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      in lifestyle and culture

      9 female-only venues to visit in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Created for women to feel comfortable in a safe environment, female-only venues have gained immense popularity over the years.
      Ensuring these incredible communities of women continues to grow, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the female-only facilities to access.
      Motion Ladies Fitness

      This ladies-only boutique fitness centre allows women to excel in the world of fitness. From Pilates to Kickboxing, the classes are offered for all fitness levels, be it beginner, intermediate, or expert. As women are on their journey to find their motion, this studio has a passion for every aspect of physical and mental fitness. This beautiful community helps each other stay motivated without judgment to build and bond with close-knit friendships. Tucked away within Umm Suqeim, Villa 122, It’s open from Sunday to Thursday 7am to 9pm and on Saturday from 7am to 4pm and it’s closed on Friday.
      For more information visit motionfitnesscenter.com/
      FitnGlam

      By raising the bar for women in fitness, FitnGlam is the first of its kind in the region as a female-only superclub. From top-range cardio equipment to boutique studios, women are sure to meet their fitness goals with handpicked personal trainers and nutrition coaches. Whether boxing, yoga, HIIT or any other athletic session, FitnGlam offers it all. To enjoy handcrafted healthy treats, women have access to Active by Nolu’s for a range of organic dishes. Located in Al Quoz, this luxe studio is not one to miss.
      For more information visit fitnglam.ae
      Dubai Ladies Club

      This unique sanctuary of tranquility offers a combination of modern, world-class facilities and more. With private beach access, visitors can enjoy this haven all year round with access to events and services all year round. With restaurants and cafés on board, there are plenty of dining facilities open to all who visit. Every woman needs some time alone and this safe sanctuary can help her unwind after a long week. Created with the vision to be the home of happy, healthy women, this leading club offers the highest quality services and facilities. Located right next to Jumeirah beach, it’s open daily from 7am to 10pm.
      For more information visit dubailadiesclub.com
      GOAL Academy

      This women’s only football academy is fully equipped with 100 per cent female staff who are devoted to giving women an opportunity to grow in this arena. As the future of football continues to be diverse, this dynamic sport is always fully inclusive for those who wish the strive in this field. Without any gender constraints, a positive mindset is key at GOAL Academy. Located in Al Jaddaf, it’s open on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4pm.
      For more information visit goalacademyuae.com
      Curvalicious Ladies Boutique Studio

      Started to promote a healthy community for women, this studio provides three signature classes designed to focus on different parts of your body. The three main classes include lower body exercises, upper body for toned arms, back and abs and a full-body workout to engage every muscle. This fully integrated fitness studio also offers yoga, Pilates, boxing classes and much more to promote a healthy lifestyle and suit every exercise style. Located in Hussain’s Warehouse no. 07 in Nadd Al Hamar, it’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 11am to 8pm, Thursday 11am to 6:30pm, Saturday 11:30am to 5pm and Friday’s are closed.
      For more information visit curvalicious.fit
      Zabeel Ladies Club

      With a one-stop destination for fitness, health, wellness and beauty experiences for women in the UAE, what more can one ask for. Women can select any of the membership packages that are curated to provide memorable and quality experiences. From physiotherapy to nutrition services, visitors can choose from a range of services that are offered to rejuvenate and unwind throughout the week. With fully integrated quality services, women are sure to be comfortable in this luxe environment. Located in Za’abeel 1, it’s open from Wednesday to Monday 8am to 10pm and on Tuesday from 2pm to 10pm.
      For more information visit zlc.ae
      Mybebar

      Women are always in the need of a quick touch-up no matter what the occasion. Offering a range of blow-dries all under one roof, women can look and feel their very best without the hassle. This bright and airy space is perfect for women to relax in as they’re getting pampered with a range of luxe services offered in the heart of Dubai. With female staff, women are sure to let their hair down comfortably. Located in villa 595 on Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open from Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 9pm and Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 8pm.
      For more information visit mybebar.com
      Fitness 360

      While not all branches are exclusively for women, Fitness 360 offers an exclusive ladies only club at J3 mall. With state-of-the-art exercise machines and group exercise classes, everyone can stay motivated under one roof. This space lets everyone achieve their fitness goals in a motivating environment with options that are reachable to absolutely everyone. By promoting healthy living, Fitness 360 offers a 360 degrees holistic approach for every member. Located on Al Wasl Road, it’s open daily from 10am to 10pm.
      9
      Bia Warrior

      This facility was designed to build an all-inclusive community of strong women. Being the only obstacle training programme in Dubai, this venue offers interactive training to improve strength, grip, balance, agility and power at home. Together women are stronger and Bia Warrior truly believes in that. This supportive arena, ensures women are one step closer to their goals with live workouts, regular check-ins and personalised feedback from the coaches.
      For more information visit biawarriordxb.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @alo More

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      7 incredible women tell us what it takes to trust the timing and use it wisely

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      Fatma AlmheiriFounder of fashion brand Venus The Label

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Trusting the timing of my life is crucial for my personal growth and development. I have learned that in many situations, I must be patient and wait for things to fall into place. Whether it’s waiting for the right job opportunity, the perfect partner, or the ideal moment to pursue my passions, trust in the process is key. I firmly believe that everything will eventually work out, even if the path is not always apparent or straightforward. This belief requires me to let go of my need to control every aspect of my life and be open to the challenges and opportunities that come my way.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      By setting goals and priorities, it’s so important for me to know what I want to achieve. Making a list of my goals and assigning a level of importance to each one. This helps me focus my time and energy on the most important tasks. Planning and scheduling, once the goals are set, I create a plan to accomplish them. This is something I still struggle with, however taking one step at a time helps me stay focused in what I need to achieve. Avoid- ing distraction, the biggest time eater! I usually limit my usage of social media and turn off notifications to create a quiet workspace for myself with minimal distractions. Taking breaks to help increase my productivity, helps me recharge and refocus. My favourite one of them all, re- warding myself once I have hit a certain goal or achievement. It helps boost my self-confidence when I acknowledge the effort and progress I made, it increases my motivation and encourages me to go even further, of course not replacing the actual goal and in moderation.

      Julie LemkeHolistic Esthetician

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      When things did not turn out as I had planned in my mind. At one point I was facing so many obstacles and rejections that it forced me to pause and rethink my actions, my purpose and why I was fighting so desperately for something I maybe didn’t even want. I finally made the link between the roadblocks and me not living my authentic truth and I surrendered. It was in that exact moment that everything started falling into place and my life took a completely different direction to what I could ever have imagined. It was the most perfect timing; I would just never have planned it myself, as it was a ripping apart of everything before it could fall into place. New opportunities arose, everything gathered synergistically and one thing led to the other – paving the way to where I am today. Looking back, I am so unbelievably grateful for all the doors that closed, as new ones opened, allowing me to fully embrace my passion. I firmly believe that obstacles are a detour in the right direction – if you are willing to listen and be open to the guidance of a “higher power”. Sometimes we overlook things and opportunities in the need of controlling everything. But if we are willing to loosen to our pre-settings, we can eventually create space for magic and new beginnings.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I allow myself sensory, social, mental, emotional and creative rest in order to be more efficient in what I do – when I do it. We live in a world where we are constantly ON. However, I personally found that I do not function very well in that way, so I had to implement some strategies to support me to be able to function at my best. I also realised that taking a lot of mini breaks makes me far more productive than taking one long break. Just a quick speedy recharge and I am ready again. I am huge on meal planning, making sure everything is set for the week. And finally, the real Game Changer, my work-related Capsule Wardrobe. Having a small selection of clothes as part of my business attire has literally changed my life and given me so much more time.

      Sarah AlagroobiArtist

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      There are many pivotal moments in life where time operates as a synchronistic phenomenon that creates meaning. Everything happens for a reason, so I do not approach life with an expectation that I can control my path or what is intended for me. I would rather honour the causes and effects that have been presented to me and know that although I may not understand their significance at that moment, it may come to me several years down the line. I truly believe that synchronicity draws the eye’s attention to moments in our lives when we need to stop and take a minute to breathe. Carl Jung defines time as the manifestation of the collective unconscious, archetypes, symbols, and experiences we derive from. So, I trust that the past was intended to guide the present to make way for the future.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I see that time is a non-renewable resource; you can never get it back, so I don’t necessarily see it as ‘timekeeping’ but rather ‘time-taking’. I am very conscious about how I spend my time and who I give it to. I also feel that time is something you cannot control, so it is up to you to go with time rather than against it. We always feel we are racing against the clock, by recognising moments of stillness and being present with your time, you will manage it very well because you will be hyper-aware of its value. It is a currency that we can never trade, so you have to protect it.

      Maryam FayadhFounder of Bahraini Jewellery brand JGala

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Shortly after receiving my architecture degree in 2016, I knew I wanted to do something different, but I was held back by the pressure to pursue a profession in the field I had just spent five years studying and along with not knowing what I truly wanted to do. After five years of working in multiple disciplines ranging from engineering offices to creative design agencies, and feeling out of place, I decided to focus on architecture again. On March 30, 2021, I was offered a job at the engineering firm I was interning at and refused it instantly. I had no plan or reason other than my gut telling me that this profession does not allow me to soar. By April 1st, 2021, I had decided to start my journey as a jewellery designer and met with a master jeweller to help me plan my educational journey and a new career. When the time was right, without hesitation, I made a life-changing decision that then led me to where I am today: a jewellery designer whose methodology and designs are shaped by architecture and its rich history.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      Over the years, I have come to believe that I am most productive when I have a detailed weekly and monthly schedule. This al- lows me to be productive while also having some flexibility to shift tasks around to accommodate for my time with my loved ones.
      Bea BongiascaItalian Jewellery Designer

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      I feel the question should be, when have I not trusted it? I have always been a believer in the saying “everything happens for a reason”, but I always add at the right time! Creating my brand has taught me to be patient even when I wanted things to happen instantly for myself. For instance, if everything I had going on right now, all the success the brand has witnessed, if all this occurred at the same time, I believe we wouldn’t have been able to manage as well as we have. For me, slow and steady always wins, and for a reason!
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I am a very organized person, so managing time is no issue. I actually enjoy planning ahead which really helps me with managing my time effectively, particularly when it comes to everything involving the Bea Bongiasca brand.
      Arwa Al BanawiSaudi Fashion Designer

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Starting my own brand, it took time and many dreamy conversations but it was meant to happen when certain things were accomplished in my life and career. I felt in a blink of a moment in 2015 that now is the time.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I prioritise my tasks by the importance of deadlines. I try not to force inspiration as I learned with experience it has to come naturally and the more you do not think about it, you will get inspired more often. I plan “personal time“ and take that time seriously whether it’s a solo trip by the sea or by the mountains or a spa day – “me time makes all the difference in time management“. Most importantly, I delegate things that I don’t need to add pressure on myself to do personally and it took me time to learn that but I did through experience of almost 10 years in my field.
      Leen MattarFounder of fashion label, Lilo

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      When I hit rock bottom in my personal life and education, I realised that despite the obstacles and doubts from others, I needed to pursue my long-envisioned career in fashion. From a young age I gravitated towards it, and the process of creating. Going against what I felt I was meant to do led to me being unable to excel in any areas of my life. After five semesters jumping from major to major, I trusted my intuition and booked a flight back to Jordan where I asked my Father to take a chance and invest my tuition fees into creating my brand, Lilo. Another moment I remember is sketching a dress and seeing the same design in a department store from a big Italian brand. It was another sign to start, it was the time to bring my vision to life, my designs are meant to be now. Time is one of the most precious things in life, and it’s easy to delay turning your dreams into reality for fear of failing. These experiences taught me to trust the timing of my life, to believe in myself, the process, and most importantly God.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      As a young entrepreneur and fashion de- signer, time management is one of the key components to staying on the path to success. I believe it is the most precious commodity, and aim to balance it between work and my personal life. I invest a large amount of my time in the creative process, designing, and perfecting each capsule we launch. If I’m not creating, I love learning from other creatives in the industry to broaden my horizons. I also dedicate time to be with myself, I enjoy my own company and feel as though my personal identity creates the character that Lilo is as a brand, its life through my eyes.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Three empowered women that Etihad Airways has championed over the years

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 hours ago

      The national airline of the UAE has made history with various inspiring women making their mark in the world of aviation.
      With women playing a pivotal role in aviation, Etihad Airways continues to uplift them throughout the organisation in different departments as they inspire future generations.
      As on March 8, 2023, we celebrate International Women’s Day, we take a look at the leading women at the airline who have been pioneers in this field.
      Dr. Nadia BastakiFirst-ever female Chief at Etihad Airways

      Dr. Bastaki first joined the national airline in 2007 and became the first UAE national female to a specialist in aviation medicine. By playing a key role in developing the airline’s Medical facility, she has now made it the region’s leading aeromedical centre. With over 20 years of experience as a medical practitioner, she also comes with a wealth of executive leadership capabilities and continues to provide overall clinical guidance for the airline. In November 2021, Etihad Airways announced her as Chief Human Resources, Organisational Development and Asset Management Officer, becoming the first-ever female chief at the national airline of the UAE. “I was the first woman to be promoted to the executive level within Etihad which was a big milestone in my career. Most importantly, it’s what difference you can make and how you as a woman can contribute to the success of the UAE,” she previously told Emirates Woman about breaking down barriers. “
      Captain Aisha Al MansooriFirst Female Emirati Captain in a commercial Airline

      The groundbreaking appointment for Captain Aisha has come after years of hard work and training in August 2022. Captain Aisha has gone on to climb the ranks, completing the required flying hours to become Senior First Officer and she also become the first female UAE national to fly the superjumbo passenger aircraft the Airbus A380. Reaching new heights (quite literally), Captain Aisha Al Mansoori has become the UAE’s first female Emirati Captain in a commercial airline. The 33-year-old has risen to the ranks of Captain, becoming the first Emirati female to do so for a commercial airline, having completed a rigorous training programme with Etihad and undergone the requisite flying hours to be considered for the title.
      Mariam Al QubaisiHead of Sustainability at Etihad Aviation Group

      As the Head of Sustainability at Etihad Aviation Group, Al Qubaisi has led the sustainability division and found solutions to ensure the planet is always kept in mind first. From scaling up with commercially viable pathways to understanding the approach to green hydrogen production. As head of Sustainability & Business Excellence in Etihad, she supported a pro-sustainability transformation within the organization, making it a thought leader in sustainable aviation focused on cleaner fuels, operational efficiency and carbon offsets. She is an active sustainability expert serving task forces within the GCAA, IATA and ICAO. In addition to her position at the airline, she has worked as an instructor in the department of Interdisciplinary Studies at Zayed University where she taught Environmental and Natural Sciences.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      8 incredible women tell us how they innovate within their company culture

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      In an environment where creativity and knowledge reign supreme, employees are able to explore and exchange ideas freely.
      Various UAE-based entrepreneurs are constantly uplifting this positive culture and Emirates Woman speaks to several inspiring women upholding the same values.
      Zoya SakrFounder of The Flower Society

      What does innovation mean to you?
      It’s something out of the ordinary, it doesn’t always need to be a radical change, but its impact lies within the value it creates to end users. In my business, it’s linked to creativity in line with the brand positioning we created for our brand. A disruption is an extreme form of innovation, and we believe this is possible in all kinds of businesses when being close to customers and their needs.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Innovation at The Flower Society comes from every team member. Our company has a bottom-to-top policy, no hierarchy or stiff layers so creativity can flow. Innovation also comes from our loyal clients becoming part of the brand as they inspire us.
      Claire MillerFounder and CEO of The Skincare Edit

      What does innovation mean to you?
      In my idealistic view, products, ideas, or methods make the world a better place. As an entrepreneur and facialist within the beauty field, I am excited by the advancements we have seen in skincare formulation. Yet, I feel passionate and responsible that, as a wider industry, we need to examine some real challenges too and not shy away from the complicated issues such as climate change and sustainability that require more innovation.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      The Skincare Edit was created from a desire to do things better. Sustainability is at the heart of every decision we make as a team, from the brands we partner with to product selection, shipping, packaging, and delivery to how we describe the suitability of our products to customers. We want customers to make informed decisions for their skin without commercial hype – with only truth and transparency, which leads to better re- results and less waste. Our promises are honesty, results-driven products, sustainability, and transparency. For better sustainability, we need to look beyond just the products and the journey they take to get to us, ensuring the carbon footprint is as little as possible. As a beauty retailer and distributor, this is how we try to play our part in innovation.
      Amna Al HabtoorFounder of Arcadia

      What does innovation mean to you?
      To me, innovation is synonymous with originality. Thinking outside the box, trial and error, fresh perspectives, and advanced methods are all how I perceive innovation.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      It’s imperative that I adopt a non-hierarchal management approach – I feel that allows a corporate mindset that is always open to change, growth, and hence, innovation. I enforce this in different ways, such as having an open workspace with all my team members and encouraging collaboration between everyone in the company.
      Emma SawkoFounder of Wild & The Mood

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation is what shakes the world and changes paradigms. And when you want to introduce a new way of eating, in a region where each community is attached to their food culture as a part of their identity, when you want people to be more environmentally conscious in an environment that does not help, when you want them to take care of their health and vitality even though they did not seem to care that much… It takes a whole lot of innovation and shaking! My luck is that the UAE is a young country with a fresh look at everything and tonnes of enthusiasm for innovation. Since we opened, I have witnessed a shift in mentalities, and I believe the green revolution has started here. I’m also delighted to see more and more young women among the new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. I had the honour of being nominated for the prestigious Bold Women Awards in Paris, where I was surprised to meet hundreds of strong women, all entrepreneurs, many of them true innovators in their fields. I felt touched and grateful for this new generation of bold, empowered women, most of them with a gentler, greener, and altruist take on success. We all need to encourage our daughters to be bold and innovative.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      To become the first vegan, organic, and locally sourced restaurant in the UAE, we necessarily had to innovate. So much, in fact, that it gave my team and myself many headaches. Of course, we created our recipes from scratch with plant-based ingredients and no compromise on the taste. We also wanted minimal environmental impact and worked with architects who built the space using mainly recycled materials. We also had to innovate with nearly every aspect of the project, including finding 100% biodegradable bottles or containers, ways to minimize waste (we aim to be a 0% waste restaurant), or carbon footprint. We can say that innovation is in Wild & the Moon’s DNA.
      Lyndsay DoranChief Executive Office, L’Couture

      What does innovation mean to you?
      It means never resting on your laurels. However, innovation doesn’t always have to mean radical and incremental changes – especially within the fashion industry. As a brand, we have always been consistently focused on elevating and therefore innovating in every sense. Founded in Dubai, L’Couture is a homegrown brand with a global mindset.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      As a business, we are always looking to innovate in four key areas. In terms of the product itself, from consciously sourcing Oeko-Tex factories that produce new and improved fabrics to extensive fit testing with diverse models to perfect that all-important LC fit. We recently dropped our best-selling Serenity Seamless collection in a new and planet-friendly Amni Soul Eco fabric with an enhanced fit. We constantly look for new technologies to improve even our best sellers. At the core of our business is people, not only our strong community but our team across the board. We aim to diversify, grow, and promote within the company. The in-store experience is a core component of the business and something we are passionate about as a team. In line with trends in experiential retail, we want to ensure the shopping experience is as seamless and innovative as possible for our customers. Finally, L’Couture was launched online, therefore we continue to optimise the website to provide an end-to-end shopping experience. The world of e-commerce and digital is forever changing, so in order for us to be competitive, we have to be ahead of the curve and innovative and offer our customers a 360 experience.
      Zeina El-DanaFounder and CEO of Z7 Communication

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation is the key to success… especially in the world of communications, events and digital. We are continuously finding ways to disrupt
      the industry with our creative and experimental approaches to ensure that our clients always stand out above the rest. To me, innovation is about constant growth and agility, being able to stay ahead of the curve and offer something outside the box to create noise!
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Company culture is very close to my heart, and I have spent the past few years dedicating a lot of time and resources to building a culture that enables my team to feel inspired and help them grow. I believe the physical work environment is very important, we have a beautifully designed office space in Dubai Design District, which is the heart of design, fashion, and culture in the region, but also offers flexibility to the team to work be- tween the office and outside locations where they can gain further inspiration. We organise weekly team brainstorms and monthly skill shares to upskill the team – knowledge gives the team the power and confidence to innovate. We also schedule bi-monthly team activities to enable the team to relax, bond, and foster a fun environment. At Z7, we empower the team at every level, from interns to directors, no idea is too big or too small, and I always encourage the team to believe in the impossible, push boundaries, and encourage continuous innovation! We offer a safe environment where open communication is cherished to allow the team’s creativity to be seen and heard. Recognising and rewarding success is something we continually do, and formally, once a month, we also announce an employee of the month who has achieved something special, thus encouraging further innovative behaviours within the team.
      Fatma AlmheiriSenior Manager of Communications at the Museum of The Future

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation to me is more about being open to new ideas and perspectives. It’s a pathway to self-improvement and finding novel ways to have a bigger and better impact on those around me.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      In order to have an innovative culture embedded in any field, I feel it’s extremely important to welcome creativity and new ideas with open arms. It’s also crucial that your team is empowered enough to share these ideas confidently.
      Zoe HaldaneBrand Director of The Arts Club

      What does innovation mean to you?
      To me, innovation is about pioneering change in order to thrive. In our business, we strive to innovate on all levels, from what we offer in our restaurants and how we build and train our teams to how we programme our cultural events and communicate them to our members. Our industry is highly competitive here and in London, and innovation is key to our success.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Since The Arts Club Dubai is not only our first international outpost, but also the second-ever clubhouse to be opened since our establishment in 1863, we naturally had a blank canvas opportunity to innovate across all aspects of our business, including company culture. Key to my approach is an open-door policy that gives all colleagues, no matter which department, the space to come and discuss their thoughts and ideas freely. Some of these can be specific to their respective teams or divisions, but there is an intrinsic value in allowing people to share their ideas in a way that is not confined or limited. I’m also a big believer in breakaway brainstorming sessions, some of which take place outside of the office environment. These sessions consistently provide the suitable space and environment for blue-sky thinking, ambitious strategy planning, and long-term vision. Perhaps most importantly, I always aim to take a positive approach in my role and channel a mindset open to change. I guide colleagues through influence rather than instructions and empower them to think independently and operate with confidence. This non-hierarchical way of management has always been important to me and is an intrinsic contributor to business success.
      February’s – The Innovation Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      22 incredible women Emirates Woman championed in 2022

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      Year after year, Emirates Woman is proud to share the stories of many inspirational women from across the region and beyond and 2022 was no different.
      From philanthropic royals to budding entrepreneurs, these women show there is no hurdle too big to overcome and no challenge which can’t be solved.
      As a team, we take pride in being able to champion these incredible individuals.
      As 2022 comes to a close, we take a look at 22 influential women Emirates Woman championed throughout the year.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

      This year, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has made it her mission to support an array of different local initiatives in the fashion and creative space. The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended a number of showcases and exhibitions to show her support and learn about local artisans from the region including the Icons Exhibition, the 50th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Show Middle East in Sharjah, the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards, Dubai women’s empowerment event and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum took a huge leap in 2020 launching her eponymous fine jewellery brand – Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. Then, in 2021, she made the brave decision to show the face behind her label for the very first time on the cover of Emirates Woman’s April 2021 issue. This year, however, has been a big year for Sheikha Sana’s philanthropic ventures. The down-to-earth sheikha has worked closely with local communities this year in Dubai including hosting a lunch for underprivileged children, opening a new breast cancer centre in a Dubai hospital, meeting with elderly members of the community and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is no stranger to breaking records in the UAE, having become the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot back in 2019. Earlier this year, our former November 2020 cover star broke another record in the world of aviation, becoming the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotor, an air vehicle which combines the operational versatility of a helicopter and the performance of an aeroplane. Her Highness piloted the groundbreaking aircraft at the US helicopter headquarters of Leonardo, a global high-tech player in Aerospace, Defence and Security, located in Philadelphia.
      Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan

      In 2022, Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan became the first GCC woman to be appointed into a global and prestigious position. Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Her Highness was appointed as one of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program. Sheikha Shamma also graduated from Cambridge University this year, and also attended a number of events across the UAE in relation to sustainability and development.
      Wdeema Almheiri

      Emirati content creator Wdeema Al Mheiri has had an incredibly successful year appearing on her first magazine cover, opening her own beauty salon with her sisters and doing her first on-camera interview. For Emirati Women’s Day this year, Al Mheiri shared how she hopes to inspire future generations.
      “We have all seen Emirati women time and time again achieve their goals against all odds which is so inspiring to see as a younger Emirati woman,” she said.
      She also hopes she can be a source of inspiration for future generations, showing that there is no dream too big to pursue.
      “I hope to inspire women to take a leap of faith and to trust in their ability to achieve their dreams,” she said.
      Nora, Sarah & Dana Al Ramadhan

      For the better part of the last decade, Kuwaiti sisters Nora, Sarah and Dana Al Ramadhan have created their very own beauty empire right here in the GCC. Noticing a huge gap in the beauty space here in the Middle East, the trio launched Apotheca Beauty back in 2013, aiming to help new brands break into the region. Normally known to be the brains behind the scenes of the brands, the sisters appeared in their first-ever cover shoot in 2022. It’s a milestone that’s a big step for Nora, Sarah and Dana, who are normally championing and sharing other brands’ stories. But for The Pioneer Issue, we couldn’t think of three individuals better to share their story of building a business from the ground up, with a simple vision in mind: to bring the best in beauty to the GCC, thereby changing the landscape of the space in this region.
      Taleedah Tamer

      Taleedah Tamer first made history back in July of 2018, as the first Saudi model to walk the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Four years on, Tamer graced the cover of our November issue for which we partnered with iconic French fashion house Louis Vuitton.
      Dr. Barbara Sturm

      For our final cover of 2022, we were proud to partner with global skin guru Dr. Barbara Sturm. In our exclusive interview with her, we discussed what it takes to build and scale without compromising on quality. After launching her eponymous line in 2003, followed by a full skincare line in 2014, Dr. Sturm – or known as BB to her nearest and dearest – has become a pioneer in the beauty sphere, with her renowned anti-inflammatory philosophy approach to skincare.
      Salama Mohamed

      Appearing on our September 2022 cover, Salama Mohamed is an exceptional example of what it means to be an entrepreneur, combining both strength and femininity to build her platform and beauty brand, which celebrated its first anniversary this year.
      Fatma Almheiri

      Fatma Al Mheiri is an individual who wears many hats. With both a creative and business acumen, she not only heads up PR at Museum of the Future, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, but she’s also an entrepreneur and creative.This year for Emirati Women’s Day, she pays tribute to her country and the UAE leaders who are consistently empowering women to do more and achieve their goals.
      “I’m proud to be a woman of the UAE because our leaders helped us believe in ourselves in everything we aspire to do,” she said.
      Zeynab El-Helw

      Dubai-based entrepreneur and content creator Zeynab El-Helw appeared on the cover for our July/August 2022 issue. As the founder of socially conscious brand Reborn, she shared with us how she combines sustainability and style.
      Diala Makki

      Emirates Woman was proud to start 2022 with a bang welcoming Diala Makki as our cover star for The Confidence Issue. With a focus on health and wellness, the Dubai-based journalist and presenter shared with us her fitness journey and how she channels confidence. “Confidence is a state of mind and you only reach it when you appreciate your flows and listen to your needs physically, mentally and spiritually. Don’t compare yourself to others, work constantly on becoming a better version of yourself,” she told us.
      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is a leader in the publishing space. From being the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group to being the first Arab woman to become president of the International Publishers Association, Sheikha Bodour is leading the way for women both in the region and on a global scale. In our November issue, Sheikha Bodour shared with us how she created a niche in the UAE publishing space.
      Ingie Chalhoub

      Ingie Chalhoub is a trailblazer when it comes to business and luxury. Responsible for launching the very first Chanel boutique in the region, she has carved out an impeccable career.
      So, what’s her secret to success? “My success lies in understanding the importance of bridging the gap between the East and West,” she plainly said.
      As a true innovator and disruptor, Emirates Woman sat down with the Founder and Managing Director of Etoile Group to learn more about her business acumen and what exactly inspired her to become an entrepreneur for our September issue.
      Tania Santos Silva

      With women at its helm, Tania Santos Silvia founded Lala Diamonds to create “delicate, powerful and memorable” pieces for women who constantly inspire her. By working closely with each client, she ensures that the brand adopts a unique design process to represent what each wearer truly embodies.
      “Your fresh air is the team you choose to work with, without them you’re just another person with an idea,” she previously told Emirates Woman.
      Amna Banihashem

      By her own admission, Amna Banihashem is a “jack of all trades”. A mechanical engineer by profession with a Master’s in Moral Economy and Sustainability, a businesswoman and a philanthropist, it’s safe to say Banihashem can’t be pigeon-holed, as we learned when talking with her for Emirati Women’s Day 2022.
      However, what is her true passion and calling is horses. As an award-winning equestrian rider, Banihashem is one of the most decorated showjumpers in the region having ridden for both His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
      Sarah Alagroobi

      Artist, designer and educator Sarah Alagroobi is an individual offering insight and igniting new conversations in the region, which she highlighted with us for Emirati Women’s Day this year.
      “I don’t really view myself as a person who is breaking down stereotypes,” she said. “I think I have been blessed to be given the privileges and the knowledge, understanding and education to be able to provide a counter-narrative to the existing narrative in the UAE’s landscape.”
      Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud

      Inspired by adventure and experiences, Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud founded The Traveling Panther (TTP) in 2015. What initially started as a blog quickly turned into an experienced-based travel consultancy through which Princess Fahda, along with her co-founder Manayer AlSharekh, has been able to share her love for adventure with many others around the world. Emirates Woman sat down with Her Highness to find out more about TTP and her love for travel for our September issue.
      Alia Al Banna

      Appearing in our video series for Emirati Women’s Day, Alia Al Banna, co-founder and general manager of RollDXB, shared her pride to be a woman from the UAE.
      “Being an Emirati woman taught me to be brave and to have the courage to seek the unknown and the impossible,” she said. “I definitely agree with Sheikha Fatima’s word – Emirati women don’t fit a box.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Saudi Arabia officially bans the abaya in exam halls

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Saudi Arabia has seen numerous changes in the last few years, from opening cinemas to women being granted the right to drive.
      All female students will now need to abide by school uniform regulations during the examination period, by still adhering to the decency regulations for clothing.
      As per the latest announcement by the Saudi Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) along with the Ministry of Education, female students will no longer be allowed to wear the abaya in exam halls.
      This government organization is responsible for the planning, evaluation, assessment and accreditation of educational and training systems in the Kingdom.

      Previously in 2018, an announcement pertaining to the abaya no longer being legally enforced for women in the country, however, they have still continued to wear them until now.
      The reformation comes to keep in line with the nation’s 2030 vision that promotes women as an important part of the Kingdom’s strength. It aims to develop their talents, invest their energies, and provide them with the right opportunities to build their futures, contributing to the development of society.
      Other changes
      In recent times, more Saudi females have been appointed to top jobs, women are allowed to use government services without a male guardian’s consent, permits for the go-ahead of women’s gyms have been granted and women are able to secure driving licenses the news of which has been celebrated globally.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Pexels @thirdman More

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      7 inspiring Kuwaiti women who are having a big impact on the world

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      9 hours ago

      We shine a light on Kuwaiti women making a big impact.
      Also read: 9 inspiring Saudi women who have made an impact on the world
      Her Highness Sheikha Intisar AlSabah

      A member of the royal family, Her Highness Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali AlSabah is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, author, film producer, columnist and more. She’s an inspiration to many while empowering Arab women who’s at the forefront of her decision-making. She’s also the founder of Alnowair which is a positivity initiative and a non-profit initiative considered to be her biggest contribution to date to her beloved country.
      Montaha Al-Ajeel

      The Kuwaiti fashion designer made her first break-through in Paris Fashion week leading her to international acclaim. Within a few years of creating high quality haute couture dresses, she’s won a number of prestigious awards in the Arab world and has become a role model in her own unique way.
      HRH Sheikha Bashayer Al Sabah-Arab

      Her Highness is a successful businesswoman and the honorary president of the Arab Fashion Council in Kuwait while also being passionate about charities of all kinds. Known for her entrepreneurial flair, she’s become a social media success and a lifestyle icon for many.
      Noor Al Qatami

      Having lived in the USA for a number of years, Noor Al-Qatami is the founder of Saveco which opened its first grand store in 2014, becoming a hit in the Kuwaiti market. With a high-quality mega-market that mimics grocery shopping experiences that she had in the USA, the concept was born. Over the years the concept has expanded across Kuwait.
      Rana Al-Nibari

      Rana Al-Nibari is the General Manager of The Scientific Center in Kuwait, an institution that aims to promote science and environmental education and foster increased understanding towards a more sustainable future for Kuwait. Rana has long worked towards empowering youth in Kuwait for a better tomorrow, previously serving as CEO of Injaz-Kuwait, a non-profit organization for education and training in workforce readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
      Sheikha Majda Al Sabah

      Born in Kuwait, Sheikha Majda Al Sabah was raised with the mindset to chase her dreams, work hard and achieve them. While establishing herself as a beauty entrepreneur and philanthropist in 2007, she also set up the ASAP initiative, which is a private campaign committed to increasing mental health awareness and to destigmatise mental health in the region.
      Noor Bin Eidan

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      UAE National Day: 18 inspiring women share their love for the UAE

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      This year on December 2, 2022, the UAE will celebrate 51 years since its unification.
      Over the years, Emirates Woman has continued to champion a host of inspiring Emirati women who continue to make an impact on future generations.
      From entrepreneurs to pioneers in their industry, each woman has had a notable impact and always circles back to how the UAE has had a pivotal role in uplifting them.
      In just under five decades, the UAE has changed drastically becoming a hub for travel, culture, business and more, and offers opportunities for so many people globally and inspired women to establish themselves in this part of the world.
      To dig into the archives this National Day, Emirates Woman shares some of the most powerful quotes shared by prominent women of the UAE.
      HH Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

      Emirates Woman’s April 2021 – The Gratitude Issue cover star, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum is a proud entrepreneur and founder of her eponymous jewellery brand, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. Having grown up in Dubai, Sheikha Sana has always been inspired by the energy of her country and the infinite opportunities the UAE has.
      “Growing up, I’ve seen the UAE go from a young nation and achieve milestone after milestone,” she has previously said of her country.
      HH Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum is dedicated to excellence. As our September 2020 cover star, Her Highness, the daughter of Sheikh Ahmed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum and Sheikha Hessa bint Rashid Al Maktoum, shared what it takes to keep your mind in champion mode.
      Sheikha Latifah has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. She’s an equestrian athlete who competed in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, becoming the first woman to represent the UAE at the Olympic games.
      In an interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “When I was thirteen, I saw the Dubai Show Jumping team training and I thought to myself, I want to be on that team. Realising that I had to prove myself, I worked really hard and made the team.”
      HH Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Emirates Woman’s November 2020 – The Fine Jewellery Issue cover star Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum shared her pride in the UAE and the opportunities the country has afforded her throughout her career.
      “I’m most proud of becoming the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot,” she told Emirates Woman of her proudest moment. “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.”
      HH Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan

      In the world of fine jewellery, Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan established a name for herself as an entrepreneur after launching her brand, MKS Jewellery. Her collections have consistently been inspired the UAE and are there to empower women.
      “Women in the UAE are beginning to find their voices in a different way from previous generations,” she said of the UAE. “I feel blessed to be part of such a rich and historical culture, and I feel empowered to stand on the shoulders of the many millions of women who came before me.”
      Sheikha Bodour bin Sultan Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is a leader in the publishing space. From being the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group to being the first Arab woman to become president of the International Publishers Association, Sheikha Bodour is leading the way for women both in the region and on a global scale. She is particularly proud of her country and the opportunities is gives women from all walks of life.
      “Over the past ten years, we have seen a great deal of change with female ministers and ambassadors appointed and pioneering businesswomen in all sectors emerging on the scene,” she said. “The UAE has successfully created an environment where women are accepted and welcomed in these roles while ensuring a healthy balance with our culture and values.”
      Sarah Alagroobi

      An individual who is continually inspiring women is artist, designer and educator Sarah Alagroobi.
      To further shed light on how the UAE has helped her advance in her career, Alagroobi said, “I think I have been blessed to be given the privileges and the knowledge, understanding and education to be able to provide a counter-narrative to the existing narrative in the UAE’s landscape.”
      Wdeema Al Mheiri

      Emirati content creator and our May 2022 cover star Wdeema Almheiri, has always used ta fine-tuned approach to creating content.
      “As an Emirati woman, I’m so proud to see how women are aiming higher and paving the way for future generations for women to dream and achieve without limits,” she has said of her country.
      Amna Banihashem

      Amna Banihashem, equestrian star, mechanical engineer, businesswoman and philanthropist, has previously described her country as the “best place on earth”.
      “What makes me proud to be a woman from the UAE, is that I’m part of a country that’s so forward-thinking and supports women in every direction and propels them into the future,” she said.
      Salama Khalfan

      The Emirati entrepreneur and founder of Salama Khalfan Fine Jewellery is constantly innovating with new designs and inspiring future generations with her vision. She largely attributes her success to her country.
      “I feel thankful that I am from a country that does not believe in the impossible,” she said. “I feel that I grew up in an environment and surroundings that instilled within me the feeling that everything is possible and that collapsed any boundaries of limitations set by any external ideologies. That in itself is something very profound.”
      Sarah Al Hashmi

      As a notable film director, Sarah Alhashimi has made a mark for herself in the industry and is proud to come from a thriving nation like the UAE.
      “I think the past 50 years have been wonderful in terms of infrastructure and creating new milestones,” she said. “My hope is that we continue thriving the way we have been for all these years. Emirati women in power is not a new phenomenon. They have been in leadership roles for years and have been working hard and that makes me so proud to be a woman from the UAE.”
      Fatma Al Mheiri

      With both creative and business acumen, she not only heads up PR at the Museum of the Future, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, but she also runs her own fashion brand, Venus THE LABEL.
      “I’m proud to be a woman of the UAE because I feel loved, challenged supported and liberated,” she previously said.
      Asma Hilal Lootah

      As founder of The Hundred Wellness Centre, Asma Hilal Lootah has created a niche in this space by focusing more on the needs of the community.
      She told us, “Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the gift our leadership has given us, a beautiful country to live in. We are equally grateful to the UAE’s citizens and residents, its amazing people, who work hard to contribute to their communities, making the UAE the best country one can call home.”
      Yasmin Al Mulla

      The founder of her namesake brand YNM, Al Mulla has always displayed boundless creativity in her field.
      “Growing up in the UAE is naturally inspiring, witnessing all the magnificent accomplishments, and rapid developments urge us to work hard to keep up and develop ourselves, and our goals too. We are very driven in representing our country in an optimistic manner.”
      Muna Easa Al Gurg

      This leading Emirati businesswoman is a keen philanthropist and Director of Retail at Al Gurg Group since 2008.
      When asked in a previous interview regarding what it feels like to be a woman in the region that is paving the way for others she responded, “I am fortunate to be an Emirati citizen as the UAE believes in offering equal opportunity to all and focuses on gender balance in every sphere.”
      Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi

      By breaking barriers, Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer to shatter stereotypes.
      “Everything surrounding me makes me proud that I am from UAE, from the history of our country to the present to the future, proud that I am an Emirati from a country where all the factors of love, peace, goodness and happiness beside a multinational, multicultural and religious are United all here all are one and equal,” she said.
      Nayla Al Khaja

      As the first female film director and producer in the UAE, Nayla Al Khaja has garnered a name for herself in the industry after achieving the impossible.
      In an interview with Emirates Woman touched upon her pride for the nation and said, “I am extremely proud to be a UAE National especially that I was born in the ‘70s meaning I was able to witness firsthand the development and the changes that were taking place. The incredible progress and prosperity over such a short period of time are phenomenal.”
      Yasmin Baker

      As the first Emirati Aerialist, Yasmin Baker has created a name for herself in the world of sports.
      In an interview with Emirates Woman Baker said, “There is so much that makes me proud to be from the UAE. I am so proud of how welcoming the country, the leadership, and the community are; welcoming to others, welcoming to new ideas, and most importantly, welcoming to change.”
      Alia Al Banna

      As the co-founder and general manager of RollDXB and has established herself in the industry as a true entrepreneur.
      In an interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “I’m proud to be from the UAE and see all the achievements that the UAE has gained on an international level. Being able to participate in any activity as a woman and having my country’s backing makes me proud.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More