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Experience the spirit of Ramadan at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel

Dubai, UAE:  Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, the vibrant hotel that connects historic and new Dubai, presents a distinctive culinary offering specially crafted to deliver long-lasting experiences during the holy month of Ramadan.

Whether gathering with your family, friends and colleagues or hosting an Iftar dinner for associates or business partners, the hotel sets the perfect atmosphere to reflect on what matters most during the holy month.

Opening its door every evening from sunset to 10:00pm is Kris with a View restaurant, located on the 19th floor, where residents and visitors can savor a sumptuous Iftar buffet featuring traditional and authentic Arabic recipes and international dishes. Break your fast while enjoying the picturesque sight of the sun setting over the Arabian Gulf.

With a rotational menu, the Iftar buffet is priced at AED119 per person. Groups of 4 only pay for 3 people, when booking before 12th April.

Additionally, all Emirates Skywards members earn 3X more miles when dining at Kris with a View for Iftar through the Skywards Everyday app.

The Iftar buffet will include special Ramadan mocktails, juices, dates, salads, bread, mezze, soup, and a live Ouzi station as well as Ramadan favourites, soft beverages and a spread of tasty sweets and desserts. 

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel will also offer suhoor meal for in-room dining with a set menu of AED59 and AED89 per person, from 10:00pm to 3:00am, throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

For information and bookings, please call 04 377 1163.

What:  Celebrate the Spirit of Ramadan at Park Regis Krin Kin Dubai

Where: Kris with a View, 19th floor

When: Throughout Ramadan  |  from sunset – 10pm

Price: AED119 per person while groups of 4 only pay for 3 people (AED 89 per person) when booking before 12th April.

Offer: Gather with family and friends to celebrate Ramadan at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel. Immerse yourself in the special Iftar buffet featuring a unique blend of Arabic and international dishes with a carefully selected menu that changes daily at Kris with a View located on the 19th floor. Earn 3X more Skywards miles through the Emirates Skywards Everyday app when dining for the Iftar. 

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers to delight diners this Ramadan

Dubai, UAE: The countdown to a month of extraordinary culinary experiences has begun. This year, three signature outlets at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers will introduce special activations to delight diners and mark the Holy Month of Ramadan. Traditionally seen as a time to gather with friends and family, the luxury Abu Dhabi-based property has carefully curated a selection of distinct experiences that are guaranteed to cater to every requirement.

Guests will be able to choose from a buffet and live station offering for Iftar at the property’s pop-up concept, Layali Al Baraka, Iftar and Suhoor set menus featuring expertly prepared traditional Lebanese delicacies at Li Beirut or, if privacy is preferred, opt to have their Iftar or Suhoor meals prepared by the property’s skilled culinary team and delivered to their homes.

The full details for each experience are below:

Layali Al Baraka  

Gather friends and family in the enchanting Layali Al Baraka venue for a lavish buffet featuring selections of hot and cold mezze and a traditional lamb ouzi. There will also be several live cooking stations featuring a selection of meats and sumptuous seafood grilled to perfection. In addition, diners can pair their dishes with steaming hot, freshly baked breads from the ever-popular Saj station.

Timings:         Daily throughout Ramadan, Sunset – 9:00pm

Price:              AED 210 per person including Arabic beverages, tea and coffee, water

Location:        Podium Level 4

Li Beirut

Diners looking for an authentic taste of Levantine flavours, need look no further than Li Beirut. A master of regional cuisine, chef Jouni Ibrahim will take diners on a culinary voyage through some of Lebanon’s most cherished creations with carefully curated Iftar and Suhoor set menus.

Timings:         Iftar – Sunset to 9pm

Sohoor – from 9pm to 3am

Price:              Iftar –  AED 245 per person, including Ramadan beverages, tea, coffee and water

Suhoor – AED 225 per person

Location:        Podium Level 2

Iftar at home  

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers has the perfect solution for those who prefer the convenience and privacy of dining in the comfort of their own homes. This specially curated, bespoke offering allows diners to recreate a five-star restaurant experience with an exquisite Iftar set menu prepared by the property’s expert culinary team. Both menus are available for pre-order (24 hours in advance).

Timings:         Daily throughout Ramadan, 24-hour advance booking required,

Price:              AED 250

For more information on dining reservations, please contact: + 971 (0)2811 5666 or etihadtowers.FBreservations@conradhotels.com

Kate Goodwin relaunches in the UAE

Dubai, UAE: For those residing in the Emirates for more than 4 years; you may already be familiar with the esteemed makeup artist to the stars, health coach and energy healer, Kate Goodwin. 

Founder of the prestigious Illumin8 Makeup Studio, Kate’s reputation truly precedes her and after a brief hiatus from the UAE after a life altering auto-immune diagnosis and serious accident, Kate has been on a life changing health journey, and is now back and ready to add a dose of beauty, health and spirituality to the women of the region. 

With over 20 years’ experience, Kate Goodwin has worked extensively with some of the world’s leading brands and publications, not to mention a plethora of supermodels and a-list celebrities over the course of her career to date.  

Favoring makeup as a tool to enhance natural beauty, Kate doesn’t believe in using layers of heavy makeup which can ultimately result in a negative impact on self-confidence once removed. Over the years Kate has seen the many positive effects that makeup can offer and loves nothing more than helping women to feel the very best, beautiful version of themselves, inside and out. 

Not only is Kate a highly experienced makeup artist, she is a qualified energy healer and health coach. A pioneer of self-love and self-acceptance, Kate has been guiding people on their spiritual path for over a decade and with her makeup artistry and coaching skills combined, Kate is set to pave the way with her relaunch here in the Middle East. 

Over the past four years, Kate’s passions have all grown together seamlessly and she is ready to help other women connect to their own divine beauty. With the relaunch of Illumin8, now an online Academy that will have courses covering beauty, health and spirituality, Kate is on a mission with her exciting new online course to teach the females of the UAE that attaining balance in all areas of their lives is much more important than just what we see on the outside. 

Kate’s brand-new course is titled ‘The Essence of Divine Beauty’ and shines a light on skincare, makeup, integrative nutrition and spirituality. Attendees can embark on an intense journey that will transform the way they look, eat and feel. Connecting you to your unique beauty from the inside out, Kate Goodwin’s life-enhancing and unique program is a must-do for anyone who wants to connect to their Divine Beauty, feel a sense of self-love and acceptance and feel confident, vibrant and vital in their life. The online course is priced at AED 1,099 (USD $299 introductory offer) and can be booked here – https://courses.illumin8academy.com/

Find out more about Kate Goodwin and her upcoming courses on http://www.kategoodwin.com/.  Keep up to date with the latest news and updates on social media @kategoodwinmakeup and @iamillumin8. 

Minimalist: Inspired by the rich Arabian culture

Dubai, UAE: E-commerce watch and jewellery platform, Minimalist, was founded in Dubai in July 2016 with the belief that style should be kept simple and elegant. Specialising in superior quality watches and accessories, Minimalist was curated for people who find beauty in simplicity.

Minimalist was created with a vision to create simple products inspired by the Arabian culture and heritage, by placing an emphasis on products that embody uncluttered sophistication, lasting quality and pure elegance. It is the first of its kind to have watches with exquisite details with dials that are designed in Arabic numerals.

To ensure a luxurious touch, the products are made of precious materials and stones such as black agate, mother of pearl, diamond, bluestone, and many others.

The brand takes pride in representing the finest of premium watches and jewellery designed in Dubai and catering to both men and women in the GCC who embrace the minimalist lifestyle.

Minimalist has designs and tailored collections for every taste and every style, some of the popular collections include the Anaqa watch and the Drop jewellery collections catered to women and the Traveller, Heritage and Royal watch collections catered to men. The watches range from AED 600 to AED 2,000 and the jewellery collections range from AED 200 to AED 500.

“Our story is about designing products for people who find beauty in simplicity, and away from distractions by focusing on truly important things in life. Our aim is to deliver products that are beautiful, simple and clean. Over the years, we pride ourselves in providing luxurious watches and jewellery with a strong focus on customer service and attention to detail,” says Ahmad Yousuf, founder of Minimalist.

For the month of Ramadan, Minimalist will be unveiling their Ramadan Gift box including a set of watches and jewellery for both male and female. 

Minimalist combines the best of design, innovation and top-notch customer service, delivering products that are a cut above the rest. Check out the website, www.minimalist.ae to shop the brand.

The complete 27-hotel Dubai Food Festival ‘Foodcation’ guide

Dubai, UAE: Dubai has taken staycations to a new level this Dubai Food Festival (DFF) with some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants offering residents and visitors the opportunity to combine the two in a fantastic “Foodcation.” 

The eighth edition of the city-wide DFF, the annual festival of food, has released a list of 27 hotels, offering special deals and experiences, allowing foodies to elevate their Dubai city break to the next level. 

Only available during DFF, an impressive array of hotel options ranging from luxury to chic boutiques, city to desert foodcations are offering unique foodie experiences including private cooking classes, Chef’s Table dinners or the chance to dine at some of the best restaurants in the city., 

 Running until April 17, we have picked five of the best to get you started: 

1. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Stay: Venture into Dubai’s undulating dunes for a relaxing escape at the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, a tranquil oasis that mixes Arabesque charm with opulent hospitality. It may feel miles away from the hustle and bustle, but is only a 45-minute drive from the heart of the city. Spend your time relaxing in the pool or marvel at the wildlife that surrounds you at this popular retreat.

Dine: Start your two-night stay with an indulgent traditional meal at Al Hadeerah. Warm up your appetite with a mezze and basket of oven-fresh Arabic bread before taking your pick from eight live cooking stations, featuring succulent fare like underground-cooked ouzi, manakish, shawarma and mixed grill. Leave room to end on a sweet note with a creamy umm ali or crisy kunafa. As you feast, you’ll also get a chance to meet the chef, who will let you in on his secret recipe and share the inspiration behind his signature dish.

On day two, ease into an elaborate breakfast spread at Al Forsan, and continue into lunch with a refreshing main and poolside platters of salad, snacks and fruit. For your final breakfast, dine out in the garden under the palm trees, where you’ll be treated to a personalised basket of bakery items, cold cuts and cheeses.

Book now: BAS.Reservations@meydanhotels.com; from AED2,500.

2. The Meydan Hotel

Stay: A landmark in its own right, this popular hotel is a convenient 12 minutes’ drive from the iconic Burj Khalifa and just 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. Known for its equestrian pedigree, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the stables or relax in the rooftop temperature-controlled infinity pool, with views out over the verdant Meydan Racecourse.

Dine: Begin your two-night stay with a platter of cheeses while you relax on your own private balcony before indulging in a three-course set menu at Farriers Restaurant, where the chef will talk you through the creation of his favourite dish. On day two, wake up to breakfast in your room, and savour a sumptuous afternoon tea in the Millennium Lounge. Finally, wrap up your getaway with a decadent buffet breakfast spread.

Book now: meydanreservations@meydanhotels.com; from AED1,298.

3. Melia Desert Palm Resort & Hotel

Stay: Switch the concrete city scenes for this lush desert oasis to get away from the everyday hustle and bustle. With a championship polo field at its heart, guests at this resort are surrounded by verdant nature. All the rooms, suites and villas are filled with high-end amenities to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Dine: Plate up on hearty servings of a complimentary breakfast on both mornings of your two-night stay. After you’ve settled in on your first night, head over for a sumptuous dinner at RARE, which is offering a limited-edition Latin American set menu. On day two, pull out all the stops with an elegant afternoon tea at Epicure, where you can dine indoors or al fresco. Plus, foodies will be able to make the most of a delicious masterclass experience with Chef Gaston Silva, Executive Chef who will teach guests how to rustle up one his favourite dishes in 30 minutes.

Book now: Reservations.dp@melia.com; from AED3,000

4. Armani Hotel Dubai

Stay: What could be more exciting than spending the night in one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks? Check into the five-star Armani Hotel and you’ll be immersed in a world of designer luxury with interiors and service all baring the hallmarks of the sophisticated Italian label. The property also boasts a range of high-class restaurants and eateries, all with unbeatable views of The Dubai Fountains.

Dine: Enjoy a two-night stay in an Armani Classic Room for two people, and be treated to a gourmet breakfast every morning. For lunch, dine out on a three-course set menu and take advantage of a Chef’s Table experience with the skilled Chef Giovanni. When it comes to dinner, take your pick from the diverse dining venues available and get a 10% discount.

Book now: Reservations.armanihotels.com; from AED4,620. 

5. Dukes The Palm

Stay: Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel stands on the iconic Palm Jumeirah and boasts stunning vistas over the azure Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina cityscape. With an indoor pool, a lazy river, a private beach and an impressive array of restaurants and lounges, guests will be spoilt for choice at this pampering getaway.

Dine: Kick off your day with breakfast at the hotel’s Great British Restaurant and soak up the venue’s refined elegance and English charm. For dinner, choose between another meal at the same eatery or dine out at Khyber, which evokes the spirit of Mumbai. You’ll also receive a complimentary recipe and flavourings which you can use to create a delicious signature dish.

Book now: dukesthepalm.res@royalhideaway.com; from AED999.

Check out the remaining 22 participating properties below: 

Hotel Name AboutContact Information
Holiday Inn Bur Dubai Embassy DistrictEnjoy a stay in the heart of Old Dubai, buzzing with historical sites and atmospheric souks as abras and dhows gently drift by on the creek. hiburdubai.info@ihg.com
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai WaterfrontBuilt right on the edge of the Dubai Water Canal, this stylish hotel has spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa.reservations.waterfront.dubai@radissonblu.com
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Canal ViewGuests at this waterfront hotel can look forward to panoramic views of the Dubai Water Canal, Downtown Dubai and the iconic Burj Khalifa.reservations.canalview.dubai@radissonblu.com
Occidental Dubai Production CityThe Occidental Dubai Production City is nestled in one of the city’s most up-and-coming areas, close to the site of the Expo. aljaddaf.res@occidentalhotels.com
Occidental Al JaddafThe Occidental Al Jaddaf lies in the heart of town, close to Downtown Dubai and Dubai Healthcare City. aljaddaf.res@occidentalhotels.com
Novotel World Trade CentreThe four-star hotel of choice for those staying on business or leisure, Novotel World Trade Centre is located in the city’s main commercial districth5261-gm@accor.com
Grand Hyatt DubaiSituated in the heart of town, the Grand Hyatt Dubai is tucked away inside an oasis of landscaped gardens, which will make you forget you’re just minutes away from bustling malls and one of the world’s busiest airports.reservations.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com
Mӧvenpick Hotel Apartments Downtown DubaiA contemporary hotel in the centre of Dubai, the Mӧvenpick Hotel Apartments Downtown Dubai is just a stone’s throw away from The Dubai Mall’s newest extension – and even has a free shuttle to the mall. hotel.dubai.downtown@movenpick.com
The H DubaiBoasting the prestigious address of Number 1, Sheikh Zayed Road, this five-star hotel is right at the gateway to Dubai. reservations.dubai@h-hotel.com
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the EmiratesConnected to one of the city’s most happening shopping destinations, the five-star Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates gives guests incomparable access to over 700 popular brand stores and dining outlets, as well as the incredible Ski Dubai. reservations.malloftheemirates@kempinski.com
Pullman Dubai Creek City CentrePullman Dubai Creek City Centre stands watch over the historic Dubai Creek and the rolling green fairways of Dubai Golf and Yacht Club. H2022@accor.com
Paramount Hotel DubaiThis striking property brings a touch of Hollywood glamour to Dubai’s shores. Located in the bustling Business Bay, Paramount Hotel Dubai rolls out the red carpet for all its guests.reservations@paramounthotelsdubai.com
Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & SuitesThis all-inclusive hotel sits right on the easternmost tip of the Palm Jumeirah, with a 1km stretch of pristine beach for holidaymakers to enjoy. The opulent resort has views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina skyline.reservation.dubai@rixos.com
Raffles DubaiOne of the city’s most distinctive hotels, Raffles Dubai was built in the shape of a pyramid and towers over the adjacent WAFI Mall.bookus.dubai@raffles.com
Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek HeightsSituated at the crossroads of Old Dubai and the bustling Downtown, Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is a blend of modern sophistication and traditional culture. dxbhc-marketing@hyatt.com
Carlton Downtown HotelCarlton Downtown Hotel is a prime city-centre location along Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access to the city’s best-known landmarks.reservations@carltondowntown.com
ibis One CentralThe hotel of choice for those on business or leisure, ibis One Central is situated amid the city’s commercial fray. Adjacent to the Metro and right in the middle of town, ibis is a true gateway to all of the city’s main attractions.H5261@accor.com
Crowne Plaza Dubai MarinaLocated in the stylish and modern Dubai Marina with easy access to the neighbourhood mall and stunning seaside attractions, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is a picturesque getaway for those looking for a break from the everyday or those on a business holiday. reservations.cpdubaimarina@ihg.com
Edge Creekside HotelPersonalised comfort is the norm at Edge Creekside Hotel. An upscale four-star experience that blends urban charm with Old Dubai vistas and uncompromising hospitality.stay@edgehotels.com
Jannah Marina Hotel ApartmentsGet a taste of affluent urban living at Jannah Marina Hotel Apartments, conveniently located along the Dubai Marina promenade, within walking distance of the Metro and a host of attractions such as the Dubai Marina Mall.book@jannah-hotels.com
Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference CentreTucked away in the heart of 15 hectares of greenery, the Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is an oasis right next door to Dubai International Airport. reservations.lmd@lemeridien.com
Conrad DubaiAt the crossroads of Old and New Dubai and situated along the ever-buzzing Sheikh Zayed Road, Conrad Dubai lends unparalleled access to everything the city has to offer, from rich cultural attractions to upscale urban destinations. Conrad.dubai_reservations@conradhotels.com

All dining experiences, events and activations during DFF will follow prevailing safety protocols and social distancing guidelines to ensure a safe experience for all.

For more information and a full update on DFF activities, please visit www.dubaifoodfestival.com and @dubaifoodfest on social media channels.

Pintxo Martes at Lola Taberna Española

Dubai, UAE: Lola Taberna Española, the neighborhood Spanish restaurant and tapas bar makes Tuesday a very exciting day for families and friends to spend quality time together.

Guests can enjoy unlimited Pintxos every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm, for only AED 99 per person. A staple in every Spanish taberna, pintxos are served on slices of freshly baked bread with toppings like jamón, cheese, mushrooms, stuffed peppers and anchovies.

Enjoy these delicious bites and pair it with Lola Taberna Española’s range of Spanish drinks from the a la carte menu.

 For more information or to make a booking at Dubai’s first Spanish Taberna, please call +971 4 247 6688, email info@lolataberna.com or visit the website.

From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the ancient port of Cádiz, where the Andalusian icon Lola Flores was born, Lola pays tribute to Spanish cuisine and culture in a casual, contemporary, and relaxed taberna-style atmosphere. With food cooked from the heart and music sang from the soul, Lola brings back those long Spanish family lunches that turn into dinners. A concept that puts as much attention on the food and drinks as it does in the design of the space, encouraging conversations between guests and staff. As the night evolves, Lola migrates from a casual dining taberna to a lively evening atmosphere. Located at TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, LOLA   caters to crowds who love to gather and enjoy food, delicious drinks, and friendly service. 

Opening hours: Sun-Thursday: 5pm – 1am| Friday & Saturday: 1pm – 2am 

Visit www.lolataberna.com or follow us on Facebook / Instagram

ROAR AFRICA, Emirates Executive Private Jet go beyond First Class

For the ‘Greatest & Safest Safari on Earth’

Dubai, UAE: The inaugural ROAR AFRICA Emirates Executive Private Jet Safari is an extraordinary bucket list travel experience designed to preserve and support Africa’s wildlife, wild spaces and communities. 

This is the first time that the premier airline has partnered with a travel specialist to curate an epic journey, with an ethos rooted in humanity, targeting sustainability and conservation. The life-changing itinerary delivers 10 guests in unbridled luxury to the four iconic African destinations that offer the ultimate adventure and encounters with environmental educators and conservation change makers.  Specialist guides, knowledgeable escorts and renowned leaders in a variety of fields provide thoughtful insight throughout the journey. The 12-day safari is priced at $125,000 per person. 

 “It has never been more important than now to curate experiences that facilitate an understanding of how the natural world works, and why and how we should help,” says Deborah Calmeyer, CEO and Founder of ultra-luxe Africa travel specialist ROAR AFRICA. 

“To this end, we have curated this strategic itinerary by working from a place of deep insight and acute understanding of Africa’s many strengths and complexities. We have painstakingly selected profound destinations and intimate wildlife discoveries to reveal what must be done to ensure that Africa’s people, nature and animals survive and thrive. And knowing that time is a non-renewable resource, guests will appreciate the absolute exclusivity and unparalleled ease of travel.

“This authentic experience not only sets a new paradigm in ultra-luxe adventure and sustainable travel but is a robust catalyst for change by facilitating active participation and insightful dialogue between informed, conscious travelers and local communities. Our goal is to change the philosophy and worldview of leaders, and I truly believe this is the greatest and most impactful safari experience on earth … it will make your wildest dreams come true.”  


“I also believe it is the safest safari on earth, in this post-Covid era. Our 10 guests will be travelling in a bubble by private plane with a fully vaccinated crew and all travellers and camp staff also vaccinated, with seamless PCR testing on hand as we move countries. Guests will be staying at exclusive-use camps throughout the trip, privately taken over solely for ROAR Africa,” she adds. 

Emirates A319 Executive Private Jet  

Providing the sole means of international transport throughout the journey (from Dubai to Africa, and to and from the four African countries visited), the Emirates A319 was created for guests who want to go “beyond first class,” and reflects the glamour of a bygone era when air travel was both exclusive and an integral aspect of luxury travel experiences. The jet features 10 private suites, private shower spa and powder room, an expansive lounge which functions as a communal gathering space or restaurant, and a cabin crew committed to providing the highest levels of personal service. Guests will also enjoy screenings of documentaries about Africa from notables such as historian David Attenborough, conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert, and environmentalist and filmmaker Craig Foster.   

The Itinerary – August 17 to 29, 2021 

What can only be described as the holy grail of Africa, the transformative and life-changing itinerary includes taking in Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls (one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World), the Okavango Delta in Botswana (the largest inland delta in the world), Kenya’s Great Migration, and the world’s last wild mountain gorillas in the forests of Rwanda.   

Guests will experience spectacular positioning of stellar properties, hand-picked because of their shared vision and commitment to creating a better future, combined with the charm and hospitality of their local communities and residents.  

Giving Back 

Conscious that flying on the new A319 Executive Private Jet creates a significant carbon footprint, ROAR AFRICA is ensuring the entire trip (flights and on-the-ground emissions) will be carbon-neutral with high-quality offsets. The environmental projects being funded from this journey are: 

Installation of 69 solar panels in local villages in Rwanda 

Planting of 1,300 trees and access to freshwater for 3,000 people in Kenya 

Funding the protection of a rhino calf through Rhinos Without Borders in Botswana 

In addition, there are additional initiatives planned to thread sustainability leadership into the whole experience. Guests will experience an intimate connection with where the money is spent and its positive impact. They will meet the field staff who run and manage these programs, thus gleaning first-hand on the ground insights into what has been made possible through this groundbreaking offset program.  

Chaperones, guides and experts 

The expert chaperones accompanying the group include Deborah Calmeyer; Humphrey Gumbo, ROAR AFRICA’S specialist safari guide with nearly 20 years of professional guiding experience in multiple African countries; and Dr. Ian McCallum, renowned poet, conservationist and psychiatrist who is one of the most eloquent ambassadors for wilderness and wild animals. Guests will also enjoy interacting with other seasoned professionals in their respective fields with extensive knowledge of their African homeland. Included among the notable participants who will impart fascinating facts and keen insights into the regions visited is Zoologist Dr. Lucy King, who will speak to her personal conservation journey with elephants, bees, and villages.   

The ROAR AFRICA Emirates Executive Private Jet African Safari will also be offered from August 26 to September 7, 2022, and August 26 to September 7, 2023. 

ROAR AFRICA is the absolute leader in ultra-luxe South and East African travel. Based in New York and Cape Town, founder Deborah Calmeyer and her bi-cultural team curate the most comprehensive and discerning range of storybook experiences.  

Take a peek at 6 of the world’s most incredible suites

Flawless design, understated luxury, impeccable service… all come as standard in a Mandarin Oriental suite. But what really sets them apart is their individuality, whether that’s in the form of bespoke furnishings, a private pool on the sun-drenched terrace or a jaw-dropping view. Or all three. Book into one of these sanctuaries for a stay to remember.

Mandarin Oriental – Bodrum

Located on the shores of delightful Paradise Bay, Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum, the seasonal property is now open. The stunning resort offers an escape like no other, where families and groups of friends can take pleasure in the retreat’s luxurious facilities and beautiful surroundings of pine trees and olive groves and stunning views of the private beach. The Melissa Villa is a bed villa with six bathrooms that can accommodate up to 11 guests, a pool and space to entertain, perfect for GCC families. This chic, contemporary villa offers spacious accommodation with 5 bedrooms, various living areas and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The outside terrace with private swimming pool is ideal for relaxed drinks or dining.

The resort has introduced exciting enhancements including augmented dining offers, a tennis academy and innovative fitness training, an expanded shopping boutique featuring luxury international and local brands, and an enriched Kids program. 

Mandarin Oriental – Barcelona

Barcelona never ceases to please with its architectural treasures, energising arts scene and bohemian ambience. How better to soak up the atmosphere than from the exquisitely-designed Penthouse Suite, which occupies the entire eighth floor of Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona? Not one but two terraces wrap around this two-bedroom suite. Ensconce yourself on the enormous outdoor L-shaped sofa or dine alfresco at the eight-seater table for bird’s-eye views of Passeig de Gràcia – the city’s beloved, bustling boulevard, home to designer boutiques and iconic modernist buildings.

Mandarin Oriental – Marrakech

Set in 20 hectares of fragrant gardens and rolling olive groves, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is a lesson in understated elegance. The look here is a contemporary take on the traditional riad with Berber and Andalusian-Arabic design flourishes – the Royal Suite (pictured above) reflects this perfectly, with its hand-woven rugs from Rabat and tadelakt-plastered walls. Step onto the suite’s outdoor terrace and into one of the two plunge pools from which, on a clear day, you’ll see the majestic beauty of the Atlas Mountains.

Mandarin Oriental – New York

Mandarin Oriental, New York, which spans the 35th to 54th floors of the Time Warner Center on Columbus Circle, is perfectly placed for soaking up the city’s exhilarating atmosphere. As befits its name, the New York Skyline Suite (pictured above), located at the very top of the hotel, affords a bird’s-eye view out over Central Park, the Hudson River and the Manhattan rooftops. Drag yourself away from the jaw-dropping vistas to appreciate the two spacious bedrooms (the master is decorated in opulent golds and reds), two marble bathrooms and the palatial living room complete with wet bar – ideal for a city that never sleeps.

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira –  Dubai

Taking exclusivity to new heights, the Royal Penthouse speaks for the extravagant lifestyle that Dubai is known for. Secluded on the top floor of the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, a private lift whisks guests to the lavish 850-square-metre haven with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf. The one-bedroom suite comes with a generous living space with its very own chic bar area, dining room for entertaining up to 16 guests, and full chef’s kitchen. For the ultimate in ease and exclusivity, a private gym comes with state-of-the-art training equipment. At the top of a marble staircase, there’s a private landscaped rooftop terrace with panoramic sea views, sunbeds for lounging and an al fresco dining area, perfect for a small gathering with loved ones. 

Emirates Palace – Abu Dhabi

The Palace Suites at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi are the epitome of Arabian luxury fit for royals. With options of two or three bedrooms, each suite comes with king size beds, an opulent bathroom appointed with an oversized bathtub and Jacuzzi, and a private terrace with stunning views of the palace grounds and the golden sands of the beach. The suites’ interiors are beautifully furnished with palatial pieces, embellished in gold at every corner that is sure to evoke the feeling of being in a royal palace. 

International Fashion Week Dubai, a stunner event

The International Fashion Week Dubai recently held the Season 11 of its Mega Show stunner event. This season happened to be by far the best season as it was really a grandeur event.

The IFWD is the only fashion week that is currently physically happening around the world and it is in 100-percent compliance with the Covid-19 precautionary measures alongside full physical attendance and participation of its attendees and participants.

The Season 11 of the International Fashion Week Dubai was graced by the presence of some high profiled guests.

The event, held last month at  Sofitel Dubai The Palms, recorded a variety of modern, creative and classy designers from various parts of the world like Viann K. Mansur, Bodo Street, Kora Topa, Stada Boutique by  Georgiana Stavrositu, Dorotha Goldpoint, Farielles/Ezra Antrik Israel, Areej Rimawi and Nicoletta Marin.    

The Grand Finale day displayed different showcases from  Waletty The Label, Sposa by Elzbieta Pacyno, Lucy and Anastasia Kaitrini and finally Cheryle Dias celebrity designer from UAE, the Managing director of IFWD.

The designers for the IFWD Season 11 showcased beautiful, elegant and sophisticated pieces from their collections.

Boeing 737 MAX is ready to flydubai

Sunday, April 4, 2021 — The Dubai-based airline, flydubai, has announced that its Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will return to passenger service from April 8, Thursday this week. 

This follows the airline’s compliance with all of the requirements outlined in the Safety Decision issued by its regulator, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to ensure the safe return of the aircraft to service.

flydubai has a fleet of 14 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, and four of its MAX 8s and one of its MAX 9s have now received regulatory approval to rejoin its fleet. The remaining nine MAX aircraft will return to passenger service over the coming months.


The first flight to be operated by one of the carrier’s MAX aircraft will be Dubai International (DXB) to Sialkot International Airport (SKT) in Pakistan  with the flight currently scheduled to operate on April 8. The aircraft will operate to other existing flydubai destinations from this date onwards. Passengers will be notified in advance of travel if their itinerary now includes a flight that is scheduled to be operated by a MAX.


Commenting on the return of the MAX aircraft to passenger service, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “the MAX is integral to flydubai’s fleet and we are confident in the aircraft and its capabilities. I would like to commend the GCAA for their tireless pursuit of air safety and the diligent work undertaken by the flydubai team to ensure the safe return of the MAX aircraft to passenger service.”


The return to service of the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft follows an exhaustive 20-month review which has involved the manufacturer, regulators, engineers, scientists, researchers, mechanics and pilots whose sole objective has been to safely return the aircraft to service. flydubai has met and exceeded the stringent requirements set out by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which included installing software enhancements, completing a wire separation modification, conducting pilot training and performing thorough aircraft reactivation activities.


Commenting on the start of flights, Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at flydubai, said: “We are pleased to see the MAX aircraft rejoin our fleet. While the aircraft’s first flight will be from Dubai to Sialkot, they will operate to a number of flydubai’s destinations over the coming weeks. We look forward to reintroducing our MAX product which includes a spacious lie flat bed in Business Class and an ergonomically designed seat in Economy Class and improved in-flight entertainment with full HD touchscreens.”

The GCAA has granted the approval for each MAX aircraft to return to service following the fulfillment of the following requirements:

  • Software enhancements and additional protections to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS);
  • Other software updates not related to the flight control system;
  • A wire separation modification;
  • A thorough inspection to ensure the aircraft are free of debris;
  • Pilot training has been enhanced and includes both classroom and full motion simulator training;
  • Conduct operational readiness flights.

For more information about how flydubai is returning its MAX aircraft to service, please go to news.flydubai.com and flydubaiMAX.info.