It’s father’s day next week – and while there’s nothing that dad loves more than a homemade card, how about getting him a special gift to match? Whether he’s a bit of a style icon or a gadget guy, we’ve found five awesome gifts that are guaranteed a huge smile.

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Chances are that superstar radio presenter Kris Fade is on the school run with you every morning. We chatted to him about being a dad in Dubai and about his fab new Fade Fit Kids healthy snacks.

Can you tell us a bit about your background? What brought you to Dubai?

I came to start Virgin Radio 104.4. I’m Lebanese (originally from Australia) and the opportunity came to start a brand new radio station in either Dubai or Kuala lumpur but I thought hey, let’s get closer to the Middle East, so I took it up and helped set it up with a few other guys. Ten years now I’ve been here in Dubai doing the Kris Fade Show on Virgin Radio I  (6am – 10am) and now we’re broadcast across the Middle East.

How many kids do you have – what are their names and ages?

I’ve got two girls, Noushie and Kikki aged eight and six – Noushie’s real name is Zahra and Kikki’s name is Ariani but for some reason the nicknames have come, they don’t mean anything and they’ve just stuck!

Tell us about your new Fade Fit Kids healthy kids food snacks

As a parent I shop for my kids snacks and I always felt there were only two options – the unhealthy option which is sugary and well priced or the more expensive version, the healthier options but I felt like they were too expensive, I was spending close to AED 250 on each child or over AED 400 each week just on snacks. Their snack bars were anywhere between AED 15 and 20 so Fade Fit Kids is a healthy alternative and affordable – AED 7.50 for a packet which is now the medium to low range price wise for healthy snacks – they taste great, absolutely no preservatives, no added sugar, no peanuts – it’s made locally here in the UAE with dates and a little bit of cocoa powder and some organic cornflakes. And you know, kids are loving it and adults are actually loving it as well, we’ve been sold out in a lot of the Carrefour stores that we’re stocked in (we’re currently stocked in five; Mirdif City Center, Deira, Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Festival City) soon to be in Abu Dhabi and in Sharjah and shortly on mumzworld.com

Are there plans for more snacks?

You know what I think there are but for the moment we’re just going to run with the first one which is Choco Loco (that’s the flavor) to see how we go. This is an investment that I’m putting in solely, I’ve teamed up with Munchbox, the company who are producing it, so I’ve got to make sure that, while I’m not doing it to make money, I’m not going to be losing too much money out of it! But initially sales are going really really well and the demand is there so more snacks in the future? Definitely.

All this talk of food – what’s your favourite family-friendly restaurant in Dubai?

There are so many but I love Cheesecake Factory, it’s got about a billion things to choose from – from the unhealthy to the healthy options.

How would you describe your parenting style?

I want to say pretty easy going but at the same time disciplined. My kids and I are best friends, we hang out together, we really respect each other but they know that when daddy says something, they need to do it. I don’t really need to raise my voice or be that domineering parent – I feel like we get along really well and that they’re really mature for their age. They’re such great kids and I know that a lot of parents say that their kids are the best but I just feel like they really understand and they want to be a part of what daddy does. Super cute.

What’s the best thing about being a dad in Dubai?

You know what I think being a dad in general is pretty good, it doesn’t matter where you are – in Dubai, America, Australia – no matter where you are it’s always cool! In Dubai there are so many things opening up on a weekly and monthly basis that you’ve always got something to try, from theme parks to water parks to cafes.

What’s the hardest part of being a dad in Dubai?

When it comes to the summer and it’s hot. I know we’ve got a lot of indoor activities like rock climbing which I take the kids to a lot of the time but really those hotter summer months are hard when you’re stuck indoors for a while.

What’s the funniest parenting story you can share?

Every day is a funny parenting story! Nowadays they’re getting why people come up and take photos with dad and that daddy talks on the radio – initially they thought that all dads spoke on the radio! When we go out on a daily basis and people want to take selfies and they’re getting asked for selfies, they’re understanding that – but me trying to explain that to them at the beginning was pretty funny.

How has having kids changed the way you define work?

I share a lot of my parenting stories on the radio and the kids are really involved so I think it’s really relatable to other parents who might be driving their kids to school or listening in on the way to work. So the way that it’s changed my work is that I really get to talk about them on the radio and share personal experiences.

Finally, doo you have any tips for soon-to-be dads in Dubai?

Be prepared. Just be prepared that’s all I’m going to say! One of the things I wish is that I’d been more prepared – they always say you can never be prepared for something like this but you can, especially living in Dubai if you don’t have family around you, make sure you’ve got assistance ready to go from day one.

To buy your Fade Fit Kids Choco Loco Snacks visit www.munchbox.ae and get them delivered right to your door (hooray!). Also available to buy at select Carrefour stores across Dubai. 

The post That Papa: Kris Fade & His New Sassy Snacks For Kids appeared first on Sassy Mama.

I LOVE Valentines Day. There, I said it. An opinion about as popular as microwaving kittens or supporting Brexit these days, when most people are convinced Valentine’s Day is shamelessly commercial, full of empty gestures and unrealistic expectations. But me, I like to celebrate it. I’m not talking diamond rings and crazily expensive dinners (unless hub’s reading it in which case I definitely am!). I’m talking about taking the chance to stop and appreciate the one you love. Which is why this year I don’t want my husband to take ME to dinner – I want him to take our daughter instead.

She may be only four but her terrible table manners aren’t the reason I want to duck out of dinner. Instead, I’m opting for a night in front of Netflix, vino in hand and takeaway on speed-dial (hey, it’ll be like I’m single again!) because I want her to grow up thinking of Valentine’s Day as a day she felt loved and treasured, not rejected or cast aside.

In the prehistoric days before I was married (anyone else feel like that was 1000 years ago, mamas?), I grew up with two older brothers and a bad haircut. Valentine’s Day in our house was a nightmare – girls would ring up and giggle down the phone and my dad would sweep in late (either from work or the pub) with petrol station flowers that my mum would pretend to like, but secretly sneer at. For me, the letterbox would remain resolutely empty; making me feel so lonely and unloved I almost envied the flowers.

Read More: What Sassy Mama Wants For Valentine’s Day 

I vowed it would be different for my daughter. No bad haircuts for a start, but more importantly, no lonely Valentine’s Days. Instead, she’s off on a daddy date to Pizza Express for the full three-course extravaganza and an evening where she gets to feel like the centre of somebody’s world. I know I can’t protect her from future heartbreak but hopefully reinforcing her sense of self from an early age will equip her with the skills to send the wrong teenage boys packing and never spend ‘the day for lovers’ staring wistfully at the letterbox. And who knows, maybe they’ll even bring me back a slice. After all, that’s amore!

The post I Heart Valentine’s Day…But This year I want My Husband To Take Someone Else To Dinner appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Right, all you Dubai dads – this one’s for you – we think it’s time for some kiddo/father bonding! Plus us mamas need a little ‘us time’, all those school runs, play dates and extra curricular activities, not to mention all of the other stuff we juggle, is starting to take its toll you know! So how about giving mama a break and having some fun with the minis? We’ve rounded up the best dad-friendly activities in Dubai to get you started.

The post 10 of the Best Dad and Kid Activities in Dubai appeared first on Sassy Mama.

We’ve rounded up the best gifts in fashion, beauty, tech and more, so get shopping or booking mamas and make papa feel special!

Some Sleep (Kind of…)

I ♡ BABA at Robinsons Department Store

What to give the man who has EVERYTHING – except maybe enough sleep now that the kiddos insist on sharing your bed?! We know just the thing – some gorgeous bed linen with complimentary bespoke embroidery – because if there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to help him catch a few zzzs it’s a new set of cool sheets to slip between (and a memo to the kids that a good 8 hours would be much appreciated!). Or maybe he’d like his own personalised towels to make his bathroom corner that much cooler (or as the ultimate gym bag accessory?). Super duper department store Robinsons is offering complimentary emroidering on all bed and bath linen over AED 100 until June 24^th. And If dad’s into grooming (or if he needs a bit of a helping hand and a step away from soap and water) then a free one-to-one expert consultation with Tom Ford beauty is a perfect choice. Whatever your papa is into, the Robinsons Department Store I ♡ BABA selection is guaranteed to make him happy this Father’s Day.

To book an appointment with Tom Ford Beauty at Robinsons call +971 (0) 47063910
www.robinsons.me

Fashion

The Dude T-shirt

These quality-designed tees are our new favourite basics for our boys. We love the fun slogans embroidered on each item and the cut is pretty perfect too. The only thing left for you to do is to choose your tag line, Is your man “the dude” or is he your typical “bad boy”?

AED 245, from Maison Labiche at Boutique 1

Slim Cut Check Silk Tie

Available in 7 colours, this silk jacquard is a woven tie and will ensure papa looks super smart at work. Adding texture and a solid design to his attire, you can rest assured he will be very happy with his new Italian offering.

AED 775, from Burberry

Beauty

Travel Shaving Kit

The Art of Shaving travel set is an amazing gift choice for Fathers Day. Featuring a pre-shave oil, shaving cream, an aftershave balm, a brush, and razor, as well as a lovely travel case, your man is sure to be able to refine The Perfect Shave.

AED 455, from Namshi.com

Tuscan Leather Eau de Parfum

This bestselling Parfum from Tom Ford’s Private Blend collection is powerful and intense. Yes, it smells of leather, with notes of woodiness and jasmine, and lasting shades of amber complete this seductive scent.

AED 940, Tom Ford, available at Sephora

Tech

Tile Slim
Does your man have trouble locating his belongings? The newest model of the Tile is the perfect tracking device. It’s as thin as two credit cards put together and is an ideal friend for his keys, wallet, phone or laptop. What a fab gift!

AED 135, available at souq.com

DJI Spark

Pre-order this mini-drone dad this year. This, the hottest newest gadget around, features all of DJI’s signature technologies and is available in five different colours.  Spark inspires, empowers and captures moments creatively directly from the hand. Amazing!

AED 1,999, available to pre-order at RC Corner

Classic Gift

A Book – Men without Women

Frequently nominated Nobel Prize author, Murakami introduces his humorous short stories. Featuring seven tales, the book explores the lives of men who find themselves alone, and each and every one is brilliant in its own way!

AED 94 from Kinokuniya

Leather Cardholder

A man can’t have enough cardholders and we love this Saffiano leather Prada number. With six credit card slots and in a beautiful Baltic blue, choose this classic for your gift to daddy this year.

1015 AED, from mrporter.com

F&B

The Smoking Gun

What’s next right? We know!  But honestly, we hear it’s all the craze. Gift daddy a Smoking Gun and expect Michelin star tasty food. To be honest, our men can use all the help they can get in the kitchen so we say YES to this cooking essential.

AED 480, Lakeland Stores

Engraved Glass Tumblers

A set of glasses is a great gift for a father and we love Zara Home’s offerings. With a large selection to choose from, you can find the ideal set to suit your man and his tipple of choice of course.

AED 35, from Zara Home

Personalised

Daddy and Us book

Letterfest always comes up trumps in the gift department and we love this Daddy and Us books. Personalise with names, pets, daddy’s job and more to create the sweetest story for bedtime.

AED 105, from notonthehighstreet

Personalised Wallet

It might be cheesy but we LOVE these personalised wallets, and so will dad, we promise! After all, what’s better than a lovely note from your son or daughter to remind you of their love; a crumb of comfort every time you open your wallet to dispense more money of your hard earned money!

AED 95, from Findmeagift.co.uk

Experiences for Daddy and Child

Aventura Parks

Treat daddy and your teen to a fun filled day together at the tree top adventure parks. Let their relationship reach new heights as they explore the forests and enjoy thrilling zip lines and circuits.

From AED 95, a Ramadan special, at Aventura Parks

Fireman Sam: Alien Alert

A trip to the cinema is always fun and Fireman Sam is still showing in most cinemas in Dubai. Watch Sam and his team investigate the sudden alien activity and save everyone in Pontypandy.

From AED 35, at Vox Cinemas

Daddy Treat Experiences

Ocean Active

For dads that rise early in the morning and love being out on the water, a fishing trip might be just the ticket to thanking him for his support.  Ocean Active offer tailor-made fishing excursions, from deep-sea fishing to fly fishing, and more, that are fun and relaxing at the same time.

A Round of Golf

Treat papa to a few hours of me time at the golf course. This championship golf course also boasts a luxury club with facilities to enjoy, and dad can even have a lesson to brush up on those strokes if need be.

From AED 245, at The Els Club

A trip to the Barbers

Yes men need a bit of TLC sometimes too and what better way to spoil your man than a pampering session at 1847. Whether you choose to buy him The Perfect Shave or another luxurious treatment, the experience is certain to be indulging in every way.

AED 70 for The Perfect Shave, at 1847

The post How To Make Dads Feel Mega Special This Week appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Let’s hear it for another awesome dad! Aly Rahimtoola introduces us to his gorgeous family and chats everything from date nights to favourite family activities plus shares a little about his background as Founder of award winning beauty brand Herbal Essentials (if you haven’t tried it yet then do – the SPF 50 sun oil is one of our absolute sassy faves…).
A big thanks to Lidya Kalichuk for the gorgeous pics (any mamas looking for a family shoot – Lidya’s your gal!).

Can you tell us a bit about your background? What brought you to Dubai? What do you do?
I moved to Dubai in 1996 when it was a very different city than it is now. I was born in Pakistan but grew up in London and went to University in the States. After graduating, I worked in New York and London before a short time back in Pakistan before settling here. For me, Dubai is the perfect blend of East and West which reflects my background and mindset. I come from a business family where we have diverse interests but my main focus is on a skincare brand that I founded about 7 years ago called Herbal Essentials which I run.

How many kids do you have? What are their names and ages? And your wife’s name?
Maliha, my wife, and I have one son. His name is Zain and he is going to turn 3 in May.

How did you choose your son’s name?
We wanted the name to have some meaning and went through quite a few before settling on Zain which has multiple meanings in Islam such as Friend or Beauty.

What do you hope your son gets or doesn’t get from you?
I hope that Zain gets my wife’s calmness and kindness coupled with my work ethic and discipline. I think we both have a good sense of humour, which we hope he has, as it is always good to be able to laugh – even at the hardest moments. It keeps one’s perspective balanced.

What’s your favourite part of your parenting routine?
Before bedtime when I get home from work is the time I get to spend with him and bond.

Who plays good cop and bad cop between you and your wife?
I am meant to be the stricter one but if I am honest I think I am maybe too lenient with him. Then again he is only 2 so hard to say ‘no’ too many times. I am sure that will come in time.

Read more: Olympic Values to Instil In Your Children

How do you keep the romance alive after having kids?
We take the odd little escape trip together as we are very lucky to have family members who can come and babysit for a long weekend or a week – that plus the odd impulsive gift or even a call in the middle of a busy day never hurts.

What’s the best thing about being a dad in Dubai?
From talking to my friends in the UK and Europe I think family life in the UAE is a lot closer and easier to manage time wise for working parents than in the UK or Europe. 

What’s the hardest part of being a dad in Dubai?
To be honest since I’m a Dad for 2 years, I have yet to experience a real hardship. I waited a while to be a parent so am enjoying every moment so far.

Biggest lesson learned?
When I was younger I didn’t really follow any financing planning policies. I don’t have any regrets as I enjoyed myself but in hindsight living and raising a family in the UAE isn’t cheap so I wish I had saved a little more than I did.

Read more: Fatherhood – What Being a Dad Means to Me

What’s the funniest parenting story you can share?
We have an amusing moment literally every day as Zain is a fun loving active toddler who manages to make Maliha and me (and himself) laugh. Probably no different than any other household.

How has having kids changed the way you define work?
Having Zain in my early 40’s makes me want to work harder and succeed more than ever so that I can give him and Maliha the financial security for later in life. Having Zain relatively later in life has given me the impetus to drive forward even harder, which might have slipped before he arrived.

Do you have any tips for soon-to-be dads in Dubai?
Start a Savings Plan! Education costs are going up.

Favourite family-friendly restaurants in Dubai?
We like going to Bystro on SZR which is close to where we live as they are family friendly and the food and service is great. Zain has also discovered a fondness for pizza!

Read more: The Best Burgers in Dubai

Favourite activities with the family?
We go to the beach on weekends.

Favourite date night spots with your wife?
We alternate between some of the really nice restaurants in DIFC like Zuma or La Petite Maison or Coya at the Four Seasons Hotel to going together to discover some very simple cafes or places hidden away in either Al Barsha or Karama. That is the fun part of Dubai as it has everything.

Favourite place for a little grooming (we know all men do it!)?
1847.

What are your favourite foods to eat?
If I said gluten free and low carb foods then I would be lying! Jokes aside, I love all types of food but my favourite has to be Chinese food – Royal China in DIFC is a particular favourite for all of us including Zain. 

Read more: Neighbourhood Guide to Downtown Dubai

If you had 3 wishes, what would they be?
To be honest, all my wishes are fulfilled at a basic level although I wouldn’t mind being fitter/healthier and being able to take longer holidays as the ability to switch off from work when you are self-employed in a young early-stage business is hard.

When’s the last time you cried?
One of my key team members who had worked with me for 20 years died suddenly whilst on holiday and I cried when I got the news in the office as I have a small team and they are like family.

If your family had a theme-song, what would it be?
I like all types of music as does my wife but what’s hilarious is Zain seems to like Justin Bieber songs as he gets all excited when he hears them on the radio. I shall remind him of this when he’s older and when he tries to denies it!

Read more: Sassy Mama’s Family-friendly Playlist

What do you think your kids are up to right now?
Zain will either be in school or at home playing with his cars – he’s obsessed with cars.

A huge thank you to Lidiya Kalichuk of www.lidiyakalichuk.com for the gorgeous photos! 

The post That Papa: Aly Rahimtoola of Skincare Brand Herbal Essentials appeared first on Sassy Mama.