Category: Lifestyle

TURNING YOUR GARDEN INTO YOUR OWN NATURAL HAVEN OF PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY IS A REWARDING EXPERIENCE THAT CAN BE EASILY ACCOMPLISHED WITH A LITTLE BIT OF PLANNING AND CREATIVITY. HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS TO ENHANCE YOUR GARDEN WITHOUT INVOLVING STRUCTURAL MODIFICATIONS, HELPING TO CREATE A WHOLE NEW ‘OUTDOOR ROOM’ FOR YOU TO ENJOY.

Shade from the heat of the sun

Enjoying your outdoor space means creating little havens where you can escape the hot sun and relax in the shade. While pergolas are a great option, why not go for something a little more unusual and use drapes and curtains to create shaded areas? Fit drapes around a simple frame for a cabana-style shaded area. Lightweight fabrics enhance a summer’s breeze and can create gentle movement for a cooling effect. Alternatively, you can go for a more dramatic look with heavier, more ornate curtains with rich decorations.

Create structure with a pergola

Rather than building solid outside structures that may require permission to construct, create organic ones such as a wooden pergola wrapped around with climbing roses, honeysuckle or clematis. The inclusion of a roof on a pergola also gives you a modicum of privacy if you have neighbours. A pergola creates an ‘outdoor room’ that you can then furnish with comfortable couches and chairs, a low coffee table and even a space heater if the evenings get chilly.

Add a water feature

At the top of every must-have list for your outdoor space has to be a water feature. There is nothing more relaxing than the sound of water. However, you don’t have to create a large pond complete with waterfall to get the same effect. Something as sublimely subtle as a Zen water fountain, where a trickle of water is pumped up through the centre of a granite ball and then allowed to cascade gently over the surface, is enough to create a focal point in your garden. It’s also easy to install too and usually runs on electricity without the need to install any pipes or water drains, and you could have your very own water feature in the space of an afternoon!

Outdoor cooking

You may have a perfectly good indoor kitchen, but nothing brings a family and friends together like a barbecue. Outdoor cooking is popular in every culture, and it gives the food a distinctive taste and flavour that you simply cannot replicate in the kitchen. Building a kitchen area is simple, and the standard of outdoor cooking ranges and barbecues is quite exceptional now. You can go for a traditional outdoor charcoal brick chimney, or choose a more modern electrical or gas-fired barbecue.

Clever planting for all-year colour

Your garden’s biggest asset and the easiest way to create a tranquil haven is to choose a planting scheme that gives you all-year-round colour and interest. Ensure you pick plants that are suited to your soil type, and are drought resistant. Picking scented flowers such as roses also gives your olfactory senses a treat, as well as looking beautiful.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE PROPERTIES, CAN BE A COMPLEX AND TIME-CONSUMING BUSINESS. HOWEVER, IN THE DIGITAL AGE IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE, THANKS TO INNOVATIVE AND EASY-TO-USE ONLINE E-SERVICES. THE EMAAR E-SERVICES APP HAS BEEN SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO MAKE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SIMPLE, STRAIGHTFORWARD AND SOMETHING YOU CAN DO ANY TIME, ANYWHERE. ALL YOU NEED IS A MOBILE DEVICE OR COMPUTER, AND THE DOWNLOADABLE APP THAT GIVES YOU INSTANT ACCESS TO YOUR VERY OWN MANAGEMENT PORTAL.

How does it work?

Apps and portals are such a major part of our modern lives now that we are all familiar with them. The e-Services app from Emaar works in a simple and effective way, allowing you to access information about your properties from anywhere. On the go, at home, or at work – simply login and enter your password, and you’ll be taken straight to your data, which can be managed in real time.

Why is it so good?

Simplicity and convenience are the key ingredients, with an easy-to-navigate layout that’s optimised both for PC/laptops and mobile devices. It’s this ability to provide you with real-time, on-the-go connectivity to your property management portal that makes the service not only efficient, but convenient too.

What does it offer?

The e-Services app from Emaar provides you with a full menu of services including:

• Apply for a title deed
• Request for NOC (Transfer/Mortgage/Visa)
• Apply for mortgage registration and discharge
• Find your invoices
• Pay your service fees
• Book maintenance requests for your property

Each part of the portal provides you with instant access to a specific management service, allowing you to keep a close watch on your investments and make sure that they are being looked after properly.

Quick Pay – the easy way to pay service fees

Managing your finances with the Emaar e-Services app is easy, and making a payment using the Quick Pay facility is fast and simple too. Simply login using your own unique username and password, and you’ll be able to access your accounts instantly with just a few taps of the screen. There you’ll see exactly what service management fees are due on each individual property, the current balance and the amount due. Type in your payment, press enter and in a few seconds your payment will be made direct to that specific account. It’s never been easier to keep up to date on all your service fees.

Providing a better service for your tenants

If you’re letting your property out then the e-Services app from Emaar allows you to deliver a better landlord service, even if you are overseas. By using the app you can ensure that the property is correctly maintained and serviced simply by booking a maintenance request online.

Title deeds – when you want them

Rather than having to keep hard copies of your title deeds and then trying to remember where you put them when you need them, you can simply go online and apply for a copy of your title deeds whenever you need them. Store your deeds in the Cloud and have instant access to them wherever you are in the world.

Where do I go to get the app?

Simply go online to the iTunes app store at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/emaar-e-service/id825655593?mt=8, or visit the Emaar e-Services website at https://eservice.emaar.com/home sign up and you’re ready to go!

WE THINK OF THE ‘BIG PICTURE’, THE OVERALL EFFECT, THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR. IN AMONGST ALL THESE GRAND DESIGNS THE DETAILS CAN OFTEN BE OVERLOOKED, AND CORNER SPACES THAT CHALLENGE OUR PLANS FOR A STREAMLINED, FENG SHUI ‘FLOW’ CAN BE GLOSSED OVER. HERE ARE FIVE INNOVATIVE WAYS TO MAKE USE OF THAT CORNER WITHOUT IMPACTING ON YOUR OVERALL DÉCOR.

A reader retreat

A corner sofa with plenty of plump cushions, a small side table and a stack of cleverly-designed shelves above with a reading light on the underside of the bottom shelf, and you’ve instantly turned a dull, boring corner into a gloriously snug bookworm’s retreat. If you just love curling up with the latest bestseller (or if you’re a tech lover, an e-reader) then why not designate a quiet corner as your own personal library away from the distractions of the TV?

A green oasis

Indoor plants can make a room feel more alive, more vibrant and can also improve your sense of wellbeing. As long as it’s not too dark, a corner can make a great place to create a small green oasis, even in a contemporary or minimalist design. Strong architectural plants or something a little more unusual such as a large cactus or a single elegant orchid can transform an internal space.

A miniature art gallery

You don’t need a huge expanse of blank wall to display art. A corner can act as a show-stopping point to position a really striking piece of art – art that stops the passer by in their tracks. Corners are also ideal for three-dimensional art such as porcelain or small sculptures (and they also act as a safe haven for fragile pieces, offering solid protection on two sides!). Lighting is key if you want to present fine art in a corner space, so be aware of how shadows are thrown from different angles so that you achieve the best result with the minimum amount of intrusive lighting, to ensure the focus stays on the artwork.

A quirky conversation piece

A 1960s juke box, a Victorian letter box.. Quirky conversation pieces gravitate to corners. They’re unexpected, they’re cheeky, they’re fun, and they show your personality, your individuality and your lighter side.

They’re usually large, imposing pieces that, if you positioned them in the centre of a living space, would dominate the room. While this may be the effect you’re after, a corner space actually makes more practical sense, especially if your conversation piece is something that would end up breaking toes or tripping up guests if placed in the heart of your room!

Give it its own space – create the corner around the conversation piece, again using clever lighting and decorative wall art that draws attention to the main feature.

A practical storage area

Corners don’t need to be ‘wasted space’. A tallboy is a perfect corner piece, as are clean, no-fuss, minimalist shelves. If you want to use it as a coat storage area, then don’t go for boring, straight lines of hooks – space them randomly so that even when the coats have gone, the patterns and shapes created by the hooks add interest to an otherwise blank wall.

ARABIAN RANCHES IS ONE OF DUBAI’S MOST ESTABLISHED GATED COMMUNITIES, AND HAS A REPUTATION AS A HAVEN FOR PROFESSIONAL FAMILIES WHO WANT AN EXCEPTIONAL LIFESTYLE WITH ALL THE BENEFITS OF A PURPOSE-BUILT COMMUNITY. LET US TAKE YOU ON A BEHIND THE SCENES LOOK.

BUYING A HOME IS ALWAYS AN EXCITING TIME SO IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP YOUR HEAD. THERE ARE MANY GUIDELINES YOU CAN CALL UPON TO ENSURE YOU GET JUST THE RIGHT HOME FOR YOU. HERE’S OUR WORDS OF ADVICE TO STEER YOU THROUGH THE RIGHT DOOR.

THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES CELEBRATES ITS 44TH NATIONAL DAY ON DECEMBER 2ND 2015. THE HOLIDAY MARKS THE UNIFICATION OF THE SEVEN EMIRATES, AND THE COUNTRY’S FOUNDING IN 1971 UNDER ITS FIRST PRESIDENT, SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN. THAT MAKES IT ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CELEBRATIONS IN THE EMIRATES!

To mark the occasion, there are plenty of events happening across the country and especially in Dubai that’s hosting a great selection of events running from 26^th of November to December 5^th. Here are a few of the best for you to enjoy and join in the celebrations:

Celebrating Dubai as a ‘Home to the World’, Emaar Properties is marking the 44^th UAE National Day with The Downtown Dubai Parade at Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard on Saturday, November 28, 2015 from 3 to 5 pm.

The Parade this year will include the diverse nationalities representing all the continents in the world, who live in harmony in Dubai.

Floats, mascots, roaming entertainment, including dancers from different parts of the world and other performers will depict the culture and traditions of different countries, showcasing the true sense of why Dubai is “Home to the World”.

Government authorities, schools, CSR associations, clubs, community organisations and corporate entities will participate with innovative showcases to depict the true sense of why Dubai is the ‘Home to the World.’

Join us to mark the solidarity of the ‘Spirit of the Union’ and to salute the UAE’s visionary leadership that has established the country as the region’s business, leisure and cultural hub.

From 26-30 Nov, enjoy a closer look at the rich Emirati heritage displayed through exquisite traditional handmade products. Hosted by Dubai MSE at Burj Plaza in Downtown Dubai, the National Day Souq is a venue for local artisans and vendors to display their handmade products, giving the visitors a flair of the Emirati culture and tradition.

Once the 1st of December rolls in, head to Umm Suqeim, facing Burj Al Arab from 5pm to 8pm, and watch the main national parade while the skies lit up with a truly memorable firework display.

For culture lovers, a galaxy of Emirati stars are playing a concert at the Burj Khalifa Garden theatre, Dubai from 8pm.

On the 2nd of December, watch the spectacular UAE National Day Boat Parade at Dubai Marina Yacht Club. See yachts in UAE themed decorations sail in convoy down the length of the marina. Head down to Dubai Marina Yacht Club for a day of celebration, activities and family fun including children’s activities, food, and live music.

However you choose to celebrate the National Day, you will feel the true ‘Spirit of the Union’ in a country that has established itself as the region’s business, leisure and cultural hub.

THIS REMARKABLE WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT, BUILT ALONG A 3KM STRETCH OF THE GULF SHORELINE, IS WIDELY CONSIDERED TO BE ONE OF THE WONDERS OF THE REGION. MODELLED ON, OF ALL PLACES, VANCOUVER IN CANADA, THE MARINA IS ONE OF THE REGION’S HOTTEST TOURIST SPOTS, AS WELL AS A DREAM LOCATION FOR HOMEOWNERS.

The Dubai Marina is currently the largest man-made marina in the world and filled with high-class restaurants, entertainment and activity centres and some of Dubai’s most elegant retail outlets, but is also home to around 120,000 people living in premium quality skyscrapers and villas.

Towering above the Marina

Dubai Marina is also the location of some of the cities (if not the world’s!) tallest high-rise blocks. On the western side of the Marina stands a cluster of the world’s tallest residential skyscrapers including Princess Tower and the Pentominium. As this is one of the most highly desirable neighbourhoods in Dubai, developers are continuously beautifully reshaping the landscape of the Marina creating one of the world’s most striking skylines and glittering, high-rise homes for thousands of people.

Dining in style 

All of these residents and visitors need to eat, and Dubai Marina has a plethora of restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. One of the best places to experience diverse international cuisine is the Pier 7 Dubai Marina, a multi-storey tower dedicated to food from around the world. Pier 7 provides some stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and a full 360 view of the Marina Waterfront. Each of its seven floors houses a signature restaurant, offering each a unique adventure in culinary arts.

Walk the walk

Dubai Marina Walk is a beautiful waterfront promenade that extends around most of the Marina. With more than 300 outlets to choose from, it’s easy to spend hours enjoying a walk around the Marina and stopping in one of its many world-class restaurants to satisfy your taste buds when you get hungry.

The Marina Walk is hugely popular with local residents thanks to its convenient location and elegant atmosphere, especially at night.

A real marina

Dubai Marina isn’t just a marina in name only – it’s also home to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, one of the most popular private yacht clubs in the region. The Club provides sheltered berthing for more than 500 yachts in its state-of-the-art marina, and features an elegant clubhouse with its very own restaurants, cafes, and facilities for lovers of all things nautical, it’s a haven of superyachts down to 30-foot cruisers!

A shopper’s paradise

Anyone who fancies a spot of ‘retail therapy’ should be more than happy with the Marina’s exceptional shopping facilities, and in particular the palatial Dubai Marina Mall. Over 150 stores offer everything from luxury goods to everyday essentials. The mall is also home to a number of restaurants offering waterfront views and entertainment venues including Reel Cinemas, and Njoy which is a new fun hub that provides a variety of exciting leisure activities for kids and the whole family, like indoor skateboarding and glow in the dark golf.

Traveling around The Dubai Marina

The best way to travel around the Marina is via the newly opened tram network. Quick and efficient, the air-conditioned carriages offer a welcome break from the heat, especially in the summer months. This brand new system is part of a developing infrastructure that is designed to deliver exceptional living and working conditions for those who choose to make this glamorous area of Dubai their home.

Staying in the lap of luxury

As well as 5-star restaurants, Dubai Marina offers diverse options of quality 5-star accommodation too. Visitors who fancy some serious pampering during their stay in Dubai should book into The Address Dubai Marina for the ultimate relaxation and luxury indulgences. With splendid views on the marina and a direct link to Dubai Marina Mall, The Address Dubai Marina is a perfect destination for both leisure and business.

THERE IS LITTLE THAT REALLY COMPARES TO SPENDING A RELAXING AFTERNOON ON THE GREENS, LEAVING THE STRESSES OF EVERYDAY LIFE FAR BEHIND, OR EVEN DOING A LITTLE BUSINESS ON THE FAIRWAY IN BETWEEN PUTTS!

Read more here.

IT’S TIME TO GET ACTIVE! DOWNTIME IN DOWNTOWN DUBAI IS FULL OF FUN, EXCITEMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES TO SOCIALISE WITH LIKE-MINDED FOLK. SO HERE’S A LIST OF OUR TOP TEN PICKS FOR HAVING FUN IN THE HEART OF DUBAI.

1. Shop ‘till you drop

Fancy spending a day (or two) in the world’s largest shopping mall? The Dubai Mall has everything the dedicated shopper could want, from designer luxury brands through to bargains and special offers. From handmade sweets and soaps to leather goods and exclusive jewellery, the Mall is a shopaholic’s paradise!

2. Keep your cool

If you’re looking for a break from the sun where you can also have fun with the entire family, Dubai knows how to keep you cool with its very own Olympic sized skating park. The Dubai Ice Rink is in The Dubai Mall and it’s the perfect place to spend some fun time with the family. Children need to be accompanied by an adult (as if you really needed an excuse to get on the ice!), lessons for beginners are available as well.

3. Enjoy the Dance of water and light at The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is known for breath-taking performances where it jets its many fountains as high as 140 meters in a synchronized dance watched by thousands of people every day. Set right outside The Dubai Mall and Souk Al-Bahar, there are plenty of places available where you can relax and enjoy a unique visual feast every thirty minutes all week from 6.30 pm to 11.00 pm.

4. Dine in style

While Downtown Dubai is full of excellent restaurants, few come close to the unique dining experience at the Armani Hotel Dubai. Elegant surroundings are complemented by exquisite cuisine that ranges from contemporary twists on traditional Arab dishes through to ultra-modern Japanese dining.

5. Ultimate relaxation at Dubai luxury spas

A visit to Downtown isn’t complete without having the chance to be truly pampered at one of Dubai’s most luxurious spas. Visit The Spa at The Palace Downtown Dubai and discover a temple of serenity and tranquillity. The Spa offers oriental treatments within a unique Arabic décor, with tailored experience for every client that includes treatments, massage and an emphasis on total and complete relaxation.

6. Head outdoors at Burj Park

In the middle of the city is one of the Emirate’s best open spaces – Burj Park. Cycle hire is available at the entrance gate so you can tour this large park in comfort, or simply sit back with a picnic and enjoy the view of the incredible Burj Khalifa.

7. Art for art’s sake

Dubai has a thriving and incredibly vibrant arts scene and the city is packed with both contemporary and traditional art galleries and installations. Walk around Downtown and you’ll discover some magnificent public art.

8. Zip through town

For true adrenaline lovers the ultimate way to see downtown Dubai has to be a ride on the Xline zipline that takes you right over the top of the magnificent Dubai Fountains. Definitely not for the faint hearted!

9. See Dubai from the Top

At the Top Burj Khalifa is a unique experience that offers you an unmatched view over Dubai’s soaring skyline. You can choose to visit one of its observation decks on Levels 124, 125, and 148, and enjoy a breath-taking unobstructed 360-degree view of the city, desert and ocean. You also can choose to dine at the elegant At.mosphere and enjoy a delicious gourmet meal while watching the glimmering lights of Dubai city from the 122th Level of Burj Khalifa.

10. Slide the Downtown Slide

Whether you are taking your kids out or feeling you want to let the kid in you out for a minute, head to The Downtown Slide and slide 19 metres of fun! No need to worry about Dubai’s hot sun even in the peak summer, as the slide is the first insulated stainless steel outdoor dry slide in the world!

A FEW OF THE VERY BEST LOCATIONS IN DUBAI WHERE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CAN ENJOY AN UNFORGETTABLE TIME TOGETHER.