Publisher Gabriel John Rimando
Publications Manager Ryan Namia
Editor-in- Chief Angelo Reyes Dumag
Contributing Writers Hasintha Edirisinghe Samantha Joffe Elton Bolton Aaya AbuNahwa Sayed Hussain
Sales and Marketing Manager Orli Gayeta Sales and Marketing Elaine Marbella Joel Lara Genove John Paul Cosico
Senior Graphic Designer Allan Caragao
Multimedia Manager Jonathan Dumas
dubaivibesmag dubaivibesmagazine DubaiVibesMagazine.ae Dubai Vibes Magazine
Allow your senses to savor the modern yet classic flavor of both Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines at Majlis Al Sultan, a restaurant that serves quality food at reasonable prices. If you want to try something new and expand your palate and taste buds, it is best to go to a restaurant that provides excellent service and food.
When you enter the restaurant, the service staff takes the initiative to greet you with a full smile and joyful greetings. There is a choice of sitting location, whether you go to a more natural outdoor side or stay inside and feel the vibes of bright and gleaming chandeliers. The interior is well-lit, and the atmosphere is soothing to the eyes, thanks to the color scheme and minimalist yet luxurious dining style.
When you look at the menu, you’ll notice that it has a customer-friendly list of food names that not only give the price but also explain the composition of the food itself. A health-conscious menu will never allow you to inquire about the food.
While you wait for your food, you can enjoy watching TV on their big screen while sipping on their exclusive and best Sisha in town, where citrus fruits relax your mind after a long day at work.
To begin, they serve us Watermelon Arugula, which is an Arugula salad topped with watermelon, mozzarella di bufala, feta cheese, caramelized pecan nuts, pomegranate jewels, physalis, and vinaigrette mustard. This salad set a new standard for salad flavor. The saltiness and sweetness are perfectly balanced, resulting in a delectable salad.
They serve us seafood soup and traditional lentil soup for soup. What we like best is the seafood soup, which whets our appetite for something delicious. Following that, the classic Hummus Trio was served, and if you ask some of the crew about the process, they can give you the complete story and process of each food. From serving the food to product architecture, the restaurant has a well-trained staff.
The main courses are excellent because they are served on a platter. Their platters were essentially chef’s specials. The first course served is Al Sultan Steak Roulade, which is a char-grilled premium rib eye steak wrapped on a bamboo stick with provoine cheese, steak gravy sauce, roasted potato, and arugula salad. Because the steak is properly grilled and seasoned, the flavor is perfect. The presentation is excellent, and the steak gravy sauce has a spicy kick that complements the meat.
The classic Kebab was served as the second main course, and it included authentic herbed minced lamb, grilled green chili peppers, onions, tomatoes, a special bread, and Beiruti salsa. Like any other Kebab, their kebab contains something new. Its aroma is soothing to the nose, and its taste creates a magnificent spice in the meat.
Finally, there’s the incomparable hot dessert Um Ali, a perfect way to end your meal. It’s not your typical cold dessert; it’s hot, with a sweet flavor and a satisfying finish.
Before we forget, their four-season or mixed juice is the best drink in this restaurant.
Visit Majlis Al Sultan at Al Me’aisem City Center - E311 - Dubai Production City - City Centre Meaisem - Dubai now and enjoy their latest menu.
Lucky Fish, the award-winning chic Mediterranean restaurant located in Palm West Beach, continues to source its seafood from local fishermen to offer guests the freshest and tastiest dishes and to support the local economy.
Since opening in 2021, Lucky Fish had purchased more than 25,000 kilograms of sustainably-caught seafood including many varieties of fish, calamari, prawns, clams, and oysters, which are displayed on its signature, antique sailboat.
Certain products are sourced internationally such as the Carabinero prawns and octopus from Spain, but whenever possible, the focus is on showcasing homegrown products from the markets.
“We focus on local suppliers because they have the freshest product available for our guests. With the intense competition in Dubai, being able to offer the freshest products is a big advantage in terms of quality which our discerning guests appreciate.
“Also, because our suppliers know us well, they understand our specific preferences and appreciate that we never compromise on quality so they hand-select only the best specifically for Lucky Fish,” said Dmitry Braude, owner.
He adds, “When assessing any product, we consider two key factors: quality, and freshness. If those two conditions are met, everything else can be negotiated. Many highquality products can be sourced locally in our own waters, and it’s impossible to compare the freshness when you can serve guests our fisherman’s nightly catch the following day, which is vital especially when it comes to seafood.”
Before opening Lucky Fish, the culinary team traveled to every market in the region, developing relationships with local suppliers (large and small). These close relationships have allowed Lucky Fish to access the freshest seafood available in the region.
“Locally-sourced produce is environmentally-friendly, often healthier, it helps the local economy and shows that you care about what you’re feeding your customers. We believe that utilizing everything possible in our region has been key to the success of Lucky Fish. Locals appreciate it, our regular guests understand the value and quality and tourists want to explore what our region has to offer, so it’s a win-win situation for our venue and local economy,” said Braude.
Bringing the Mediterranean vibes to the shores of Dubai, the charming seaside restaurant is the ideal venue
to spend the weekend, especially with the now cooler temperature in the city. The outdoor space is now open for dining, sundowners, and sunbathing.
The dining destination has been a popular spot for Dubai’s chicest crowds, offering a stellar menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring Italian, French, and Spanish flavours, as well as the most delectable seafood and meat selections,
Guests can dine in the restaurant which has a seating capacity of 260, while the beach can accommodate up to 182 guests.
Lucky Fish is open from Monday to Sunday from 11 am till late, while the beach is open until 7 pm. Book your table by calling +971 4 569 3447 or emailing info@ luckyfishdubai.com. Follow Instagram @luckyfishdubai.
Powered by a Detox. Retox. Repeat. philosophy, this is not your ordinary wellness retreat. Coming to W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, on October 22nd, this wellness day with a twist is set to welcome guests to enjoy a jam-packed day filled with a range of exciting, high-octane activities. With all the funds raised going directly to the Al Jalila Foundation in support of Breast Cancer Awareness, this is perfect way to get fit and do your part for #PINKtober in the process.
Experience the latest and greatest in fitness, wellness, culture and beyond at this #PINKtober themed fitness day. Giving guests everything they need for a balanced lifestyle where they can work hard and play harder, FUEL is organizing an action packed day filled with different types of workouts including cardio, core work, stretching, and toning.
Barry’s, renowned for its high intensity workouts and community along with high-energy cardio and strength interval training workouts, will be taking guests through a Run & Core class to really get the heart pumping at the start of the day. They will also run a further Shape & Tone session later in the day, showcasing the incredible range of classes that they are known for. In the spirit of Knockout weekend, fitness enthusiasts can then look forward to an MMA & Fitness Conditioning class run by UFC GYM, the ultimate MMA-inspired fitness experience. Unlock your potential and elevate your performance in a highly-energized and supportive environment of the UFC GYM experts.
To ensure guests get in a proper cool down, Abu Dhabi based wellness hub, Soul & Skin Wellness, will be taking everyone through an SMR & Stretching session. This collective hub offers a wide range of disciplines from Yoga to Pilates, reformer Pilates and group fitness, personal training as well as swing Yoga, sound healing, meditation and much more.
Throughout the day, guests will be FUELED up with a series of nibbles, bigger bites, refreshing drinks, and Barry’s signature #Pinktober protein shake Pinky Swear in partnership with Koita – Organic Milk to keep energy levels high.
To top off the day, a special Sun Chasers pool party will take place at WET Deck where guests can reFUEL after their full day of exercise. Relax at the pool and beach area or top up on your tan while mixing and mingling with signature cocktails. Kickback and relax poolside while your muscles recharge under the Arabian sun.
Dubai’s latest homegrown athleisure brand, THE TRUENUDE, will also be on hand introducing the best of their latest collection on site. Going beyond the surface and inspiring women to celebrate their individuality, the brand will help encourage the transition from studio to the street by showcasing their versatile essentials.
Things aren’t always what they seem, and at the newest Aladdin themed room at Escape Hunt Dubai, be prepared to enter a world of mystery and intrigue as you race against the clock to free the genie and escape the evil forces that seek to stop you. One of the world’s fastest-growing entertainment phenomena, Escape Hunt Dubai, located at The Galleria Mall, Al Wasl Road, gives guests the world’s leading escape room and entertainment experiences, and the newest Aladdin room is a truly engaging affair.
Packed with excitement, you and your teammates will be transported to a whole new world in this brand new Aladdin & The Magic Vault Escape Hunt adventure. Solve a series of riddles to progress to reach the infamous Magic Vault in search of the genie’s lamp, which needs to be acquired before you can make your way to freedom. With the dastardly Jafar, the Sultan’s evil advisor, trying to stop you at every turn, thrill seekers will need to have their wits about them and work together as a team to pave the path to liberating the genie.
Exquisitely decorated to make it feel as if you have been transported to the bustling markets of Agrabah, this room leaves no stone unturned when it comes to every minute detail, keeping players fully immersed in the story. Featuring plenty of interactive elements along with a range of head-scratching conundrums, teams of up to 6 players will need to be sharp to decipher each clue on their journey to the finish line. Jump in and take a magic, mystery ride from the second you walk in the door of this
engaging and creative escape room where fantasy truly comes alive.
Having just launched on October 1st, now is your chance to see if you have what it takes to complete this thrilling escape room. An adventure packed with excitement where you and your teammates leap into a realm of possibilities, book your next trip to Escape Hunt Dubai
today and race against the clock on this pulse-inducing mission.
For more information on the Aladdin Room and all the other exciting games available at Escape Hunt Dubai visit the website. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on all games when they book their experience online.
Chef Sherif Nazmy, a 43-year-old Egyptian with over twenty years of experience in the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry, is currently the Executive Chef of Majlis Al Sultan, an Arabic-Mediterranean Restaurant that serves authentic and delicious cuisines from around the world. He believes that a person should be pure in all aspects of life.
Chef Sherif is in charge of the day-to-day operations and management of Majlis Al Sultan’s kitchens to provide diners with the best dining and hospitality experiences possible. Aside from that, he collaborates closely with the team he hand-picked from across the Arab world and experiments with various ingredients to provide an unforgettable gastronomic experience to all customers.
He has been in the UAE for 16 years and began his culinary career at the age of 14 after being inspired by his father, a highly skilled chef. In 2003, he began his career as a chef at the Four-Season Cairo at Nile Plaza in Egypt and was quickly promoted to Junior Sous Chef.
Throughout his career, he worked in luxury hotels in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, between 2008 and 2013. He worked at Cairo’s highly acclaimed Michelin Star fine dining restaurant Sachi Heliopolis, Jumeirah Group, Burj Al Arab’s Al Iwan Restaurant, and Madinat Jumeirah’s “Sho Fe Ma Fe.” Chef Sherif also led the Sachi Heliopolis team to a three-star Michelin rating.
Adding to his professional life, he was the Executive Sous Chef at the Al Hamra Residence Hotel in Ras Al Khaima, where he led the culinary division for six years and contributed to the development of restaurants in the Marine, Yacht, and Golf Clubs. He oversaw the opening of Al Hamra Residence’s Sea Breeze restaurant, an upscale beachfront dining destination. He is currently a member of the Egypt Young Chefs Club.
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked him why he chose his field, he said, “I am passionate about the environment of restaurants and kitchens, and the greatest reward is the enjoyment of customers. I enjoy and reflect on the entire process — buying ingredients, preparing them,
cooking and serving food, and building and working with a fantastic team. One of the biggest upsides is creating innovative menus for different occasions.”
Chef Sherif enjoys keeping up with trends in the food and beverage industry and learning more about the local culture, cuisines, flavors, and ingredients. He makes it a point to use locally sourced spices and produce to create and present authentic Middle Eastern dishes with a modern and creative twist.
Chef Sherif admitted that there are many struggles that he must face daily in his industry, particularly the high competition in the F&B industry, varied and evolving customer expectations, consistency in quality, and staff retention and development.
But for him, the most difficult of which is personal: “We humans, while we can control our reactions, but it is difficult to accept and satisfy the actions of the surrounding people and their expectations all the time and here it is repeated, especially in the surrounding work environment.”
According to him, it could be financial, as the balance of needs and income is often difficult to strike at the start of a career path—the needs outweigh the resources. As time passes, people learn to balance their lives.
He also stated that circumstances are the primary motivators for people to either choose or be forced to change. Whether it is a natural force or a choice that humans change, everyone must accept and imagine the path and destination.
“To achieve the change that I aspire to, both personally and financially, I had to do my best and acquire the required skills to reach what I aspire to, I have shared my enthusiasm with my family, friends, and teamwork around me, and I was willing to pay the price of effort and perseverance and patience that it required,” he said.
image credit: supplied
When asked how important it is to have a strong local support group to help him run the business, he stated that friends, family members, and those around him provide an environment that is reflected in all aspects of life and has a great impact on it, which is ultimately reflected in work-life balance.
“They often contribute directly or indirectly to all your material and moral aspects, which ultimately affect your life and its stability. We find that the success of individuals in their professional and personal life is largely shaped by the surrounding people. It is very essential to surround yourself with the right people, not the best ones.” Chef Sherif added.
When asked about his life after work, he told Dubai Vibes Magazine that, in addition to cooking, he is a member of a football sports league. He enjoys attending local festivals and even going out to eat as a means of furthering his research and development.
Chef Sherif is a very passionate person who is always open to new experiences, and Dubai is a city of dreams and opportunities. He expressed his appreciation for the high quality of life, which includes high work standards, safety and security, healthcare, destinations, food, entertainment, and education. All of these factors create numerous career opportunities and unique experiences, which are the most valuable outcomes he obtained in the UAE.
The cosmopolitan city’s experiences become a dream for him. His dream is to have a successful supporter of their dreams who will assist them in realizing those dreams.
“The UAE wants everyone to achieve happiness in terms of providing the highest levels of security and safety and the best-planned cities in the world, in addition to a strong and stable economy, achieving the highest educational standards, making the country highly attractive to stable family life,” he ended.
John Golding How he went from being a crack addict to becoming a respected lifestyle coach
Happiness is a basic human right that everyone should have. Everyone has the right to be the person they want to be, but circumstances and uncontrollable factors limit an individual’s ability to take on a load and fulfill their desires. It eventually leads to hunger—hunger that can last a long time, even a lifetime. Fighting it can sometimes lead to problems, and it can hurt self-confidence.
Everyone is allowed to look at themselves and rebuild their lives from the ground up for a renewed person like David John Golding, a 57-year-old Sober and Recovery coach of Sober Lifestyle Coaching LLC. If someone is willing to embark on the journey, it has the potential to provide everything that person did not even realize was possible.
David studied Nuclear Physics at a university 37 years ago and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Math and Physics through the Open University. He is also now a dedicated coach who assists people in rehabilitation to overcome their addiction. One of the highlights of his career was founding a company in 2007 that grew from zero to £33 million in revenue in a year.
He had five jobs in the last 35 years. His first job was as a Software Engineer writing missile system software, and he later worked as a Project Manager in the banking industry. He had a dotcom company start-up before becoming an entrepreneur in 2007 and creating a group of over 100 companies with a combined revenue of more than $2 billion.
David has lived and worked in Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States of America for several years, the United Kingdom, and is now in the United Arab Emirates. His last job will be as a Sober and Recovery Coach.
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked him what he enjoys most about his current job, he said that working with recovering addicts is the most rewarding thing he has ever done. Seeing people progress from pain and suffering to serenity and recovery inspires him all the time.
“Recovery gave me peace, and an ability to walk the earth a free man. I have to mention that my closest friends now are all in recovery, as we are a fellowship of men and women who have prevailed against all the odds and continue to support others. We can only keep what we have, by giving it away,” he said.
David believes that the most difficult aspect of his job is reaching out to people. To make himself available so that if someone needs help, they can find me. He believes that people who regard addiction as a dirty word will always face stigma. The terms addict and alcoholic conjure up negative stereotypes. Because of the nature of addiction, there is a limited amount of funding available to assist those in need.
“I spent my life never being able to fit in. Never comfortable in my skin and was full of anxiety and fear. Finding alcohol at the age of 11 meant that I could drink to get over my social anxiety. And so that continued for over 40 years. I tell people that I trained myself to become an alcoholic addict by always running away into a bottle, bag, or behavior,” he shared.
When he became financially successful, it was those feelings that drove his actions. He could indulge himself indefinitely. He threw money at people to gain their friendship. He had to deal with court proceedings, divorces, and betrayal.
Moreover, the only way for him to overcome all of those emotions was to reset himself and embark on the journey of growth. He recognizes that alcohol has slowed his character development. Once he stopped using these substances, he had to relearn all of the life lessons he had missed as a teen and adult. That journey is ongoing, and he is proud to be the new David John.
His life outside of work revolves around volunteering twice a week via Zoom meetings at a rehab in the United Kingdom. He continues to attend Alcoholics Anonymous,
“At the moment, I am living apart from my family, so that I can establish a home here in the UAE. So, my immediate dream is to build a life for my family here in the UAE. That will take time and my wonderful wife is so very supportive. She is incredible and saved my life,” David John said.
On a personal level, he wishes to assist others. His ultimate goal is to establish a DayHab in the UAE. A place where the still-suffering addict can go, similar to rehab but without being residential. Some people cannot afford the time or money required to live in a residential facility for 28 days.
David John is focused on his long-term recovery. To allow people to come to a dedicated recovery facility on weekends or evenings to achieve long-term sobriety.
“DayHab.ae is being worked on now and I would like to live early in 2023. If there is anyone reading today who feels they would like to contribute to such a facility, which would be the first in the UAE, then I would love to talk to them! Time and money are both nice to haves,” he uttered.
This is his message to all those reading who are not happy. “If you are stuck or struggling if you are being dismantled if you feel that life is getting pulled out from underneath you. Then consider this as probably the greatest opportunity you might ever get in life.”
“Then consider this as probably the greatest opportunity you might ever get in life. You are being allowed to look at yourself and reconstruct your life from the ground up. Not everybody gets that opportunity, because mostly,
When we compare success and fulfillment, people may mistakenly believe that the two words are interchangeable. However, these two words have distinct meanings, particularly when it comes to satisfaction. Success is a predetermined result, whereas fulfillment is the feeling that one’s life is full and meaningful.
According to hospitality expert Diyana Chimlyariva, the Operations Manager at Ramada Corniche, success is about personal fulfillment and feeling good on the inside as well as looking good on the outside. That a person should not be running to meet the expectations of society and others about who they are. Thus, to select the ideal role in society that will bring satisfaction and happiness to oneself.
Diyana was born and raised in Bulgaria, a country in Eastern Europe with a diverse culture that is far removed from the UAE’s diversity. Because she was raised in a European culture, a change in industry or even country was difficult for her. She had never been to the Middle East before, so culture shock was one of the most difficult challenges she faced.
“It was a really big challenge because you have to learn about different cultures in order to not only collaborate but also interact with people at the right level, and you know carefully without touching any sensitive topics,” she explained.
Diyana can now easily interact with and adapt to different cultures as a professional. She has learned a lot about dealing with people of all nationalities in a productive manner. Catching up and adjusting are natural parts of growing up, and learning new things every day is essential for professional and personal development.
Her methods for effective management Diyana’s story is fascinating, and her life is full of twists and turns. Her career has flourished since she arrived in the United Arab Emirates ten years ago, and it has been a turning point for her because she has had the opportunity to grow and develop her skills in the hospitality industry.
She stated that her arrival in the UAE was not planned, but when she had the opportunity to envision a brighter future ahead of her, she ended up in the hotel industry, which she is enjoying.
Diyana currently does not have time to share her hotel management skills because she is constantly busy. One of the things that she enjoys doing is dealing with the challenges of the hospitality industry, particularly when it comes to annual budgeting. However, these challenges allow her to learn and grow in forecasting and taking on more responsibilities.
She has spent the last decade working in hotels, and she has already advanced to the level of industry experts. And now, people are watching out for her because she wants to be an inspiration not only to her coworkers, but also to her clients.
As the Operations Manager of Gromaxx Hotel Management, which operates the Windham properties in Abu Dhabi, she is in charge of one of the most important positions in the company.
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked her about her role as Operations Manager, she stated that her role is to direct and ensure that all of the team’s goals are met in the best way possible. Everything is currently running smoothly due to her efforts to plan everything ahead of time. She has spent months planning and communicating with the team to ensure that every task is well coordinated and that the hotel always has a smooth transaction.
She is the type of leader who can support people at various levels and ensures proper communication with each member of the team. It takes a lot of agility as a leader to understand all of the sentiments on both sides of the coin.
“However, I am trying to be an inspirational leader. I try to inspire people to want more from themselves and to develop themselves because, in the end, that’s something that people always remember,” she said.
According to Diyana, in order to be more productive and allow people more time for themselves, she is attempting to learn and discover her management style in order to effectively deliver her message to her people. She always reminds her affiliates that when an employee knows how to care for themselves, they can also care for their clients very well.
The key to greatness is to become friends with oneself. People worked primarily to provide a good life for their families. Some people from other countries worked for a foreign country for more than half of their lives, sacrificing time away from their loved ones. It is a double burden for overseas workers when they need someone to cry on because of difficulties at work or in their personal life.
According to 28-year-old Filipina Mariele Layug Caballes, Senior Project Coordinator at Gulf Agency Co., mistakes can be turned into blessings through trials.
Mariele began haggling in her working life when she was 15 years old. She recalled her first job as selling HaloHalo (Filipino dessert) and Ham rolls while reselling products from Avon, Natasha, and MSE (Filipino beauty
products) to provide for her family. She had to do these things because she became a mother at a young age.
At 17, she quit school to seek a better job. Unfortunately, the only job in the Philippines that pays well is that of a Call Center Agent. This is the only field that does not necessitate a university degree as long as the individual understands and speaks basic English.
In order to survive and provide a good life for her child, Mariele decided to pursue that field two months before her 18th birthday. As a result of being unable to complete her education, Mariele found it difficult to enhance her English skills. To catch up and learn English, she decided to teach herself.
“I remember watching American movies and imitating how they spoke with their twangs and slang, even talking to myself in the mirror. Read English books/ magazines and look up their meanings in dictionaries or on the internet, and three months later, I got my first job at iQor in Clark, Pampanga, where I worked as a CSR - Customer Service Representative for Sprint Telecommunications based in the United States.” she shared.
After two years, she found a better opportunity at Convergys, a similar field-based in the United States. Working in the call center industry is not as easy as it appears. It takes a lot of guts and determination to succeed. That is why, after gaining experience in the Philippines, she decided to travel abroad in 2015.
Mariele’s life abroad has never been easy, but she has remained strong and continues to be inspired by her family. When she first began working abroad, her first opportunity was in E-commerce and she served as Customer Service Representative. This was followed with the opportunity in logistics industry. After gaining extensive client-handling experience, she was promoted to Customer Support Specialist, then to Freight Coordinator, and finally to Telesales Supervisor.
While living abroad, she faced difficulties and battles that few people, including her family, are aware of. Her first company went out of business in 2017, leaving her jobless for six months. She even had to deal with not having her bed, food on the table, and money.
“I used to cook for my flatmate and have my share of
food, do laundry for my landlord to get a small amount of money for my job hunting, and necessities, and move from another vacant space to another to get a decent night’s sleep,” she explained.
She recovered from these difficulties when she was hired by Pplus Courier and relocated to Deira, where she met a few people who had similar difficulties and experiences. Those trials inspired her to become a wise person. She faced these battles alone, and the only thing she was fighting for was a better life and future for her family, particularly her children.
Aside from having a challenging yet blessed journey, Mariele is proud to say that because of her dedication, she was able to fully renovate her mother’s house and provide a good life for her children. Currently she is owning her online business by selling brand-new clothes.
Mariele is currently starting a new chapter in her career as a Senior Project Coordinator (Grade D) at one of reputable multinational corporation. Due to her determination, she can make a name for herself, her family, and those overseas Filipino workers who long to be successful.
Despite working full-time, she still finds time to do things she enjoys, such as working out, shopping, cooking, and doing her homework for her Logistics and Supply Chain Management course. If necessary, she may need to work from home.
“I developed an interest in logistics and supply chains. Moving from one department to another was a great way to gain new skills and knowledge that helped me build and strengthen my credentials to get more opportunities. I am grateful for my life and work experiences so far, because without them I would not be in the place I am now,” Mariel said.
Having the opportunity to meet people from different countries at her current job is rewarding for her, especially when she meets the client’s expectations.
Ultimately, Mariele’s goal is to become financially independent and take care of her children, parents, and those who are in need.
As a final point, she believes that everything happens for a reason and that her character, thoughts, words, and habits will determine future.
Nothing is out of reach for those who believe. Every expat in the UAE has a unique story to tell, and reading their stories can inspire and motivate people to achieve their goals. Life may be difficult for an individual living in the UAE at times, but with perseverance and focus, everything will fall into place.
Julie May Gancayco De Guzman, a 34-year-old Filipina businesswoman and owner of DGSIXX Events, says people should appreciate yesterday and strive for a better tomorrow. She has an impact both on her family and friends, as well as on the Filipino community in her environment.
In the Philippines, she pursued and completed a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management program. She is the eldest of six daughters, has been married for 11 years, and has one child. Julie is currently focusing on and working full-time in her events company. She left her previous company months ago to manage the growth of her own.
Julie has spent the last eight years of her career as an Expediting Coordinator in a supply chain department. She has worked for two well-known international EPC firms, traveled, and been exposed to other countries due to the nature of her work.
She was only 21 years old when she first came to the UAE to work as a service crew for a well-known international fast-food chain, earning a minimum salary of AED 1200 by 2009.
According to her, the first year of her career was both challenging and exciting. Julie used to work more than 12 hours a day just to provide for her family back home. Her family has always been a source of inspiration to her.
“It’s not easy for me to live alone. I grew up in a very loving and caring family, and being away from them was a huge adjustment for her,” she recalled.
Aside from being a service crew member, she has also worked as a company secretary, receptionist, and in some marketing part-time jobs to earn extra money and gain more experience.
Since she is now working full-time in her own company, she has to say that it is by far her favorite and most exciting job position she has held since beginning her career in the UAE. She stated that she enjoys every aspect of her job, including the stress and challenges that her company presents. It fascinates her to learn new things every day.
When she is not working or has free time, she spends it with her family and some friends. She is very interested in events and gatherings, as well as meeting new people. She also enjoys sports and coffee with the special people in her life.
According to Julie, the biggest challenge she faces in the industry she is currently working in is the communication barriers and cultural differences of every nationality with which she interacts on a daily basis because we are in a country with multinational people.
Her determination and willingness to learn more things and people eventually help her to understand the things around her. Julie has not only dealt with a work-related issue, but she has also dealt with challenges that she encountered along the way. According to her, everyone experiences disappointments, loss, changes, sadness, anxiety, and stress at different times, and resiliency will always be the key to maintaining a positive outlook, facing an uncertain future with less fear, and getting through even the darkest days through prayers.
She added: “It’s tempting to believe that the best way to
get through hard times is by ignoring painful emotions and putting on a brave face. But unpleasant emotions exist whether you choose to acknowledge them or not. Trying to prevent your emotions from surfacing will only fuel your stress, delay acceptance of your new situation, and prevent you from moving on.”
A person should not focus on the negative aspects of a situation, but rather on the positive aspects of the situation and believe that everything will go as planned.
Julie has learned many life lessons during her more than 13-year stay in the UAE. And the country has taught her to dream big and achieve great things through perseverance. Her ultimate wish and prayer for her family are to be together in every circumstance of their lives. She has no desire for material possessions or wealth; a peaceful and joyful life suffices for her.
Julie’s message to all magazine readers is to always put God first in everything you do, and he will prosper you. Nothing is impossible for her. Our lives, wherever we go, serve a purpose. Because we are all unique, we all have different ways of experiencing purpose and meaning.
“Don’t limit yourself by others’ expectations; pursue activities that are important to you, and add satisfaction to your life. Be proactive in helping others even facing your challenges, you can regain a sense of control as well as find purpose in your life. Stay motivated regardless of the challenges, failures, and rejections, it’s part of the process for success,” she uttered.
She also stated that difficult times do not last forever, but they are rarely over quickly. Someone must find ways to stay motivated and persevere as they travel through the darkness. It is critical to recognize and celebrate small victories.
Finally, she believes that every success begins with a small dream and a piece of prayer. To achieve their goals, all it takes is a little extra effort and a consistent commitment.
When considering a Food and Beverage (F&B) industry legend, consider not only the number of years an individual served the field but also how the world recognises an expert based on the awards received. Most of these achievers are shaped by passion and have the tenacity to face adversity in any situation.
According to Ramy Mohamed El Rowiny, a 45-year-old award-winning restaurant manager, in the great battle of life, if someone is flaky with ambitions or gives too soon, life will never go as planned. Resilience is the key to success in this case. He also believes that learning and wisdom are not the same things. For him, learning is acquiring what you don’t know, and wisdom is knowing what to do with what you already know.
Ramy currently oversees operations at Majlis Al Sultan Restaurant and Café in the United Arab Emirates. His areas of expertise in the MENA region span two decades and include people management, business process optimisation, and strategic planning.
In his current position, he is in charge of employee training and management, inventory control, overseeing and streamlining operations, cost control, strategies, and customer relationships to ensure the restaurant runs smoothly and efficiently. In addition, he is responsible for institutionalising best practices, ensuring revenue generation and cost optimisation, conducting personnel performance and guest experience assessments, and, of course, maximising enterprise value in the highly competitive UAE market.
This astute and strategic manager is Egyptian and was raised in a family with deep roots in the country’s food and beverage industry. He believes that the challenges and opportunities he has witnessed in the industry since childhood have fuelled his desire to become a restaurateur.
Before attaining success in the great city of Dubai, Ramy started his professional F&B career with McDonald’s Egypt and was a key team member at Steak House, Saudi Arabia, Carino’s Egypt, and Sapori di Bice UAE. He remembered that when he was at Carino’s, the restaurant won the award for Best Italian Cuisine in International Dining Awards by Golden Tree Event, and Sapori di Bice won the What’s On Dubai Award for Best Italian Restaurant Winner, RetailMe Award for Best Admirable
Retailer, Middle East Awards and Time Out Awad for Best Family Café in Dubai.
“Truly, I am keen on the advancements in the sector, the role of guest experience behaviour in the development of F&B, and the latest innovations and emerging trends that will revolutionise it,” he said.
Ramy has been in the UAE for 12 years and has discovered it to be a country full of life and opportunities. According to him, “The most prominent factor for expats about life abroad is how easy they settle into their new life, they gain a clean healthy environment for themselves, and high-quality life aspects food, education, and entertainment according to clear and transparent paths and clear criteria. This is what I found in the UAE, but it was not very easy, as it required some hard work. But with faith in my capabilities and making the required efforts, I finally appreciate the obstacles.”
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked him about his daily struggles in the industry he is currently in, he stated that a restaurant brand is a tangible value that a guest receives from the brand and the community around them, as well as promotions, messages, and offers. He stated that successful restaurants seek to develop and expand the scope of their services, whether it is food or hospitality, and that this factor is dependent on their ability to excel in a competitive environment and to demonstrate unique products, prices, methods, and even taste atmosphere that is not found in any other restaurant.
Another factor, according to Ramy, is the nature of the value that it adds to the community; is it simply hospitality services with some exciting meals and drinks, or does the value extend beyond that to the limits of entertainment, high-end hospitality, order delivery, and a different vision in restaurant concepts? Does it extend beyond that to include charitable giving to the community and raising its status? This is another aspect that influences how much a company can thrive in terms of what it has to offer in the community.
Despite being a successful and intelligent individual, he also experienced a major life battle. He began working voluntarily while in high school to gain basic life experience, and during university studies, he discovered himself to be the breadwinner for his entire family and
had to work to provide for his family.
He realised at the time that he and his family had no choice but to put up with the bad situation for a few years until he graduated from university. Ramy began working on simple jobs with a financial return that could help him achieve his goal. He was able to work in more professional jobs after gaining experience.
“I did not allow these circumstances and obligations to discourage me, but rather made me more determined to achieve my goals,” he shared.
He added, “As much as the people of determination come with a will. Our journey in this world is to deal with it well and work to confront it with all wisdom, tenderness, and calmness of mind.”
His friends and social circle have a significant impact on his life. It is also critical for him to establish positive relationships with his coworkers. The ability to communicate with and influence those around us allows us to stand out and contributes to our success.
He believes that one of the conditions for career success is the ability to effectively debate, in addition to developing the skill of listening to and understanding the other party, but in the event of some workplace problems, a person must deal wisely and rationally.
Ramy will always say that the thing he loves most about the UAE is its diversity, which preserves dignity and secures rights without favor or pretension. In his words, “Everyone has a place, and creativity and innovation are at the forefront.”
He is currently enjoying his current job because of the fiercely competitive environment in the restaurant industry. Dining out has become a worldwide phenomenon. In independent restaurants, people of all nationalities, ages, social classes, ethnic backgrounds, and genders can be seen eating and drinking.
Finally, despite all of his achievements in life, his ultimate goal for his family is to support his children and teach them how to contribute effectively to the community while also building their future.
The United Arab Emirates is thought to be the home of millions of expatriates from various nations, races, and cultures. Despite being a diverse community, the country has evolved in peace and harmony over the decades. Locals and expats coexist, looking forward to a brighter future and progressing along the path of development.
Emirates International Holdings Group LLC’s Chief Executive Officer, Abdul Razagh Mohammadi, says hard work and dedication are the keys to success. He has always believed that honesty is extremely important because it can save one’s dignity and can help you succeed in any endeavor you undertake.
Abdul Razagh is also referred to as ‘Abu Nader’. He owns the Philippine Supermarket in Dubai, which was founded 20 years ago. This idea arose when he considered how he could help Filipinos in Dubai experience the Philippines even though they were far from home.
“Throughout my business career in Dubai, which spanned over 30 years, I studied different nationalities and found that Filipinos have something to offer that I appreciate more than other nationalities,” he said.
He also stated that when it comes to work, responsibility, and business, Filipinos are the most trust-worthy, and they will not betray you as long as you support them.
Before deciding to launch a breakthrough supermarket that will cater the Filipino community, this Emirati national thoroughly researched the Filipino culture to distinguish their likes and dislikes, as well as study the Filipino tradition. He discovered that if you make Filipinos happy, they will give you more. To fully grasp everything, he took his studies to a more experiential level, traveling to the Philippines to study the community systematically.
He also shared, “One of the distinct qualities I noticed about Filipinos is their love for food. I consider that to be part of their nationalism. In comparison to the rest of the world, you feel the closest to your country. It is because you respect the culture and customs of your country.”
It is Abu Nader’s initiative to provide Filipinos with Philippine products that allows Kabayans in the UAE to feel at home no matter how far they are from home.
Aside from starting a business that is in line with Filipino culture, Abu Nader is an angel to all Filipinos because he helps these people without hesitation. This kind of Emirati even hired some Filipinos who were looking for work in the UAE.
An Emirati with a heart for helping expats in need.
He also extends his hand to assist needy Filipinos, especially during the pandemic, when everyone is concerned about their lives. He distributed food baskets to Filipinos who had lost their jobs and those who were on visit visas.
“My biggest objective in life is to help people, so when I am in my supermarkets and I see someone looking for a job, or having a problem, I tend to help them,” he said.
He is the type of leader who ensures that he becomes an inspiration to everyone. He is a hands-on business owner who works almost 24/7, just to ensure that all of his employees are safe and sound. He always has a helping hand for every Filipinos who needs his assistance.
Abu Nader is a strategic leader who is constantly on the lookout for goodness and generosity. When there is a problem or a complaint in his workplace, he resolves it
immediately. He wishes to keep everything as smooth and pleasant as possible.
His message to all expats is, “Be more hardworking and faithful to your responsibilities.” As a resident of this nation, if you are honest and good, we will certainly repay you. Keep working hard and remain loyal to your country and ours.”
There is music everywhere. It can define emotions, heal souls, and inspire imagination in the recollection of past experiences. Music can also make people feel good and help them stay motivated in life. Music’s power creates a universal language that connects people, cultures, and passions all over the world.
Making people happy is the pinnacle of everything for someone whose life revolves around the world of music. DJ Smith, a 36-year-old Brazilian Disc Jockey, describes his life as a man of sounds and beats this way. Beats that travel through people who want to enjoy life and make memories with friends in various locations.
DJ Smith was born in Brazil’s capital and has been a DJ since he was 14 years old. He began with the vinyl record. He has a marketing degree and a postgraduate degree, and he has always worked with marketing and events throughout his life. Before moving to Dubai, he worked in Brazil for companies such as Maserati, Coca-Cola, Harley-Davidson, and Red Bull for over three years.
Music has been in DJ Smith’s blood since he was a child. He took his first DJ course when he was 14 and won first place in a local radio contest. He needed permission from his parents to enter nightclubs because he was a minor at the time. DJ Smith aspires to be an international DJ.
Making a name for himself in the industry has never been easy. He must make an extra effort to be known by everyone. He was born and raised in one of Latin America’s most impoverished communities, and making a name for himself in his chosen field is difficult. DJ Smith, on the other hand, is determined to wait his turn. He is now regarded as one of the best Latin American DJs in Dubai.
DJ Smith is known for his upbeat music and has performed at high-end parties in Dubai such as Float Dubai, Sofitel Dubai, and Grand Plaza Movenpick. He is also one of only a few Brazilian DJs scheduled to perform at Expo Dubai 2020.
He has been living in Dubai Marina for three years, working as a DJ for Field Network. Apart from scratching his decks, he is a generous philanthropist in Brazil. In his spare time, he advocates for poor communities in Brazil. He has two social projects for underserved communities, and he assists low-income people in making financial plans for the future.
“ I’m doing my best for my country, for my people. I’m teaching my countrymen everything I’ve learned in Dubai. And, using Tiktok as a platform, I try to help people in my country,” he explained.
Life is full of beats
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked DJ Smith about his struggles before settling, he revealed that in Brazil, local DJs are undervalued and must work two or three jobs to make ends meet. In his case, he worked three jobs to make a decent living. During the party, he worked as a beauty product delivery man and even as a child caretaker.
“I’ve done so much in my life before becoming a DJ. Fortunately, I now earn 20 times what I did in Brazil, despite the agony of battles,” he added.
DJ Smith is fortunate to have a job that allows him to pursue his passion. He adores music and, at the same time, enjoys making people happy. People believe that a DJ’s job is simply to arrive at a venue and play songs, but this is not the case. According to him, they must plan ahead of time and carefully select each song that they believe will please the audience.
“Seeing everyone happy whenever I’m playing is satisfying,” he said.
Although making beats is his passion, he still has struggles that he must face to survive the realities of life. It was extremely difficult for him when he arrived in Dubai. He decided to take a chance and sold everything he owned in Brazil. He arrived in the emirate near the end of the pandemic and went months without touching his decks. But he never gave up, and now he plays 20-25 times per month.
DJ Smith is now regarded as the most influential Brazilian DJ in Dubai. The DJ who plays the most popular and current music. He also works as an influencer, and many Brazilians visit Dubai after seeing his videos on Instagram and TikTok.
Finally, his ultimate goal is to bring all of his family and friends to Dubai. He wants them to experience what it’s like to live in a first-world, intelligent country. He is also certain that their lives will change as he does. He intends to settle permanently in Dubai with his family in the future.
by Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis
The magic behind the heartbreaking story of “Freud in Love”
story, which is either a real event or includes experiences and truth, must be original and interesting, it must be worth telling. In this book, the relationship of a married person with a single woman is not original, but it makes it interesting the fact that he is a psychoanalyst and she is an astrologer, it certainly acquires a different reading approach.
The moral of the story in the book is the “message” it conveys to the reader. Maro has been influenced and continues to be influenced mainly by foreign writers, such as Marques, Allende, Bolaño, Thafon, but also Philip Roth and Doris Lessing. Some modern Greeks she loves to be influenced by are Sfakianakis and Sotakis, but in general Greek authors are not her cup of tea.
Maro believes that reading books broadens horizons and creates badge in a nation’s culture. Unfortunately, many nations don’t love reading though.
Economic reasons made her decide to become a journalist and not practice her studies in French Literature. At the
age of 19, she had to work, she could not continue to be a burden on her family’s finances. At that time, due to her journalist father, journalism was the only option she had, convenient for her, so she did it along with her studies in French Literature. Then she remained in that industry.
She talks about the values a journalist should have, and she pinpoints the necessity of a code of ethics, in order to know what is to be broadcast and what is not to be broadcast, something that existed recently on other TV channels like BBC. Now, she doubts if it does exist anymore. Beyond that, a journalist should, as in other professions, be honest and high-minded.
She continues by saying that journalists are not like that today. She wishes all journalists should have listened to what they were told by their teachers, that journalism is a purpose and not a profession.
Maro Leonardou is a journalist and author. She was born in Belgrade, Serbia in 1965. She grew up in Athens and she graduated from Maraslio School in 1983. Graduating from French Literature in 1987, she worked for 33 years, from 1984 to 2017, as a journalist for television stations such as ANTENNA (ANT1) and MEGA, newspapers such as MESIMVRINI, EVDOMI, REAL NEWS and on radio stations such as ERA 1, FLASH, REAL FM. She has three children and a grandchild.
Her sixth consecutive book titled “Freud in Love” is a love story about heartbreak. There is much pain in most of the similar stories, as long as there are still stories of love and affection.
A psychoanalyst who is married falls in love during a flight from London with an unmarried astrologer who is seeking true love. Through their story, the reader is guided through the paths of psychoanalysis and astrology, not conventional astrology, as we know it today, but the occult one that was once a Science, a Magic and a Medicine.
Maro Leonardou mentions two things...First of all, the
Maro Leonardou believes that there has never been objective journalism since it draws its conclusions and research from different sources. And the “sources” are the propaganda of each political party, businesspeople or any other entity that echoes the message to a certain target group. It is just that in the past there was concealed objectivity, while today all pretexts have fallen.
Maro misses the ‘live’ on television. What journalists say on a live broadcast during a big event, wherever it happens. This fascinates her that she has a split second to think and needs to be quick-witted, fast and apt. In a sense, she could have become a pilot too, once it requires more or less the same qualifications as the job of a journalist, excluding the verbal skills.
As for her future dreams, she wants to write more books, maybe she gets more professionally involved in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, which for the moment is her new hobby-occupation, maybe at some point she moves to Kythira, her favorite island.
Before concluding this interview she adds her motto “Never put off until next time what you can do now”.
Caroline Ralston is the UAE’s very own marriage proposal planner, making dreams come true for hundreds of couples who have chosen to make the Emirates their venue of choice for marriage proposals. The founder of Proposal Boutique, the UAE’s first proposal planning business, Caroline is a well-known and revered figure in the travel and event planning industry. Established in 2014, after she noticed a high demand for wedding planners in the region, she saw there was no one helping men with their marriage proposals and so she launched Proposal Boutique. With her first client confirmed the day the website went live, it was evident that demand for this service was high.
A UK-born, Dubai resident, Caroline earned a First Class Honors Degree in Travel and Tourism Management from the UK in 2007. Innately passionate about the travel industry, she loved studying emerging travel markets and trends whilst at university and it was this love of travel that led her to the UAE in 2011 to pursue a career with Emirates Airline, where she gained a wealth of first-class experience.
Coupled with her experience and management degree Caroline is a tenacious leader who is pioneering the destination proposal movement in the UAE. Leading a
fast-growing startup in a new and developing category, Caroline is a true creative who is always looking for new and inventive ways to expand her business and offer her clients an even wider range of proposal ideas. She and her growing team offer an incredibly high standard of personalized service with attention to detail that is second to none. A force to be reckoned with, Caroline followed her passion and launched Proposal Boutique in 2014. Her unwavering passion and motivation for providing unique, magical wedding proposals that are true to each couple, she relentlessly helps men from all over the world give their perfect proposal whilst in Dubai. Generating a proposal plan that has so far had a 100% success rate, Caroline and her team will work with a client’s own idea as well as offer a series of bespoke ideas for men who don’t know where to start, all to ensure that their partners utter the threeletter word ‘YES!’, as well as enjoy an unforgettable experience that they will remember forever.
Operating for eight years, Caroline is proud to have planned over 400 marriage proposals and has worked with a multitude of footballers, YouTube stars, international CEOs, global influencers and the region’s most luxurious venues to deliver dream proposals.
Emirati serial entrepreneur Ahmed Al Fahim is the Founder and CEO of Spot – the leading F&B operator in Abu Dhabi.
Over the last decade, Ahmed has played a variety of roles in his entrepreneurial journey as the founder of startups Mass Events (an events agency), The Rage (an annual flagship event), Scoot Mobility (an Emirati electric scooter mobility sharing company to equip the local community with cost-effective and eco-friendly transport solutions), Shot Specialty Coffee (a premium specialty coffee brand operating across 8 locations in the UAE) and Spot (the leading F&B operator in Abu Dhabi, which provides spaces or ‘spots’ to popular local F&B brands to nurture their business growth).
What sets Ahmed apart is the unique position and
perspective he has always maintained, which is grounded in a hardcore innovation with deep roots in community-based entrepreneurship. His intense creativity and curiosity has always led him to explore disruptive approaches to solve economic and social problems, while empowering SMEs through costeffective and traffic-driving business solutions.
Ahmed, a Griffith University Alumni through the Bachelor of Business Undergraduate program, holds a degree in Human Resource Management and a post graduate degree in International Affairs from Zayed University, UAE. He has also undertaken an executive certification from the Wharton Business School in Pennsylvania
The Department of Culture and Tourism –Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled its latest campaign: Experience Abu Dhabi. Find Your Pace. The campaign shares the variety of experiences that inspire, excite and restore, welcoming the world to come and enjoy memorable moments that matter – in their own way, and at their own pace.
Experience Abu Dhabi shows the seamless connections between a wealth of cultural heritage, alongside exciting experiences. Yas Island welcomes the world with year-round theme park action and waterfront attractions, with events and entertainment for families and all ages. Only 15 minutes away, Saadiyat Island is filled with living culture, home to Louvre Abu Dhabi’s timeless inspiration and unforgettable architecture.
Located at the heart of the island, Saadiyat Cultural District hosts community events and exhibitions at Manarat Al Saadiyat, alongside Berklee Abu Dhabi, the pre-eminent institute of contemporary music and the performing arts. The district is also the future home of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and the immersive art of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Nearby, pristine beaches and coastal avenues are lined with cafes and dining options at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, to enjoy over a breathtaking sunset.
Just over an hour from these remarkable island experiences, Abu Dhabi invites visitors to ignite their curiosity by visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites in Al Ain, experience adventure and tranquillity among the desert dunes, and embrace Abu Dhabi’s fascinating
past with iconic museums and ancient forts.
The campaign welcomes the world to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s enriching experiences at their own pace, with:
Explore the nation’s living memorial and the narrator of Abu Dhabi’s history, Qasr Al Hosn, an 18th-century stone building in the heart of city. It is also home to the House of Artisans, which celebrates Emirati heritage and enduring tradition of craftsmanship. Within the same day, you can discover inspiration at Louvre Abu Dhabi, through stunning architecture, art collections and artefacts.
From stargazing and glamping at Jebel Hafit Desert Park to walking the shaded oasis pathways in the garden city of Al Ain, visitors can also enjoy the sunkissed beaches of Saadiyat Island, take in wildlife safaris on Sir Bani Yas Island and escape to the tranquil desert serenity of the Empty Quarter.
Abu Dhabi’s sandscapes offer endless opportunities for dune buggies and sand surfing, while the thrills of the world’s largest indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World
Abu Dhabi on Yas Island, will create memories to last a lifetime. Minutes away discover the world-famous Yas Marina F1 Circuit and indoor adventures at CLYMB and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi is a global hub for events, with an actionpacked calendar that has something for everyone to enjoy. Recently hosting the first-ever NBA games in the region, as well as sold-out UFC and WBA boxing title fights, Abu Dhabi also enchanted families and younger visitors with the Middle East debut of the internationally renowned Broadway show, Disney’s The Lion King musical, as well as the captivating Disney on Ice.
Looking ahead, music lovers have so much to get excited about, with performances by Andrea Bocelli, Post Malone, Imagine Dragons, Blackpink, Sting and John Legend, with Kendrick Lamar and Swedish House Mafia headlining concerts at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Pictured below: the peaceful Al Ain Oasis, indoor fun at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and wildlife safaris on Sir Bani Yas Island. With so many experiences that inspire, excite and restore, there is something for everyone in Abu Dhabi and so much waiting to be discovered, at your own pace.
Start planning your trip now at: visitabudhabi.ae.
Mental health platform Ayadi looks to steer the conversation toward the all-important goal of self-awareness as the first step in tackling the region’s mental health crisis
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 10 October 2022: For World Mental Health Day, the important annual reminder of the need to take a moment to look after one’s mental health and well-being, Ayadi emphasizes the need to address this societally neglected aspect of our health through self-awareness as the first step toward improving the way in which we approach the stressors of modern life.
Mental health issues are largely neglected in our region. In the GCC, at least 15 percent of people, or more than one in eight individuals, are struggling with their mental health at any given time. And even this number is an understatement as many of those who face such challenges are yet to come to terms with their own mental state, and this is why self-awareness is the first step toward
a healthier, more balanced mind.
Gaining self-awareness is the process of arriving at a conscious knowledge of one’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as beliefs, feelings, thought processes and assumptions. It involves individuals cultivating an understanding of themselves and an improved ability to appraise the impact of their behavior on others without self-judgment. Self-awareness is not about self-criticism but about gaining a sense of bearing that helps individuals center themselves and have a better understanding of their own emotions whenever life becomes overwhelming.
There is a strong correlation between one’s selfawareness, mental wellbeing, emotional intelligence, and success. With greater self-awareness people can communicate better, have more meaningful relationships, and set productive life goals. It also allows for better management of stress and anxiety, both very common byproducts of today’s busy lifestyle.
For World Mental Health Day and the month of October, Ayadi is running a range of initiatives centered around self-awareness. People can start by taking a free self-awareness assessment on the platform’s website to better understand where they stand. Ayadi is also sharing informative content and actionable tips about selfawareness on its Instagram and TikTok accounts, while the new Ayadi community is open to individuals to come and ask experts for advice in semi-real time and connect with like-minded people in a safe, judgement-free space –all for free throughout October. Those who are ready for 1:1 expert support can save a total of 20% on their first two therapy sessions, as part of a promotion that runs throughout the month.
Ayadi is also taking an active part in shaping the conversation about mental health in the region by partnering with social media influencers, including Ali Najem, Yalda Golsharifi and Sara Al Homood, to advocate for self-awareness, and amplify and encourage the understanding of mental wellbeing.
Jason Derulo performed live on October 28th in Dubai’s home of live entertainment. The event was open for all ages with a standing area for ages 14+.
Since breaking through with his five-times-platinum single “Whatcha Say,” the award-winning singer/songwriter has sold more than 200 million records worldwide. His latest triumphs include emerging as one of TikTok’s most influential users, his 53 million followers put him as the 11th overall biggest account on the video-sharing
platform. Now at work on his highly anticipated fifth album—and full-length debut for Atlantic Records— Derulo recently delivered a series of smash singles while operating as an independent artist. Those tracks include “Lifestyle” feat. Adam Levine, “Take You Dancing”, and the double-platinum “Savage Love (Laxed - Siren Beat)”—which hit No. 1 on Top 40 radio, with its official BTS remix reaching the top slot on Billboard’s Hot 100.
Jason has accumulated over 18.2 BILLION streams globally in his career and with 117 million followers combined across all major social media platforms, it’s no surprise seeing Derulo as one of the biggest social media stars in music. His last three releases, “Savage Love”, “Acapulco”, and “Take You Dancing” have amassed +500 million views globally across all platforms.
Derulo has decided that summer of 2022 is his for taking. His next single “Sliding” which features Kodak Black has the energy and enthusiasm to be a summer hit. “Sliding” brings any listener into a better mood as the song is made for lying by the pool, hanging by the beach, or driving with the top down. It seems as though Jason has a knack for laying undeniably catchy melodies on top of fun, upbeat production. The inclusion of Florida rapper Kodak Black as a feature gives the song the flair it needed to push it to the next level.
The event is brought to you by Full Circle in partnership with Coca-Cola Arena and Dubai Calendar
Sold-out crowd show their passion for the sport, as stars shine on court with Atlanta Hawks winning game two to seal a 2-0 victory image credit:
The historic NBA Games 2022 will live long in the memory of basketball fans as the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks turned on the style once again at Etihad Arena on Saturday night.
Following a high-scoring opening game on Thursday night which saw the Hawks run out 123113 winners, the two teams played out another thrilling encounter, with the Hawks made it two wins from two in the Etihad Arena, sealing a 118109 victory, to the delight of yet another sold-out Etihad Arena crowd.
With team mascots Harry the Hawk and Bango doing their best to whip up the crowd with interesting dance moves and antics, cries of “Let’s go Hawks”, “Let’s Go Bucks” reverberated around the arena as star players traded dunks, three pointers, blocks, and free throws.
Star man Trae Young made his mark on Abu Dhabi, finishing with 31 points on Saturday to secure a morale-boosting win for team as both sides now head back to the US to continue preparations for the new season.
The NBA fun doesn’t stop there in Abu Dhabi however, with the NBA District, an immersive, interactive event with numerous basketball-themed activities open for one day on Sunday at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Doors open at 12pm. Entry is AED 55 per person and tickets can be purchased at www. ticketmaster.ae.
