Thursday 30 May 2013

LAST CHANCE TO WIN SPORTY PEUGEOT 308CC AND EXCITING PARISIAN GETAWAY AT SAHARA CENTRE


·         Shoppers spending 200 DHS or more are eligible to win a Peugeot 308cc or a trip to Paris together with 15,000 DHS shopping allowance until 2nd June
·         Two lucky families have already been awarded amazing prizes
·         ‘Like’ Sahara City Facebook page for the chance to win up to 1000 AED in prizes

Shoppers across the Emirates have only days left to secure a shopping trip of a lifetime as part of the Sahara Centre’s ‘Shop your way to Paris’ family promotion.
Paris Getaway Winner Mr. and Mrs. Jasheed
Spend just 200 DHS at the Sahara Centre before the 2nd June to enter the Grand Raffle Draw for the chance to win the second round of prizes – A Peugeot 308CC and a family package trip to France, along with a generous 15,000 DHS shopping allowance.
Sharjah’s favourite mall has announced that Mr. Mohamed Jasheed and Mr. Areej Talal were the first of the lucky raffle winners of its exclusive family promotion, one of the most exciting shopping extravaganzas to take place this year.
On winning his Parisian getaway prize, Mr. Jasheed said: “It was a dream of mine to go to Europe and Sahara Centre has made this lifelong dream possible for me and my family!”

Still amazed to be the owner of a brand new Peugeot 308CC, Mr. Talal said: “I can’t believe I have won this beautiful car – this is indeed a prized possession. I cannot wait to drive it as soon as I get it on the road. Thank you Sahara Centre!”

Running alongside the competition and as part of the family promotion, Sahara Centre will also be running a Facebook Trivia Competition until 2nd June on their Facebook page. Daily winners will receive DHS 100 worth of Sahara Centre gift vouchers for answering trivia questions about people, places and events related to France. To enter the competition simply ‘like’ the Sahara Centre ‘Sahara City’ Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/SaharaCentre  to join and answer the questions correctly.

As well, there will also be one raffle prize of DHS 1,000 awarded to the person who posts the most innovate ‘French themed’ picture of themselves. The most inspiring images will be entered into the prize draw so be as creative as possible for the chance to win.

Akram Ammar, Sahara Centre’s General Manager, said: “We are very excited to award excellent prizes like these to our loyal customers and give people a chance to visit a beautiful city like Paris or drive an amazing Peugeot sports car. We are confident that our loyal customers will keep coming back and will always have their chance for amazing prizes and memory from Sahara Centre.”

The final Grand Raffle Draw will take place at the Sahara Centre on 2nd June  at 7pm, to reveal the last two lucky winners  with the presence of the Sharjah Economic Department representative.


With the opening of the new Zara store, winners of the gift vouchers and regular shoppers will now have even more opportunities to shop at the new East Atrium which is also now home to  Iconic, Matalan, Emax, Fitness First and Baby Shop. Likewise, prominent brands include Mango, Lacoste, Steve Madden, Tommy Hilfiger, Sunglass Hut, Swarovski, Promod, Bershka, Pull and Bear, Rodeo Drive, Ferre, among others.

@MyFashdiary .com hosts an exclusive AW’13 preview of Tala Samman’s top picks at @Pinko

MyFashdiary.com hosts an exclusive AW’13 preview of Tala Samman’s top picks at Pinko

Tala Samman hosted an exclusive preview for her readers of her top picks for Pinko’s AW’13 collection. Five MyFashdiary readers were given the chance to be styled in Pinko by Tala Samman for the evening. The event saw stylish readers getting a first look at selected Pinko looks for next season, being given the chance to pre-book pieces on the evening from the AW13 collection.   
Ladies Styled by Tala Samman in Pinko SS’13

OROGOLD Cosmetics announces the Exclusive Series in Beauty World 2013 @spretretail


·         OROGOLD Cosmetics announces the launch of the Exclusive Series
·         SPRET Retail participates in Beauty World 2013 with OROGOLD Cosmetics
·         SPRET Retail is actively seeking distributorship for OROGOLD Cosmetics in the GCC region

OROGOLD Cosmetics, a collection of luxury anti-ageing skincare products that exploit the exquisite qualities of 24-carat gold to deliver flawless anti aging solution, is at Beauty World 2013 as a part of the SPRET Retail booth, along with Tanamera, the 100% natural beauty and personal care brand, and SPRET Retail’s in-house brand Magiff, which offers easy personal care solutions especially for hands and feet. 

Mr. Naseem Ahmed Jawa, Director Retail, SPRET says, “OROGOLD Cosmetics has a large fan base, and from the reports on repeat customers, we can safely say that we have received an appreciative response from the Middle East. We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new collection; the OROGOLD Cosmetics Exclusive Series at Beauty World 2013. The Exclusive series has ingredients that prevents, reduces or restores the youthful appearance of the skin by acting on the third layer of the skin. As a result one can experience a radiant, fresh and younger looking skin.”
Naseem Ahmad Jawa  - Director Retail - SPRET Retail
The OROGOLD Cosmetics Exclusive series is a unique formula that offers a non-surgical alternative to cosmetic procedures and/or injections. It is especially created to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The ingredients in the Exclusive series include diamond dust, Vitamin C, mother of pearl, shea butter, green tea, caffeine, along with 24K gold which is the main ingredient. “24K Gold reaches the deepest level of the skin. Gold acts like a small charger because it’s a metal and we have electricity in our body, which makes it good for restoring the lost elasticity properties of our skin,” says Mr. Naseem Ahmad Jawa, Director Retail, SPRET. The Exclusive series includes some products that can be used by the youth as well. The products of the Exclusive series offers a four-step anti-ageing solution with the restoration/completion cream, night skin recovery cream, activation serum, anti ageing eye serum, diamond mask, gold mask and Vitamin C mask. There are different products to suit different skin conditions. The exclusive series is only available at boutique stores, wherein the customers can get their skin analysis done and depending upon their skin condition, experts offer a skin solution suited for them. Treatments can also be tried in specially designed rooms, in a comfortable and cozy environment.  

OROGOLD Cosmetics was established in 2008. The unique boutiques across the Middle East offer a luxurious and relaxed shopping experience. Customers receive an OROGOLD treatment before buying a product, and receive an in-depth explanation about the steps and techniques of using any OROGOLD Cosmetics solutions.

OROGOLD Cosmetics is not tested on Animals. Parabens are used as preservatives in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, and play a role in the development of breast cancer. OROGOLD Cosmetics is Paraben-Free.

For more information, please visit – www.orogoldcosmeticsme.com

QD’s at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Provides a Welcome Escape from the Heat @DubaiCreekGolf


Famous Summer Tent Goes Up with Special Deals on Offer

With the Summer heat closing in QD’s at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is providing a welcome escape with its famous fully air-conditioned Summer Tent going up from June to September.
Open from 12noon to 2am every day, including the holy month of Ramadan, guests will be able to enjoy a host of offers such as the exceptional business lunch buffet and summer a la carte menu.

The business lunch is available from 12noon to 3pm Sunday to Thursday and will feature a range of salads and starters, appetisers, hot mains - including a fresh carvery station - and delicious desserts, all for AED85 per person.
The summer a la carte menu has an eclectic mix of favourites including light salads, gourmet pizzas and sandwiches through to Middle East classics such as mixed grills and kofta.
From 2pm – 7pm, excluding Ramadan, there will be a special 20% off selected beverages seven days a week.
QD’s overlooks the famous Dubai Creek and the Summer Tent offers views across the mesmerizing Dubai skyline while enjoying delicious food and beverages, with shisha available from 12 noon every day.

For reservations call +971 4 295 6000 or email creekdining@dubaigolf.com

SPRET Retail promotes 100% natural personal care products with TANAMERA at Beauty World 2013 @TanameraNatural @spretretail


·         SPRET Retail advocates natural personal care products at Beauty World 2013, with Tanamera
·         Tanamera Founder Faridah Ahmed Fadzil reveals natural, at-home beauty regimes in Beauty World 2013
·         SPRET Retail seeks distributers in GCC for Tanamera at Beauty World 2013.

Tanamera, the Malaysian 100% natural personal care brand participates in Beauty World 2013. Tanamera was launched in the UAE in 2012, and is being exclusively marketed and distributed by SPRET Retail.
Faridah Ahmad Fadzil, founder of Tanamera is attending Beauty World 2013 to promote the use of natural products in beauty regimes and spa treatments. She says, “Tanamera is based on the concept of ancient Malaysian traditional natural healing methods, and product ingredients are sourced from the tropical rainforest. The products are specially formulated without the use of toxic chemicals, coloring, synthetic fragrance and use eco - friendly recyclable packaging”. She continued, “Natural personal care products cause no harm to the skin, unlike synthetic based products. Tanamera’s objective is to create awareness on the goodness of natural, while also educating consumers on the long-term harmful effects of synthetic based products”.

Conveying the objective for participating in Beauty World 2013, Mr. Naseem Ahmed Jawa, Director Retail, SPRET Retail says, “Generally, many cosmetics touted as “natural” turn out to be purely an advertising gimmick. Cosmetics called “natural” or “certified organic” can still contain additives, preservatives, synthetic colorings agents and many other things that are probably very unnatural. Organic beauty products impart increased essential nutrients without the harmful effects caused by synthetic based products in the long run.” He continued,  “SPRET Retail are proud to add Tanamara to the brand portfolio. We’ve received an extremely positive market response, and we hope with our innovative franchise programs, Tanamera will further penetrate the GCC regional markets, and the 100% natural products will be easily accessible to locally based population.”

Wednesday 29 May 2013

TCA Abu Dhabi Presents Artscape: Cultures in Dialogue - an Evening of Visual and Performing Arts @SaadiyatCD

Manarat Al Saadiyat, the arts exhibition centre on Saadiyat Island, will host Artscape: Cultures in Dialogue - a special evening for visitors of all ages to explore an “inter-cultural bazaar”, from 6pm-10pm on Tuesday 4 June, 2013. The evening will include workshops and live performances inspired by the Birth of a Museum exhibition, a preview of the Louvre Abu Dhabi permanent collection, ongoing and open to the public until 20 July, 2013.

Family Workshops at Manarat Al Saadiyat Bring
 the Community Together During Artscape
Highlights of the event will include traditional and contemporary artists and practitioners as the Kathakali theatrical dance troupe from India, a rhythmic routine by Dubai Drums, and a performance from the much-loved Lebanese singer and composer, Jahida Wehbe. Street graffiti artist Ruben Sanchez will be creating a large-scale work live on-site, and well-known French chefs Alexandre Pernatta and Philippe Garçon will be leading a workshop to explore the connections between Arabic and French cuisines.
Artscape: Cultures in Dialogue will have a number of interactive and inviting stalls and workshops for all to engage with, such as an Arabic lettering and calligraphy learning stand with Khalifa El Shimy, Lara Assouad Khoury and Dubai-based graphic design team Möbius, as well as a workshop led by artist Laura Colantonio, on the art of perspective drawing. In addition, German artist, Wolfgang Stehle, will be demonstrating the intricate art of wood-carving animal figures from the Middle Ages.
For more information on this evening of culture learning, the exhibitions, upcoming events and workshops, please visit to www.saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae or call 02 657 5800.
For further information and details of the Louvre Abu Dhabi:

READY. SET. GOAL!!! Football fans go FACE TO FACE against Waleed Abdullah in Gillette MACH3 CHALLENGE



Football fans go FACE TO FACE against Waleed Abdullah in Gillette MACH3 CHALLENGE


Wrapping up the football season, Gillette is calling on all football enthusiasts in the UAE to take part in Gillette MACH3 Football competition, and challenge Saudi Arabia national team’s goalkeeper, Waleed Abdullah FACE TO FACE, over the weekend.



Held at Burj Plaza in Downtown Burj Khalifah Dubai, the Gillette football festival will host exciting challenges and entertaining games, open to public participation, for the chance to ‘meet and compete’ with renowned goalkeeper Walid Abdullah, and win valuable prizes.

The chance was also open to Gillette Arabia facebook page fans through the MACH3 Face To Face Challenge, which attracted over thousands of entries, of which a few lucky winners will challenge Waleed Abdullah live, and truly test their football mettle and score a goal against the celebrated Saudi captain.


Bring out the ‘striker’ in you and come challenge Waleed Abdullah FACE TO FACE, at Burj Plaza, in Downtown Burj Khalifah, Dubai on Friday 31st May 2013, at 6 pm onwards.

ROUND OF GOLF FOR JUST AED100 AT "THE TRACK" @MeydanEvents MEYDAN

Meydan Golf has announced its new offer for the month of June, and it is welcome news for golfers on a budget.

From June 2nd, players can play 9 holes of golf at The Track between 6:30am and 4pm, Sunday to Thursday for only AED100.
The Track is opening its doors early throughout the summer, giving early birds and keen golfers a chance to beat the heat and get in a round before work. 
Opened less than a year ago, The Track has a reputation as one of the best value places to play in the region and as one of the most picturesque courses in the UAE - it was recently voted the 6th best 9-hole course in the world outside the US.
Marketing Manager at The Track, James Leeman, said: "Golf is generally considered to be an exclusive sport, but this offer means that golfers can play one of the best 9-hole courses in the world for a great price.
"Our aim is to make golf accessible to as many people as possible and every offer is designed to appeal to the average golfer and to encourage people to give golf a go."
The Track is the only true pay-and-play course in the country, meaning no membership is required. Based at Meydan Racecourse, the nine hole course is one of the most spectacular in the region with stunning views of the iconic Dubai cityscape on one side and the racetrack on the other.
Book online at www.meydangolf.com or call The Track on +971 4 381 3733 for tee time bookings.

Stay up to date on news from The Track at www.facebook.com/thetrackmeydangolfclub .

@ValleyDez New SS'13 additions

New SS 13 additions
The latest addition to ValleyDez SS’13 collection is now available in store. Please let us know if you would like to borrow any items for photo shoots. 

For more updates follow the ValleyDez Blog for the latest on fashion. www.valleydezblog.com

Tuesday 28 May 2013

Coffee Planet launches UAE’s original bio-fuel


-    New organic certified coffee introduced to satisfy growing demand for organic beverages in UAE

Coffee Planet, the UAE’s freshest home grown coffee brand has added a new organic coffee to its current much loved line-up. Dubbed the original bio-fuel, Coffee Planet’s Organic Coffee is now available at 36 of its convenient EPPCO and ENOC locations in Dubai, giving consumers yet another option for their daily dose.

Free from pesticides and additives, the singe origin coffee originates from the Limu region in Ethiopia, where the green coffee beans undergo the strictest testing to earn the organic certification, before being freshly prepped and roasted to perfection in the company’s local roastery in Dubai. As a coffee producing region, Ethiopia offers a diverse range of flavor profiles, allowing us to create the perfect cup of flavourful coffee.
Managing Director of Coffee Planet, Robert Jones said: ‘We chose to offer an organic alternative for a number of reasons; the first being, the rise in demand. As with the introduction of any new product, we noticed a gap in the market for a great tasting organic coffee, which is locally produced, easy to get to and is ready in less than a minute! We are now able to give consumers the best tasting and freshest coffee possible that is also certified organic directly at its source, to complement our existing offering. This should help us to tap into the ever-growing organic market of Dubai whilst also increasing our offering to create coffee to suit all tastes.”
Coffee Planet’s exclusive Roast Master Matt Wade also commented: “Although we have created an exclusive new single origin coffee, we have still maintained the excellent quality of we are proud to serve at Coffee Planet. Regardless of the blend or origin, each and every single coffee bean nurtured and roasted at our Roastery, has our stamp of quality assurance – to make sure we create absolute perfection in each and every single cup.”
For further information please visit www.mycoffeeplanet.com or call 800-COFFEE (263333) or e-mail coffee@mycoffeeplanet.com



More of Dina JSR at Cannes Film Festival 2013

More of Dina JSR at Cannes Film Festival 2013

French beauty Beatrice Rosen on the red carpet premiere of All is Lost at the 66th Cannes film festival in Dina JSR’s SS’13 collection.

Green with Beauty! Be Kind to the Environment with GlamBox - Learn all about it on Wednesday 5th June @ Seattle Coffee in Dubai Media City

Learn all about it on Wednesday 5th June @ Seattle Coffee in Dubai Media City


Emerald green is certainly ‘the colour of the year,’ with Vivienne Westwood to Monique Lhuiller gracing the catwalks with its captivating allure. The designers have proven it is definitely a good look, leaving us all green with envy!



Take your green with envy status to the ultimate level! Stick with the emerald theme this year, and don’t just look green... but BE GREEN!

GlamBox gives you the opportunity to look glamorous with its treats and treasures from the beauty world, AND now you can be environmentally friendly at the same time!

How, you ask?

The GlamBox Recycle Event was launched as a great new initiative last year for you to be green, as well as glam, and has enjoyed successful events in doing so.   Join us for another day of girly fun as Glambox proudly announces its next Recycle Event.

The next event will be hosted on Wednesday 5th June 2013 at Seattle Coffee in Dubai Media City. Drop in any time from 10am-6pm with your empty shiny pink GlamBox for recycling and enjoy free beauty treats as a reward for your good deed.
 
The GlamBox team will also be there with smiles and surprises, including Emilie Barry, GlamBox’s amazing resident make-up artist and beauty expert, who is on hand to give you tips and treats on this season’s winter colours and answer whatever beauty dilemmas you may have.

GlamBox will be hosting its Recycle Events quite regularly at various locations across the UAE, so keep your pretty eyes peeled.

Don’t forget... You can also take a peek at what’s new in the GlamBox universe and renew your monthly subscription on the spot.

So, shine like an emerald by being environmentally friendly!


Visit www.glambox.me to find out more. 

Monday 27 May 2013

So Famous, So Social diva - Get the finishing touches you need to own the night


Ever wondered how some women can bring an entire room to a halt by just making an entrance?  Or why your girlfriend can hold a conversation so much longer than you can, even if you copy her exact words? These women all have one thing in common: they have the finishing touches.

Back in the day, our ancestors enjoyed dressing up before having dinner while guests enjoyed feasting with the best silverware and an endless line of shining crockery. When we watch a movie like the Duchess or anything that involves Queen Elizabeth, deep inside us we feel a sense of pride, wealth and respect.


These women all got it right, hence the reason why there are so many iconic women we aspire to be.

The basic skills we are referring to is also known as etiquette. Long forgotten and rejected through time, these skills are what set us apart from the ordinary. Skills such as table manners, eating etiquette, correct posture, body language and the art of entertaining at home are invaluable assets to one’s character and is exactly how you can steal the spotlight from the women in red, and shine a light on yourself.

We were taught how to sit, stand and walk when we were toddlers and we all went through the what’s hot and what’s not in terms of grooming while we were teens but did our parent’s ever teach us right or are we still little damsels in distress?

Studies show that a women with a respectable poise can make a longer impression on a person than somebody who lacks self confidence and social skills. Needless to say, it’s time to re-spark yourself and correct those finishing touches.

SO Famous has partnered up with Penny Edge, founder of the Finishing Academy UK, to bring exclusive Finishing Courses to the UAE. The courses are customized to suit various “un-finished business” and are open to all ages, women and men.

For more information about the Finishing Academy, please visit www.so-famous.com or contact 04 451 9160 or etiquette@so-famous.com.


Add a bit of pizzaz in your summer style with statement necklaces from Candella Boutique


 
Laid-back and summer go so well together so it should be no surprise that summer style should come off as effortless with just a little bit of bling!
 



Candella Boutique’s chic summer pieces are as hot as ever with the addition of statement necklaces from Milavi.  Milavi, one of the exemplary local brands supported by Candella, offer artsy semi-precious jewelries, all of which are hand-crafted, making Milavi pieces rare fashion finds. Created for a generation of young, confident fashionistas, Milavi necklaces feature varying widths, patterns and texture with a combination of materials – such as black diamonds, lava stones, Oud wood, quartz, and gold-plated sterling silver – sourced from extensive travels of the brand’s designer, Majdoline Hatoum. 

With cute decorative details – from sparkly Swarovski crystals, to pearls, to seashells, to blue and white stones – let a Milavi necklace make the statement, and you can keep the rest of your look simple and sleek, yet still come out the ultimate summer fashionista!

Prices for the Milavi necklaces range from AED 450 to AED 895. 


Candella Boutique is located at The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road in Dubai, with telephone number +9714 3421961.   

Fresh feast at Lush

A FRESH APPROACH
Keeping with LUSH’s fresh approach, press, bloggers, beauty lovers were treated to a fresh feast at the Lush Shop on the Dubai Mall. The shop’s natural aroma’s wrapped guests while Elizabeth Thomson, Lush regional Trainer, showed everyone how to make two of Lush’s most popular face masks using fresh ingredients; Catastrophe Cosmetic mask with blueberries which is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals tp reduce inflammation and acts as a gentle cleanser and Cupcake mask from chocolate, linseed, peppermint, spearmint and sandalwood which balances the skin, removes excess oil and calms breakouts. New products were also introduced and sampled such as the new aerated massage bars and reformulated lip balms which are preservative free.
Fresh Policy
When we talk about being a Fresh Handmade Cosmetics company, we are talking about just that … making our products by hand, fresh every day; with beautiful fresh ingredients, lots of fruit and vegetables and lots of essential oils.  But what we’re also talking about is our actual business model.  It’s not like any other business – we operate on an incredibly fast turn around, just like our products.
Often, for other companies, it’s all about economy of scale and what’s going to make the most money for minimal effort.  The process is very industrialised in large factories, with hardly any human interaction.  Large batches are made and stored in huge warehouses for long lengths of time.  In fact, if your product doesn’t have any information about use-by dates on it, then by law it has to be preserved to last for up to 2 and a half years.  Often this is a prime consideration for a company when creating a product and thinking about what ingredients need to go in, along with the cost.  It’s not really about what matters to the customer.
You will often find that products are full of preservatives, extra stabilisers and emulsifiers for ease of production and to increase the shelf life.  This coupled with the rent of the huge warehouses needed for storage, all adds up and feeds into the price of the product.  The most expensive components of products are usually the advertising, the marketing, the packaging, the storage – the actual ingredients and what’s in the product are a last thought. 
At LUSH we are the other way around.  We want our money to go towards using the most beautiful ingredients, to give the customer what’s important.  We don't waste money on advertising, packaging or storage.  We keep products fresh and vital and we keep them moving through our business quickly.   And that’s where the cost is, in beautiful ingredients.  Money is invested in putting lovely essential oils, fresh fruit and vegetables in our products – things that we know matter to the customer and offer actual benefit.  Not things that benefit us to make our life easier, like making big batches that we can sit on for two and a half years.  It’s harder to operate this way; we have to make lots and lots of little batches every day, we have to keep on top of our stock control everywhere; at the factory our raw materials have to be kept tight and our shops have to order a small amount of product regularly and sell it through quickly.  It makes it harder to run as a business – but it means the customers are getting the best quality product and that they’re only paying for the ingredients and not for stuff that makes life easy for us.
A FRESH APPROACH TO SKIN CARE
Never is it more important to keep it Fresh than with skin care considering 80% of a product left on your face penetrates into the body – so Fresh products on the skin, containing beautiful ingredients, are preferable to heavily preserved, old products.  Treat your outsides with as much respect as your insides. 
Helen Ambrosen, Lush co-founder and inventor, comments: “Our approach to skincare has always been to help people achieve maximum benefit for their skin.  This involves making the very best of whatever skin you have, whether it be light or dark in colour, dry or oily in texture, young or old.  Delivering fresh, whole, natural ingredients in freshly made product allows us to enhance the condition of the skin by balancing and encouraging its health.”
Helen continues: “It’s important for women, as they age, that we don’t sell them dreams. We want to create a reality.  Our skills are based on the art of creating products that are so fresh, you can actually feel them buzzing on the skin.  We use fresh, natural ingredients that everyone can understand.  And the product is Fresh too.  When they are used on the skin, no one is surprised when the effects are so good.” 
Lush’s skincare range includes Fresh clay cleansers (Angels on Bare Skin; Herbalism; Dark Angels; Aqua Marina); cleansing soaps (Coal Face; Fresh Farmacy); toning waters (Breath of Fresh Air; Eau Roma Water; Tea Tree Water ; moisturisers for all skin types (including: Gorgeous; Enzymion; Skin Drink; and Celestial; specialist products including Grease Lightening spot treatment and Mask of Magnaminty and Bio-Fresh facemasks.
BIO FRESH – a pioneering range of the freshest ever beauty products
Since it made its debut, Bio fresh has given a fresh and exciting new meaning to beauty.  By pioneering the freshest-ever natural beauty products, Lush has made cosmetics history and created a whole new beauty category.    The idea behind the range was to make cosmetics that were as natural as possible and to avoid using preservatives.   To fulfill its high ideals, Lush created individual, multi-action beauty treatments concocted from organic produce, flowers and plant-based ingredients, together with blends of the finest essential oils.  
Each mask and scrub in the Bio fresh treatment range will deliver vitamins, minerals, enzymes and proteins directly onto the skin and, because everything is so fresh, each ingredient works at peak performance, promoting a fresher, healthier complexion.  
Our bio-fresh range is packaged in 75g black pots, made from 100% recycled post consumer waste.  All masks are priced the same price of 45 aed, to encourage people to choose the right mask according to skin type and not because of price.  The result – less waste.
PLUS … To encourage customers to return all their Lush black pots to us for recycling, we are offering one of our lovely bio-fresh facemasks (of their choice) for FREE when they return five of their used black pots.
The range includes: Catastrophe Cosmetic, a deep cleansing blueberry mask for skins with the odd breakout; Brazened Honey, a detoxing mask to revitalise tired and dull skin; BB Seaweed, a nourishing, seaweed rich mask for sensitive faces; and The Sacred Truth, full of anti-aging ingredients. 
Follow @LushLtd on Twitter and let us know about your skin and any problems you have or need advice with #goodskin

To pick up these and many more ethical, cruelty free cosmetics visit Lush shops nationwide.  Order on-line at www.lush.ae

ICDL urges social media caution for GCC youth


Facebook users in Emirates and the Arab world reached over 45 million as of end June 2012

Within less than two decades, social media has revolutionised the way people interact with each other. ICDL GCC Foundation, an organisation that promotes digital skills and cyber safety across the Gulf region, believes that while the technology is here to stay, people must continue to exercise caution in sharing personal information online so as to avert cyber threats.
Jamil Ezzo, Director General of ICDL GCC, said the need to address online safety in using social networking is particularly significant in the Gulf where smartphone and Internet penetration rates are high, and children have access to mobile devices.
“Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tumblr are social media tools that have now become household names and their influence as a communication channel continues to increase. In the Middle East and North Africa, we recently saw how social networking sites can bridge communication gap. However, we must remember that despite being effective vehicles of social interaction, social media can also be abused and exploited by people with malicious intent,” said Ezzo.
According to the Arab Social Media Report published by the Dubai School of Government, Facebook usage in the Arab world has almost tripled in the last two years to reach over 45 million as of end June 2012 – about 50 per cent higher than the 37.4 million recorded in January of the same year. Out of the countries surveyed across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), those in the GCC posted the highest Facebook population in the region.
The report also noted that youth (those between the ages of 15 and 29) represent the majority or 70 per cent of Facebook users in the region, a number that has been holding steady since April 2011.
Ezzo said the figures point to a widening adoption rate of social media technology among young people. Users, who are often not aware of the security or privacy setting of various social networking sites, are more prone to fall victim to cyber-attacks.
“Facebook has undoubtedly been a major game-changer in the social networking sphere. Globally it is reported to have over one billion users. According to an independent survey, if Facebook was a country, it would have the world’s third largest population, more than twice the size of the United States,” Ezzo explained.
“This gives us an idea of how vast the social media community is growing and how potentially dangerous it can be for young users. However, parents can help their children use social websites more safely by first talking to them about why they have to be cautious online, and how they can protect themselves from cyber predators.”
Oftentimes, according to Ezzo, many children find it difficult to distinguish between real life and virtual life. However they use social media – whether to play games, interact with friends and family or post videos and photos – they should understand that the Internet is full of billions of people who can access their personal and private information with just a click of a button.
In a bid to protect children from cyber threats such as addiction, bullying and exploitation, ICDL GCC Foundation has partnered with law enforcement agencies as well as educational and other concerned government organizations across the GCC countries, to visit schools as part of a campaign to raise awareness on the subject amongst teachers and parents.
“We encourage parents to talk to their children about social networking. They can even make this a family affair. By being their children’s ‘friends’ online, parents can monitor their activities and list of friends while networking,” he said.
Most importantly, however, children should be trained to be able to recognise potential threats or messages that make them uncomfortable and to step up and call their parents attention whenever this happens.

“Some of the information children post on their social network pages, such as age, can make them vulnerable to scams and cyber-attacks. Parents should also warn them against divulging personal information to strangers and setting house rules, such as the length of time one can use the Internet, can go a long way in securing your children from the possible dangers of social media,” he commented. Ezzo concluded “Internet and handheld devices have removed all geographic boundaries and conventional discipline. By giving our children unrestricted access to the world for good intention, we are also exposing them to the world’s lures and dangers. Hence, protecting them from being exploited is an individual and institutional responsibility by raising awareness among them on the responsible and safe use of technology.

Sunday 26 May 2013

Suzanne Husseini does it again with her world famous book "When Suzanne Cooks"

Suzanne Husseini hosted a cooking demo and book signing at the Jashanmal Home Store in Dubai Mall on Wednesday, May 22nd. There was a great turnout and fans loved tasting Suzanne’s delicious recipes right from her famous book, “When Suzanne Cooks”.





Grace The Stage With Pointy Pirouettes! It’s Ballet Summer Camps At James & Alex Dance Studios


 The music box opens and out pops a poised ballerina performing endless pirouettes as you continue to wind it up. From this magical moment on, every little girl holds a dream in her heart to become a ballerina capable of magnificent feats of elegance and grace. And, what good is this fairytale without a handsome prince to match your every move, leap and spin? Being a dancer is much more than learning the steps... it’s mime, music, passion, emotion, story telling and finally performance. So, get yourself a new pair of slippers because the opportunity of a lifetime will enchant us all this summer!


Let us proudly introduce the exquisite ballet camps of James & Alex Dance Studios.


Aspiring dancers will learn technique, artistry, musicality, and exciting knowledge about the history of the world’s most famous dance style... ballet! Plus, the young dancers will learn ballet choreography, stage set management and ballet costume design. Just like the fundamentals of an actual ballet company, teamwork plays a very important part during the camps. The most thrilling part of it all is there will be a live performance for friends and family at the end of the week!


There are two camps to choose from and your young dancer can even do both, as each one will be a brand new ballet repertoire. Bring your ballet fairytale to life on:
        30th June-4th July                      -           Sleeping Beauty
        7th July-11th July                       -           Coppelia

The camps will run from Sunday-Thursday 9am-3pm, with the final ballet performance taking place at 2.30pm on the final day of the week. The rate is AED 650 per child for each week.


If you have a budding Anna Pavlova or Rudolph Nureyev hiding behind the curtains, let them take centre stage at James & Alex Dance Studios this June and July!



Spaces are limited so act now to secure your child’s place. Contact the studio directly for registration or for additional information at 04-4470773 or email  info@jamesandalex.com

UAE’s ICT Sector to Hit 22.3 per cent Growth in 2013


  • Ø Global spending on IT surged by 8 per cent to US$1.5 trillion (Dh5.51tn) last year
  • Ø UAE recording 15 per cent year-on-year increase
UAE’s ICT industry is growing by 25-30 per cent per year across all sectors

Genesis Consulting ME, a leading Strategic planning, PR and integrated marketing communications company in the region highlighted that public relations and marketing communications are playing a vital role in strengthening and leveraging the continued growth of the ICT sector in the UAE and the region. The ICT sector continues to be one of the highest growing sectors in the UAE with projected growth to hit 22.3 per cent in 2013.
Bahaa Fatairy, Director of PR and
Business Development at Genesis ME

Most organizations from different industries across the region use ICT to carry out essential functions and to sharpen competitive advantage through the deployment of the latest networking, applications and communication technologies. IDC, a leading global market analysis firm, reported that global spending on information technology (IT) surged by 8 per cent to US$1.5 trillion (Dh5.51tn) last year, with the UAE recording 15 per cent year-on-year increase
Another report based on the feedback of experts taking part in the 8th Financial Technology Summit shows that the UAE’s ICT industry is growing by 25-30 per cent per year across all sectors including hardware, software, mobile and internet services. Do we know the source of this report?
Moreover, the rapid growth of the IT market in the UAE will present significant commercial and employment opportunities as the demand for and the deployment of new technologies continues to spread over the next few years. As a result, marketing and PR agencies need to keep pace with the evolving needs of clients by enhancing their services. Especially in the digital marketing/social media arena.
Bahaa Fatairy, Director of PR and Business Development at Genesis ME said: “At Genesis we are very keen to contribute to the continued growth of the UAE’s ICT sector and the ME region as a whole by providing an integrated range of marketing communication and PR services to the ICT industry, with a particular focus on digital marketing. Social media has become a powerful tool of communication in this part of the world in recent times and will play a more significant role for the foreseeable future. We are thankful to the Government of the UAE for their ongoing provision and initiatives in keeping the ICT sector at the forefront of the economic agenda. Key events such as Gitex which will connect more than 138,000 international buyers and sellers with over 80% of the leading ICT brands exhibiting making it one of the world’s top three ICT exhibitions, is a shining example of their commitment.”

“Moreover, PR and marketing communication has played an important part during and post global financial crisis by helping the ICT sector and other industries to drive awareness, connect with customers and support growth.” Concluded Fatairy.