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Galentine’s Day: Celebrating Friendship, Fun, and Fierce Women!

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
    • Galentine’s Day (February 13th) is all about celebrating the fierce women in your life.
    • Ideas for celebrating include brunch, movie marathons, dance parties, and heartfelt gift exchanges.
    • Female friendships boost happiness, confidence, and empowerment—so cherish them!

Move over, Valentine’s Day—Galentine’s Day is here, and it’s all about celebrating the incredible, powerful, and unstoppable women in our lives! Whether single, married, or somewhere in between, this day is a love letter to female friendships, the ones that lift us up, make us laugh until we cry, and stand by us through life’s wild ride.

Originating from the iconic TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day (February 13th) has evolved into a joyful, empowering tradition, where women come together to appreciate the magic of sisterhood. Forget the chocolates and roses—this day is about champagne toasts, belly laughs, and creating memories with your girl gang.

How to Celebrate Galentine’s Day Like a Queen

Brunch with a Side of Sass
Nothing says “I love my ladies” like an over-the-top brunch! Think mimosas, waffles, and endless laughter. Whether you’re dining out or hosting a DIY brunch bar, the goal is to feast like royalty and celebrate each other’s wins.

Game Night or Movie Marathon
From classic rom-coms (Legally Blonde, Bridesmaids, The Devil Wears Prada) to a board game showdown, the key is to have unfiltered fun. Bonus points if everyone wears matching pajamas for ultimate coziness!

Gift Exchange with a Personal Touch
A thoughtful Galentine’s Day gift could be anything from a handwritten note to self-care goodies like face masks, candles, or books. It’s about showing appreciation for the women who make life brighter.

Dance Party & Karaoke Madness
Cue up Beyoncé, Lizzo, and Spice Girls—it’s time to dance like nobody’s watching. Let loose, grab a mic, and belt out your favorite power anthems. Nothing strengthens friendships like a hilarious off-key duet!

Write Love Letters to Your Friends
When was the last time you told your besties how much they mean to you? A heartfelt letter or a quick text can make someone’s day and strengthen your bond.

Why Galentine’s Day Matters

Female friendships are life-changing. Studies show that strong friendships boost happiness, reduce stress, and even help us live longer.

It’s an excuse to celebrate YOU! Too often, we wait for special occasions—Galentine’s Day is the perfect moment to embrace your fierceness and support the incredible women around you. Sisterhood is a superpower. Women supporting women is the ultimate act of love, kindness, and empowerment.

So gather your girl gang, pop the bubbly, and make this Galentine’s Day one to remember—because strong women deserve to be celebrated!

Happy Galentine’s Day, Queens!

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Dubai
LifestyleTravel

Top 6 Must-See Places in Dubai for Culture, Art & Experiences!

by Web Desk
written by Web Desk
Dubai continues to captivate travelers with its seamless blend of tradition and innovation, drawing in visitors from around the world to experience its rich culture, modern marvels, and unique attractions.
From its iconic skyline to its hidden historical treasures, Dubai is a city that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, this city has endless options to discover.
In this guide, we take you on a journey to some of Dubai’s most remarkable spots, each offering a different perspective of the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

1. Mirzam Chocolate Factory: A Sweet Adventure

For chocolate lovers, the Mirzam Chocolate Factory is a paradise. Located in the heart of Dubai, Mirzam offers visitors an interactive experience to taste, make, and learn about artisanal chocolate-making.

With chocolate wrappers beautifully illustrated by local artists, Mirzam’s chocolates don’t just taste amazing—they look stunning too. Ingredients are sourced from different countries along the historic Spice Route, giving their products an authentic taste that chocolate connoisseurs will love. The unique combinations of some ingredients makes their brand of chocolates stand out and the award – winning one with dates and fennel was a real treat.

The factory is welcoming to all age groups, making it an ideal spot for families or solo travelers who want to indulge their sweet tooth. We learnt about the entire process of chocolate making, got a chance to make our own chocolate and had a fun time illustrating our own wrappers !

With an arty contemporary vibe, the factory also has an adjacent cafe to relax and enjoy the ambiance.

2. Xclusive Yachts Dinner Cruise: Dine Under the Stars

For a relaxing evening in Dubai Marina, hop aboard the Xclusive Yachts Dinner Cruise. This 90-minute cruise offers private seating, live music, and a delicious international buffet—all while taking in the twinkling lights and modern skyline of Dubai Marina. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day and enjoy stunning views from the water. The atmosphere on board is lively yet serene, making it a must-do for anyone wanting a memorable night in Dubai.

3. Arte Museum Dubai: An Immersive Art Experience

Step into a world of mesmerizing digital art at the Arte Museum Dubai. This immersive experience combines art and technology, allowing visitors to walk beneath an endless waterfall, wander through a garden of blooming flowers, or stand among a sky full of stars. Inspired by “eternal nature,” the exhibits are captivating for all ages. Don’t miss Monet’s water lily pond exhibit, which gives you the surreal experience of stepping into one of the artist’s masterpieces.

You can even see your artwork become a part of the immersive experience. I coloured a fish which was scanned and became a part of the aquarium. It was definitely a highlight of the visit and no wonder that it was a delightful experience for all ages!

After exploring the museum, unwind at the Arte Tea Bar, where the calming ambiance and soothing sounds create a sense of tranquility. The tea is served in bowls which become part of the artwork too!

 

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Also Read:
Dubai 2024: Exploring Dubai’s Best Fusion & Contemporary Dining!

4. The Dubai Frame: A Panoramic Icon

The Dubai Frame, an architectural marvel, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city, symbolizing the connection between “Old Dubai” and the futuristic skyline of “New Dubai.”

This iconic structure stands tall, showcasing the city’s past, present, and future. The experience starts with a visit to the old part of Dubai in a museum setting and the experience of entering a souk like it may have been in Dubai in the early days.

Visitors are greeted by holographic shopkeepers who a very life-like. A video towards the end of the tour shares the vision of Dubai’s leader, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and gives an insight into the future.

The Dubai Frame not only offers a unique perspective of the city but also stands as a tribute to the vision that has shaped Dubai into a global destination.

5. La Perle by Dragone: A Theatrical Spectacle

La Perle by the renowned artistic director Dragone is Dubai’s first permanent show, bringing together gravity-defying acrobatics, aerial stunts, and aquatic feats in a custom-built theater in Al Habtoor City. This 90-minute breathtaking performance, inspired by Dubai’s past, present, and future, is a visual feast that blends technology with tradition.

The story revolves around Dubai’s history of pearl diving. It was the main profession for most of the people before oil was discovered and a major source of livelihood. Set on a stage filled with water, the show has performers diving, swimming, and even “flying” in ways that will leave you spellbound. Some of the acrobatics and motorcycle performances will keep you thrilled with a rush of adrenaline.

La Perle is a unique blend of theater and spectacle, making it an unmissable part of any Dubai itinerary.

 

6. The Souks: A Glimpse of Old Dubai

For a taste of traditional Dubai, head to the Souks in the old part of the city. Start your adventure in the Spice Souk, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and scents of exotic spices. We had the pleasure of exploring with Frying Pan Adventures and even played a fun “Spicy Bingo” game to learn about different spices (spoiler alert: we won!). The street food here is a must-try; the iconic “Dubai Wrap” with Oman Chips and hot sauce is a local favorite.

Venture further into the Gold Souk, where everything that glitters is gold. The souk is home to the world’s largest gold ring, certified by Guinness World Records, and other stunning pieces that showcase Dubai’s opulence.

Don’t miss the freshly baked naans from a local bakery featured on Netflix! To top off your experience, cross Dubai Creek on a traditional abra boat for just 1 AED—a perfect way to soak in the charm of Old Dubai.

You can enjoy a more contemporary souk experience at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. It is located close to the Burj Al Arab and has some great handicrafts as well as diverse dining options.

Each of these destinations highlights a different facet of Dubai, offering experiences that are as diverse as they are unforgettable. From futuristic architecture to ancient markets, Dubai truly has something for everyone to enjoy.

Also Read:
Meet Sarah Hamouda, The Woman Behind the Famous Viral Dubai Chocolate!

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Lifestyle

German Citizenship Now Requires Applicants to Declare Israel’s Right to Exist

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • To acquire German citizenship, it is now required to declare Israel’s right to exist to combat anti-Semitism and support Israel.
  • Citizenship regulations have been eased, reducing the time needed to obtain a passport and allowing dual nationality.
  • Critics argue these measures may infringe on free speech, while the government stresses a commitment to democratic values and historical responsibility.

Germany has introduced a new requirement for citizenship applicants: they must now declare Israel’s right to exist. This measure is part of Berlin’s controversial efforts to support Israel amid its ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In tandem with this new requirement, Germany has also agreed to relax stringent citizenship regulations, reducing the time needed to obtain a passport and easing the acquisition of dual nationality.

“Anyone who shares our values and makes an effort can now get a German passport more quickly and no longer has to give up part of their identity by giving up their old nationality,” stated Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, according to Israeli media. “But we have also made it just as clear: anyone who does not share our values cannot get a German passport. We have drawn a crystal-clear red line here and made the law much stricter than before.”

Since the commencement of the conflict in Gaza last October, Germany has implemented measures to curb anti-Israel sentiments. Even prior to this, the country has labeled any criticism of the conflict as “antisemitic,” raising questions about the status of free speech in Germany.

The interior ministry had previously indicated that the reformed citizenship law would include questions on Judaism and Jewish life in Germany. On Tuesday, the government confirmed that declaring Israel’s right to exist is now also a requirement. “New test questions have been added on the topics of antisemitism, the right of the state of Israel to exist, and Jewish life in Germany,” announced the ministry.

Given Germany’s historical responsibility due to the Holocaust, the new citizenship test emphasizes the country’s commitment to Judaism. The Nazi regime’s murder of six million Jews during the Holocaust is a fundamental part of this historical context.

In March, the German weekly Spiegel reported that applicants would be asked about the year Israel was founded, Germany’s supposed obligation to the country, punishments for Holocaust denial, the name of the Jewish place of worship, and the membership requirements for Jewish sports clubs.

Many argue that the Holocaust does not justify Germany’s unwavering support for Israel, especially considering the war on Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of innocent children, women, and men.

Germany claims that the Gaza war has contributed to a sharp rise in hate crimes against Jews in the country. Earlier this month, Germany designated the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divest, Sanction (BDS) movement as an “extremist group” and continues to furnish Israel with arms despite the staggering death toll in Gaza.

The new rules will provide new rights to non-Germans who have been living in Germany for a while. Major changes include:

  • Applicants no longer have to give up their previous nationality to become German.
  • Eligibility for German citizenship after five years of lawful residence, down from eight.
  • Naturalization is possible after three years for those achieving “special achievements in integration,” such as excelling in school or professional life, engaging in civic life, or running for political office.
  • All children born in Germany to foreign parents will acquire German citizenship if at least one parent has been living in Germany legally for more than five years and has permanent residency. The controversial ‘option regulation,’ which forced children of foreign parents to choose a nationality at the age of 18, is now abolished.
  • The guest worker generation, mainly Turkish people who moved to West Germany in the 1960s, will no longer have to take a naturalization test, though they must demonstrate proficiency in oral German.
  • Foreign workers who relocated to former East Germany under a comparable program will have similar provisions.
  • Applicants for naturalization must prove they can earn their own living, though the guest worker generation is exempt from this requirement.
  • A commitment to the democratic order outlined in the German constitution is required, excluding anyone who has committed antisemitic, racist, or other inhumane acts. Those who oppose equal rights for men and women or who live in polygamous marriages are also ineligible for a German passport.
  • Newly naturalized Germans must commit to protecting Jewish life in the country, with the naturalization test questions adjusted accordingly.

Germany Makes Getting Citizenship Easier for Foreigners. Read the full story here: 

Germany has introduced a landmark naturalization law, spearheaded by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s centrist-left coalition, aimed at attracting more migrant workers. Despite facing criticism during a heated parliamentary debate, the law represents a significant departure from Germany’s historically stringent citizenship requirements..

Germany Makes Getting Citizenship Easier for Foreigners

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Lifestyle

Higher Taxes on Salaried Class will Force More Skilled Pakistanis to Leave Country

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) warns that recent tax hikes on the salaried class could drive skilled professionals, such as doctors, engineers, and IT specialists, to seek better opportunities abroad.
  • The potential exodus of high-income earners could lead to reduced innovation, decreased tax revenue, labor market imbalances, and weakened public health and education sectors.
  • To address these challenges, the government should consider implementing equitable tax reforms, offering retention incentives, investing in technology and education, and fostering public-private partnerships to create a favorable environment for skilled professionals.

As Pakistan grapples with economic challenges, the imposition of higher taxes on the salaried class is poised to have far-reaching consequences. The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has raised alarms about the potential exodus of skilled and highly professional Pakistanis, who are increasingly seeking opportunities abroad.

Rising Tax Burden on Salaried Class

The recent budget has introduced significant tax hikes for salaried individuals, aiming to increase revenue and address fiscal deficits. However, this approach has sparked widespread concern among professionals. Many believe that these tax increases disproportionately affect those who are already contributing a substantial portion of their income to the national exchequer.

Brain Drain: A Looming Crisis

The PBC’s warning highlights a critical issue: the brain drain. Pakistan’s talented workforce, comprising doctors, engineers, IT professionals, and other skilled workers, is crucial for the country’s development. Higher taxes and the decrease in disposable income could drive these professionals to seek better financial prospects and quality of life abroad. This migration of talent can severely hamper Pakistan’s economic growth and innovation potential.

Economic Impact of Skilled Emigration

The departure of skilled professionals can lead to a multitude of economic challenges:

  1. Reduced Innovation and Competitiveness: The loss of highly skilled workers diminishes the country’s ability to innovate and compete on a global scale.
  2. Decreased Tax Revenue: Ironically, while higher taxes aim to increase revenue, the emigration of high-income earners could lead to a net decrease in tax collection.
  3. Labor Market Imbalance: The outflow of skilled labor creates gaps in critical sectors, potentially leading to higher labor costs and reduced productivity.
  4. Impact on Education and Health Sectors: The exodus of doctors and educators, in particular, could undermine public health and education systems, further exacerbating social inequalities.

Government’s Stance and Public Reaction

The government justifies the tax increases as a necessary measure to stabilize the economy. However, there is growing public discontent. Many professionals argue that the government should focus on broadening the tax base and cutting unnecessary expenditures instead of overburdening the salaried class.

Twitter Reacts to New PTA Tax Policy, Significant Percentage of Tax Increases on Apple iPhones. Read the full story here: 

Gone are the days when you could conveniently ask someone flying from overseas to buy you the latest Apple iPhone – of course, for its exclusivity and the price point that you can get from the Apple store. Now, the government of Pakistan has imposed heavy goods and services taxes (GST) and customs duty charges on iPhones which adds up to quite a huge sum making it difficult for people from now onwards to get their hands on the latest technology.

Twitter Reacts to New PTA Tax Policy, Significant Percentage of Tax Increases on Apple iPhones

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FeaturedLifestyle

Canada’s Express Entry System: A Comprehensive Guide for Pakistani Applicants

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • Pakistani applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), including minimum work experience, language proficiency, and educational requirements.
  • Candidates must ensure maximising CRS points through factors like language proficiency, work experience, education, and adaptability. These can significantly improve the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
  • Submitting a complete Express Entry profile can expedite the process and improve the chances of being selected from the Express Entry pool. 

Canada’s Express Entry system has revolutionized the way skilled workers from around the world immigrate to Canada. For Pakistanis seeking new opportunities and a better life abroad, understanding the nuances of the Express Entry system is crucial.

Understanding the Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is Canada’s flagship program for managing applications for permanent residence under key economic immigration programs. These programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry:

To be eligible for the Express Entry system, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:

  1. Skilled Work Experience: Applicants must have at least one year of skilled work experience in a qualifying occupation.
  2. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is required, demonstrated through standardized language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).
  3. Education: Applicants must have a minimum level of education (usually a post-secondary degree or diploma).
  4. Express Entry Profile: Candidates need to create an Express Entry profile and meet the criteria for one of the three federal programs.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):

The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score Express Entry candidates. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. The higher the CRS score, the better the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

How to Apply:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Use the Come to Canada tool to determine eligibility for the Express Entry system.
  2. Create an Express Entry Profile: Provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other details.
  3. Obtain Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including language test results, educational credentials, and work experience documents.
  4. Submit Profile to Express Entry Pool: Once your profile is complete, it will be entered into the Express Entry pool.
  5. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  6. Submit Application for Permanent Residence: If you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence, including all supporting documents.

80% of Students Can No Longer Apply for a UK Spouse Visa. Read the full story here: 

Recent changes in immigration policies in the United Kingdom (UK) are reshaping the landscape for international students and immigrants. New data from the Home Office underscores the initial impacts of these reforms, indicating significant shifts in visa applications and migration patterns.

80% Students Can No Longer Apply for UK Spouse Visa

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