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Half a billion people live with arthritis: MEAF puts early action at the heart of World Arthritis Day 2026

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Arthritis affects about half a billion people worldwide, yet its physical, emotional and economic impact on everyday life is often underestimated. To strengthen awareness and help people take greater control of their health, the Middle East Arthritis Foundation (MEAF) will host its annual World Arthritis Day community event from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on 24 October 2026 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai. Inspired by the global Achieve Your Dreams theme, the event will encourage people with arthritis to pursue their goals through earlier diagnosis, informed care and stronger community support.

MEAF is urging people to recognise symptoms and seek medical advice before arthritis limits their independence. The condition is often dismissed as an unavoidable consequence of aging, although it can develop at any stage of life. Patients’ inflammatory arthritis symptoms are often dismissed when laboratory results appear normal, making it important to consult a rheumatologist.

Ankylosing spondylitis commonly begins during the teens or twenties, while juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects approximately one in 1,000 children under 16. A Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi study of Emirati rheumatoid arthritis patients recorded an average age of approximately 50, showing how significantly the condition can affect people during their working years. Without appropriate treatment, inflammatory arthritis can cause permanent joint damage and long-term disability, while some forms can also affect the eyes, lungs, heart and kidneys.

Through its patient support work, MEAF sees how chronic fatigue, morning stiffness and unpredictable flare-ups can affect employment as well as exercise, travel and routine activities. Painful hand joints can turn cooking or holding a pen into difficult tasks, while uncertainty around symptoms can contribute to anxiety and isolation. Rates of depression and anxiety among people with arthritis-related diseases can be between two and 10 times higher than in the general population. Exercise does not inevitably worsen arthritis, and suitable low-impact movement can help preserve strength and mobility.

Against this backdrop, MEAF’s event will combine clinical guidance with practical activities and patient experiences, helping attendees become more confident managers of their health. Participants will be able to speak directly with specialists and learn from others who understand the daily challenges of arthritis. Dedicated guidance will support women navigating fertility and pregnancy, with care extending through the postpartum period. The programme will also explore the role of nutrition, physical activity and mental wellbeing in managing the condition alongside medical treatment.

Dr Humeira Badsha, Founding Member of the Middle East Arthritis Foundation, said: “Over three decades of treating people with arthritis, I have seen how quietly the condition can change a life. Pain may appear first, but fatigue, reduced mobility and emotional strain can gradually affect work, relationships and independence. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are autoimmune conditions, and early diagnosis is critical to managing them effectively, avoiding joint damage and preventing long-term disability. World Arthritis Day gives us a chance to help people recognise symptoms and seek care earlier. With the right treatment, practical lifestyle guidance and a supportive community, people can manage their condition with confidence and continue pursuing the goals that give their lives meaning.”

This year, MEAF has collaborated with the Emirates Society for Rheumatology to raise awareness, with Dr Amel Ginawi leading public awareness for the Society and stressing the importance of early diagnosis. Attendees can learn, connect and participate in different ways, including a practical nutrition workshop led by a clinical dietitian and sessions covering Tai Chi, accessible dance, mental resilience and sound healing. The event will also feature the RM Dreams Poster Competition, inviting participants to share their dreams and experiences through creative posters, with attendees voting for their favourites and awards presented to the winners.

By bringing patients, caregivers and health professionals into the same conversation, MEAF hopes to replace misconceptions with useful guidance and reduce the isolation that can accompany a chronic condition. The Achieve Your Dreams theme reflects the Foundation’s belief that arthritis should not define what someone can work towards, provided they receive timely care and support suited to their circumstances.

All sessions are free to attend. To participate in the event, please register on  https://arthritis.ae/wad.

For more information about MEAF, visit www.arthritis.ae or follow the Foundation on Facebook: Emirates Arthritis Foundation and Twitter: UAE Arthritis.

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Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a Flavorful Feast at Mausam, Dubai Mall

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November 4, 2026

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Savor the spirit of Diwali with an all-day festive feast, rich Indian flavors, and stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a specially curated all-day Diwali set menu, featuring authentic Indian flavors against the spectacular backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. Priced at AED 189 per person, the festive dining experience brings together the color, warmth, and rich culinary traditions of India, inviting guests to gather with family and friends over an indulgent feast in the heart of Dubai.

With its inviting ambiance and iconic Downtown Dubai surroundings, Mausam offers the perfect setting to embrace the joy of Diwali. Guests can settle in for a leisurely dining experience, where traditional Indian hospitality meets contemporary culinary artistry, creating a warm and memorable occasion for loved ones to come together.

The specially crafted Diwali menu, Flavors of India, takes diners on a culinary journey across the country, bringing together vibrant street food, flavorful kebabs, authentic regional curries, and indulgent festive desserts. With dedicated vegetarian and non-vegetarian selections, the experience celebrates the diversity of Indian cuisine through a thoughtfully curated assortment of traditional favorites and contemporary creations.

Bringing together an abundance of festive flavors, warm hospitality, and the joy of togetherness, Mausam sets the scene for a memorable Diwali celebration, inviting guests to embrace the Festival of Lights through exceptional food and cherished moments with loved ones.

  • Offer: Diwali Set Menu | Price: AED 189 per person | Duration: 8th November | Throughout the day | Location: Mausam, Dubai Mall | For reservation, please call +971 4 438 4001 or email at emaarhospitalitypr@meansdesign.ae and follow-on Instagram @mausamdubai.
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Celebrate the Spirit of Diwali with a Festive Feast at Purani Dilli

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November 4, 2026

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Celebrate the festival of lights with an evening of vibrant flavours, cherished traditions and festive cheer at Purani Dilli. This Diwali, the restaurant presents Utsav, a special dining experience designed to bring family and friends together over a memorable feast.

Guests can indulge in a lavish buffet featuring an array of Indian favourites, alongside colourful rangoli displays and live chaat and jalebi stations that capture the spirit of the celebrations. Priced at AED 129 per person, Utsav promises a delightful way to embrace the joy of Diwali with loved ones.

Details: Event: Utsav – Diwali Celebration When: 8 November 2026, 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM | Price: AED 129 per person | Location: Purani Dilli, Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road | For reservations: +971 56 414 2213

Celebrate the Spirit of Diwali with a Festive Feast at Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai

Celebrate the festival of lights with a feast of authentic Indian flavours, festive traditions and joyful moments at Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai. This Diwali, the restaurant invites families and friends to come together for a special festive buffet, bringing the warmth and spirit of the celebrations to the dining table.

Guests can look forward to a delightful spread of traditional Indian favourites, featuring rich flavours, aromatic spices and an array of delicious dishes that capture the essence of the festive season. Whether gathering with family or celebrating with friends, the Diwali buffet offers the perfect setting to share good food, laughter and cherished moments.

Priced at AED 125 per person, the special buffet will be available on 7th and 8th November, inviting guests to savour the joy of Diwali over a memorable dining experience.

Details: Event: Diwali Special Buffet | When: 7th & 8th November 2026, 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Price: AED 125 per person | Location: Purani Dilli, Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai | For | reservations: +971 50 211 6816

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Celebrate Christmas Day with an Italian Feast, Festive Cheer and Live Entertainment at Isabella

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November 4, 2026

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Christmas Day calls for good food, plenty of laughter and absolutely no reason to rush away from the table. At Isabella, the Christmas Day Brunch is all about celebrating together, Italian style.

Starting at 12pm, guests can settle in for three hours of festive dining, with an afternoon that gradually comes alive through music and entertainment. A DJ takes over from 1pm, followed by a live saxophonist at 2pm, bringing an upbeat soundtrack to Christmas celebrations.

With packages starting from AED 299, including a special Ferrari beverage package at AED 599 per person and a dedicated children’s price, the brunch offers a welcoming setting for families and friends looking to spend Christmas Day over a leisurely meal.

Details:

  • Date: Friday, 25 December 2026 | Time: Three-hour brunch from 12pm | Soft Beverage Package: AED 299 per person | House Beverage Package: AED 399 per person | Aperol Package: AED 499 per person | Ferrari Beverage Package: AED 599 per person | Children: AED 150 per child | Entertainment: DJ from 1pm and live saxophonist from 2pm | Location: Isabella Cucina Italiana, Vida Hills Hotel, Dubai

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