Style saviours for mums-to-be and easy tricks to dress your bump

Maternity fashion from the shopping malls in Dubai and the Middle East 

Running out of new ways to dress up your baby bump? Pregnancy fashion can prove downright tricky. 
As your body adapts to accommodate the growing little bundle of joy throughout the months, there may come a time when your go-to jeans begin to feel like tights and your favourite T-shirt becomes a crop top scrunched above your bump. Neither is a good look or comfortable.
The first step in maternity dressing is to go through your wardrobe and create a section that displays anything and everything non-constricting and relatively seamless. Think stretchy dresses, drawstring trousers and breezy kaftans. 
Once you have whittled down your wardrobe and have a selection of easy-to-throw-on pieces, you can mix things up with accessories and jewels over the course of your pregnancy. 

For an extra hand, take a look at our best pregnancy style staples to shop now – all of which you can wear well beyond your due date for many seasons to come. 

Shirt, Mango, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Muscat

If you’ve yet to make the big reveal to friends, family or colleagues, Jade Chilton (stylist, editor and new mum to baby Greta) has a super easy trick for keeping your secret. “Oversized shirts are a must for any expecting mama. They are great for disguising an early bump before an announcement and roomy enough for your bump to grow,” she tells us. “You can keep up with seasonal trends through new accessories, such as larger-than-life hoops, blinged-up necklaces or even a jazzy brooch to see you through the nine months.” 

Dress, Zara, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

Later on in your pregnancy, you might be tempted to hide your bump in a sea of loose, baggy clothing, but we advise taking the body-con route instead. Much more flattering and comfortable, clothing in super stretchy and silhouette-hugging fabrics will adjust to your changing form. If you are keen to remain modest, top off a frock with a long cardigan or gilet. 

Sandals, Aldo, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Ajman, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi 

Now is the time to take a well-deserved hiatus from your high heels, especially if you are struggling with swollen ankles – a symptom many of us experience throughout the maternity months. Aside from this season’s popular boxy trainer trend, you can also embrace comfortable slider sandals and slip-on loafers for a variety of occasions.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/maternity-fashion-mums-the-word

Our fashion pros reveal where to invest your hard-earned pennies instead.

The fashion finds you will not want to miss

Tempted to splash out on those trendy slouched knee-high boots? Or how about this season’s take on the slogan sweater? And maybe even the cropped flares that seem to be everywhere at the moment? 

Instead of throwing your pay cheques at all the new fashion season has to offer, we say take a more mindful approach to your Autumn/Winter 2018-19 wardrobe shopping and spend where it counts.


The everyday Office Essential

Save: Steer clear of anything too revealing or constricting. Office hours are long, so you need to be comfortable all day – not attempting to readjust a stomach-synching pencil skirt under your desk. 

Spend: Breathe new life into your work wardrobe by investing in a new suit. And who says it has to be black or navy – step outside the box and look to other palette neutrals such as dusty pink, burnished orange and even top-to-toe white. 

If your workplace does require a stricter dress code, refresh suiting staples through a new silhouette, such as an asymmetric skirt or culottes and paper bag-style trousers. 

Tan trousers, Bershka, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Bahrain

The Going Out Outfit

Save: Give sequins and crystal-decked minis a miss (you can get to that once the festive party season hits) and move towards new season prints for a more stylish spin on the after-dark dressing. 

Spend: With summer over you can store away the gingham and Breton stripes, as nights out now call for moody florals, checkered tartan and this season’s prints du jour, leopard and zebra. 

Printed dress by Borgo de Nor, Boutique 1, visit Mall of the Emirates

The Handbag For All Happenings 

Save: We do love A/W 2018-19’s micro wristlets and necklace bags (yes, that is a thing thanks to Marc Jacobs), but if like us you take everything but the kitchen sink on an evening out, you’ll undoubtedly need something with a little more space. 

Spend: On the opposite side of the trend spectrum, you’ll come across lots of new season oversized totes and backpacks in stores, but we say pick out pieces that can be taken from day-to-night with ease, such as this round cross body bag by Zara. 

Mauve bag, Zara, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/shop-smarter-how-to-avoid-wardrobe-mishaps-this-season

Reduce the stress of getting little ones ready for the new term.

Back to school shopping in Dubai and the Middle East

As the long summer holidays draw to a close, the race is on to get your kids ready for their first day of a fresh academic term. Think smart with our insider’s Back to School shopping guide to make sure your little Einstein have all the school essentials before the school bell rings.


A Step Up

Little feet grow fast so you’ll no doubt need to invest in a new pair of school shoes. You’ll find vast selections of leather soles and sports trainers at Debenhams, Centrepoint and Marks and Spencer – all of which have numerous locations across the shopping malls in Dubai and the Middle East. 

White trainers, H&M Kids, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Maadi and City Centre Beirut

Back At It

No kid wants to return to school without a new school bag. Whether it’s the latest Marvel splashed satchel or Batman backpack, chances are your kids are eyeing-up a new carry-on for school. Zara Kids (located in malls across the region) offers a great collection of trendy new styles for both boys and girls.

Silver backpack, Zara Kids, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

The Right Bites

Aside from offering everything you’d ever need for a weekly grocery shop, Carrefour Supermarket carries a generous selection of organic, vegan and gluten-free snacks to help parents pack the healthiest lunchbox possible. 

This one-stop-shop also houses a massive selection of stationary essentials, ranging from notebooks to pencil cases, pens and all other classroom necessities. 

Shop healthy lunchbox bites at Carrefour supermarket 

Carrefour Supermarket is located at Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Ajman, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Beirut, City Centre Al Shindagha and City Centre Maadi 

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/back-to-school-shopping-made-easy

 These chic summer dresses will save any last minute wardrobe panics.

The ultimate dresses for wedding guests 

Wedding season has arrived and with it comes some wardrobe woes. Can I wear cream? Are comfortable flat sandals acceptable? Will a mini dress pass as black-tie? Having trouble knowing your black-tie from white-tie? Don’t panic – we’re here to solve any style dilemmas and to ensure you’re the best-dressed guest. 

Remember that every bride and groom has a particular vision for their big day so always adhere to the dress code listed on the invite – even if that means donning a gown and heels for a beach ceremony, you can still keep sandals in your bag to change into for dancing later.  

Here, we break down exactly what to wear for the upcoming occasion and where to shop the most glamorous evening dresses in Dubai and across the MENA region. 


The Dress Code: Casual

This laidback dress code gives you free reign to wear what you fancy, however, be mindful that this is still an important day for the couple, so we recommend steering clear of denim or trainers. If the wedding is outdoors, a printed summer sundress will be appropriate. 

Pleated dress, Mango, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Muscat

The Dress Code: Semi-formal

This one usually brings up the most questions for fear of being either overdressed or underdressed. Cocktail frocks and jumpsuits are a failsafe or opt for dressy separates such as a full skirt or palazzo pants. Don’t forget a blazer or wrap in case you need to cover your shoulders during the ceremony. 

Blue jumpsuit, Bershka, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain and Mall of Egypt 

The Dress Code: Black-tie

Floor-length is usually preferred however you can get away with a smart midi-length frock or tailored suiting. If the wedding is on grass or cobbled stone it’s perfectly acceptable to wear smart wedges over heels – your soles will thank you for it the next day. 

Embroidered dress, Karen Millen, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Bahrain and City Centre Beirut

The Dress Code: White-tie

The smartest of the dress codes, this is the time to bring out the big guns such as floor-length evening gowns, your best jewels and heels. 

Pink gown, Marchesa Notte at Boutique 1, visit Mall of the Emirates

 Treat your loved ones with our pick of the best Eid presents.

The best Eid gifts for 2018 from the shopping malls in Dubai and the Middle East

Ring at the end of Ramadan and celebrate Eid Al Fitr by treating your family and friends to a thoughtful gift from our list. 

For Scent Lovers 

Philosykos Eau de Parfum, Diptyque at Harvey Nichols Dubai, visit Mall of the Emirates 

The beauty halls at Harvey Nichols Dubai hit all the right notes when it comes to perfume. With aisles devoted to the latest luxury bottles and all-time classics from the world’s leading brands, you’ll find a scent to suit any style and character. 

For Little Ones 

Dress and shirt by Okaïdi, visit City Centre Deira and Mall of Egypt

With a host of Eid parties coming up, we’ll be heading straight to Okaïdi for smart childrenswear that won’t break the bank.
We love the new season printed party frocks for little ladies and tailored shirts for boys, perfect for the best-dressed tots in town.

For Food Fans

Wafi Gourmet in Bahrain 

Situated inside City Centre Bahrain, Wafi Gourmet is one of the busiest restaurants in Bahrain for a good reason – this long-standing favourite serves up some of the most delicious Lebanese cuisines in the Kingdom. 

The favourite eatery also houses an Arabian-themed deli section where you can build your bespoke gift basket, choosing from spices and herbs to olives, oils, dates and baklava sweets. 


The Choose-Your-Own Gift

Still lost on what to get that someone special who is notoriously hard to buy for? Why not treat them to a Mall Gift Card – a super convenient solution that allows your loved ones to pick out their gift from thousands of stores within Mall of the Emirates and City Centres across the UAE and Bahrain.

Mall Gift Cards are available at all Majid Al Futtaim Malls within the UAE and Bahrain. For further information call +971 4293 5814 or email info@mallgiftcard.ae

Majid Al Futtaim Mall Gift Card is the perfect gift for your loved ones for Eid Al Fitr 2018

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/eid-al-fitr-2018-the-essential-gift-guide

The electronic essentials you need now.

2018’s top tech buys and gadgets 

There is a reason these state-of-the-art buys are getting tech heads excited in 2018. Scroll down below to discover the latest and greatest gadgets to hit the shops. 

Sony 1000XM2 headphones, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Beirut, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Bahrain

Sony’s 1000XM2 headphones put a great many others to shame. Equipped with high-tech digital noise cancellation, the new cans offer super clear sound, as well as Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing to deliver optimal listening at high altitudes while you fly.

The headphones also boast Smart Listening by Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically adjusts the ambient sound to match your activities, such as travelling, walking and waiting. And you can forget pesky wires; these headphones are wireless with Bluetooth technology.

Mophie wireless charging base, Apple Store in Dubai, visit Mall of the Emirates

In addition to offering last year’s big launch, the iPhone X, the Apple Store in Dubai also houses the newest tablets, tools and devices created to support their products. 

Released earlier this year, the Mophie wireless charging base is already making our lives so much easier. Expertly designed to work with your iPhone, the wireless base will charge your battery in a flash. Just set your iPhone on the wireless charge base, and it will get to work boosting your juice.

Leather folio case for iPhone X, Apple Store in Dubai, visit Mall of the Emirates

Got a new iPhone X? You’ll need a sleek case to protect your pricey tech.

Available in four colourways, Apple’s luxurious new leather-bound folio case offers maximum protection with a soft microfiber lining, plus it comes with useful compartments to store your cash and cards. 

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/upgrade-your-gadgets-with-these-top-3-tech-tools

The beautifying essentials to pick up at Carrefour.

Bargain beauty buys from the supermarket

While we love a high-end beauty hall filled with the latest luxury lotions and potions, a large percentage of our everyday products can be found in the supermarkets. 

Here are the best budget-friendly beauty buys to try at home.

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Lotion, Carrefour Supermarket, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt and City Centres

The sweet scent might not be to everyone’s taste, but there is no doubt that the juice inside this tub is brilliant! There’s a reason it is the No.1 brand of cocoa butter products worldwide. 

Comparable to (if not better than) any other expensive body lotion on the market, this rich moisturiser is suitable for a host of skin woes, such as dry, eczema prone or sensitive skin types. Popular with Carrefour customers at Mall of the Emirates and throughout the region, be sure to add this to your trolley on your next visit.   

Nivea Caring Micellar Water, Carrefour Supermarket, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt and City Centres

First created by leading French pharmacy brands, micellar waters were introduced into the mainstream beauty market a decade ago and were seen as a specialised beauty product. Now, nearly every brand from the high to the lower end of the price spectrum has released a version. 

We are firm believers that you cannot beat Nivea’s ultra-soothing, scent-free formula, for a gentle yet effective daily cleanse. 

L'Oréal Elnett Satin Supreme Hold Hairspray, Carrefour Supermarket, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt and City Centres 

The gold standard of hairsprays, this legendary beauty buy is in nearly every single hairstylist’s professional and personal toolkit. 

Loved by a legion of celebrities, including Cheryl Cole, the Kardashians and Cindy Crawford, this long-lasting setting spritz is non-sticky, easy to brush out and offers maximum staying power. 

Carrefour Supermarket is located at Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Ajman, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Beirut, City Centre Al Shindagha and City Centre Maadi.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/shopping/how-to-bag-a-beauty-bargain-on-your-next-food-shop

 Spruce up your abode with these chic and affordable interior accessories from one of the Middle East’s leading furniture shops.

Home Centre is one of the top spots to buy furniture and décor in the Middle East

Aside from doing a quick daily once-over on the house (clearing dirty dishes, putting some washing on and making our bed), most of us will admit that our abodes could do with a little sprucing up – they do say that ‘a tidy home means tidy mind’. 

While you might not have the time for a full-on feng shui makeover, a handful of new shopping buys can make a significant impact on a room, quickly transforming it into a more relaxing and stylish place to call your own. 

Home Centre is one of our top hits to discover sleek décor finds without draining our bank balance – you can also save even more at their usual 70% off sales! 

Located in Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of Egypt, these one-stop-shops for all your interior necessities will tick all the right boxes whatever your budget.  

Rugs, Home Centre, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of Egypt

Rugs are an easy way to bring a room together instantly. Look out for something in dark easy-to-wash colours and prints, especially if you have young children or pets. 

Lamps, Home Centre, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of Egypt

Through lighting, you can create the perfect ambience in your home. Avoid harsh overhead fixtures and steer towards table labs, dimmers and candles for a more soothing atmosphere. 

Storage table and desk, Home Centre, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of Egypt

A neat house lies in carefully thought out storage units. While we all have a messy drawer (or several), look for pretty baskets and boxes to store away out-of-season clothing, tidbits or toys. You can also buy elegant furniture pieces that double as extra storage such as this sleek sideboard and desk. 

With the Oscars making headlines this month, we look to the most glamorous gowns and accessories to wear for your special occasion. 

Celebrity inspired gowns to buy now

The Academy Awards is the movie world’s most significant event on the annual calendar. 

From the BAFTAs to the BRITs, the 90th edition of the Oscars is the grande finale of awards season and arguably the most prestigious trophy for anyone in Tinseltown to win. 

To celebrate this year’s Oscars, we’ve searched Dubai shopping malls and further afield across the Middle East for the best gowns and accessories for your red carpet moment. 

Be it a wedding or smart soirée; these stunning outfit ideas will ensure you stand out at any special occasion.  

Embellished navy dress, Mango, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Muscat

With delicate tie sleeves and a scattering of floral sequins, this floor-sweeping navy blue gown will be a go-to for any formal event. Wear with beaded sandals for garden parties or metallic platforms for a black-tie bash. 

Red gown, Oscar de la Renta at Boutique 1, visit Mall of the Emirates

A gown fit for a princess, this dramatic piece by Oscar de la Renta is crafted from scarlet silk with a subtle sheen of sparkle along the floral appliqué detail.

Printed jumpsuit, Stradivarius, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Beirut

This polka dot jumpsuit is an excellent pick for those who prefer trousers to gowns. Belted at the waist for extra definition, this style is bang on trend for the new season and will look chic paired with heeled ankle boots and an embellished clutch bag. 

Studded bag, H&M, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Maadi and City Centre Beirut

This classic black clutch will keep you covered for a multitude of nights out. We love the metallic studs and handy chain strap. 

Velvet strappy sandals, Zara, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

Steal a few extra inches under a long flowing frock with these fiery velvet soles. 

Spoil your mum with these beautiful presents and pampering treatments. 

Mother’s Day gift guide 2018

With Mother’s Day coming up on March 21st (dates tend to differ per country), there’s no better time than the present to start planning ways to spoil the extraordinary woman in your life. 

Show mum your gratitude for all that she does by treating her to one of our gift ideas below or go all out and splurge on a super pampering spa treatment.

Earrings and bracelet, Damas, visit Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Ajman, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

One of the top places to buy jewellery in the UAE, City Centre Deira houses dozens of jewellery shops, such as Damas, Al Futtaim Watches and Jewellery and Jewel Corner. The mall is also conveniently situated nearby to the Gold Souk in Dubai, which makes for a beautiful afternoon spent browsing the stalls. 

Green Wheat & Meadowsweet Cologne, visit Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif 

If like us, your mother is a diehard fan of anything that comes in a Jo Malone box, she will adore their latest line of scents inspired by English fields – the Green Wheat & Meadowsweet Cologne is our favourite. 

Beaded bag, Zara, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

You will get major brownie points for gifting your mother this intricately embellished clutch bag. Decked with beaded florals, this minaudière will instantly update any outfit for evenings out. 

DIOR Capture Totale Eye Cream, Sephora, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Bahrain

This decadent pot of eye cream is the epitome of luxury, and the potion itself is packed with high performing ingredients that firm and boost radiance.  

Time To Spa

While flowers, chocolate and a heartfelt card go a long way, nothing truly beats a spa gift voucher – trust us, it will not go unappreciated, as we could all do with a little R&R. Better yet, why not join your mother for a day of joint pampering?

Soma Spa located inside Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre is one of our favourite retreats in the city. Offering up an extensive menu of relaxing treatments, take your pick from smoothing body scrubs to muscle-melting massages or vitamin-packed facials. 

The Pullman Hotel Dubai also houses some tasty places to grab a bite post-treatment, including the live cooking stations at Medley Restaurant.

The Ultimate Gift Card

You can also let your mother pick out her own present with our Mall Gift Card. For more information on the gift you know she won’t return, visit here.

The gadgets, tech and accessories he really wants

The best Christmas gifts to shop for him

While he might claim to not ‘need’ anything this year, these top Christmas gift ideas are sure to impress. From the latest iPhone to a classic leather holdall, scroll down below to discover our top picks for festive presents this year.

‘Tis the season to treat your loved ones, so head over to Mall of the Emirates and City Centres across the Middle East to find the perfect present for him, her and kids.

iPhone X, Apple, visit Mall of the Emirates

The brand new iPhone X is officially available! If you did not already pre-order the smartphone, hightail it over to the Apple store in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates to get your hands on the latest tech essential.

Available in either 64GB or 256GB, the brand new water resistant model includes an 5.9-inch screen display and Face ID - which makes your face your password - along with wireless charging, extra durable glass and an advanced quality camera.

Beats Studio3 Matte Black Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Virgin Megastore, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Beirut, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Bahrain

The newest headphones by Beats offer premium sound through real-time audio, while allowing you to hear the music with no background noise thanks to the adaptive noise cancellation feature. Available in six colours to choose from, these high tech headphones will no doubt be topping his wish list this year.

Leather holdall, Ted Baker, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Bahrain

This smart leather piece by Ted Baker will be his go-to bag for holding gym kit and weekend away essentials.

Still stuck on what to buy? Let your loved ones pick their own present with a gift card to the mall. For more information on the gift you know they won’t return, visit here.

 From toys to teddies and tiaras, little ones will love these presents  

The best Christmas gifts to shop for children  

December is a busy time of year for all, so we are taking the stress out of festive shopping with our guide to the top gifts to buy this year.

‘Tis the season to treat your loved ones, so head over to the shopping malls in Dubai and across the Middle East to find the perfect present for him, her and kids. (*Add links on words ‘him’ ‘her’ and ‘kids’ to separate articles once published).

Scroll down below where we reveal a few of our favourite gifts for children, ranging from newborn babies to older ages.

Tiara, Claire’s, visit City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Beirut, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Muscat and City Centre Fujairah

Little princesses will love playing dress-up with this sparkly silver tiara - so much so, they may never want to take it off!

Soft rabbit toy, Bonpoint at Boutique 1, visit Mall of the Emirates

A timeless present to gift young kids and newborn babies, this soft white rabbit is perfect for tiny tots to cuddle up with at naptime.

Printed bow tie, H&M Kids, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Fujairah, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me'aisem, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Maadi and City Centre Beirut

This mini Mickey Mouse printed bow tie will look adorable on little lads for fancy festive occasions.

Still stuck on what to buy? Let your loved ones pick their own present with a gift card to the mall. For more information on the gift you know they won’t return, visit here.

These standout fashion, beauty and home pieces are sure to impress     

The best Christmas gifts to shop for her

December is a busy time of year for all, so we are taking the stress out of festive shopping with our guide to the top gifts to buy this year.

‘Tis the season to treat your loved ones, so head over to Mall of the Emirates and City Centres across the Middle East to find the perfect present for him, her and kids.

Sock-style boots, Zara, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

These are the boots of dreams for any fashion-loving fan. The sock/boot hybrid is bang on trend for the new season and will go down a storm with style-conscious friends and family members.

Emporio Armani perfume, Paris Gallery, visit City Centre Fujairah

Because It's You is the latest scent from Emporio Armani. This beautiful perfume includes notes of neroli, raspberry and vanilla mixed with musk.  

Charm necklace, Loquet at Boutique 1, visit Mall of the Emirates

Loquet is a London-based brand specialising in bespoke dainty fine jewels. You can customise your own locket necklace by filling with unique little charms such as diamond-encrusted initials, colourful birthstones and other decorative symbols. A true keepsake piece any jewellery lover would adore.

Candle snuffer, Zara Home, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Bahrain and City Centre Muscat

Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect hostess present or a little something for your mother-in-law, you cannot go wrong with a luxe scented candle (our favourites are Jo Malone and Diptyque available at Harvey Nichols Dubai). For extra brownie points in the gift department, your can also include a sleek gold candle snuffer or wick trimmer by Zara Home.

Send tots back to class with the kit they’ll need and a smile on their face



As the long summer break ends, the week leading up to the first day of the term can be a whirlwind of preparation. No matter how many lists are penned, there always appears to be a seemingly never-ending array of errands, from buying new school supplies to stocking the fridge with lunchbox snacks and updating uniforms for your ever-growing tot.

Before battling out your to-dos, take a look at our insider guide to getting everything your youngster will need for school from the Dubai shopping malls.

The Perfect Pencil Case

We’re yet to come across a kid who doesn’t love picking out a brand new pencil case along with lots of colourful new pens and stationary goodies for the new school year. The shopping malls in Dubai are filled with plenty of shops filled with fun learning tools to ensure they’re thoroughly prepped for class. Typo is one of our top picks and stashed with a fun hoard of quirky stationary treats.

Rainbow pencil case available at Typo, visit City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, and City Center Me'aisem


Sole Mates

Nothing signals the start of a new academic year like a brand new pair of smart shoes. Clarks is our go-to for quality leather school shoes for both boys and girls and offers a free measuring service to ensure the perfect fit.



Boys leather school shoes available at Clarks, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira and City Centre Muscat

Back At It

The best school bags are usually backpacks or drawstring rucksacks to offer neck and shoulder support as well as enough room for all your child’s school books and class necessities. Marks & Spencer’s offers a variety of different styles, and most recently, the best-selling Star Wars design – little fans of the films will go nuts for it!



Star Wars bag available at Marks & Spencer, visit Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Beirut, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Bahrain, City Centre Deira and City Centre Mirdif

A Lesson in Lunch Boxes

For us parents, the secret to filling a daily lunchbox successfully is to pack in healthy and nutrition-packed bites (which they’ll actually enjoy eating) to keep kids fuller for longer.

Carrefour Dubai in Mall of the Emirates, one of the best Supermarkets in Dubai, houses a special organic section, offering a wide selection of low-carb, sugar-free and gluten-free snacks along with every day groceries to all fill your little one’s needs.  




Healthy lunch box treats available at Carrefour Dubai in Mall of the Emirates