prompt delivery services in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
      From birthday flowers to anniversary flowers, there’s plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for classic roses, stunning sunflowers, or elegant lilies, you’re spoiled for choice
      The talented team of experts ensure high-quality flowers are accessible to everyone, with customer satisfaction as top priority.
      Their dedication to quality, personalisation, customer service, convenience, and innovation has propelled them to the forefront of the industry. For those who need a personal touch, bespoke arrangements can be created according to each preference with a heartfelt message to complement the arrangement.
      The user-friendly website lets you browse our collection of breathtaking bouquets and flower arrangements at your leisure, with the option to order and schedule a flower delivery in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE for a specific date and time along with now providing the option for 60-minute delivery services. For more information visit flowers.ae
      The editor-approved picks:

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

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      Meet Ayesha Al Mansoori, the first Emirati falconer to dominate this native sport

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      As one of the first females in the sport of falconry, Emirati falconer Ayesha Al Mansoori takes us through her journey of courage, consistency and commitment to the craft.
      What does the first 30 minutes of your day look like?
      I start my day with prayer, then I go directly to the falconry room to check on them. After that, I prepare breakfast and take my daughter Osha to school.
      What inspired you to pursue this unique path of becoming the first female Emirati falconer?
      My father, Matar Al Mansouri, is my inspiration and he is the one who inspired me to pursue this sport, it is inevitably in our blood.
      What challenges have you overcome while pursuing falconry?
      There are many challenges, but the joy is in overcoming these challenges, passing them with all strength, and continuing on the path. I started my journey as one of the only women in the field and because of the challenges I faced in my path, I could remove the roadblocks from the ones who came after me.

      Falconry requires a deep connection between you and the birds. Can you expand on this and the training process?
      A falconer must have astrong relationship with the falcon, it is, after all, an art of mutual trust. It is important to know your falcon, down to the soul. In order to train them you need to boost their confidence in you and develop a sense of security. You are eventually going on a hunt with the same bird, so the groundwork must be strong.
      What advice do you have for other young women who may aspire to follow in your footsteps and become falconers?
      Firstly, every young woman who wants to engage in the art of falconry or learn the sport must choose an appropriate falconer with sufficient experience in this sport. Secondly,give it enough time and effort to learn. Thirdly, this sport must be learned and carried on because it is a part of our ancestry and culture (it is quite literally a part of our national emblem). It also teaches us a lot about our history and forefathers, including our beloved founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may God rest his soul).

      How do you balance preserving traditional Emirati falconry techniques while also adapt ing to modern practices?
      Currently, new equipment and modern methods have been added to train our falcons, but every time I am starting with a new falcon, I resort back to what I learned from my father because it is the correct way to begin. After which, modern technologies such as tools and foods can be introduced. The sport of falconry teaches you patience, and resilience and also helps you create a bond with nature’s other beings. Learning the art and attaching yourself to a bird, whom you are responsible for, unlocks a whole new level of empathy.
      How do you envision the future of falconry in the UAE and its role in preserving Emirati heritage?
      Since this sport is an interest of our wise leadership, it must be developed and preserved. There should be falconry festivals related to this sport and exhibitions displaying all kinds of falconry supplies and merchandise.
      This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does it mean to be fearless?
      To me, being fearless means finding courage within yourself to do even the unthinkable. Without courage, I wouldn’t be able to learn how to deal with a majestic bird like a falcon, let alone train with it and master the art of working and hunting with it every day.
      October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      7 calling apps to install that work seamlessly in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      13 hours ago

      With an expat-oriented community, connecting back home 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. For Etisalat, du and Virgin mobile, the monthly subscription fee is priced at Dhs50 and the daily fee is Dhs5 with 1GB of mobile data. For WiFi on Etisalat eLife and du Home Services, the price is Dhs100.
      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
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @haileybieber More

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      In pics: Throwback to Sheikh Hamdan’s most heartfelt childhood moments

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      13 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 17 IMAGES
      His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, often gives his loyal fans a snippet into his childhood.
      Having garnered over 14.3 million followers, Fazza has always shared some of his favourite moments from when he was young.
      Ever since he was young, travelling around the world has been a core component of Sheikh Hamdan’s childhood and the old pictures on his feed portray the same.
      From precious family moments to embracing the wild with his favourite animals, we just can’t get enough of these adorable occasions caught on camera.
      As Emirates Woman scrolls through Fazza’s Instagram there are a host of throwback moments that shed light on his memorable moments as a young boy.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @fazza  More

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      Etihad Rail: Everything you need to know about UAE’s ambitious rail project

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      In 2004, the Gulf Cooperation Council’s six nations initiated a feasibility study for a regional railway network. Etihad Rail, founded in June 2009 through Federal Law No. 2, is responsible for overseeing the construction, development, and operation of the UAE’s national freight and passenger railway system.
      The primary objective of Etihad Rail is to connect key industrial and population hubs within the UAE and link them to other railways across the Gulf Cooperation Council.

      Etihad Rail links major trade hubs in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, through an extensive network of numerous depots and 593 bridges and crossings. The project will facilitate freight and passenger transport, supporting further social and economic development in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/aEpKjWlTXn
      — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 13, 2023

      Has the construction of Etihad Rail been finished?
      The UAE Network, constructed by Etihad Rail, is now finished. The 1,200 km railway spans the country, connecting Saudi Arabia’s border to Oman’s. It links key trade, industry, and population centers, enhancing trade and becoming part of the GCC railway network. Stage One has operated since 2016, moving sulphur, while Stage Two is done, connecting Emirates from Saudi border to Fujairah on the east coast.
      Is Etihad Rail intended for passenger use?
      The Etihad Rail Project encompasses a dual-purpose rail system, tailored to accommodate both cargo and commuter operations. The endeavor includes a substantial industrial facet, which has already commenced with the movement of granulated sulfur within the western region of Abu Dhabi.
      What is the estimated cost of the Etihad Rail project?
      Etihad Rail constitutes a significant 1,200km railway initiative under construction within the United Arab Emirates. Stretching from the Saudi border to Fujairah along the Indian Ocean coastline, this railway project is being built with an estimated investment of AED 40 billion ($11 billion).
      What are the planned destinations for the Etihad Rail network?

      Spanning the vast expanse from Al Sila to Fujairah, traversing through enclaves like Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi, this visionary endeavor aspires to curtail the vehicular migrations between Emirates by a notable margin of 30 to 40 percent. Anticipated travel times project the trains to gracefully glide through the landscape, with a journey of 1 hour and 40 minutes earmarked between Abu Dhabi and Sohar. In a striking contrast, the journey from Al Ain to Sohar will be an expeditious 47-minute odyssey.”

      Which nations will be linked by the Etihad Rail system?
      The Etihad Rail map displays a vast 1,200-kilometer network that links key urban areas such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain, along with industrial centers and ports. This rail system will also extend to Oman and Saudi Arabia, boosting trade and logistics.
      While cargo trains are currently in operation, passenger services will be introduced in the future.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @etihad_rail More

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      Want to plan ahead? Here’s the next public holiday in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      If you’re thinking of a short-haul getaway or in need of a quick staycation, then there’s some good news for you.
      During the month of September, Prophet Muhammad’s birthday towards the end of the month, allowing the UAE residents to potentially have a three-day long weekend. Known as Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi, which translates to ‘birthday of the prophet’, this occasion is known as the 12th day of the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, known as the third month of the Islamic Lunar calendar.
      As September 29, 2023 falls on a Friday, this means another three-day weekend for UAE residents at the end of the month allowing them to have Friday, Saturday and Sunday off.
      While official announcements are still yet to be released for both private and public sectors, there could most likely be a holiday as last year in 2022, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) declared this occasion a public holiday, however, it fell on the weekend on Saturday, thereby leading to no additional day off.
      The remaining holidays…

      Official holidays remaining in 2023.#UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/70CRhMoiug
      — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) April 22, 2023

      After September, the remaining holidays for the year include National Day on December 2 and 3, 2023, which will officially be declared one to two weeks prior.
      During the month of December, UAE residents can expect December 1, 2023, which is Commemoration Day and was previously known as Martyrs’ Day to fall on Friday 2023, after which National Day will fall on December 2 and 3, making it another three-day long weekend of the year.
      Following this, the holidays for 2024 shall be released and will start with a public holiday on January 1, 2024 which happens to be a be a Monday.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @visitabudhabi @naty_gorgosova More

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      All the luxe hotels with private pools in the UAE

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      As the sweltering heat is here to stay for the next couple of months, there’s nothing like cooling off in the privacy of your own private pool.
      From temperature-controlled swimming pools to luxe views of the UAE’s skyline, these exotic properties offer their own private swimming facility to unwind with friends and family.
      Emirates Woman has curated a list of must-visit resorts located both in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, that offer their own space to unwind as you book a premium villa or suite that best fits your needs.
      Abu Dhabi
      Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

      If you’re looking for a city escape in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this urban waterfront retreat offers an expanse of mangroves with waterfront swimming and mangrove kayaking during your stay as you unwind at the Mangrove pool suite. It offers a host of privileges from an abundance of space to basking on your terrace or in the mini plunge pool, which elevates your stay in UAE’s capital.
      For more information visit Anantara.com
      Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island

      Located on the pristine white beach of Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking Saadiyat Island, this one-of-a-kind five-star property features a striking modern Arabic architecture with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Starting with the one-bedroom beach villa, guests can rejuvenate at their very own large private plunge pool with a fully furnished terrace, as they absorb unrivalled sea views that are reminiscent of an elegant beach house with a location that is hard to beat.
      For more information visit Rotana.com
      Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Rooted deep within the desert landscape of Al Wathba, an intimate retreat with natural beauty lies at the hallmark of this hotel experience, with guests ready to embark on an individual wellness journey, immersed by privacy. With a secluded plunge pool, guests can take in serene views of the Arabian Desert from their villa with a generous amount of space as they lay back and absorb the beauty of the property.
      For more information visit alwathbahotel.com
      Dubai
      One&Only The Palm

      This glittering sanctuary with lush gardens is secluded on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah with opulent hotel rooms, while also featuring beachfront villas with their own private swimming pools as you witness breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. The premium villa allows you to step into the world of luxury with complete relaxation as you’re surrounded by lush private gardens and can cool off in your private temperature-controlled swimming pool with a majlis-style space shrouded by an oversized gazebo.
      For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
      Anantara The Palm

      With a private sanctuary that overlooks the beach and Arabian Gulf beyond, you can enjoy luxurious sunny days by the poolside with private concierge services at the Villa with options for one or two bedrooms as you unwind in style with oversized daybeds featuring a lagoon that is made into something special.
      For more information visit anantara.com
      Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

      With a relaxed yet effortless atmosphere, Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts prides itself in providing guests with an unrivalled luxury lifestyle experience, while offering guests contemporary dining with an enhanced Nikki Beach experience. The Nikki beach pool villa is pleasant to the eye, with a uniquely designed space featuring an external shower pool and vast recreational areas that are perfectly conceived down to the smallest detail. With a perfect combination of white, light blue and beige colours in the interiors, the outdoor area is fitted with high-quality furniture offering a unique area for private dining or relaxing.
      For more information visit nikkibeach.com
      Melia Desert Palm

      This urban oasis offers lush green surroundings with an elegant oasis in the one-bedroom hideaway villas with ground floor living and dining spaces that extends to the spacious outdoor as guests enjoy a home away from home for the ultimate privacy with an alfresco dining area, complemented with a stone-walled courtyard for utmost serenity. With fascinating views of Dubai’s skyline and your own space to unwind at, there’s enough of room in this superlatively designed area to relax with friends and family.
      For more information visit melia.com
      Bulgari Resort Dubai

      Bringing the Mediterranean style to the Middle East, while being surrounded by ocean views with a nautical spirit imbibed at the property, guests can unwind at the luxurious beach view villas with stunning landscaped gardens and a temperature-controlled pool, as the villas offer the perfect amount of space to have the ultimate luxury gathering with the feeling and privacy of being at home, while enjoying the details of a sunken marble bathtub in the layout.
      For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
      Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

      Just under an hours drive from the city of Dubai is Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa. This luxury hotel, which resembles a luxurious Bedouin encampment, is the perfect escape for a weekend recharge. While the resort’s location already ensures maximum privacy for guests, Al Maha’s 42 suites take luxury and privacy to the next level. Each suite boasts a private temperature-controlled pool overlooking the infinite desert views, alongside opulent interiors which pay tribute to Arabian heritage with handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artefacts.
      Ras Al Khaimah
      The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

      Escape to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah at The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach resort which has 32 luxurious villas that each have their very own private pool, as well as direct beach access.
      The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

      For those seeking a desert escape in Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert resort is ideal. Similar to its sister resort, there are 100 villas available each with its own private pool.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ More