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    9 relaxing boutique hotels in the UAE to unwind at

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 9 IMAGES
    What is on offer once you arrive are some of the most remarkable boutique hotels in the world.
    These intimate hideaways are designed for a more relaxing experience with your friends and families, while getting the best of both worlds through art and culture.
    From quirky restaurants to murals created by local artists, each element is carefully sought-after and designed to perfection for a wholesome experience. Be it loft-style settings or a traditional Bedouin style aesthetic, each theme is carefully considered for a memorable journey.
    With a boutique hotel room to check into, you will not only enjoy all of the luxury this part of the UAE has to offer. But also be able to enjoy some quirky room features, design aesthetics, and one-off hotel room layouts. Always check the full-service description of each boutique hotel. So you know more than just the rating of the property but also whether it provides parking services. It is ideal if you are driving from the airport or arriving by road from across the desert. Note, too, that some of the best hotels in the UAE provide special offers to international guests. Therefore, despite the luxury on offer, you can expect some great prices.
    Overall, the options are vast and varied. We’ve eliminated the guesswork and rounded up our favourite Dubai hotels for all travel preferences. Here is our tried-and-tested pick of the best hotels in emirate.
    If you’re looking for a midweek escape or weekend retreat at any of these authentic stays, swipe throught. Emirates Woman has curated a guide of the best boutique hotels that emulate a new side of Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @Zozoewitherspoon More

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    Want to put your health first? Here’s 10 wellness spots to try in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    While many of us must have set resolutions at the beginning of the year, powering through the wellness route is important too.
    If you’re thinking of taking a break from all the bars, eating out and clubs, then you’re in the right place. This emirate offers a variety of wellness spots, ranging from luxurious spas to serene yoga retreats.
    What are the benefits of wellness activities?
    Improved Physical Fitness
    Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances overall fitness. Activities like regular physical exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep strengthen the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections.
    Stress Reduction
    Activities like meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Regular physical activity and stress reduction techniques contribute to improved sleep quality and duration.
    Longevity
    A consistent wellness routine contributes to a longer, healthier life by maintaining physical and mental health. Engaging in wellness activities improves overall quality of life, making daily activities more enjoyable and less stressful.
    From sound healing to Ice Baths, each space offers an area to unwind and switch-off throughout the day, without feeling too overwhelmed from the stresses of daily life. Dubai’s wellness scene is diverse, catering to various preferences and needs, whether you’re looking for relaxation, fitness, or holistic health.
    With the wellness industry growing in the UAE, it’s time to book your next session ASAP.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marinanorjes More

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    Want to put your health first? Here’s 10 wellness spots to visit in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    34 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    While many of us must have set resolutions at the beginning of the year, powering through the wellness route is important too.
    If you’re thinking of taking a break from all the bars, eating out and clubs, then you’re in the right place. This emirate offers a variety of wellness spots, ranging from luxurious spas to serene yoga retreats.
    What are the benefits of wellness activities?
    Improved Physical Fitness
    Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances overall fitness. Activities like regular physical exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep strengthen the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections.
    Stress Reduction
    Activities like meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Regular physical activity and stress reduction techniques contribute to improved sleep quality and duration.
    Longevity
    A consistent wellness routine contributes to a longer, healthier life by maintaining physical and mental health. Engaging in wellness activities improves overall quality of life, making daily activities more enjoyable and less stressful.
    From sound healing to Ice Baths, each space offers an area to unwind and switch-off throughout the day, without feeling too overwhelmed from the stresses of daily life. Dubai’s wellness scene is diverse, catering to various preferences and needs, whether you’re looking for relaxation, fitness, or holistic health.
    With the wellness industry growing in the UAE, it’s time to book your next session ASAP.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marinanorjes More

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

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming summer 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.
    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
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @tialineker @alexiiak More

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    Travelling to Japan? How to apply via e-visa services for UAE residents

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    23 seconds ago

    Japan has so much to offer, from bustling cities to serene temples and beautiful natural landscapes. Hence, it’s definitely worth a trip.
    So, if you’re based in the UAE and thinking of planning a trip to Japan, you’re in the right place as VFS Global has now launched e-visa services and in-person applicants.
    Overall, the country is rich and diverse destination for tourists, offering a blend of traditional and modern attractions. Also, swipe through our editor-approved guide of touristic attractions to visit.
    Here’s everything you need to know when you apply.
    How to apply
    VFS Global’s Japan Visa Application Centres will accept document submission for short-term and long-term visas to Japan, by prior appointment. Appointments will be available online at https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/jpn/ at no charge. All the Japan Visa Application Centres are operational in Abu Dhabi and Dubai from August 1, 2024

    What are the services offered?
    VFS Global will also offer applicants its range of optional services, including Premium Lounge for end-to-end personalised assistance, Prime Time for services outside business hours, Courier Return, Form-filling Assistance, and SMS Alerts, among others. Applicants looking for further comfort and convenience can opt for the Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service to complete the visa application process from the comfort of their home or office.
    When is it effective from?
    Effective 1 September 2024, travellers eligible for e-visas to Japan will be able to visit VFS Global Japan Visa Application Centres to apply for tourist e-visas to the destination.
    Location and timings
    The Japan visa application services in the UAE are available at WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2 in Dubai and Level B2 (Lower Ground), The Mall, World Trade Centre, Khalifa Bin Zayed The 1st Street in Abu Dhabi UAE. It’s open from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
    For more information visit visa.vfsglobal.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @visitjapan More

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    9 luxe UAE-based shops to order premium cakes from

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    29 mins ago

    We’re all tired of the same old off-the-rack cakes and want to make each celebration even more memorable. So why not order from the UAE’s premium shops offering the finest cakes.
    Finding a trusted baker who can make your dream cake a reality, might sometimes be too much to ask for. Be it a specific baby-shower-themed cake or multi-layered decadent sponges decorated with edible flowers, there are endless options of cake ateliers in the UAE that can seamlessly execute the job.
    Be it birthdays, weddings or personal milestones, no cake is too hard to create for these well-established patisseries and talented bakers. From design and flavour to tasting, each customer is taken through the journey to be certain of the outcome and celebrate their big day without an inch of doubt.
    To help you narrow down the process, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate premium cake guide for bespoke offerings in the UAE.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @heather-barnes & Pexels @marta-dzedyshko More

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    6 staycations to book at these UAE hotels opened in 2024

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 mins ago

    Quick escapes are essential to wear down the stress levels from time to time. With a myriad of new hotels opening in the UAE this year, it’s time to visit this luxurious properties to feel like you’ve escaped the city.
    Quite often, trips become more fulfilling after skipping the excessive packing, long-haul flights, jet-lag and the never-ending lines at airport security.
    If you’re thinking of a much-needed escape and have probably ticked off every property on your must-visit list, we’re here to help with all the newly opened hotels and resorts in Dubai this year, that are beyond stunning.
    From ultra-luxury interiors to Michelin-star chefs spearheading the fine-dining havens, these resorts can now be booked for a quick getaway with your friends, partner or even a solo getaway. Whether you’re after a fun, fashionable or family-friendly hotel, there’s something to suit your hospitality needs. Here are all of the new hotels opening in the UAE.
    Be it Anantara Mina Al Arab with its lush gardens, an infinity pool and a natural mangrove sanctuary or One&Only One Za’beel with its ultra-modern health and wellness facilities, each cityscape welcomes guests to feel like they’re in a different country. With a much-needed change in environment, the picturesque resorts allow each guest to take a break from the bustling city life.
    So, if you’re planning to book a staycation in advance, swipe through our guide of newly opened properties and soon-to-open hotels in the UAE.

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

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    Who is Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum? 6 details to know about this royal

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    10 mins ago

    Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    As a keen advocate for women and known to empower the community of local designers in the UAE, Sheikha Mahra is always inspiring her 172k followers on social media.
    With her growing presence globally, all her fans are eager to know more about this Princess.
    To find out more, Emirates Woman shares everything that you might not know about Sheikha Mahra.
    She gives back to the community

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is no stranger to giving back to the local community. Known for her philanthropic efforts in the region, she is always spreading joy and was also seen spending many afternoons with children of determination. Known to never shy away from affect, Sheikha Mahra also shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child. With all smiles in a heartwarming portrait. With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, her kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
    She loves horses

    It’s well-known horse racing is a major passion of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and it’s clearly a love he has passed on to his children. Sharing his love for horses is his daughter, Sheikha Mahra, is often seen attending the races and posing with her favourite animals.
    She supports local designers

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is one such person that is continuing to champion regional designers and their flawless creations. Known to attend the Icons Exhibition, Sheikha Mahra is a regular visitor of its different locations around the UAE, as it shines a light on different designers in the region. The Icons Exhibition is an event held multiple times a year showcasing local designers and talent and is run by Emirati designer and creative Roudha Al Shamsi. She always shares series of photos and a video of her visit to any exhibition where she is seen learning about various local businesses visiting different booths at the event, from jewellery to food to makeup to clothes.
    She’s known for her sartorial choices

    More and more nowadays we’re seeing abayas come in an array of different colourways and patterns – far from the traditional all-black ensemble. Hence, one individual known for her sartorial choices is Her Highness Sheikha Mahra al Maktoum. Her Highness is known for effortlessly playing with different patterns and colourways and always knows how to carry it off. Whether attending exhibitions or posing with her favourite horses, she continuously stuns with every different look.
    She completed her Bachelor’s in the UK

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
    She got married last year

    According to an official statement on the Sheikha’s official Instagram account, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum have signed the marriage contract. On April 5, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    She’s a mother
    The Dubai princess and daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, gave birth to a healthy baby girl in May 2024. Back in February this year, the couple had hosted a gender reveal.
    Swipe through the gallery to look back at Sheikha Mahra’s key moments:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra & @marwa.alzarounii More