Weekly UAE museum and gallery guide: Last chance to see acclaimed Louvre Abu Dhabi exhibition
Handwoven artworks created in collaboration with artisans in Afghanistan, raw silk panels dyed using natural materials and royal African attire and textiles symbolising authority, the works in these exhibitions show how textiles transcend their materiality to become profound expressions of cultural narratives and personal stories.
Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi's Kings and Queens of Africa is entering its final week. The exhibition looks at the African continent's most revered and powerful figures, exploring the design of their royal attire, their sacred symbols of spiritual influence and more.
The exhibition, which will showcase more than 300 objects from the collections of Musee du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac in Paris, will introduce African kings and queens who shaped the continent and how their legacy is still influencing contemporary African art and culture. The exhibited pieces come from cultures across the continent, as well as a range of time periods and include their detailed histories.
Tuesday to Thursday, 10am-6.30pm; Friday to Sunday, 10am-8.30pm; until June 8; Louvre Abu Dhabi
Naseej: Threads of Hope at Beeah Headquarters, Sharjah
Naseej: Threads of Hope blends traditional Afghan craftsmanship with contemporary design and social advocacy. The exhibition is curated by Fatima Deemas and organised with the Fatima Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Initiative, an enterprise dedicated to empowering underprivileged communities, especially women, in Afghanistan.
Naseej showcases nine handwoven carpets designed by regional and international artists, then woven by women artisans in Kabul using natural dyes and ethically sourced wool. Artists taking part include Emirati artists Juma Al Haj and Nasir Nasrallah, Bahraini architect and designer Sara Kanoo, Honduran-born artist Adrian Pepe and the Beirut collective Bokja.
Monday to Thursday, 10am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 2pm; until June 3; Beeah Headquarters, Sharjah
Garden of Murmurs: Malik Thomas Jalil Kydd at Carbon 12
Malik Thomas Jalil Kydd 's first solo exhibition, Garden of Murmurs, at Carbon 12, presents a body of work that the Iraqi-British artist produced over the past several years. The series of large-scale works blend painting, drawing and textile art, exploring themes of introspection and the many definitions of love.
Silk has a starring role in the exhibition. Kydd uses raw silk panels that have been stitched together as his primary canvas. The silk has been dyed using natural materials such as sage. The gestural abstraction that charges the artworks has been spurred by various media, including oil, pastel, charcoal and natural dyes.
Depictions of the male figure, rendered a touch larger than life-size, a dimension Kydd refers to as 'angel scale", is central to the exhibition. Through it, Kydd addresses concepts of material, identity and culture – while also coaxing a serenity from a background of destruction and death.
Monday to Saturday, 11.30am to 7pm; until August 23; Carbon 12, Dubai
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
21 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: No family nearby? Mothers' club helps new mums find support circle away from home
The Mum Club Dubai, a local franchise of the UK-based community, has experienced remarkable growth since launching in November 2022. What began as a single monthly coffee club has expanded to eight events per month, serving over 3,000 active subscribers. The club welcomes mothers of all nationalities aged 20-40, creating an inclusive space for Dubai's diverse expatriate community. The club's origin story reflects the challenges many expatriate mothers face. Founder Jo moved to Dubai several years ago without knowing anyone and wanted to connect with like-minded mothers. Having experienced the positive impact of The Mum Club community in her hometown, she approached The Mum Club UK about franchising when her family relocated to Dubai for her husband's work. 'Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming space where mums can take a moment for themselves,' explains the club. 'There are so many classes aimed at the babies, which is great, but sometimes the mum is forgotten about. Our club aims to bring mums together through our thoughtful events and supportive communities that are tailored for women's well-being.' Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Dubai's challenges Dubai presents specific obstacles for new mothers that differ from other cities. 'They say it takes a village to raise a child, but what happens when you've moved abroad and hopped on a plane to live in a whole new country, away from your family and lifelong friends?' the club asks. 'Increasingly, we see people moving to Dubai for a better life, but they are leaving behind their 'villages' and we need help.' The city's fast-paced environment compounds these challenges. 'Dubai is fast-paced, and maternity/paternity leave isn't always as long as what we may have in our home countries. Husbands go back to work quicker, leaving mothers at home and often isolated, not knowing anyone else to lean on.' Dubai's multicultural, transient nature creates additional networking complexities. 'Dubai is busy, Dubai is transient, and Dubai is multicultural. It's a hub for networking – but networking as a mother is different. Do we even speak the same language? Do you even want another friend? Where do we meet? And even when you feel like you know some friends, you can't get complacent as people's plans change all the time!' The club's inclusive approach addresses these concerns directly: 'We are here for mums full stop. That's any mums, any age and any nationality.' They provide qualified babysitting help at most events and ensure staff are present to welcome mothers so 'no one is ever left to feel by themselves.' Diverse activities The club offers diverse programming, including breakfast clubs, fitness classes, and cinema screenings. Their breakfast clubs have become particularly popular, providing 'a breath of fresh air for mums offering a relaxed, stylish space to connect with other women who get it while enjoying great food, real conversations, and a moment to focus on you (not just the kids).' Cinema clubs feature a unique format where mothers enjoy a breakfast buffet and networking opportunity before watching the latest releases in Roxy Platinum reclining seats. 'We have our own private screen and so we lift the lighting for mums to be able to tend to their babies throughout, and the sound is lowered so it's baby-friendly. It's a gorgeous morning.' One standout offering is Reformer Pilates classes, where 'you can have your baby next to you whilst you do your class. Our on-hand babysitters are there to help you so you can get the most out of your workout.' Venue selection reflects careful consideration of mothers' needs. The club seeks locations that accommodate 30 mothers with babies and prams, offer easy accessibility with nearby parking, provide comfortable baby changing facilities, maintain aesthetically pleasing atmospheres, and serve excellent food and coffee. 'There are numerous restaurants in Dubai, endless in fact, but we set ourselves the mission to search for the best and most convenient with the mum in mind. There are many baby-friendly venues, but our goal is to make it the most 'mum' friendly.' Weather considerations are crucial in Dubai's extreme climate. 'We have specific events which we can run outside, but we only do these in the cooler winter months, and then we move them to alternate venues inside when it's too hot again!' 'The unicorn I needed' Nazli de Gee's experience illustrates the club's impact. The 32-year-old South African mother of four children - Mikhail (11), Aiden (8), Alana (3), and Mila (2) - moved to the UAE in 2022 when her husband Wesley received a job offer. The family completed their relocation within two months. 'When we moved to the UAE, everything felt like a whirlwind. Within six months, I was pregnant with our fourth baby. We were still trying to settle in, I had no family, no friends, no car and suddenly I went from a working woman with a career in marketing to a stay-at-home mom, just trying to keep it together,' Nazli recalls. During this transition, she also launched her small business, Peek-a-Boo. 'So after a few months of trying to adult, mom, wife, mompreneur and socialise all at once, I saw The Mum Club on Instagram and I figured The Mum Club might just be the unicorn I needed - moms, coffee, conversation, and someone else entertaining the baby for once? Count me in. Sanity brought me to The Mum Club… and it didn't disappoint.' Nazli discovered the club during a 2am Instagram scroll while feeding her baby. 'It felt like a sign… or at least a well-targeted ad.' She was hoping to 'meet some like-minded moms who get it: the chaos, the love, the sleep deprivation. Somewhere I could actually have an adult conversation that didn't involve the words 'potty' or 'snack,' and maybe just maybe finish a hot cup of coffee without reheating it three times.' Her first experience exceeded expectations. 'It was honestly lovely, the hosts were very friendly and welcoming. I met so many amazing women from all over the world who were going through similar things, trying to navigate motherhood in a new country, just like me. We talked nonstop from beginning to end, and it was exactly what I needed at the time, both mentally and emotionally. It felt like a reset button.' Overcoming barriers Before joining, Nazli faced significant isolation challenges. 'Dubai is dazzling, but it can be incredibly isolating without your village. Although I have my husband, who is my best friend and very supportive and hands-on, I still felt somewhat alone. In the early days, it felt like everyone had their crew except me. There were moments I'd go days without adult conversation - unless you count asking Siri how to remove crayon from walls.' The absence of extended family support proved particularly difficult. 'Not having grandparents pop by or aunties take over for an hour made everything feel heavier. I missed the 'drop-by support' and those impromptu family meals that feed your soul more than your stomach. Here, every bit of help had to be scheduled and sometimes paid for.' The practical challenges of going out with children in Dubai were substantial. 'Going out with four kids feels less like a casual outing and more like prepping for a full-on military operation - timings, snacks, backups, and all. While Dubai is quite kid-friendly, it's surprisingly hard to find cafes that truly cater to babies or toddlers. Most places offer colouring pages and a few crayons, but that only buys you about six minutes of peace.' Finding suitable activities proved equally challenging. 'In the beginning, it was really difficult. There just weren't many options that I knew of, and I often felt like I had to choose between what I needed and what was good for my baby.' Meeting other mothers presented its own obstacles. 'It was surprisingly hard. Unless you randomly bond with a mom over rogue raisins in a play area, it's awkward. Most meetups felt too formal or forced.' Barriers included 'time, energy, and the weird fear of rejection (yes, even as grownups). Sometimes you don't want to seem desperate or intrusive.' Life-changing impact The club transformed Nazli's experience in multiple ways. 'In more ways than I can count. It gave me a sense of belonging and reminded me that motherhood isn't meant to be done in isolation. Now I have friends who get it, who've cried over sleepless nights and laughed over exploding nappies. Emotionally, I feel lighter, more seen, and a lot more human.' The club also provided unexpected professional benefits. 'As a mompreneur, The Mum Club became more than just a support circle, it turned into a powerful networking space. I got to connect with my exact target audience (aka other amazing moms!) and even had the chance to showcase my small business, Peek-a-Boo AE, at one of the Breakfast Mornings. Coffee, connection, and a little brand visibility? Win-win-win.' The club's format proved ideal for busy mothers. 'The Mum Club has been the perfect balance. My baby's happy, stimulated, and safely entertained while I get to enjoy a proper breakfast, hot coffee (a rare luxury!), thoughtful goodie bags, and genuine conversations with a lovely group of moms. Sometimes there are expert talks too, which is like a bonus TED Talk in your morning. All that, for a small cost? Honestly… what more can you ask for? And I leave feeling refreshed, not depleted.' The organic nature of connections appealed to Nazli. 'The Mum Club made it organic like speed-dating for mom friends, but with better coffee and less pressure. The Mum Club gave me a space where everyone wanted to connect and it removed the awkwardness. Now, I've got a circle of strong, hilarious, supportive women who've become more like family.'
UAE Moments
a day ago
- UAE Moments
Habibi, Stay in Dubai This Summer! Hottest Stays for UAE Residents at Vida Hotels
Summer just got a whole lot cooler – and way more fabulous. UAE residents, it's time to pack your sunnies and prep your playlists, because Vida Hotels and Resorts is dropping the ultimate staycay deal you didn't know you needed. Think, up to 35% off your stay at dreamy Vida hotels and resorts in Dubai, breakfast on the house, free stays for the kiddos aged 12 years and below, and early check-in and check-out subject to availability at the time of arrival. Lounge by the pool with a mocktail in hand, feast on your favourites, or spend the afternoon exploring some of the UAE's most iconic neighborhoods. With sleek design, laid-back energy, and Instagram-worthy everything, Vida is where your summer glow-up begins. Whether you're craving beachfront bliss, marina vibes, skyline views, pet-friendly escapes or even a stay in the heart of the city, Vida's got you covered. Pack your bags and bring along your whole fam, because this summer, there's no better place to enjoy than right here at home! If you're a UAE resident, here's what's in store for you:
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
The rise of 'Lifestyle Districts': How mixed-use communities are shaping UAE real estate
The UAE is witnessing a significant shift in how people live, work, and connect. Traditional models marked by long commutes, fragmented neighborhoods, and disconnected daily routines are rapidly giving way to a new urban paradigm — lifestyle districts. These thoughtfully planned, mixed-use communities seamlessly integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within a cohesive environment. Far more than real estate developments, they embody a modern approach to living that prioritises convenience, sustainability, and a strong sense of community. In recent years, mixed-use developments have emerged as a defining trend in the UAE's dynamic property market. Driven by urban growth and evolving consumer expectations, these integrated communities are reshaping the fabric of daily life. By offering essential amenities—such as workplaces, retail outlets, dining venues, and leisure facilities within walkable distances, lifestyle districts significantly reduce the need for extensive travel, enhancing both efficiency and quality of life for residents. Evolving Lifestyle Demands Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of One Development, highlights how DO Hotels & Residences Dubai Islands responds to these modern demands: 'Today's residents and travelers seek more than just a place to live or stay, they seek dynamic, holistic experiences that seamlessly blend comfort, convenience, and community.' He adds, 'This hospitality development reflects these evolving expectations by offering curated experiences and thoughtful design that respond intuitively to the UAE's cosmopolitan rhythm, delivering seamless living that feels personal yet expansive.' Every element at DO Dubai Islands is carefully crafted to anticipate and celebrate the diverse needs of modern urbanites — whether it's the fast-paced schedule of a busy professional or the quiet moments of a family evening. According to Al Gebely, 'DO Dubai Islands is a living reflection of the UAE's vibrant diversity, creating spaces where every element is in harmony with you.' Similarly, Tilal Al Ghaf sets a benchmark for integrated community living that caters to the nuanced lifestyle needs of today's urban dwellers. Ahmed El Shamy, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Properties, describes the vision behind the project: 'Tilal Al Ghaf was envisioned as more than just a residential project; it is a response to the growing demand for authentic, sustainable, lifestyle-driven community living.' He explains that residents in the UAE now seek environments fostering wellbeing, human connection, and belonging, beyond just physical comfort. 'From walkable neighbourhoods and abundant green spaces to waterfront living and curated retail and dining experiences, Tilal Al Ghaf has been purposefully designed to meet the needs of today's families, residents, and the future of integrated urban living,' says El Shamy. Tilal Al Ghaf embodies the aspirations of a diverse and globally minded population, valuing balance between work, leisure, and family life within a consciously planned setting. El Shamy emphasises, 'At Majid Al Futtaim, we believe in creating destinations that go beyond bricks and mortar, places that resonate with the values of modern consumers, offering experiences that foster connection, purpose, and a genuine integration into their surroundings.' Shaping Intelligent Communities Innovation in design and smart infrastructure is revolutionising how mixed-use communities come to life, shaping environments that are both intelligent and deeply connected to the needs of modern living. Al Gebely emphasises that 'Innovation is at the core of our vision. By integrating advanced AI technologies into design and infrastructure, we create communities that are not only smart but truly intelligent.' He explains that this approach guides every design decision, crafting flexible spaces that evolve alongside shifting lifestyles and fostering connectivity that 'keeps everyone and everything in perfect sync.' The outcome, he says, is a community that 'feels alive, intuitive, and in tune with the modern world.' Echoing this transformative vision, El Shamy highlights the UAE's leadership in reimagining urban life through smart city principles. 'At Majid Al Futtaim, we view innovation not as an add-on, but as a core enabler of better living,' he asserts. His team designs communities aligned with contemporary mobility needs, bolstered by 'data-driven infrastructure and digital platforms that make daily life more seamless, intuitive, and connected.' But innovation, Shamy stresses, goes hand in hand with sustainability. 'We design with intent, ensuring our destinations meet the highest global standards, including BREEAM and LEED certifications,' he notes, citing the Net Positive Mosque at Tilal Al Ghaf—a regional first that generates more energy than it consumes as a powerful symbol of their climate-conscious ambition. Designing Communities That Feel Like Home In today's fast-paced urban world, the concept of community living has evolved far beyond shared spaces and familiar faces. Developers are now tasked with creating environments where a genuine sense of belonging is not only encouraged but seamlessly woven into daily life. For Al Gebely, belonging begins with thoughtful design. 'We believe that true belonging comes from thoughtfully designed spaces where people naturally come together — not because they must, but because the environment invites them to,' he explains. From early morning padel matches to afternoons spent along the beach or marina front, and evenings echoing with children's laughter in lush parks, the rhythm of community life is carefully curated. 'Every space is curated to bring people closer,' he adds. With wellness centers that nurture both body and mind, and coworking hubs that fuel creativity and collaboration, One Development ensures every lifestyle offering supports the diverse rhythms of modern life. Similarly, Majid Al Futtaim Properties is placing people at the core of its communities by championing inclusivity and purpose-driven living. 'Creating a sense of belonging starts with understanding the diverse aspirations of the people who call our communities home,' says El Shamy. The group integrates social interaction, cultural expression, and wellness into the everyday, offering everything from vibrant events and well-being initiatives to partnerships with institutions like the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai. 'We ensure every resident, from young families to professionals and retirees, can find their place,' El Shamy notes. Even more crucially, residents are given opportunities to shape their environment. 'We provide platforms for residents to co-create experiences, ensuring the community feels shaped by its people, not just for them.' Shaping the Future of Urban Investment Mixed-use communities are rapidly becoming the cornerstone of modern real estate investment in the UAE, offering not only dynamic living experiences but also sustainable, long-term value for investors. According to Al Gebely, lifestyle districts thrive because they 'offer investors the strength of diversity and balance.' He explains, 'By integrating residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, these districts create resilient ecosystems that attract a broad spectrum of people and businesses, thereby mitigating risks and enhancing long-term returns.' For forward-thinking investors, such developments align seamlessly with the UAE's national vision, where sustainability, smart cities, and future-readiness transcend buzzwords to become tangible realities. 'Investing in these developments means investing in a future where lifestyle, convenience, and innovation coexist in perfect harmony,' Al Gebely continues. 'Over the next decade, lifestyle districts will fundamentally reshape the UAE's real estate landscape by redefining urban living experiences. They will serve as cultural and economic hubs, bringing people together and fostering communities built on shared values and meaningful connections.' El Shamy highlights the strong interest that Tilal Al Ghaf has garnered since its inception. 'From its integrated masterplan to its focus on quality of life, the community's steady growth and robust demand reflect a growing appetite for well-executed lifestyle destinations that cater to modern living—not merely as places to reside but as places to invest in both emotionally and financially,' he says. What makes these communities especially appealing is their ability to adapt to evolving expectations of residents and investors alike. El Shamy emphasises, 'As consumer preferences shift toward walkability, wellness, connectivity, and sustainability, mixed-use communities stand out by delivering on all these fronts. They represent holistic ecosystems designed for contemporary lifestyles while offering strong returns and future-proof investment potential.' 'They will set new benchmarks in sustainability, technology, and human-centered design,' Al Gebely adds, 'making cities more livable, inclusive, and inspiring.' El Shamy concludes, 'Over the next decade, lifestyle districts will redefine urban experiences in the UAE, shifting the focus from isolated real estate projects to immersive environments that embody true liveability. As cities pursue ambitious sustainability goals and embrace digital transformation, lifestyle districts will become essential frameworks driving inclusive growth, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic vitality.'
