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- Do Nuts Really Make You Gain Weight?
Do nuts make you gain weight? Nutritionist Mitun De Sarkar explains why portions matter more than the food itself, and how to fit nuts into your diet. Do Nuts Really Make You Gain Weight? Do nuts make you gain weight? Nutritionist Mitun De Sarkar explains why portions matter more than the food itself, and how to fit nuts into your diet. by Layla Hasan 28 Sep 2026 Nuts are often among the first foods people reconsider when trying to manage their weight. They are nutrient-dense, relatively high in calories and easy to eat by the handful. But the idea that eating nuts automatically leads to weight gain misses a more important question: how much are you eating, how often, and how do they fit into the rest of your diet? According to nutritionist Mitun De Sarkar, the focus should be on understanding portions and the role a food plays within the wider diet, rather than categorising individual foods as either “good” or “bad”. “Rather than asking whether one particular food causes weight gain, it’s more useful to look at how much you’re eating, how often you’re eating it and what role that food plays in your overall diet.” Energy-dense doesn’t mean nutritionally empty Nuts are energy-dense, meaning they provide a relatively high amount of energy in a relatively small portion. But energy density and nutritional value are not the same thing. Take pecans. Along with their naturally sweet flavour and buttery texture, they provide predominantly unsaturated fats, dietary fibre, plant-based protein and a range of vitamins and minerals. A 28g serving of American pecans — about 19 halves — provides around 196 calories, 2.7g of fibre and 2.6g of protein. Pecans are also a good source of thiamin and zinc, and an excellent source of copper and manganese. The point isn’t to ignore calories. It’s to understand what you’re getting from the portion you’re eating. The portion can disappear surprisingly quickly This is where nuts can become easy to overeat. A standard serving of American pecans is around 28g — approximately 19 pecan halves. Put that amount into a small bowl, and it looks quite different from sitting with an open bag and eating without keeping track. Mitun recommends a simple approach: at the beginning of the week, divide pecans into individual 25–30g portions using small reusable containers or meal-prep bags. You have a visual reference for what a portion looks like and a ready-to-go option when you want one. “Eating directly from a large bag makes it very difficult to judge quantity. Pre-portioning isn’t about restriction. It’s simply a practical way of knowing how much you’ve chosen to eat.” Slow down enough to enjoy them How you eat matters too. Eating while answering emails, scrolling through your phone or watching television can make it surprisingly easy to lose track of how much you’ve eaten. Instead, put your portion into a bowl, step away from the packet and actually taste it. Pecans have a naturally sweet flavour and buttery texture, so there is something to be said for slowing down enough to enjoy them rather than treating them as something to mindlessly snack on. So, should you avoid nuts if you’re managing your weight? Not necessarily. For most people, the more useful approach is not to fear an individual food but to understand how it fits into the bigger picture. Portion awareness matters. Overall dietary intake matters. And the nutritional value of what you choose matters too. So if you’ve been avoiding nuts simply because you’ve heard they’re “fattening”, it may be time to reconsider the question. You don’t need to fear the handful. You just need to know what a handful looks like. You might also like The First Year of Motherhood Is More Than the Baby The Four Questions Even the Most Successful People Struggle to Answer About Themselves
- Rave Dines: Savor the Flavors of Il Gattopardo, DIFC’s Hidden Gem
Our Rave Dines review of Il Gattopardo, DIFC: 1960s Italian glamour on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place, with sweeping Burj Khalifa views. Rave Dines: Savor the Flavors of Il Gattopardo, DIFC’s Hidden Gem Our Rave Dines review of Il Gattopardo, DIFC: 1960s Italian glamour on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place, with sweeping Burj Khalifa views. by Khadija Husain 10 Jan 2025 Flashy restaurant interiors are not hard to come by in Dubai, but an indulgent meal in a jazzy, sophisticated setting is a rare luxury. So, how does newcomer Il Gattopardo in Dubai measure up? Inspired by the spirit of 1960s Italy and named after the iconic novel Il Gattopardo, this restaurant in DIFC pays homage to that golden era while joining the family of other prestigious international names such as Coya, Zuma, and Amazónico. Il Gattopardo brings the elegance of Italian dining from London’s Mayfair to ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, Dubai. Perched on the 51st floor, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline, including the majestic Burj Khalifa. From the moment you step inside, Il Gattopardo transports you to the heart of Italy, enveloping you in an ambience that seamlessly blends glamour, sophistication, and warmth, embodying the refined luxury of the Italian Riviera. As we entered, we were greeted by a striking leopard sculpture—a nod to the restaurant's literary namesake. Designed by the acclaimed Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the interiors combine the cosmopolitan energy of Milan with the romance of Venice. With a warm colour palette, bold splashes of cobalt blue, glossy wood, chrome accents, and elegant leopard motifs enhance the space, while Italian-inspired art and artisan murals celebrate Italy’s rich cultural history. Whether for lunch or dinner, the ambience remains intimate and inviting, with lowered dining areas ensuring every guest enjoys a stunning view of the Dubai skyline. However, the true showstopper is the menu, curated by Executive Chef Massimo Pasquarelli, a native of Italy’s Abruzzo region. Designed to be shared, the à la carte offerings celebrate modern Italian cuisine with a focus on Sicily, Amalfi, and the Southern Isles. The attentive staff waited to enhance the experience, making the dining journey even more enjoyable. We were treated to a parade of dishes, each a modern interpretation of Italian classics crafted from seasonal ingredients and local produce. Our meal began with the refreshing Pere e Noci salad, a delightful combination of sweet pears, toasted walnuts, and baby spinach, elevated by the bold flavour of Gorgonzola. This light, refreshing dish set the perfect tone for what was to come. For the Antipasti, the Carpaccio Manzo stood out. Thin slices of black Angus carpaccio were elegantly paired with truffle shavings, Parmesan, and pink peppercorns, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. As a nod to Italian tradition, we also shared a Margherita Pizza—a bite of tradition with its simple yet sublime mozzarella fior di latte, Datterino tomato sauce, and basil oil. The pizza was a comforting bite of tradition, where each ingredient shone through—a true Italian staple. Moving on to the Primi Piatti , the Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli left us in awe. These pillowy ravioli, filled with sweet pumpkin and smothered in a luscious Parmesan cream, were further enriched by the texture and nuttiness of toasted pumpkin seeds adding depth to the dish. For the Secondi , we had the Milanese Veal Tomahawk . This generously sized veal cutlet, Tender and cooked to perfection, was accompanied by caper & lemon brown butter and anchovy cream, offering a balance of richness and brightness. To finish the meal, we were served the cheese selection, Tagliere , showcased the best of Italy’s artisanal cheeses—a must-try for any cheese lover. The combination of robust, creamy, and tangy flavours was a delightful way to end the savoury portion of our feast. But the triumph of the evening was the dessert menu, curated by Head Pastry Chef Galileo Reposo. We indulged in two decadent options: the classic Tiramisu, with its espresso-soaked ladyfingers and airy mascarpone cream, and the Vanilla Crema Cotta, paired with a scoop of pistachio ice cream. Both desserts were a perfect sweet ending to an unforgettable meal. Chef Reposo’s creations, particularly the Tiramisu, have garnered a viral following, and for good reason—it lingered in our minds for days afterwards. To accompany our meal, we enjoyed a refreshing Pina Colada —a tropical, fruity contrast that paired beautifully with the rich flavours of the evening. The dining area exudes quiet elegance with plush seating, warm lighting, and statement chandeliers that add character to the space. The open kitchen infuses energy into the main dining room. As the sun sets and Dubai's lights twinkle, the atmosphere becomes even more magical, making it an ideal setting for a romantic dinner or an intimate gathering with friends. For those seeking exclusivity, Il Gattopardo also offers private dining rooms—Sofia and Gina—named after Italian cinematic icons Sophia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida. These rooms provide a perfect setting for intimate gatherings, while the vibrant lounge, with its resident DJ spinning retro Italian hits and tracks from the La Dolce Vita era, transforms into a lively late-night destination. Final Thoughts In a city brimming with Italian flair, Il Gattopardo stands out as a luxurious yet welcoming dining destination. Offering an unparalleled experience that transports you to Italy while embracing the glamour of Dubai, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it's a leisurely lunch, a late-night aperitivo, or a private celebration. Il Gattopardo is a place to see and be seen, capturing the essence of la dolce vita. The space, the service, and the food—all shine brightest when Italian simplicity is celebrated. To paraphrase the adage, a leopard never changes its spots—and neither does a great Italian recipe. Opening Hours: Restaurant: Lunch 12–3 PM | Business Lunch 12-3PM I Dinner 7 PM–1:30 AM Lounge: 12 PM–1:30 AM Contact Information: Website: Il Gattopardo Dubai Reservations: reservations@gattopardo.ae or +971 4 498 1727 Image courtesy of Il Gattopardo. You might also like Rave Dines: Batliwala & Co. Review, Menu and What to Order Rave Dines: Al Hallab, Dubai Mall
- How WHOOP Became a Defining Accessory for a Performance-Driven Generation
From Al-Nassr to the NBA and Rory McIlroy, the screenless WHOOP band has become a quiet status signal. Here's how it won over a performance-driven generation. How WHOOP Became a Defining Accessory for a Performance-Driven Generation From Al-Nassr to the NBA and Rory McIlroy, the screenless WHOOP band has become a quiet status signal. Here's how it won over a performance-driven generation. by Aziz Mansoor 25 Mar 2026 There is a new kind of bracelet gracing the wrists of some of the world’s visible figures. It doesn’t glitter. It carries no logo you can read at a glance. It has no face, no dial. And yet, in a world obsessed with status, it is becoming one of the more recognisable signals in certain circles. It is the WHOOP. From the training grounds of Al-Nassr to the locker rooms of the NBA; from the pristine greens where Rory McIlroy walks his rounds to the pool deck where Michael Phelps once chased gold — the WHOOP band has settled onto the wrists of the elite. In the UAE, its presence is felt close to home: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and a man whose influence extends far beyond the UAE , has been photographed wearing the discreet band. This is not a story about technology. It is about what performance now looks like—and how we choose to signal it and how a screenless band, in a world of screens, became the quietest status symbol of our time. Luxury has always communicated restraint—the confidence to not explain oneself. WHOOP, in a curiously similar way, speaks only to those already in the know — a group of high performers who understand that the data on their wrist is arguably more compelling than traditional ornament. Where once a Patek Philippe told you about his wealth, the WHOOP tells you something arguably more intimate: how he sleeps, trains, and manages his body . In an era when optimised longevity is increasingly becoming an aspiration among the ultra-wealthy — when biohacking is fast becoming the new marker of serious intent — this is information worth wearing. WHOOP’s valuation tells its own story. From USD 1.2 billion in 2020, it has climbed to approximately USD 3.7 billion by 2025. It signals a broader cultural shift towards valuing how the body performs as much as how it appears. That shift finds its clearest expression in the latest iteration. WHOOP 5.0 launched in May 2025, it is the most refined expression yet. Seven per cent slimmer than its predecessor, it sits against the skin with the kind of unobtrusiveness that couture designers spend careers pursuing. The new LeatherLuxe band — crafted from genuine Italian leather — positions itself less as a gadget and more as an accessory. Beneath that refined exterior, the engineering is extraordinary. A redesigned processor delivers ten times the power efficiency of the previous generation, while sensors capture physiological data twenty-six times per second. Battery life, once a practical inconvenience, is now a non-issue: the WHOOP 5.0 runs for fourteen days on a single charge. But the most compelling addition is what WHOOP calls Healthspan — a feature that calculates your “WHOOP Age,” a biologically derived number that may differ significantly from the one on your passport. It tracks your pace of ageing, correlating nine distinct health metrics developed in partnership with Dr. Eric Verdin, CEO of the Buck Institute for Research on Ageing. In a moment where ageing well has become a new marker of refinement , knowing your biological age with scientific precision holds a certain currency. Part of WHOOP’s cultural power lies in its roll call of wearers. The list begins to feel less like marketing and more like testimony. Cristiano Ronaldo — global ambassador and investor since 2024 — wears his through training sessions and matches. LeBron James monitors his sleep and recovery with it. Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, uses it to track his heart rate variability. Tiger Woods, Stephen Curry, Patrick Mahomes, Rory McIlroy: the names accumulate into something that feels less like marketing and more like testimony. What is notable is not merely the fame of these names but what their adoption of WHOOP says about the evolving relationship between elite performance and everyday aspiration. When Ronaldo publicly shared his WHOOP data during Euro 2024, revealing the precise moment his heart rate dropped before a crucial penalty, it was not an advertisement. It offered an unusually transparent glimpse that drew widespread attention . Performance is no longer just witnessed; it is measured, shared, and compared. In January 2026, WHOOP announced a partnership with the Ferrari Formula One team, providing the band to drivers, pit crew, and engineers. The message is clear: WHOOP is beyond athletes alone. It is for anyone who performs under pressure — and who wants to know, precisely, how their body responds. T he question, then, is how it is styled. WHOOP presents an interesting challenge: it is a device that functions best when worn constantly, and yet it must coexist with the full spectrum of a wardrobe — from sportswear to suiting, from beach to boardroom. Here, WHOOP’s screenless design becomes its greatest aesthetic asset. Without a display demanding attention, it recedes from the outfit rather than competing with it. Worn beneath a cuff, it disappears entirely. Worn visible on a bare wrist or bicep, it reads as an intentional, knowing choice that s ubtly signals intent to a discerning eye . The new LeatherLuxe band in particular bridges worlds. Paired with a tailored blazer, it reads as a refined accessory. Against the canvas of a performance tee, it is pure sport. This versatility — the ability to move between codes without dissonance — is the hallmark of truly great design. WHOOP also offers its AnyWear technology, embedding the sensor pod into technical garments — sports bras, shorts, sleeve mounts. For those who prefer their wrists unadorned, data collection continues invisibly, sewn into the fabric of the outfit itself. In this way, WHOOP hints at where fashion is heading — clothing that does more. Final Word WHOOP is in that moment now. It began in the labs and locker rooms of elite sport. It moved through the venture capital world, through Silicon Valley, through the hands of royalty and record-breakers. And now it sits on wrists across the world. Fashion has always been about aspiration. What WHOOP understands, perhaps better than most fashion brands, is that there’s a growing shift from looking the part to performing at one’s best . To sleep as intentionally, to recover as intelligently, to age as gracefully as the best in the world. One of the more interesting things to wear right now does not have a logo or a dial. It tracks, measures, and suggests that the most valuable data might simply be your own. Wear it well.
- Bisou Introduces A Late-Night Four-Course Tasting Menu
Bisou at Dubai Opera Plaza launches Le Grand Bisou, an AED 300 four-course late-night tasting menu served daily from 9pm, starting with signature bites. Bisou Introduces A Late-Night Four-Course Tasting Menu Bisou at Dubai Opera Plaza launches Le Grand Bisou, an AED 300 four-course late-night tasting menu served daily from 9pm, starting with signature bites. by Yara Basima 13 Sep 2025 Bisou, the French-Middle Eastern restaurant located at Dubai Opera Plaza, has launched its new late-night dining concept, Le Grand Bisou. Priced at 300 AED, the four-course menu is available daily from 9:00 PM until late, offering a refined evening experience for Dubai’s late-night diners. The tasting journey begins with a welcome drink and a platter of three signature bites, followed by a choice of starters highlighting seasonal produce and inventive pairings. Options include the Grande Salade Verte with homemade pistachio sauce, seafood-based creations, and modern interpretations of classics such as Artichoke Carpaccio with parmesan and Beef Tartare with crispy fries. For the main course, dishes showcase Bisou’s French-Middle Eastern influence. Selections include Lamb Shoulder with parsnip mash and black pepper sauce, Salmon with broccolini and Bisou’s green sauce, and the Rigatoni Cacio e Pepe, enriched with Comté cheese. The experience concludes with dessert and a choice of tea or coffee. Guests may select from the Opera Cake, Baked Alaska, Chocolate Cake, or Honey Cake. Designed by acclaimed interior architect Tristan Du Plessis, Bisou features black-and-white checkered floors, curated bookshelves, art-filled walls, and a grand central staircase. The interiors combine French-romantic elements with modern design, creating a space that is elegant yet vibrant. Part of the Metafoodies Group portfolio, Bisou is led by Brand Chef Vladimir Chistyakov, whose culinary direction merges the elegance of French gastronomy with the hospitality of Arabic traditions. With Le Grand Bisou, the restaurant aims to offer Dubai’s night owls a new option for late-night dining that blends bold flavours, premium ingredients, and refined presentation. Location: Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai, UAE Hours: Daily from 9:00 PM until late Price: 300 AED (4 courses with welcome drink) Website: bisou.metafoodiesgroup.com
- Mlle Paola Unveils "The Wonders of Courage" Perfume Collection
Paola El Sitt's Mlle Paola launches The Wonders of Courage: four Extraits de Parfum, MP 33, 39, 66 and 99, created with SYMRISE to embody strength. Mlle Paola Unveils "The Wonders of Courage" Perfume Collection Paola El Sitt's Mlle Paola launches The Wonders of Courage: four Extraits de Parfum, MP 33, 39, 66 and 99, created with SYMRISE to embody strength. Rave Staff 22 Jul 2024 Mlle Paola, the renowned perfume brand founded by socialite and entrepreneur Paola El Sitt, proudly introduces its latest collection, "The Wonders of Courage." This highly anticipated collection features four unique Extraits de Parfum: MP 33, MP 39, MP 66, and MP 99, each crafted to embody strength, resilience, and the power to overcome life's challenges. Since its inception in 2016, Mlle Paola has been a symbol of courage, strength, and self-expression in the fashion and beauty industry. Building on the success of her first fragrance, "MP by Paola," launched in 2019, Paola El Sitt has collaborated once again with SYMRISE, a Paris-based global leader in perfume manufacturing. "The Wonders of Courage" collection represents a significant milestone, showcasing Paola’s dedication to quality, excellence, and her positive outlook on life. The inspiration behind this newly launched collection stems from Paola's determination in overcoming personal struggles to bring her vision to life and launch the brand, with descriptors for her line of scents coinciding with the four values she carried with her throughout this journey, strength, balance, adaptability, and faith. From the delicate freshness of MP 33 to the irresistible allure of MP 39, and the summer bliss captured in MP 66, to the intriguing fascination of MP 99, every fragrance in the collection is a symphony of exquisite notes, harmoniously crafted to evoke emotions of resilience and perseverance.
- Hôtel Royal Evian: The Palace That Gave the Water Its Name
The 1909 Lake Geneva palace behind the world's most famous water — and one of Europe's most quietly grand escapes Hôtel Royal Evian: The Palace That Gave the Water Its Name The 1909 Lake Geneva palace behind the world's most famous water — and one of Europe's most quietly grand escapes by Sarah Ellison 16 Sep 2026 Everyone in the Gulf knows Evian — the bottle turns up at every dinner table, gym and spa reception in the country. Far fewer know the town behind it: a spa resort on the French shore of Lake Geneva, where the name comes with a five-star address. And fewer still realise that the palace at its heart, Hôtel Royal Evian, has spent more than a century welcoming royalty, heads of state and film stars — and, twice in the past two decades, the leaders of the world's biggest economies. Old-world grand and entirely unashamed of it, it makes a surprisingly easy case as a GCC escape once the Gulf summer has outstayed its welcome. The region and the bottle share a name for a reason. Evian's natural mineral water rises through the Alps around Évian-les-Bains, and the town built its reputation as one of Europe's original spa destinations on exactly that — people have been coming here to “take the waters” for well over a century. Hôtel Royal carries that heritage into its 1,700-square-metre evian ®SPA: indoor and outdoor pools, a hydro-circuit and treatments built, as the spa puts it, around the life cycle of the mineral water itself. It's a piece of provenance most travellers never stop to connect, and it's quietly the most interesting thing about the place. Opened in 1909, the Royal was built for the kind of clientele who travelled with trunks and titles — royalty, heads of state, the occasional film star — and it has never really stopped. In June 2003 it hosted the G8 Summit, famously housing every delegation under a single roof; in June 2026 it was named the official venue of the G7 Summit — the second time this one hotel has been the room where the world's major economies meet. That is an endorsement money cannot manufacture. The Belle Époque bones are still very much on show, from the Grand Salon to the Édouard VII and Royal suites, and the hotel carries its history without tipping into museum territory. What saves it from being a pretty heritage stopover is how much there is to actually do. The Evian Resort Golf Club is the headline act, and not a gentle one — it is the annual home of the Evian Championship, one of women's golf's five majors, so you are playing a genuine tournament course with the lake below you. Tennis courts, the spa and a spread of restaurants fill out the rest of the day. Families are genuinely looked after here rather than merely tolerated: there are children's clubs and proper activity programmes, so parents can slip off to a treatment or a long lunch with a clear conscience. The estate is large enough that an internal transfer service shuttles you between the golf, the restaurants and the rooms, which tells you plenty about the scale of the thing. The practical case is strong. Geneva Airport is about 45 kilometres away — roughly an hour by road, or around fifteen minutes by helicopter onto the resort's own helipad — so the Alps arrive without an afternoon lost to transfers. The pay-off is fresh mountain air and cool lake mornings at exactly the point in the year when the Gulf is still running hot. It works for a multigenerational family holiday, a golf-and-spa week, or a slower wellness reset in one of the towns that helped establish the European spa tradition. For a European escape that trades the usual city-break for something quieter and altogether grander, this is an easy one to talk yourself into. For more of RAVE's European escapes, read our guides to Graubünden and Georgia . You Might Also Like Why Graubünden Should Be Your Next Swiss Getaway Maldives Resorts to Add to Your Summer Travel List The Best Private Pool Villas and Luxury Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah
- The Four Questions Even the Most Successful People Struggle to Answer About Themselves
Dubai-based Anita Ghosal on the four questions — Read, Recognise, Activate, Receive — high-achievers find hardest to answer about themselves. The Four Questions Even the Most Successful People Struggle to Answer About Themselves Dubai-based Anita Ghosal on the four questions — Read, Recognise, Activate, Receive — high-achievers find hardest to answer about themselves. by Khadija Husain 5 Oct 2026 You can read a room, a balance sheet or a negotiation in seconds — yet turn the same scrutiny on your own life, and the fluency tends to disappear. Anita Ghosal, the Dubai-based founder of Liberate Me™ has built a practice around that blind spot, after years of watching “enormously capable people build extraordinary success and still feel disconnected from who they actually are.” Her method moves through four stages — Read, Recognise, Activate and Receive — each built around a question most high-achievers have never sat still long enough to answe.. Fair warning: they’re harder than they look. 1. Read — What pattern keeps repeating in your life that you’ve never named? The people sharpest at spotting patterns everywhere else are often the ones who miss the patterns closest to home. The same kind of relationship that keeps ending the same way. The role you take on without being asked. The restlessness that arrives right after every win. You’ve felt it for years; you’ve just never had words for it. “Nothing in your life is random,” Ghosal says. “Your desires are not random. They are data.” Her point is unnervingly practical: the thing you keep circling isn't necessarily a flaw to fix — it's information you've been trained to ignore. Naming it is where the work begins. 2. Recognise — What if the problems in different parts of your life are the same problem? Ask Ghosal which question her most successful clients find hardest to answer about themselves, and it’s often the plainest one: “Why am I experiencing what I am experiencing?” It's harder than it sounds, because we file work, relationships, health and money in separate drawers, treat each strain as its own emergency, then reach for a label that makes the situation easier to explain. “We live through binary labels — toxic or healthy, narcissist or empath, success or failure — which can close the enquiry before we understand what an experience is revealing,” she says. Look at those separate parts of life as one conversation instead, and a less flattering but more useful picture can emerge: the distance between how a life looks and how it actually feels. When clients learn to read that disconnect, Ghosal says, they “often discover they are not broken; an identity has simply completed its season.” 3. Activate — What are you avoiding by staying this busy? Busyness is the most respectable form of avoidance there is: it looks like ambition and gets rewarded like virtue. “We wear exhaustion as status,” Ghosal says, “yet relentless busyness often hides control, avoidance and fear of what will surface if we stop.” She isn’t arguing for an empty calendar, though. “Not all busyness is the same: one kind performs an expired identity; the other carries you towards what is next.” The difference shows when the noise stops. Ghosal admits she once dreaded long flights “because there was nowhere to escape myself.” Now she values the stillness because, beneath the noise, she says, “we often meet pain, desire or the next identity already emerging.” 4. Receive — What would you choose if nobody needed anything from you? This is the one that tends to land after the notebook closes. Not what you should do or what's expected — what you'd actually reach for if no one were depending on your answer. Most people assume the answer would be dramatic: the resignation, the move, the clean break. Ghosal's experience suggests otherwise. “The first thing people choose differently is not necessarily the job, partner or country — it is who they are being within their own life.” The fear, she says, is that choosing yourself will cost you the life you’ve built. What she has seen is closer to the opposite: “when they stop being the martyr or fixer and become a muse, the people around them are given the opportunity to rise too.” None of this asks you to tear up the life you’ve built — only to read it more honestly. As Ghosal puts it: “We don’t need to fix ourselves. We need to understand the intelligence our life is already revealing.” You might also like Do Nuts Really Make You Gain Weight? Top Things to Do Across the UAE This October 2026
- Coldplay Concert Map, Ticket Prices, and Sale Dates
Coldplay at Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi: the seating map, ticket prices, pre-sale and general sale dates for the Music of the Spheres show. Coldplay Concert Map, Ticket Prices, and Sale Dates Coldplay at Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi: the seating map, ticket prices, pre-sale and general sale dates for the Music of the Spheres show. by Rave Staff 25 Sep 2024 The excitement is building as Coldplay fans across the UAE prepare for the band’s much-anticipated return to the region. Presented by Live Nation Middle East, Coldplay’s monumental performance is set to take place on January 11th, 2025 , at Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Fans have been treated to an exclusive glimpse of the concert layout, offering a sneak peek at the best spots to enjoy what promises to be a night of musical magic. Ticket Sales and Key Dates Coldplay’s tickets are set to go live in stages, ensuring fans have several opportunities to secure their seats. Tickets will go on pre-sale for registered users starting at 12 pm on Wednesday, September 25th via www.coldplay.com , followed by a Live Nation pre-sale at 12 pm on Thursday, September 26th through www.livenation.me . The general sale will begin at 12 pm on Friday, September 27th , with tickets starting from just AED195. Here’s a full breakdown of the ticket categories: Deluxe : AED1,495 Category 1 : AED995 Category 2 : AED695 Category 3 : AED595 Category 4 : AED495 Side View : AED395 General Admission Standing : AED395 Category 5 : AED295 Category 6 : AED195 Exclusive enhanced experience packages will also be available for those looking to elevate their concert experience even further. Important Ticket Information Given the expected demand, a strict limit of 4 tickets per person and per credit card has been implemented to ensure fair access for all fans. It is essential to note that any orders exceeding the ticket limit—whether by name, email, billing address, or credit card—may be subject to cancellation. Additionally, there are age restrictions in place for this event. Children under 5 years are not permitted, and those under 14 are restricted from the pitch standing area. Concert-goers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older . Mobile-Only Tickets: What You Need to Know For this event, tickets will be mobile-only and can be accessed exclusively via your Ticketmaster account starting 72 hours before the show. Make sure to download the Ticketmaster app and verify your account with your phone number and email well in advance to avoid any delays during the purchase process. Keep in mind that tickets cannot be printed or emailed, so having the app ready is crucial for seamless entry into the venue. If you’ve registered for presale access via coldplay.com , check your inbox for a unique ticketing link. However, presale registration does not guarantee a ticket, so be prepared to act fast once sales begin. Event Details: When: January 11th, 2025 Where: Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi Ticket Prices: Starting from AED195 Pre-sale: September 25th at 12 pm (via coldplay.com ) pre-sale : September 26th at 12 pm (via livenation.me ) General Sale: September 27th at 12 pm (via livenation.me )
- Il Gattopardo Set to Open at ICD Brookfield Place – A New Dining Hotspot
Il Gattopardo opens on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, bringing Mayfair's 1960s-inspired Italian glamour and skyline views to Dubai. Il Gattopardo Set to Open at ICD Brookfield Place – A New Dining Hotspot Il Gattopardo opens on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, bringing Mayfair's 1960s-inspired Italian glamour and skyline views to Dubai. by Rave Staff 6 Dec 2024 Dubai’s dining scene is about to be graced with a new level of elegance, as Il Gattopardo is set to open on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place on December 7th, 2024. This highly anticipated Italian restaurant promises a culinary journey steeped in the rich heritage of Italy, while embracing the modern luxury and glamour that Dubai is known for. Il Gattopardo, named after the iconic Italian novel Il Gattopardo ( The Leopard ), offers more than just food—it’s an experience. With its roots in the refined sophistication of 1960s Italy, guests will step into a world of sultry elegance as soon as they enter. The striking leopard sculpture at the entrance sets the tone for what is to come: an ambiance of understated luxury paired with breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline, including the iconic Burj Khalifa. Designed by renowned interior artist Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the space is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship. Blending the cosmopolitan flair of Milan with the warmth of Venice, the restaurant features sleek wood, chrome accents, and cathedral glass partitions reminiscent of vintage Italian boutiques. Every detail, from the leopard motifs to the Italian-inspired artwork, pays homage to Italy's rich history, with design nods to legendary architects Gio Ponti and Carlo Scarpa. Overseen by Federico Colombo, Il Gattopardo’s operations are in the hands of an all-Italian team. At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Massimo Pasquarelli, whose 25 years of culinary expertise will bring an authentic yet innovative Italian dining experience to Dubai. Chef Massimo, a native of Southern Italy’s Abruzzo region, has curated a menu that spans the diverse flavors of Italy, highlighting seasonal ingredients and local produce. The menu invites guests to savor the essence of La Dolce Vita , starting with traditional Antipasti like crispy Arancini and creamy Bufala, served with marinated heirloom tomatoes. Signature Pizzette such as the Tartufo—a blend of truffle mascarpone, caramelized onions, and truffle shavings—are a must-try. For pasta lovers, dishes like the Sorrentina (potato gnocchi with mozzarella, tomato, and basil) and Astice (linguine with lobster) deliver true Italian soul food. Seafood enthusiasts can enjoy delicate offerings at the Crudo Bar, such as Gamberi (Sicilian prawns with citrus zest) and Spigola (sea bass carpaccio). For those craving heartier fare, the Padella section features mouthwatering larger dishes, from the classic Milanese to a flavorful Risotto, topped with saffron and veal jus. No Italian meal is complete without indulging in dessert, and Il Gattopardo’s offerings, crafted by Head Pastry Chef Galileo Reposo, are nothing short of spectacular. Expect a viral-worthy Tiramisu, alongside Roman classics like Maritozzo (brioche filled with chocolate custard and chantilly cream) and the reimagined Coppa Gelato, featuring an espresso ganache, vanilla, and hazelnut ice cream. For those seeking a more private experience, Il Gattopardo offers exclusive settings named after Italy’s cinematic legends. The Sofia Private Dining Room and Gina Private Lounge, inspired by Sofia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida, provide the perfect backdrop for intimate dinners and celebrations. Whether you're visiting for a long, leisurely lunch or a late-night aperitivo, Il Gattopardo is set to redefine Italian dining in Dubai. As the night progresses, the ambiance shifts to a more vibrant and lively vibe, with a resident DJ spinning retro Italian pop, swing, and iconic hits from the 1960s, creating a seamless blend of nostalgia and modernity. Opening from noon until late at night, Il Gattopardo will quickly become a favorite for both its ambiance and its unforgettable menu. With its fusion of Italian elegance and Dubai’s inimitable flair, Il Gattopardo is a must-visit destination for those in search of La Dolce Vita . Opening Hours: Restaurant: Lunch 12pm - 3pm | Dinner 7pm - 1:30am Lounge: 12pm - 1:30am
- The UAE Art Exhibitions to Know This Autumn
From Frieze Abu Dhabi's first edition to 19 new shows at Alserkal Avenue, these are the UAE art exhibitions worth seeing this autumn. The UAE Art Exhibitions to Know This Autumn From Frieze Abu Dhabi's first edition to 19 new shows at Alserkal Avenue, these are the UAE art exhibitions worth seeing this autumn. by Yara Basima 30 Sep 2026 The art season is back. As temperatures drop, galleries and cultural spaces across the UAE are filling their calendars with new exhibitions, while Abu Dhabi prepares for the arrival of Frieze this November. From Alserkal Avenue's packed autumn programme to artist-led projects and major institutional exhibitions, these are the UAE shows to know this season. Dubai Alserkal Avenue: 19 new exhibitions Alserkal Avenue opens the 2026–27 art season with 19 exhibitions across 16 galleries and art spaces. Highlights include Rana Begum's Taking Form at The Third Line, featuring new works in textile, wood and paper; Bernar Venet's Sculptures, Furniture and Works on Paper at Waddington Custot; and The sky held it, the earth remembered at Ishara Art Foundation, a group exhibition exploring land, water and the cosmos as living archives. Elsewhere, Emirati artists Azza Al Qubaisi and Karima Al Shomely present new work at Leila Heller Gallery, while Efie Gallery hosts Maggie Otieno's first solo exhibition, featuring sculptures made from reclaimed railway sleepers. Where: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai When: Most exhibitions run until late October or November, with selected shows continuing into December. Kutubna Cultural Center: A Way Through: Archive of Resilience Kutubna Cultural Center presents A Way Through: Archive of Resilience , an exhibition emerging from its oral-history initiative Documenting Culture in the Gulf in a Time of War . Curated by Nora Qudah, the exhibition asks how this period will be remembered and who will tell the stories of those who lived through it. More than 40 artists and contributors from Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE take part, representing more than 20 nationalities. Across more than 70 works, journals, poetry, embroidery, crochet, collage, painting, digital art and photography document personal responses to a shared period of uncertainty, with themes of resilience, home, family, faith and hope. When: 3 October – 7 December 2026 Where: Kutubna Cultural Center , Nadd Al Hamar, Dubai Dom Art Projects: Studio, Wounds, and Battles Dom Art Projects concludes its first Studio Support Programme with two exhibitions featuring seven emerging UAE-based artists. The group show, Studio, Wounds, and Battles , brings together finished, unfinished and evolving works by Joumana Mortada, Meher Afroz Vahid, Rabila Kidwai, Aisha Alhammadi, Divyaaunshi Purohit, Teng Miras and Sara Masinaei, offering a glimpse into the research, experimentation and processes that usually remain behind the scenes. Alongside it, Masinaei presents Boundaries and Breaches , a solo exhibition exploring how urban spaces shape memory, movement and lived experience through found objects, monoprints and sculpture. When: Group exhibition, 23 September – 11 October; solo exhibition, 23 September – 18 Where: Dom Art Projects, Warehouse 40, Al Khayat Avenue, Dubai Tashkeel: Precarious Beings, an artist-led tour Tashkeel in Nad Al Sheba is starting in October with Kuwaiti architect and designer Hamad Al Muzaini, whose Precarious Beings looks at overlooked objects, everyday behaviours and urban life through photography, drawing and sculpture. Join Al Muzaini for an artist-led tour and conversation at Tashkeel on 3 October, followed by an evening photography walkthrough through Old Dubai the next day, exploring the city through observation and the everyday details that often go unnoticed. When: Artist-led tour: Saturday 3 October, 6–8pm. Old Dubai photo walkthrough: Sunday 4 October, 6–8pm Where: Tashkeel Nad Al Sheba; Old Dubai for the photo walkthrough Book: tashkeel.org Abu Dhabi Frieze Abu Dhabi: The inaugural edition Frieze Abu Dhabi makes its debut at Manarat Al Saadiyat this November, bringing together more than 80 galleries from 36 countries and regions. The inaugural programme centres on artists and artistic practices connected to the region, with several new projects beyond the main gallery presentations. The Frieze Abu Dhabi Artist Award, curated by Nabila Abdel Nabi, goes to Beirut- and London-based artist Dala Nasser. Her new commission, Qubbat Duris , will feature paintings on textile made with charcoal, ash, raw clay and terracotta, exploring how materials carry memory across generations. The fair also introduces In Dialogue , an annual exhibition pairing an established UAE artist with an emerging one. The inaugural edition, At Another Meeting Point , brings Mohammed Kazem and Alia Zaal into conversation, curated by Dirwaza Curatorial Lab. Outside the fair, Frieze Sculpture Abu Dhabi will bring works by Zeinab Alhashemi, Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, Imran Qureshi and Kamran Samimi to Mamsha Beach, extending the programme into the public realm. When: Fair, 19–22 November 2026; Frieze Sculpture, 16 November–16 December Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat and Mamsha Beach, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Tickets: Early bird tickets on sale now at friezeabudhabi.com Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Network of Answers Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opens on 11 December, but its first public artwork is already underway. At Manarat Al Saadiyat, artist Agatha Gothe-Snape's Network of Answers , commissioned by Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, invites visitors into a phone booth installation to respond to questions about life in the city. Their reflections, memories and perspectives contribute to a collective archive of voices from Abu Dhabi. The artwork is part of the museum's public programme leading up to its opening. No registration is required. When: Until 22 October 2026 Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi More: guggenheimabudhabi.ae You might also like Top Things to Do Across the UAE This October 2026 15 New Openings, Launches and Experiences to Know This September










