Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Center Draws More Participants this Year from UAE and GCC Countries

Fazza Championships for Falconry witnesses Searing Competition with Gear Tebha Category

Organized by Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, the ongoing Fazza Championships for Falconry kicked off yesterday with the Gear Tebha Jirnas - Sheikhs category’. The championships are set to continue in the allocated Falconry grounds in Ruwayyah along Emirates road.

Ten participants were qualified from a large group of Gear Falcons crossing the speed race 400m distance in smashing time.

Fazza Championship for Falconry has witnessed major growth over the years, both in size and organization. This year, the registration system of falcons was made a lot easier with bigger and better reception area, more services and a marked improvement in the technical aspects and speed measurement.    

Winners of the Category

Amid searing competition, Group NAS (Nad Al Shiba Group) earned the first place in 18:310 sec, second place went to Group NAS as well with a speed of 18:918 sec, third place also went to Group NAS with speed score of 19:080 sec, fourth place went to Zabeel Falcons in a speed of 19:15 sec, fifth place went to NAS H with a speed score of 19:336 sec, sixth place went to Wadha Hilal Saif Saeed Al Shaddy scoring a speed of 19:370 sec, seventh place went to Group NAS scoring a speed of 19:438 sec, eighth place went to Zabeel Falcons with speed score of 19:482 sec, ninth place went to Group NAS with a speed score of 19:722 sec and the tenth place went to Al Ain Falcons with a speed score of 20:095 sec.

Better Organization Every Year

“Each year the competition becomes better, both in terms of the facilities provided, and in terms of the people taking part. I’ve found that every year the organizers from Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Center amaze the competitors by doing things that are unexpected. I’m thankful for the effort that is put in to the competition, the development of it each year, and this makes me very happy to be a part of it. Over the six or seven years that I’ve been competing the organisers have been putting more and more effort into making the competition a bigger, better known event in the UAE. Each year is better than the next” said Helal Saif El Shedy – one of the Falconers.

Provision of Better Services over the Years

“There are no negative attributes to this year as a lot of people who are coming here have everything made readily available to them. They even come and ask us if there is anything that can be done to better the competition. They want our feedback to make it a better overall experience. This is the strongest year for the Hamdan bin mohammed heritage center since the competition started. Many of us feel very well looked after and as though there is a lot of care for the falconers” said Ali Shakhbot El Kaby – Supporter of the sport and his old team NAS with which he used to be a Falconer.

More than a 100 participant this year

 “This year has been different to the previous years because the tent that is being used now is a lot better and facilities are excellent. Registering the falcons is easier than previous years as well. It is a lot better organized and this makes it easier for more people to take part. New judges are now working alongside more experienced judges so that the new judges can learn from the older members of the championships committee. This means that the new judges can gain valuable judging experience and allow for more people to become involved in the sport and share the experience” said Ahmad Bin Ali from the Judging Committee.

“There are approximately 20 judges, with a mix of experiences in judging falconry competitions. There are a lot of competitors coming from other countries, mainly Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, KSA, and other countries from the GCC, with the number of participants this year being over 100 people” he added.

A Dubai date for Legendary Omar Khairat @SundanceLIVEDxB

musical icon to kick off concert season

Legendary Egyptian composer and conductor Omar Khairat’s body of work has captivated his fans over the years. Now, he is set to bring his melodious magic to Dubai with a special concert on 16th January 2014 at the prestigious Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road. Organized by Sundance LIVE, the concert will enthrall Dubai’s multi-cultural audience as the musical legend performs in this open-air and MUST attend event.
“Omar Khairat is undoubtedly one of the most iconic performers of modern times – crossing cultural barriers with his global appeal. He is set to open up our concert season for 2014 and we are expecting to receive fans from around the region to this event” said Mario Zakhary, Sundance LIVE.
Omar Khairat was born and raised in Cairo and furthered his music education in London, but his popularity has spread to across the globe. His international influence and appeal has earned him standing ovation throughout his musical career with his unmatched repertoire. Having won numerous awards for his compositions in films, TV shows, operettas, the 11th Pan-Arab Games, the Cairo Opera Ballet, and as the conductor of a musician’s collective that call themselves ‘Omar Khairat’s Group’, Khairat’s versatile endeavors speak for themselves.
Tickets to this open-air symphonic event are now on sale and priced from AED 200 to AED 500.
Event Information:
Name: Omar Khairat
When: 16th January 2014
Where: Emirates Golf Club
Ticket price: AED 200 for Regular, AEC 300 for VIP, and AED 500 or Platinum members
Age: 21+
Tickets now available on: www.timeoutticket.com

For more info: facebook.com/SundanceLIVE or call 04 4570336

Nostalgic night at MiXTAPE Rewind @SundanceDxB

Nostalgic night at MiXTAPE Rewind

- party like its 1990 - 

 

Chart topping artists - Dr. Alban, Boney M, N-Trance, Vengaboys and SNAP are set to take us down memory lane with the second edition of MiXTAPE Rewind on 17th January 2014 at the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai. Tickets for the much-awaited concert are now on sale for Dhs. 275.

 

What to wear?

Doc Martens 

One Pant Leg Rolled Up

Ripped Jeans

Skidz and Zubaz

 

Playlist: 

It's My Life - Dr Alban

Set you Free - N-Trance

Power - SNAP

We are going to Ibiza - Vengaboys

Daddy Cool - Boney M

 

what to bring?

Dancing shoes

great spirit

 

Event Information:

Name: MiXTAPE Rewind Festival
When: 17 January 2014
Doors open: 5pm - concerts starts at 8pm
Where: Emirates Golf Club
Ticket price: AED 295
Age: 21+
Tickets now available on: http://www.timeoutdubai.com/nightlife/events/27839#.Uo9a6ygd5n8  

For more info: facebook.com/SundanceLIVE or call 04 4570336

Magical Moments at Mirdif City Centre @MirdifCityCtr

Mirdif City Centre has embraced the holiday season with traditional decor, a festive gazebo and the glittering outdoor Garden of Lights display to brighten up the spirits of all those who visit.

Now, until December 25th the magic continues with a special Illusionist who will be taking the stage three times a day, performing mind-boggling magic tricks that will have everyone amazed. Using everyday items such as playing cards, the magician will interact with children and adults who will be asked to perform simple tasks, while he waves his mysterious fingers to perform almost the impossible! Show times are 6:30pm; 7:30pm; 8:30pm.
Kids can also share their wish list to Santa Claus as he will be roaming around Deira City Centre with goody bags until December 31st, and making appearances at his grotto in Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates for storytelling and meet and greet sessions until December 25th.

@MadinatJumeirah Out with a bang: Best New Year’s firework views from Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah, the luxurious Arabian resort of Dubai, will spoil guests for choice with panoramic views of two mesmerizing fireworks displays on 31 December.

Dubai will welcome 2014 with a bang by staging the world’s largest fireworks display starting from Palm Jumeirah and stretching up the city’s coastline. With more than 450,000 fireworks, this six minute long record-breaking attempt will be followed by a 15-minute display directly off the coast of Madinat Jumeirah’s 2km long pristine sandy beach.
Guests celebrating New Year’s Eve at any one of Madinat Jumeirah’s glamorous events on 31 December 31 will enjoy the best of both worlds and witness these two specially choreographed displays. View the displays from Al Samar Lounge, Al Fayrooz Lounge, Bahri Bar, Koubba Bar, Khaymat Al Bahar or Shimmers. Sensational New Year’s dining options include Pierchic, Pai Thai and Segreto, while a more laidback evening with family and friends, can be found in Souk Madinat Jumeirah at The Agency, Barzar or Toscana.
Set among lush landscaped gardens, connected by tranquil waterways and a private beach, Madinat Jumeirah promises the timeless hospitality of Arabia at this festive season for a very special once-in-a lifetime experience.
For further enquiries on all dining options at Madinat Jumeirah on 31 December 2013 or to make a booking, please call +971 4 366 6730 or email mjrestaurants@jumeirah.com

For more information please visit: www.jumeirah.com/mjnye

@AlTamimiStables Al Tamimi Stables launches SENSE: A unique social enterprise that combines nature and therapy

SENSE introduces a new concept of Animal Assisted Therapy and nature-based therapies

In conjunction with the 2013 Big Start competition, Al Tamimi –Investments will introduce SENSE, a unique social enterprise, on 12^th January 2014. Winner of the Big Start 2013, this new initiative is aimed at using the facilities and surroundings of Al Tamimi Stables to provide people with a positive outlook and offer healing through interaction with the environment and animals.

The unique Animal Assisted Therapy provided by SENSE will bring people closer to the environment and aid recovery without any negative side effects. The initiative has been founded on the basis of the natural environment having a positive influence on an individual’s overall health. Thanks to its location, a lush farm spread over 30 acres, away from the fast pace of city life, the serene surroundings are ideal for rejuvenation and relaxation. Spending time amidst nature and animals can dramatically reduce stress, decrease mental fatigue, restore mental clarity and boost stamina. It is also beneficial for children, especially those with disorders such as Autism and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity.

Animal Assisted Therapy improves the physical, social, emotional and cognitive functioning of individuals by leveraging the abilities of animals, including horses, rabbits, fish, dogs and cats, in a controlled manner. The therapy is effective in treating anxiety, depression, suicidal tendencies, eating disorders, loss, abuse and trauma, Dementia and behavioural problems among children and adolescents.

 Animal Assisted Therapy is recognised for its curative properties and unique quality of using animals to help both children and adults cope with and recover from health problems. Animal Assisted Therapy is specifically used to target a variety of goals including improving a patient’s range of strength, motion, endurance, balance, mobility and sensation. Patients can also benefit from psychosocial benefits such as increase in self-esteem, building rapport, motivation and stress reduction.

Animal Assisted Therapy is considered as an adjunct to existing therapy. A therapist can incorporate the animal into any therapy being already practiced by the professional. This therapy is a practice modality and thus is aptly described as Animal “Assisted” Therapy.  It can be used by a speech therapist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, rehabilitation therapist, psychologist and counsellors within their scope of treatment to facilitate on-going therapy. The therapy animals offer right amount of entertainment, distraction and pleasure to the therapy process, which motivates clients to work harder. All therapies are specially tailored to the age and abilities of each individual.

“I have grown up in the company of my pets. This inherently led me to realise that they always showered me with unconditional love and I was always happy around them. On hectic days, my tensions vanished as soon as I would return home and my pets surrounded me. Their sheer presence proved to be a great stress buster and provided a social and emotional anchor in my life. I surf the net avidly and have read several articles on how animals and nature influence human beings generally (and also with conditions such as depression, suicidal tendencies, Autism, Cancer and AIDS) and improves quality of life for people. I noticed a lack of exposure to animals and nature-based activities in Dubai. This motivated me to pitch the idea to venture capitalist firm Al Tamimi Investments. I am glad they recognised the value of the initiative and its contribution to the community in Dubai. I am immensely excited to be working hand in hand with Al Tamimi Stables, and SENSE could have never found a better place to show what it offers - nature-based therapies at its best,” commented Aditi Sen, Founder & General Manager, SENSE.

 “We are extremely proud to work with Aditi Sen, the most recent winner of the Big Start competition 2013, on launching this new concept and bringing the community together at a truly niche out-patient rehabilitation centre. SENSE aims to create community support groups that empower people to share their challenges and experiences. It is the first enterprise in the Middle East to offer animal assisted and nature-orientated therapies, provided by highly qualified experts. This initiative supports holistic healing and we encourage everyone, irrespective of age, background and culture, to join us at SENSE and discover a revitalising journey through nature,” states Brian Galligan, General Manager of Al Tamimi Stables.

For more information on therapies at SENSE, please call 06 7431122.

Sachin Tendulkar launches Celebrity Cricket League 4

·         Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) hosted the curtain raiser announcing the 4^th Season

·         Sachin Tendulkar attended the ceremony on 20^th December, in Mumbai

·         Two matches to be held in Dubai on the 1^st February 2014

                                                               

The curtains went up on the 4^th edition of the Celebrity Cricket League on 20^th December. The grand opening ceremony witnessed the coming together of celebrities from the cricket and entertainment industry.  This year’s attraction was the presence of cricketing legend, Sachin Tendulkar along with popular Indian celebrities, the likes of, Mohanlal, Riteish Deshmukh, Venkatesh, Chitrangada Singh as well as Charmi, Richa Gangopadhyay, Bhavna, Mamta Mohandas and Genelia Deshmukh. Chitrangda Singh, Jacqueline Fernandes, and Huma Qureshi will be cheering for Mumbai Heroes at the CCL.

CCL was thrilled that India’s cricketing sensation Sachin Tendulkar launched the 4^th season of Celebrity Cricket League. They hope this season will enthrall to all the cricket lovers across the world. The Directors of AURA Event Management, Vibhor Gupta, Prashant Sethi and Jessica Aziz, commenting on the two CCL games scheduled to be played in Dubai, say, “We are extremely pleased to announce that Mumbai Heroes will be hosting two CCL matches on their home ground in Dubai. CCL is one of the most celebrated celebrity sporting events in Dubai, as there’s a huge Asian community who look forward to catching a glimpse of their favorite stars in action, and the upcoming games in Dubai promise to be just that.”

The show in Mumbai was hosted by renowned comedian Kapil Sharma and singing diva Usha Uthup, who also performed at the event. CCL matches will be held in different Indian cities such as Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai as well as the Mumbai Heroes home ground, Dubai.

For more information on the Celebrity Cricket League, please visit the website: http://mumbaiheroes.in/ or log on to the Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/AURAeventmanagement

@ADOR ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING DUO TO TAKE ON FEARSOME SYDNEY-HOBART BOXING DAY CHALLENGE

Walker and ‘Parko’ join Team Ragamuffin before turning New Year sights to Volvo Ocean Race bid

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing (ADOR) skipper Ian Walker, and fellow crew member Luke ‘Parko’ Parkinson, join forces on Boxing Day to take on the infamous Rolex Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race on board Australian yachting legend, Syd Fisher’s, Team Ragamuffin.

The gruelling 628 nautical mile race is known as one of the world’s most challenging sailing events and is a fearsome test and a New Year launch-pad for the ten months of intense Volvo Ocean Race preparations that lie ahead for them.

Aussie ‘Parko’ (23) was last week appointed the latest member of ADOR  which will take on the world’s greatest marine adventure, the 2014/15 Volvo Ocean Race, beginning in Alicante, Spain in October next year. The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) – backed team will contest its second consecutive Volvo Ocean Race with the UK’s double-Olympic silver medallist at the helm.

“Sydney-Hobart is always a great challenge and a thrill for any sailor,” said Walker.

“Parko and I raced together recently with Team Ragamuffin from Hong Kong to Vietnam and what I saw of him then convinced me, without doubt, that he’s the right man for our set-up. He has the right attitude and crucially has the ability to crew both as bowman and helm – I expect we’ll bond firmly during the Sydney-Hobart gig and get deeper insights into our individual approaches, which will help us in the months that lie ahead.”

Parko, who turns 24 in February and is a member of the Australia Sailing Development Squad and the Western Australian Institute of Sport for sailing, will be one of ADOR’s under-30 crew members for next year’s Volvo Ocean Race. But for now his focus is firmly on the gruelling Boxing Day challenge.

“Over the next few days there’s no opportunity to be thinking about the Volvo Ocean Race, the focus is simply on giving everything for Team Ragamuffin to try to take the honours in Hobart.

“I’m looking forward to sailing with Ian again and I’m under no illusion that it will be a very tough few days racing. The competition in the 100fters is stiff, and the conditions for the Sydney-Hobart always make things interesting and inevitably throw in plenty of surprises and unexpected issues to deal with. This is a great chance to store up more experience to bring to the ADOR team.”

Walker and ‘Parko’ join a Team Ragamuffin that is steeped in history and impeccable racing credentials. Originally launched in 1989 as Maximus, the yacht underwent a major rebuild in 2004, and was then lengthened to 100ft in 2009. Team Ragamuffin’s legendary skipper Syd Fischer was honoured in October with Yachting Australia’s Lifetime Achievement award and at 86 years old, this year equals the record for the oldest skipper in the Sydney-Hobart race.

The fleet is expected to reach the Tasmanian port of Hobart on 28th December when, following several days of rest and recovery, Walker and Parko will turn their focus on the Volvo Ocean Race challenge ahead. The first major ADOR milestone for both will be in February, when the full ADOR team gathers in Abu Dhabi. For Parko it will be his first ever trip to the Arabia and he’s looking forward to getting a feel for waters around Abu Dhabi city - the host for the 2014/15 Volvo Ocean Race New Year stopover.

“I’ve heard so much about Abu Dhabi from Ian and from Adil Khalid who’s ADOR’s Emirati crew member,” said Parko.

“The previous Volvo Ocean Race stopover and in-port race in Abu Dhabi looked incredible, with stunning blue waters and thousands of fans on the breakwater watching the action and clearly so passionate about the race. It’s what you dream of as a professional sailor. Hopefully, the success of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing will help to continue to grow interest and participation in sailing across the UAE.”

Firstly, however, is the small matter of the historic Rolex Sydney-Hobart. You can follow news of Ian and Parko’s progress with Team Ragamuffin in Australia, together with all the information on the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team and the Abu Dhabi stopover for the 2014/15 Volvo Ocean Race, by following on Facebook – www.facebook.com/AbuDhabiOceanRacing, on Twitter - @ADOR, or online at www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com

More Relaxing with More Massages @TheCureBeauty

** The Cure’s January Offer - 2 For 1 On All Massages **

When there aren’t enough hours in the day, when you feel like you have to be in two places at once, and when that deadline is looming over you like a dark shadow, there is only one cure...a massage. It is so important to relax and take care of your own wellbeing, and just taking a little tim

e out for a massage can ease even the most difficult of stresses.

The Cure Wellness & Beauty Lounge would like to offer you a very special January surprise. Start your New Year by relaxing and de-stressing, and enter into a happier, healthier chapter with a wonderful 2 for 1 offer on ALL massages.

Available at both the Media City and Green Community branches of The Cure, why not share the experience of a massage with your friend? Or maybe you would like to treat your mum or your sister and let them join you in relaxing? If you want to enjoy your massage and save the free session for another time, that is absolutely fine, too! Simply purchase your massage during the month of January and you will get your second massage free to use immediately or at a later date.

Massages come in all varieties to suit all individual needs, so what can you choose from?

Back Massage - Especially created for the busy working professional to ease away tensions common with frequent computer use and sitting as a desk all day.

Full Body Swedish Massage - A true Zen experience relieving tightness in all major muscle groups, works miracles for fatigue and tension and increases blood flow.

 

Full Body Sports Massage - Your first class ticket to a peak performance! An intense and deep tissue massage that attacks those stubborn sports aches and pains.

Full Body Hot Stone Massage - Heated basalt stones soothe, relax and detoxify your body resulting in serene healing. Melt away and embrace this wonderful massage.

Allow your stresses to be left behind in 2013 with The Cure’s January Promotion!

For further information and to purchase a 2 for 1 massage, call The Cure Media City +971 4 3916485 or The Cure Green Community  +971 050 882 46 00 or simply visit www.thecure.ae.

@Prestat Prestat Chocolates: the truffles and chocolates of the merry season!

Following their launch in late November, Prestat Chocolates, appointed Purveyor of Chocolates to Her Majesty The Queen of the United Kingdom, is your most creative friend for the merry season ahead. Whether as a wrapped up gift or a small token to bring with you to that Christmas dinner, Prestat’s truffles and chocolates are a perfect choice.

Ahmad Alsawaleh, Business Development Manager for OBS Group, talked about the season and Prestat’s place in it: “With the holidays kicking in, everyone is buying gifts all over the place, and with those gifts come the most festive and tastiest of presents: chocolates and truffles. They are staple every December, and with Prestat Chocolates’ colourful and playful look and feel, it is the perfect gift and accompaniment to any mistletoe gathering. Come together over a box of the classic and perfected Praline Truffle that will give you that wonderful sensation of standing under a mistletoe, or Sea Salt Caramel Truffles, a luscious mix of sea salt caramel and exquisite dark chocolate, or go the exotic way and savour the Banoffee Truffle, a flavourful medley of banana with hints of coffee (or, as the box says, ‘a whisper of coffee’) .”

Prestat Chocolates is one of the most loved fine chocolate brands in the UK, found in high-end department stores, gourmet food halls, delicatessens, lifestyle stores, and travel retail outlets, as well as top-end supermarkets. They are bestsellers at Harrods, Selfridges, Liberty, John Lewis, and Waitrose.

Oftentimes the festive and celebratory handcrafted chocolate, Prestat Chocolates is renown for their truffles, having been founded in 1902 by the family that created the chocolate truffle in 1895. Today, in their second century, they still live up to this spirit of cheer and merriment and the love of chocolate. It was not from nothing that Roald Dahl, the genius behind Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, found inspiration for several of his master pieces from Prestat Chocolates, most notably making Prestat truffles the centrepiece of his novel My Uncle Oswald.

Alsawaleh added: “Prestat Chocolates’ packaging is geared towards gifting and presentation, but it is also about the enjoyment that is put into making the handcraft bars and truffles, the real celebration of the naughtiness and joyousness that we experience when we bite into a Prestat truffle, the yumminess and richness of the chocolates, and the playfulness that the diversity of options brings to us, as consumers. When Kitty Arden executed Nick Crean’s idea for the design, she was thinking of how good every bite tasted, and she let the flavour envelope her, translating it into the colours and swirls on the box.”

Dark Sea Salt Caramel Truffles, Banoffee Truffles, and Milk Chocolate Praline Truffles are on sale at Lafayette Gourment – The Dubai Mall alongside the vast and infamous collection of Prestat chocolates. 

The Power Shack is now at Gold’s Gym UAE @goldsgym_uae

An Al Ahli Holding Group product innovation

Fitness enthusiasts at Gold’s Gym UAE can now quench their thirst and hunger after  vigorous workout sessions at the gym’s very own in-house Juice Bar. A novel concept completely initiated and managed by the Al Ahli Holding Group - patron to Gold’s Gym UAE, The Power Shack will be the new Juice Bar available at Gold’s Gym UAE. Currently available at Etihad Classic club in Al Khawaneej, this invigorating and healthy Juice Bar will be accessible at all Gold’s Gym clubs soon.

Mr. Naveen Bahri, F&B Manager, Al Ahli Holding Group says, “The Power Shack does not contain any harmful ingredients but only provides fresh fruit juices on site for Gold’s Gym UAE members to replenish and revive their body after a strenuous workout.” He adds on to say, “We only use fruits both fresh and frozen without any added sugar. The Power Shack serves to offer healthy drinks to inculcate a habit of consuming more fruits in a ready-to-drink form.  Including fruits in your diet adds a myriad health benefits - avocado contains Monounsaturated Fat (MUFA) which helps in weight loss, reduces cholesterol levels and even helps do away your belly fat issues.
Mr. Nitesh Seebran, Chief of Operations, Gold’s Gym UAE says,

“We continue to keep our members satisfied with the best equipment and the best training and of course healthy food cannot be ignored. With Power Shack, our members can now have healthy and fresh drinks and we are glad we have brought this brand to all our clubs.”

The Power Shack can also be consumed by a lactose intolerant person or anyone allergic to dairy products, as it uses substitutes like soy milk and coconut cream. Introduced for the first time in Dubai and in Gold’s Gym UAE clubs, The Power Shack hopes to further the aim of leading a healthy life style and building a better body. It provides a range of fresh fruit juices, mixed fruit juices and dairy blends.

@Linda_Farrow Linda Farrow Introduced Khaleda Rajab+ Fahad Almarzouq in Eye Boutique, Dubai Mall

Linda Farrow Introduced Khaleda Rajab+ Fahad Almarzouq in Eye Boutique, Dubai Mall

The Eye Boutique unveiled the Linda Farrow partnership with Khaleda Rajab and Fahad Almarzouq on 12thDecember 2013. The S/S’14 collection of the most adventurous Linda Farrow collaboration yet, welcomed regional bloggers and style gurus to witness the Middle Eastern duo’s literal vision of “The Cat Eye” and discuss with them their eclectic designs. The eyewear collection was a true translation of their edgy style and over-the-top glamorous images. The theme of the evening was to celebrate the exaggerated style of the limited collection with music and hors d’oeuvres to match the mood. A true haven for the bold and the fabulous.

@vancleefarpels @Tashkeel @DesignDaysDubai Middle East Emergent Artist Prize by Van Cleef & Arpels in collaboration with Tashkeel and Design Days Dubai

The 2014 edition casts a light on the creative process

Maison Van Cleef & Arpels and Tashkeel in partnership with Design Days Dubai announced today the theme of the call of The Middle East Emergent Artist Prize for 2014 in a press conference held at the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique.

This partnership, aiming to support and nurture talent in the region, presents in its second year:  Turning Point, a theme aimed at shedding light on the creative process, highlighting the moment in the evolution of a project when the maker finds their voice - the point when they have understood, through the working process, the nature of the planned final work.

The Middle East Emergent Artist Prize: Turning Point calls to applicants to submit works in progress, pieces that represent an instrumental point in the creation of a final project. The submitted piece could take the form of a sketch, a series of photographs, unedited video, maquette, a record of a performance or series of Polaroids that whilst not considered a final exhibition piece, represent a turning point or realization point in the making process.

“In its second edition, The Middle East Emergent Artist Prize will draw on a lot of different media and practices, with works from artists all living and working in the Middle East,” stated Anabelle de Gersigny, Tashkeel Strategy and Partnership Development Manager. “Looking to works that may remain hidden away in the recesses of the artist’s studio is important for Tashkeel as a place where makers find space and time to develop their practice within the context of discerning and constructive criticism and discourse.”

Van Cleef & Arpels will reward the winner with a trip to Paris to attend courses at L’ECOLE, founded in 2012 with the objective of unveiling the very secretive worlds of jewelry and watchmaking, and sharing the most precious asset of the Maison: its savoir-faire. The winner will also be among the privileged few to enter the universe of Van Cleef & Arpels workshops where the Mains d’Or™ resides, the master craftsmen who give form to the Maison’s most sophisticated High Jewelry creations.

“The Maison is an ardent defender of the artistic and design crafts and we are proud of our partnership with Tashkeel and Design Days Dubai that highlights this year the process behind works of art,” said Alban Belloir, Managing Director Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East & India. “We are looking forward to welcoming the winner at L’ECOLE Van Cleef & Arpels, where we share and teach knowledge and in our workshops where he will discover the secrets of the virtuoso craftsmanship that give birth to timeless creations.”

The artwork of the awarded artist will be unveiled on the Van Cleef & Arpels stand at Design Days Dubai 2014, the world’s most diverse design fair that showcases local, regional, and international collectible modern and contemporary design pieces, whilst a selection of applicants will also be invited to participate in Tashkeel’s March exhibition, including a range of artists from the Middle East from the emergent to more established figures.

@ChopSueyUAE Chinese Food Lovers Rejoice!

Dubai welcomes Chinese delivery, take-out & dining hot spot in Jumeirah 

A new Chinese restaurant & delivery will open its doors next week to the delight of foodies and Chinese food lovers in Dubai. Conveniently located in the Beach Park Plaza mall, casual dining destination, Chop Suey, breathes exciting new air in the Chinese dining scene in Dubai, celebrating the Chinese food that we all know and love!
Taste, health and ambience are on top of the list at this laid-back establishment which was inspired by the Chinese food culture prevalent in California where co-founder Dina Spahi-Rifai resided for some time. The restaurant offers a place where families and friends can enjoy their favourite dishes either in a casual, relaxing setting in the restaurant or at home, serving authentic family favourites including delicious Chop Suey, crispy shredded duck and Sweet & Sour chicken.  
Equally committed to health as they are to taste, Chop Suey’s Chinese chefs will be offering a healthier take on traditional Chinese food. Meals will be made with only the freshest of ingredients, low sodium products and strictly no MSG.
One of the restaurant’s founders, Dina Spahi-Rifa, says: “Having grown up in California, I really missed the distinctive Chinese food culture there and this is something we aim to recreate with Chop Suey. Customers can expect Chinese food that is familiar and delicious. We will also be using traditional takeaway boxes perfect for getting cozy in front of the TV or with friends.”
“With Chop Suey we really wanted to create a space where people can enjoy a nice Chinese meal in the restaurant or at home with their friends and families. Chop Suey will offer food that is delicious, authentic and healthier than what is currently available in Dubai,” adds co-founder Diana Debley.
Chop Suey is located at Beach Park Plaza, opposite Jumeirah Beach Park, and the cozy laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a quick bite with friends. It is now open for dine-in, delivery and take-out.

For more information or delivery call 04 344 2212 or email: chopsuey@eim.ae

@MadinatJumeirah @jumeirah A-List praise for Madinat Jumeirah as final credits roll on Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)

A-List praise for Madinat Jumeirah as final credits roll on Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)

Luxury Arabian resort of Dubai draws the curtain on 2013 Dubai International Film Festival
Madinat Jumeirah welcomed a host of top international acting talent for the 10th edition of DIFF, which saw 174 films from 57 nations screened from 6 – 14 December, 2013.
Each year Madinat Jumeirah welcomes a galaxy of stars and VIP guests to the beautiful property and has been the official home of this influential film platform since its inception in 2004.
This year Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett returned to Madinat Jumeirah for the second time in 12 months when she lit up the red carpet on the opening night for Arabic movie Omar.

British actress Naomie Harris, who attended a gala screening of Mandela: The Long Walk to Freedom in Madinat Arena, enjoyed staying in one of Madinat Jumeirah’s exclusive Malakiya Villas. She said: “It’s beautiful; I’m having the most amazing time.”
Veteran actor Martin Sheen, who received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award, shared insights into his career, life and fame during an intimate Q&A session in Madinat Theatre.
While he remained busy due to DIFF commitments, he expressed interest in exploring more of Madinat Jumeirah on his next visit. He said: “I’ve been on a tight schedule since I got here so I really need to come back to get the true experience because there is so much to do and see.”
In between interviews and screenings, American actor Michael B Jordan, the star of Fruitvale Station, spent time relaxing on the terrace of Koubba Bar in Al Qasr Hotel. The sweeping views of the resort from Koubba Bar also impressed Bollywood leading lady Priyanka Chopra, who was at Madinat Jumeirah for DIFF with her Gunday co-stars Ranveer Singh, Arjun Kapoor and director AlAbbas Zafar.  

Over the past decade, Madinat Jumeirah has extended warm Arabian hospitality to Hollywood stars including Colin Firth, Tom Cruise, Diane Kruger, Orlando Bloom, Christina Ricci, Ben Affleck, Colin Farrell, Owen Wilson, Colin Firth, and Gerard Butler.  

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Trunkshow Ends: 24 December 2013

@shjbabyfriendly UAE’s first ever session on reducing Autism cases via Breastfeeding shifts Autism fight from Therapy to Prevention

Breastfeeding mothers have 36% more plasma and 23% more salivary oxytocin to combat Autism occurrence in their children , as Sharjah Baby-Friendly Campaign gives mothers fresh hope of preventing disorders

After years of focusing on Autism therapy for affected children, the UAE is now shifting its focus towards preventing Autism - or at least minimizing the number of cases. This comes after Sharjah Baby Friendly Campaign led the country’s first ever session focused exclusively on how to lower a child’s risk of developing Autism Spectrum Disorders through Breastfeeding.

The session was conducted at the Human Lactation Conference, held at Rashid Hospital in Dubai. It was presented by Manal Abou Fakher, whose decade of experience in the UAE has involved helping mothers to embrace all aspects of lactation and enlisting the support of public health facilities. Her in-depth expertise in Pediatrics has given her valuable interaction with autistic children.

Children with Autism often struggle with emotional bonding, which is facilitated by the oxytocin system. However, it has been found that breastfed children have higher oxytocin levels, boosting their chances of evading Autism. Medical researchers have further confirmed that breastfeeding significantly strengthens the nervous system of both the child and its mother.

Manal Abou Fakher, who currently serves as Coordinator of Educational Material for Sharjah Baby-Friendly Campaign, told delegates at the convention: “On the negative side, Autism and other behavioral and developmental disorders are on the rise in the UAE. But on the positive side, researchers have uncovered highly compelling evidence that mothers have the power to reduce the number of Autism cases -- contradicting previous beliefs that Autism is impossible to prevent or treat. We now know that Autism is caused by a combination of physical and social factors. While the breast milk nutrients lower the risk from a physical perspective, the emotional bonding during breastfeeding also lowers the risk from a social angle.”

Autism Spectrum Disorders are a range of disorders that impair a child’s social interaction, communication and imagination. While many cases remain undiagnosed in the UAE, medical experts believe the total number is similar to other advanced countries with similar lifestyles - such as the US, where 1 in 150 children is affected according to the Center for Disease Prevention. 

Commenting after the session, Dr Hessa Khalfan Al Ghazal, Director of the Executive Committee of the Sharjah Baby Friendly Emirate Campaign gave her assessment of the Autism challenges in the UAE: “Although there is a lot that we are still learning about Autism, it’s safe to say that one mother can do more to prevent Autism in her child than all the doctors combined. Once a child is diagnosed with Autism, we should still do everything possible to help them contribute positively to society. But if we only focus on therapy, we are missing half the story: prevention is always better than cure.”

 

    

The Sharjah Baby Friendly Emirate Campaign was initiated in March 2012 under the generous patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Budoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and President of the Campaign. The campaign encompasses four initiatives: Breastfeeding-Friendly Nurseries, Mother and Baby-Friendly Public Places, Mother-Friendly Workplaces and Baby-Friendly Health Facilities. The campaign is sponsored by Sharjah Islamic Bank.