More stories

  • in

    9 UAE-based shops to order premium cakes from

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    We’re all tired of the same old off-the-rack cakes and want to make each celebration even more memorable.
    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 More

  • in

    13 luxurious hotels to book with private pools in the UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    58 mins 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
    Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Dubai
    Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Dubai’s newly renovated Royal Penthouse boasts a panoramic rooftop terrace with a private 7-metre outdoor swimming pool and a sleek firepit and lounge area for ala fresco dining with epic, unobstructed views of the Arabian Gulf that only you and your guests can exclusively enjoy.
    For reservations, call +971 4 777 2222
    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 @oothepalm More

  • in

    9 unique boutique hotels in the UAE to unwind at

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 9 IMAGES
    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.
    So, if you’re looking for a midweek escape or weekend retreat at any of these authentic stays, 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 @babalshams @anantarasantorini More

  • in

    7 heritage-worthy cultural sites to book in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several spots that mark its rich heritage.
    In Dubai, there are many sites that display the nation’s history and pay homage to where it all began.
    As an ode to the UAE’s long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai.
    Coffee Museum

    Designed to pay homage to the UAE’s coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country’s heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture.
    For more information visit coffeemuseum.ae
    Etihad Museum

    Designed to highlight the nation’s history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE’s archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm.
    For more information visit etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae
    Old Souq

    This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai.
    Hatta Heritage Village

    Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai’s mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature’s beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE’s traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers’ inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway.
    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding

    Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood.
    For more information visit cultures.ae
    Arabian Tea House

    To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city’s past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.
    For more information visit arabianteahouse.com
    Dubai Museum

    To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch’s base and highlights the history of the UAE.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dubaimuseum More

  • in

    Thinking of a complete detox? Here’s 7 wellness spots to visit in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    31 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    While many of us must have set resolutions at the beginning of the year, powering through them throughout the year 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.
    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.
    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 @keziacook More

  • in

    6 luxury staycations to book at these new hotels in the UAE

    Life by Sarah Joseph 5 mins ago Quick escapes are essential to wear down the stress levels from time to time. Sometimes the trips become more fulfilling after skipping the excessive packing, long-haul flights, jet-lag and more. 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 properties 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. 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

  • in

    Dubai’s most expensive ultra-luxury hotel is set to open in 2027

    Life by Sarah Joseph 4 mins ago Known for some of the most staggering man-made structures on the planet, Dubai is often regarded as the city of opulence and what better city than here for Aman to expand. All set to bring the revered experience of peace and sanctuary to the heart of UAE, Aman is carving a niche with its ultra-luxury property The property will will occupy a prestigious shoreline setting with an expansive private beach. Encompassing an all-suite hotel, Aman Dubai will also feature a limited number of Aman branded residences, an extensive Aman Spa over 2,000 sqm in size, several choices of restaurants, as well as an exclusive Aman Club. Speaking about the pipeline and his vision for growth, Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman, said: “ Securing the optimal site was paramount to ensure the delivery of our unparallelled service and authentic experiences, for which we are world-renowned.” By drawing inspiration from the region’s cultural heritage, the design features local stone in a palette of desert tones and connects subterranean spaces and courtyards to extensive sublime gardens that descend to the beach and extend to private living spaces. “We are thrilled to bring the first Aman to Dubai. Aman is a leading lifestyle brand inspired by providing a seamless level of service and experience that is known worldwide. The brand’s vision aligns with our strategy to bring exceptional experiences to the city,” said Shahab Lutfi, CEO of Bright Start. ” With unobstructed panoramic views of the azure water and Dubai’s skyline, the property will have a prime coastal position on Jumeirah Beach. Overall, the UAE continues to be a the UAE is a perennial favourite and not just because of its not-quite-long-haul flight time from almost any part of the world. More details regarding this to-be-added property on Aman’s portfolio will be revealed with time. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied More

  • in

    5 special Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed moments to celebrate his birthday

    Life by Sarah Joseph 5 mins ago Today, March 11, 2024, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan celebrates his 63rd birthday. He has always been a beam of light as one of the key leaders of the UAE with his longstanding grit and passion for the country. Consistently optimistic about the challenges faced in the nation, he also has a reputation for giving strangers a helping hand and is known for also giving back to the community. As today is a special occasion for this inspiring leader, we look back at some of his most heartwarming moments shared with the people of the nation. When he surprised an Afghani carpet merchant with a visit An Abu Dhabi-based Afghani carpet merchant went viral in October 2017 after a video surfaced of him refusing Dhs100,000 to sell a portrait he had of Sheikh Zayed in his shop. Four months later in February 2018, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed visited the merchant. In the heartwarming moment, His Highness gave the merchant a Year of Zayed badge and later shared the admiration he had for the Afghani man. He carefully heard Martyrs’ children recite poems While congratulating these little ones for their excellent performance at school, Sheikh Mohamed respectfully listened to Dana, the daughter of Waleed Al Thanhani, a fallen serviceman, who beautifully expressed her emotions in the poem to which he applauded as shown in the video. Honouring women on Emirati Women’s Day With regard to the multiple roles a woman takes on in society, from educators, scientists, police, doctors, mothers and many more, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed shared a video on Instagram last year to mark Emirati Women’s Day. He celebrated the Emirati women who have shaped the future for the nation. When he paid a visit to his former teacher and mentor His mentor and former teacher Ahmed Ibrahim Mandi Al Tamimi, contributed to the country’s education system since the inception of the union. Back in 2017, in appreciation of his dedication and all his hard work, especially for leaving his mark on a number of generations, Sheikh Mohamed paid a visit to his home in Khalifa City as reported by the state news agency WAM. Proud father moment with his son Sheikh Zayed Sheikh Mohamed, along with Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, the Crown Prince of Ajman attended their sons’ graduation in 2020 – Sheikh Zayed Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed, and Sheikh Humaid Bin Ammar Al Nuaimi – from the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Clearly proud of his son, in a video posted to the Emirates Royal Family Instagram account, Sheikh Mohamed is seen hurrying towards Sheikh Zayed to give him a congratulatory hug from an elated father. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: WAM/Instagram More