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Open Fire Food Festival by Steve Harvey debuts this weekend in UAE

The inaugural Open Fire Food Festival by Steve Harvey descends on Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, this coming weekend, featuring a stellar line-up of celebrity chefs and an action-packed schedule of pitmaster demonstrations, competitions, live music and entertainment across the whole weekend.

Presented by MELT Middle East, a joint venture between OWS Capital and Steve Harvey Global, the Open Fire Food Festival takes place on Yas Island at Abu Dhabi Hill, Yas Marina Circuit on February 24th-25th, with tickets available to purchase starting from just AED 75.

Here’s what to expect from an event which will bring the smokin’ hot flavors of the American South to the heart of the UAE this weekend!

CELEBRITY CHEFS

The event features a star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs, set to thrill guests in attendance as they showcase their open-flame cooking skills.
Seven-time World Barbecue Champion Melissa Cookston, who hails from Mississippi, USA, has won thousands of accolades and was the first female inducted into the Barbecue Hall of Fame in 2017. She currently serves as the judge on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown.

Moe Cason, a self-taught barbecue expert and former member of the US Navy, has featured as a contestant and judge on high-profile US cooking shows such as World of Flavour With Big Moe Cason, Pitmaster’s, BBQ Pit Wars and SMOKED.

Steven Raichlen, meanwhile, has created and hosted several popular television shows in the US, Canada and Italy, including Planet Barbecue®, Project Fire, and Project Smoke, while also serving as a culinary expert on the likes of Oprah along with writing more than 30 books.

The trio will be joined behind the grill by 18-year-old Aysha Al Obeidli, the youngest Emirati chef, and Fred ‘Smokin’ Beards’ Casagrande, UAE Barbecue Champion, both ambassadors for the event.

HOST HARVEY

Host Steve Harvey, a globally recognised presenter, actor, comedian and producer, needs no introduction. He will be on-stage to introduce celebrity chefs and make several appearances across the weekend.

AED 25K TOTAL PRIZE POT FOR COOKING & EATING COMPETITIONS!

Attendees will have a chance to showcase their BBQ skills or fill their stomachs with organisers announcing there will be a total of AED 25k to giveaway across four cooking competitions and two eating competitions – hot dog and chicken wing – across the weekend. Ticket holders will receive a registration link upon purchase to enter with limited spots available.

COOKING MASTERCLASSES

Alongside demos on the main stage from celebrity chefs, attendees can participate in cooking masterclasses! On Saturday, Cookston is set to be joined by Al Obeidli as they hold a Youth Masterclass, while Cason will stage both a Lamb Workshop and Brisket Masterclass later the same day. Other highlights include a T-Bone Workshop, hosted by Raichlen, ICCA Masterclass and Hot Dog Eating Competition.
The following day features a Chicken Workshop hosted by Cookston and Casagrande, a Lamb Masterclass with Raichlen, and additional ICCA Masterclasses, with ICCA students assisting professional chefs with showcases across the two days. Similarly, ticket-holders will receive a registration link upon purchase to enter.

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

Musical performances over the weekend will be provided by the likes of award-winning DJ Natalie Brogan, Girl from the North Country, Yvonne Park, Nuvo Soul, Hot Rodney, Claudia Partrice and DJ Dean Curtis.

TIMINGS AND TICKETS

The action kicks-off at 12:30pm Saturday and 12 noon Sunday, with doors opening from 10am both days for all to enjoy the all-day entertainment running through until 10pm!

Tickets are on sale now with prices starting from just AED 75 for standard entry, while guests can purchase a full weekend pass, saving AED 30. Tickets can also be purchased on the door with VIP tickets already sold out. Entry is free across the two days for children under the age of 12.

Tickets can be purchased via openfirefoodfestival.com

Big Bad Wolf book sale returns to Dubai for fourth edition

The highly anticipated Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, in collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (DCAA), is slated to kick off from March 1 to March 10, 2024. Offering free admission and massive discounts of up to 75%, the sale is poised to be a haven for book enthusiasts, featuring a staggering collection of over two million titles spanning various genres. The venue for this literary extravaganza will be Sound Stages, Dubai Studio City, open from 10 am to 12 midnight.

In a bid to cater to Dubai’s thriving business landscape, Big Bad Wolf Books has announced a special focus on business books, tailored to meet the needs of professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

The launch of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale was celebrated at a vibrant press conference held at Al Safa Design and Art Library. The event featured a captivating performance by children from ‘The Hive’, setting the stage for the unveiling of the sale’s official commencement. Key partners, including Eiman Al Hammadi, Acting Manager of the Libraries Affairs Section at Dubai Culture, and Khaled Hatrash, Senior Operations Manager at Dubai Studio City, were acknowledged for their instrumental roles in bringing the event to fruition.

Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, Andrew Yap, Co-Founder of Big Bad Wolf Books, highlighted the event’s significance in promoting literacy and learning, aligning with Dubai’s vision to foster a culture of reading. Mohamed Noor Hersi, Board Member of BBW Sharjah, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative effort to empower the community through reading initiatives.

Eiman Al Hammadi reiterated Dubai Culture’s commitment to nurturing a reading culture, citing the event as a vital platform for intellectual exchange and knowledge dissemination. She emphasized the annual recurrence of the Big Bad Wolf exhibition as a cornerstone of Dubai’s cultural calendar, enriching the literary landscape and fostering intellectual discourse.

The press conference concluded with a delightful surprise for attendees, with members of the media offered the opportunity to select two books of their choice, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Discover the magic of Ramadan: ‘The Majlis’ at DWTC promises an unforgettable iftar and suhoor experience

Prepare for an extraordinary Ramadan experience at Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) majestic venue, The Majlis, which opens on Friday 15 March and runs through until Eid.

Experience one of Dubai’s best-loved Ramadan destinations
Embracing the spirit of the season, The Majlis at DWTC, is one of Dubai’s best-loved and longest-running Ramadan destinations. Guests are taken on a culinary journey that embraces the traditions of the Holy Month and offers new takes on festive favourites, all set in an ambience that’s perfect for creating memorable moments with friends and family.

Where traditional cuisine meets award-winning international flavours
The Majlis’s award-winning chefs offer a feast of flavours – from alluring Iftar spreads to laid-back Suhoor soirées with 70 a la carte options. Guests can expect a symphony of Middle Eastern delights and international delicacies meticulously crafted to tempt the taste buds. Must-try items include Middle Eastern classics and signature Emirati dishes, such as the show-stopping ouzi centrepiece, thareed (lamb stew) and for those with a sweet tooth, the local delicacy luqaimat (date syrup-drizzled doughnuts) and The Majlis’ signature and crowd favourite, date pudding.

Create Memorable Moments

In addition to the delectable spread, the atmosphere at The Majlis is designed to bring friends, families and colleagues together. Step into The Majlis and be transported to a world of warmth and welcomes, where every corner is adorned with seasonal décor, inviting guests to unwind and connect. During Iftar and Suhoor, soft oriental music adds to the enchanting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy shisha after 9pm, and live music between 10pm to 1am during Suhoor, serenading guests with soulful melodies.

Reservations, Timings and Prices

Iftar is served from sunset to 8:30pm, and is priced at AED 215 for adults, and AED 95 for children. Suhoor sittings take place from 9pm to 3am on Sunday to Thursday, and until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays. Groups of eight or more can pre-book comfortable sofa set-ups, and larger groups of up to 12 can reserve a private Majlis, while VIP Majlises accommodate up to 24 guests. To ensure availability, sofa reservations can be made online at majlis.ae, and come with a minimum spend of AED 140 per person. Guests can also enjoy complimentary parking at the Exhibition Street Multi-Story parking.

Bookings are highly recommended to ensure availability for both Iftar and Suhoor and can be made online at majlis.ae.

Supporting Local Charitable Initiatives

This Ramadan, The Majlis proudly collaborates with charitable organisations Tarahum Charity Foundation and UAE Food Bank to provide more than 6,000 meals to the less fortunate, fostering positive change and supporting the UAE Government’s mission of eliminating food waste.

OFW appointed as Marketing & Communications Manager at Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah

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Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah is excited to announce the appointment of Marie Bernadette Ortiguerra as its new Marketing & Communications Manager. With a rich history of success in the hospitality sector, Marie is set to bring her extensive experience to one of the UAE’s leading resort destinations.

Starting her career as a Sales Secretary, Marie has climbed the ladder, previously holding roles such as Marketing & Communications Executive and Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications. Her contributions have significantly elevated the marketing strategies and communication efforts of the brands she has worked with.

Marie has played key roles in two major hotel rebranding initiatives for the AccorHotels and Marriott International brands and was instrumental in the launch of a StayWell brand in the region. She also managed marketing and communications for Park Regis Hotels as a Regional Marketing & Communications Manager.

Among her notable accomplishments are the successful opening of the first Swissotel in the UAE in 2017 and the largest Rotana Hotels & Resorts property in the region in 2012. Marie has been recognized with the Employee of the Year award and was nominated for CSR Person of the Year by Hotelier Middle East.

Outside of her professional achievements, Marie is an influential digital personality, engaging as an Influencer, Content Creator, and Blogger, collaborating with major brands and events. She has been featured on various prestigious media platforms and has contributed as a speaker at significant investment summits in Dubai.

Mohamed Shalaby, Director of Sales & Marketing at Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah, expressed enthusiasm about Marie’s appointment, highlighting her impressive background and dynamic marketing approach as key to enhancing the resort’s success and visibility in the hospitality market.

NASA is looking for volunteers to live in space-like isolation for 2025 Mars simulation

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NASA is on the lookout for volunteers willing to participate in an isolation experiment mirroring the solitude of Mars exploration. Selected candidates will partake in the agency’s upcoming simulated one-year Mars surface mission, aimed at gathering crucial data for future human expeditions to the red planet.

This marks the second installment of NASA’s year-long Mars simulation, following the initiation of the first mission in June 2023, with current participants still in isolation for a few more months. Scheduled for a spring 2025 launch, the second of three planned ground-based missions, dubbed CHAPEA (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog), will commence.

During these missions, a four-person crew will collaborate and reside within a 3D-printed, 1,700-square-foot base at NASA’s Johnson Space Centre in Houston. The base, known as Mars Dune Alpha, is meticulously designed to replicate the challenges anticipated on the Martian surface, including resource scarcity, equipment malfunctions, communication lags, and other stressful scenarios.

Applications for the second CHAPEA mission are open until April 2, targeting healthy, non-smoking US citizens aged 30 to 55 proficient in English. Prospective volunteers must possess a master’s degree in a STEM field such as engineering, mathematics, biological, physical, or computer science, along with at least two years of professional STEM experience or a minimum of 1,000 hours of aircraft piloting experience. Enthusiastic individuals with a penchant for unique adventures and a dedication to advancing NASA’s mission to prepare for humanity’s inaugural journey to Mars are encouraged to apply.

Applicants can now electronically upload health insurance for UAE residency visas

Beginning today, February 19, applicants for UAE residency visas can conveniently upload their health insurance details electronically.

This new process eliminates the need for manual document submission, announced the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).

Health insurance policies, provided by accredited companies, will be seamlessly transferred via a unified platform, ensuring a secure link, according to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP director general.

This digital transformation promises a faster visa application and renewal process.

The Strand introduces retro breakfast brunch for Saturday indulgence

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The Strand, nestled in Palm Views West, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, invites you to embark on a nostalgic culinary journey with their latest offering, the Retro Breakfast Brunch. Launching every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, starting February 17th, this all-day affair promises to be the perfect remedy to a long week.

Featuring a curated selection of five delectable breakfast dishes, paired with an extensive array of alcoholic beverages, The Retro Breakfast Brunch guarantees an authentic American brunch experience. Whether you’re craving classic omelettes, signature egg dishes, beloved classics, or flavors from south of the border, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Diners can expect an immersive dining experience with themed headers like Omelettes & Scramblers, Eggcellent Signatures, Honky Dory Classics, South of the Border, and Sweet Sixteen. Each category offers at least five options, ensuring a diverse and fulfilling meal. To complement the brunch, guests can indulge in the Breakfast Bar, boasting an extensive selection of boozy delights. Customize your Bloody Mary or explore wines, bubbles, beers, and cocktails to elevate your brunch experience.

For those seeking the full indulgence, The Strand offers two packages: a soft drinks package priced at AED 125 per adult, and a premium package at AED 250 per adult, featuring free-flowing booze. With its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor seating option, diners can bask in the pleasant Dubai weather while enjoying their brunch.

For reservations, contact 04-430 221 or stay updated with The Strand’s latest news on Instagram at @strandcraftkitchen.

Chef Jefry Tobing, Chef Anaïs Foray unite for an exclusive four-hands culinary experience at Sofitel Dubai The Palm

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As the EPICURE Culinary Month continues to delight the palates of food connoisseurs at Sofitel Dubai The Palm, a special culinary collaboration is set to take centre stage.

For one exclusive weekend, the resort’s celebration of gastronomic finesse will feature a remarkable Four-Hands Dinner by the Executive Chef at Sofitel Paris LeFaubourg, Chef Anaïs Foray and the property’s Chef De Cuisine, Chef Jefry Tobing in a spectacular showcase of culinary harmony.

This exceptional dining experience, reserved for the evenings of February 23rd and 24th, will see the harmonious blend of Chef Foray’s Parisian gastronomic elegance with Chef Tobing’s acclaimed culinary craft at the resort’s award-winning steakhouse, Porterhouse Steaks & Grills. Guests will have the privilege to indulge in a handpicked selection of dishes, available through both a thoughtfully composed five-course set menu and à la carte offerings. Each course is designed to be a testament to the chefs’ shared dedication to culinary excellence and to provide a memorable journey through the rich tapestry of French-inspired cuisine, tailored to captivate the sophisticated palate of Dubai’s gourmands.

Chef Jefry Tobing brings a philosophy to the table that is as simple as it is profound: “Cook with passion, and infuse each dish with memories that resonate.” His approach to the Four-Hands Dinner menu is a thoughtful blend of seasonality, high-quality ingredients, and personal inspiration. “This collaboration with Chef Anaïs is a canvas for creativity, an opportunity to merge diverse culinary narratives into a unified gastronomic experience,” Chef Tobing shares, reflecting the excitement and harmony in the kitchen.

Chef Anaïs Foray’s selection for the menu is a tribute to her rich culinary journey and a nod to the art of French cuisine. “The essence of our dishes lies in the freshness of the produce, tailored to Dubai’s climate, and the celebration of French culinary traditions,” she states. Emphasising the importance of seasonality and the influence of her global experiences, Chef Foray adds, “The Four-Hands Dinner is an exhilarating chance to showcase our shared passion for exceptional dining.”

● Porterhouse Steaks & Grills

● Friday, 23 February & Saturday, 24 February from 7:00 pm

● Special five-course set menu for Dhs295 per person (e-voucher price), Dhs350 per person (regular price)

Gift vouchers to experience all the EPICURE Culinary Month events can be purchased on the Sofitel Dubai The Palm website.

DAMAC welcomes a new dawn of luxury with the launch of ‘The Sapphire’

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DAMAC Properties, a leading luxury real estate developer in the UAE, announces the launch of “The Sapphire” tower, the third launch completing the latest luxury lifestyle collection Safa series boasting luxurious unique interiors.

The Sapphire offers residents a haute attitude of high-end living and an ideal balance of urban convenience and luxury leisure. Residents and visitors are welcomed by an immersive ring of light in the lobby. They can unwind in the infinity pool with stunning Safa Park and water views on the Podium. At the rooftop, co-working spaces surrounded by lush greenery and sunflowers offer inspiration, with dedicated pods to trick one’s circadian rhythm. Relaxation awaits at the luxury spa retreat (at the podium level next to pools and the gym) and a tranquil Canary Garden (at the roof level next to the coworking spaces), while fitness enthusiasts can stay active at the running track and 24/7 indoor fitness centre. At The Sapphire, every amenity is designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles and provide an exceptional living experience, immersed in nature.

With clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows, the 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments and townhouses are thoughtfully laid out with spacious balconies and the finest fixtures, finishings and appliances. Branded by de GRISOGONO, a high jewellery brand which was acquired by DAMAC in 2020, the interiors reflect the brand’s time-honoured craftsmanship and expertise in the most precious gemstones.

Nestled near Jumeirah area and Downtown Dubai in a prime real estate location, residents are also walking distance of Safa Park, one of the city’s earliest parks renowned for its lush greenery and ample recreational facilities for children. Within mere moments from The Sapphire, residents can effortlessly explore the lively urban offerings of City Walk and Box Park, along with the scenic beauty of Jumeirah Beach.

“As we embark on the new year, DAMAC reaffirms its dedication to excellence. The launch of The Sapphire, our second tower within the first quarter of 2024, underscores our commitment to meeting the sustained demand for luxury residential units while redefining urban living and captivating individuals of refined taste across the globe,” said Mohammed Tahaineh, General Manager of Projects at DAMAC.

With captivating vistas overlooking the scenic Dubai Canal, Sheikh Zayed Road and the Arabian Sea, The Sapphire is situated adjacent to the renowned Sheikh Zayed Road, The Sapphire is positioned alongside its predecessors Safa One de GRISOGONO and Safa Two de GRISOGONO by DAMAC projects.

DAMAC has diligently expanded its branded residences portfolio, launching nearly 10 new offerings in Dubai last year. This underscores the company’s dedication to providing distinctive living experiences tailored to its discerning clientele.

Managing menopause and weight gain: Balancing health and wellness

Menopause impacts half the world’s population, yet its effects receive too little attention. For those experiencing menopause or supporting someone who is, understanding its implications for weight management is key to overall well-being.

Menopause is a natural life stage when female periods cease, marking the end of natural fertility. It encompasses three stages:

Perimenopause: Years leading up to menopause, with irregular periods and initial symptoms.

Menopause: The point when a woman has not had a period for 12 months.

Postmenopause: The time after periods stop, symptoms may gradually ease or continue.

While menopause generally occurs between ages 45 and 55, fluctuating estrogen levels trigger changes that can manifest differently for each woman.

Weight gain in midlife is common for everyone – regardless of gender – as body composition naturally shifts due to muscle mass loss. Unfortunately for women, this coincides with menopause, further complicating weight management. Diminishing estrogen also disrupts hunger signals, increasing appetite.

“Weight gain is the number one concern for many women when it comes to menopause,” notes Zoe Griffiths, Senior Director for Allurion, Behavioral Medicine. “Living with overweight or obesity has a negative impact on physical and mental wellbeing at any age.”

Postmenopausal women living with obesity often report reduced quality of life due to decreased physical functioning, energy levels, and overall health. The psychological factors associated with both menopause and weight gain can fuel unhealthy cycles of emotional eating and weight struggles.

Taking Control During Menopause

Weight reduction plays a vital role in improving wellbeing during and after menopause. Maintaining a healthy weight also assists in managing troublesome menopausal symptoms.

Allurion offers a comprehensive weight management approach especially helpful during menopause. The Allurion Program combines a temporary gastric balloon – which promotes feelings of fullness – with behavior modification, personalized nutrition coaching, and digital monitoring. This unique program ensures healthy weight loss, focusing on reducing unhealthy fat stores.

Additional tips for managing weight during menopause:

Target gradual weight reduction: Women with higher BMI often experience more intense hot flashes; weight loss can lessen these symptoms.

Prioritize strategies to reduce body fat: This eases bloating common during perimenopause.

Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regime: Manage joint and back pain exacerbated by obesity and common during menopause.

Focus on mental wellbeing: Weight loss can improve mood, self-esteem, and day-to-day health management.