Dubai, UAE: Akira Back, the ultra-stylish dining destination at W Dubai – The Palm, has launched a brand-new, elevated sushi takeaway menu for Ramadan, featuring premium sushi set options for friends and family to enjoy at home.
Famed for its impressive blend of mouth-watering Japanese cuisine with Korean essence, this Ramadan Akira Back is offering foodies a healthy Iftar alternative with a stunning array of delectable sushi sets that are perfect for sharing.
Starting at AED 799, diners can choose from three premium options, including Ab Chori-Zumi, a mouth-watering 58-piece cooked set, featuring delicious sushi options such as California Roll, Spider Roll, Baked Crab Roll and Shrimp Tempura Roll, or Ab Kurashikku, a 52-piece classic set featuring an array of Sashimi and Nigiri bites, accompanied with vibrant California and Cow Wow Rolls.
Go all out with the Ab Zeitaku luxury set, an impressive 46-piece sushi set made up of Caviar, Baked Crab Rolls, and the freshest Sashimi and Nigiri.
Available throughout the month of Ramadan, Akira Back’s brand-new premium sushi takeaway menu is the perfect choice to enjoy a healthy Iftar alternative with friends and family. Featuring an explosion of flavour, each mouth-watering sushi set is guaranteed to satisfy the taste buds.
All orders must be made 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp at 0589716567
Dubai, UAE: World-renowned tenor, Dimitri Pittas, will take to the stage in an exciting musical event at the Maldives much-loved Velaa Private Island.
Bringing together Opera and Broadway, Pittas will lead a performance alongside opera singer and Broadway actress Leah Edwards, in a magical evening of song. The pair will be accompanied by San Francisco Opera’s Maureen Zoltek on piano for the performance on the dreamy white shores of the luxury private island.
“We are truly honored to have such prestigious performers join us for this event,” said Wayne Milgate, General Manager at Velaa Private Island. “We know our guests have been missing culture over this last year, so this is our way to not only support these cultural icons, but to give a spot of magic to our visitors. The island is a unique experience in itself and with these added touches, we want our guests to leave feeling they have truly unforgettable memories of their time with us.”
The event on May 2, will include some of the most famous songs of recent time, led by Pittas whose career has included starring roles in the likes of the Bavarian State Opera, the Vienna State Opera, the Royal Opera House Covent Garden and the Canadian Opera Company.
“We felt that this fusion of styles was something different and offered guests of all tastes the chance to find something they love,” added Wayne. “They will be singing a whole host of songs which have won audiences’ hearts over the years, both young and old, and we really can’t wait to host them at Velaa.”
If you crave an exclusive and secluded getaway, staying on a private island is the epitome of luxury travel. Surrounded by the pristine blue waters of the Indian Ocean, unspoiled nature, world-class offerings, the island resort is the ideal choice for those looking for total privacy and peace. Land in your private jet at the Maafaru International Airport and be whisked away on Velaa’s luxury yacht in complete isolation to one of the world’s finest private islands. For those landing at the Male International Airport, Velaa Private Island is offering all its guests complimentary CIP arrival and departure service at the airport to ensure a comfortable and relaxed experience.
Nestled within the constellation of islands that form the Noonu Atoll in Maldives, Velaa Private Island takes exclusivity to the next level with facilities and service that go beyond traditional resorts. Designed by award-winning Czech architect Petr Kolar as “an elegant fusion of Maldivian culture with contemporary luxury, intimate with Maldivian nuances”.
Velaa Private Island is the realization of a dream to create a “beyond luxury” exclusive boutique hideaway in the Maldives. Velaa means “Turtle” in the local language – named after generations of sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch. From a broader “bird’s eye view” which greets arrivals by seaplane, the island’s exclusive over-water villas are also constructed to resemble the head of a turtle, with the island forming the body.
The resort comprises 47 private villas, houses and exclusive residences. While 18 of the 47 are built over water, the Romantic Pool Residence can only be reached by boat, allowing even more privacy and exclusivity.
Dubai, April 6, 2021 – Novotel World Trade Centre hosted the launch of a series of activities for the Midscale & Economy Brands of the Gulf Region for ALL – Accor Live Limitless Loyalty Program, by Jonathan Sheard, Vice President of Operations. This evening the activity launch was W’ALL of Fortune. Guest can instantly redeemed rewards for activating their loyalty membership.
To celebrate the upcoming holy month, the hotel hosted an art exhibition featuring Funun Art paintings with the theme, ‘’Sahar : Let’s begin the Holy Month of Ramadan with New Hopes.
An iftar buffet was served as a preview at the ‘’Entre Nous restaurant’’ which will be priced at AED 109.
Novotel World Trade Centre – Part of the Dubai Convention and Exhibition Centre, the hotel offers 412 tastefully decorated rooms and fully equipped with the highest quality amenities to offer guests a memorable stay. Opt for the Suite for the spacious living area guaranteed to offer the luxury and comfort for your stay.
Entre-Nous Restaurant: international all day dining restaurant
Blue Bar: jazz and blues venue in Dubai featuring live bands
Dubai, UAE: As part of its efforts to enhance social inclusion in Abu Dhabi, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an partnered with Abu Dhabi Sports Council to hold a fun run event supporting the National Programme for Organ and Tissue Donations (NPOTD).
Families and friends throughout Abu Dhabi took part in the “At Your Own Pace” event which was an opportunity for residents and citizens of different ages to come together and participate in an enjoyable and safe race that had no time limits. Every dirham from the registration fees has contributed to the Organ Transplant Support Programme.
The “At Your Own Pace” event falls under Ma’an’s Social Investment Fund pillar with the program designed to increase social cohesion and encourage participation for a good cause while also allowing participants to take part in a physical activity and live a healthy lifestyle.
Her Excellency Salama Al Ameemi, Director General of Ma’an, said: “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of programs at Ma’an with the ‘At Your Own Pace’ in what is another key initiative that not only makes our communities more connected but also places them at the forefront of making a positive difference in society.
“By working hand-in-hand with our government partners – Abu Dhabi Sports Council, who share the same vision of engaging with the community and creating a better tomorrow, ‘At Your Own Pace’ served as another opportunity for everyone to show how united communities can be and demonstrate their willingness to support each other”.
Suhail Abdullah Al Arifi, acting Executive Director of the Events Sector of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the main objective of the race was to support the organ donation campaign.
“It’s an initiatives of the Community Contributions Authority and the high turnout for the race is clear evidence of the awareness created among the community groups on the importance of participating in charitable events,” he added.
Al Arifi emphasized the sports council was keen to organize the race in cooperation with the Community Contributions Authority at Al Hudayriat Island, the newest sports, leisure and entertainment district in Abu Dhabi.
“The sports council is very pleased to extend our gratitude and appreciation to all partners, sponsors and volunteers for their overwhelming cooperation in making the event a success,” he said. The 10km distance started at 06:30am followed by the 5km (6:45am) and the 3km (07:10am). All participants received a bespoke running shirt, finishers medal, certificate and downloadable photos from the event.
Dubai, UAE: Spend this Ramadan at The Pointe, the scenic and premier lifestyle and dining destination on Palm Jumeirah, and enjoy delicious Iftar and Suhoor meals, enchanting Ramadan lights and a daily captivating fountain show from The Palm Fountain.
Experience Holy Month and enjoy a dazzling display of Ramadan decorations inspired by Islamic motifs, and break your fast at the world’s largest fountain, which will act as an Iftar cannon.
Enjoy incredible offers on delicious Iftar and Suhoor meals across The Pointe until 1am, relish The Palm Fountain’s shows swaying to iconic Emirati songs such as Ya Salam Ya Dubai, Dubai Is Another Planet, Aim for The Sky and more.
Iftar and Suhoor meals at The Pointe:
Beirut Bay
Tuck into a deliciously-cooked Arabic meal for Ramadan. Beirut Bay features the essentials for every Iftar meal and offers delicious Lebanese staples such as fattouch, spinach fatayer, meat and cheese sambusik and a variety of grills
For reservations, please call: 054 343 1888
Al Safadi
Specialising in authentic Lebanese meals, Al Safadi is perfect for a family Iftar featuring Ramadan essentials like lentil soup, lahem beajine, falafel platter and delicious main courses such as chicken biryani, shawarma platters and more
For reservations, please call: 600 500 601
Fnajeen
Indulge in the rich, authentic dishes of traditional Iraqi cuisine at Fnajeen, featuring a set Iftar menu for AED195 per person paired with its most popular appetisers, main courses and desserts
For reservations, please call: 04 589 3300
Cairo 30 and Ibn Hamido
Satisfy your cravings with the eye-catching Cairo 30, a one-of-a-kind restaurant offering authentic Egyptian and Middle Eastern dishes crafted with love. For reservations, please call: 04 584 4581
Feast on mouth-watering seafood delicacies at Ibn Hamido and enjoy a wide selection of the freshest fish from the sea. For reservations, please call: 04 395 9595
Kazoza
Craving home-made Egyptian street-food for Iftar? Visit Kazoza and indulge in an appetising open buffet for AED140 per person or try the Suhoor set menu featuring a live cooking cart
For reservations, please call: 052 699902
Rue Royale
Looking to pamper yourself for Iftar? Try the French Rue Royale, which is offering lavish combinations for AED99 only and a set Iftar menu featuring a pastry basket, soup, two cold starters and three hot starters, one main course and Ramadan drinks
For Suhoor, try the Ramadan snacks and pastries in the mini Ramadan market
For reservations, please call: 04 241 2828 or 050 575 1361
Chicago Meat Packers
Satisfy those carnivore cravings at Chicago Meat Packers, which has all the meat that you could ask for with a special Ramadan menu featuring a choice of three appetizers, four mains and dessert for AED185 per person
For reservations, please call: 04 580 7983
Hook & Cook
For a memorable seafood dining experience, indulge in Hook & Hook’s incredible offers such as the Sunday Platter featuring a 20 per cent discount on the fisherman platter, Tuesday Crabs with a 20 per cent off the chilli or black pepper crabs and Wednesday Paella with a 30 per cent reduction on the seafood paella
For reservations, please call: 04 244 3214
Aiza
Try delicious Greek dishes at Aiza with a set Ramadan menu consisting of pumpkin soup, a choice of three appetisers, Aiza salad, taramosolata, spinach pie, a choice of three mains, grilled seabream, truffle chicken or vegetarian orzo and a loukoumades for dessert for AED199 only
For reservations, please call: 04 575 5097
Samakje
Craving fresh seafood? Samakje combines Levantine and Mediterranean influences to serve the freshest fish dishes. For just AED168 per person, enjoy a five-course menu, specially curated by Group Executive Chef, Ahmad Alfakier. Begin with a choice of soup, followed by mouthwatering mezzes such as fattoush, hummus, chicken liver with pomegranate molasses and lamb fattah. The main course showcases signature sharing dishes, such as kibbeh labaniah and roast lamb shanks with freekeh
A special Ramadan drinks menu will also be available, with indulgent beverages such as tamarind, jallab and laban ayran
Dubai, UAE: Mara Firetti is an entrepreneur dedicated to the promotion and growth of international artists. In the last 15 years as an art advisor and artist promoter, Mara principally dedicated her expertise in developing the career of sculptor Helidon Xhixha.
Xhixha is an Albanian-born artist, but Italian by adoption, whose monumental sculptures and innovative technique, together with an approach that is the result of an artistic upbringing and a formal education, have granted him international acclaim.
Meantime, organising public events and international exhibitions in renown institutions and art fairs, allowed Mara to acquire a large portfolio of high-profile art collectors, and extensive experience as a press officer for artists with a network of important relationships.
At her right hand side is her team, two art professionals, Sossy Dikijian and Celine Azem. Together they share a deeply rooted passion in art and all it stands for. Coming from entirely different backgrounds and specializations, yet still sharing the same mission: To establish an Art Gallery that promotes and supports emerging and established artists that create meaningful artworks and deliver a strong statement from different corners of the world.
The following are excerpts of Dubai Vibes Magazine interview with Ms. Firetti:
DVM: What inspired you to open a gallery highlighting social and environmental issues?
Mara Firetti: The beauty and power of art is such that it is capable of influencing society by changing opinions, by initiating thoughts, reflections and feelings. It allows people from different backgrounds, cultures and places in time to communicate with each other and share experiences. The gallery in this scenario becomes the podium where all these emotions are shared and received and therefore it is important to us that the values presented are constructive and beneficial to our community and our world.
DVM: Climate change..how close it is to your heart?
MF: I would say as close as the health and wellbeing of my family and of my children. We are seeing changes that have never been seen before as temperatures are rising. Sea levels have risen, the amount of ice and and snow has decreased, and the ocean waters have warmed up. We just can’t pretend any longer that this is an issue that doesn’t belong to us or needs to be tackled far ahead in the future. Global warming is here and its now and we need to act. We can all do something about it by changing our habits while reducing our imprint and turn to a more sustainable living.
DVM: What other social issues would the gallery be campaigning for?
MF:We represent artists from different corners of the world and our aim to share their views on humanitarian matters, cultural inclusion, globalization, gender equality and all that apports a constructive contribution and reflection within our society.
DVM: What can the public expect from the gallery for the remainder of the year?
MF: After the recent solo exhibition of Helidon Xhixha, we will have a group exhibition of five artists having a common theme: The importance of protecting our environment through sustainable approaches.
We are also planning an exhibition with a focus on the function of language and information and the geometric intricacies of calligraphy. On one side, the show will explore the emerging patterns in human behavior caused by the birth of the internet and simultaneously the complexity of linguistic, mathematical and visual systems of communication.
DVM: Can you tell us about yourself and your journey into the art industry?
MF: Art has always been part of my life as both my parents loved painting and often took me to art exhibitions and museums during our family trips, but it became my focus and profession through my encounter with Helidon Xhixha, 15 years ago.
I had a business and marketing background and as I was extremely fascinated by his artworks I started dedicating my expertise in promoting his career, organizing public events and international exhibitions in renown institutions and art fairs. During this time, I was able to acquire a lot of experience and meet inspirational curators, dealers and collectors.
I structured and organized exhibitions in institutions such as La Biennale di Venezia, London Design Biennale and the Uffizi Gallery Museum in Florence. I also met lots of other incredible and passionate artists and I’m so thrilled that now through Firetti Contemporary we can represent them and share their value with our viewers.
Dubai, UAE: Award-winning home-grown brand La Marquise, known for transforming precious stones into spectacular pieces of fine jewellery, has curated a fine collection of keepsake pieces to gift your near and dear ones!
Enthralling items embellished in 18k gold & diamonds, the brand’s luxury aesthetic yet eye-catching style makes for the perfect addition to your loved one’s jewellery collection.
With the holy month of Ramadan upon us, La Marquise invites you to adorn yourself in luminous jewellery with the launch of the limited edition Ramadan collection.
Exclusively for the Holy Month, the elegant collection embraces Arabesque influences with one-of-a-kind exquisite jewellery from Imperia. As Ramadan is the season of giving, La Marquise offers the perfect gift whether you’re looking to dress yourself in diamonds or give something golden to your loved ones, the Ramadan collection is available now in La Marquise boutiques. If you’re looking to shop virtually, La Marquise also offers private online consultations allowing you to conveniently explore the radiant collection from the comfort of your own home to help you put together the ultimate Eid ensemble this season.
Embrace the spirit of the Holy Month by adding a luminous sparkle to finish your Ramadan look with the Imperia collection consisting of caliber-cut gemstones and tassels. All gemstones are precisely selected, then hand-picked and caliber-cut to match each unique piece. Dazzle every Iftar with elegant colourful necklaces made from the finest Pearls, Rubies, Emeralds, Sapphires and carefully strung tassels made with radiant golds and precious gemstones handcrafted by La Marquise.
The glamoros collection by La Marquise effortlessly combines together modesty and sophisticated elegance adding a sense of occasion to your Eid outfit. Whether you’re looking for layering designs, single or double colored motifs, stand out at any Eid event with Imperia one-of-a-kind pieces carrying sparkling diamonds and magnificent 18K gold featuring variants of trendy tassels. Every detail is individually unique to La Marquise and requires meticulous workmanship with precious stones cut to fit the exact design and formation of colours, creating a flawless finished look.
Every caliber-cut gemstone and tassel is carefully hand-selected, consisting of a wonderfully unique range of precious rubies, elegant sapphires and dazzling turquoises with every piece being ever so slightly different from the other. Whether for yourself or your loved ones, discover the exquisite Ramadan collection by La Marquise in one of their luxurious boutiques or book an online private consultation from home to view the collections and feel special throughout the Holy Month and beyond.
La Marquise is a global chain of retail boutiques with 11 locations in the UAE and flagship boutique at Mall of the Emirates. Customers can shop the full collection in store at Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif and other boutiques across the GCC. Customers can also cruise round the luxurious pieces and be immersed in a digital luxurious experience while ‘adding to basket’. The collection is also available online at:www.lamarquisejewellery.com and on WhatsApp at +971 52 453 4551.
Dubai, UAE: Boasting more than 25 years’ international experience, the title of Schwarzkopf Ambassador for the Middle East, an extensive book of celebrity clients and multiple awards including Colourist of the Year in the Middle East, Cat Hawkes is one of the most sought-after stylists and during April, she is donating her time, for free, to provide hair consultations, discussing everything from her top-tips, colour choices, condition checks, styles and lengths.
Taking place at Cat’s own beauty destination, Salon 971 in Barsha South, customers can book a limited-availability slot with Cat, for a “Chat with Cat” to discuss any questions or qualms they may have about their hair, in an informative personal discussion.
Following the chat, every customer who decides to book in a colour with Cat and her legendary, large colour bar, will receive an amazing complimentary hair treatment.
Cat Hawkes, co-founder and Artistic Director at Salon 971, said: “Having worked globally and regionally as both a stylist and a trainer for more than 25 years, I wanted to share my expertise to as many ladies as possible, so more people can feel happy and confident with their hair. As we know, if you feel you look good on the outside, your confidence matches on the inside too.”
Miss Hawkes is a pioneering stylist, famed for her signature Cat Walk face-framing technique, which went viral over social media last year. Her unique hair approach defines facial features, complementing all face shapes and adds symmetry.
To book, please call +971 4 579 6222, WhatsApp +971 58 1064971 or email: barshasouth@salon971.com.
The Valentino fashion house was founded in Rome in 1960 and since then has represented one of the finest examples of Italian couture savoir-faire and excellence.
Grace, delicacy, dedication and sartorial culture pervade the vibrant and ethereal atmosphere of the ateliers in Palazzo Mignanelli, where timelessly elegant creations are crafted every day. Pierpaolo Piccioli, Creative Director at Valentino, drives innovation at the fashion house, taking inspiration from the profoundly humanistic concept of creativity as an individual process.
The accessories feature these hallmarks of Valentino fashion in a contemporary aesthetic that flouts the rules, allowing a fusion of styles that enables wearers to express themselves and their uniqueness.
The Eyewear Collection reflects the essence of the brand and expresses the heritage of timeless elegance and its evolution into modern, captivating allure. Some of the models feature sumptuous ’60s touches such as gold paired with vibrant studs, the fashion house’s signature detail, which are now also available in a large version. Other models with new, visionary designs play with oversized proportions with a romantic character. All the models are signed with variations of the VLogo Signature, along with iconic signature studs on the tips of the glasses.
Dubai, UAE: One of the world’s leading Indian dining concepts, Punjab Grill, is opening its flagship GCC restaurant at The Oberoi, Dubai – Business Bay in the second quarter of the year 2021. Punjab Grill’s newest offering is an intimate fine dining experience like no other, boasting a unique menu of modern Indian cuisine, in the heart of Dubai’s stunning Downtown district.
The exclusive Indian fine-dining destination is perfect for romantic evenings, corporate luncheons and private gatherings with family and friends, with views over the Oberoi Courtyard. Blending high-end design with the essence of Indian heritage, Punjab Grill is set to make its mark on the world-famous Dubai dining scene.
The much-loved restaurant, celebrated for bringing alive the truly authentic flavors of India, is the latest opening for the globally acclaimed Punjab Grill, part of India’s Super Eats Investments, as it expands in the GCC. Punjab Grill’s world-famous restaurants in Bangkok and Singapore have won international acclaim, both mentioned in the Michelin Guide, and the Washington DC location is now one of the city’s top dining destinations.
Led by Executive Chef Sandeep Ail, the menu embraces flavorful curries, kebabs, and classic Indian desserts with an exciting gastronomic twist, giving diners an authentic, yet modern experience of Indian cuisine.
Punjab Grill restaurants around the world have won several awards and accolades such as the Michelin Guide 2019, TripAdvisor Excellence Awards, CNN Go ranking as one of the top Indian restaurants around the world.
