7th July 2025

Good morning Ranches Ladies!

A Summer Full of Surprises!

Yes, the summer season for the Ranches Ladies has begun with temperatures hitting their usual toasty highs. Many have headed off for holidays but plenty have stayed and if inclined can jump into the extravaganza that’s called the Dubai Summer Surprises. (DSS)

It may have started on a smaller scale in 1998 but it’s now mushroomed into a gigantic amalgamation of cultural celebrations, competitions, raffles, shopping, entertainment and family activities.

The program got going in June and runs to the end of August with a variety of events to keep residents and visitors enjoying the summer months.

Filipino singer/songwriter TJ Monterde will be entertaining folk on July 14th. Shreya Ghosal, a talented Indian singer with a catalogue of accolades will be bringing her prolific versatility to Dubai on July 19th. While Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia and legendary soul and R&B singer Macy Gray will be in town to showcase the best of their work to their audiences.

A number of indoor malls are hoping to keep the energetic and fitness fans happy with walking events. Comedy shows too are on the agenda as are foodie and culinary offerings in the Summer Restaurant Week ( July 4th – July 13th).

And there’s also a plethora of children’s art, heritage and leadership camps happening at Al Jalila Cultural Centre, Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum which might help the Ranches Ladies who are mums have fun through the school holidays.

Whatever happens it’s going to be hot in the city but there’s still going to be plenty to choose from to have a good time if you’re planning on being here. Enjoy!

Written by Beverly Sanders.

Ranches Ladies visit to Hello Chef on 2nd July 2025

I was fortunate to be one of 8 Ranches Ladies who spent a few hours cooking, chatting and best of all, tasting some of the many options that Hello Chef produces daily from its purpose built facility. Based in Dubai and celebrating 10 years in business, the meal prep company sends boxes all over the UAE.
After a quick introduction with Sana from Marketing and a thorough check for allergies, we were introduced to Roya who would be guiding us and Raymond who was fantastic at whizzing bowls and utensils away to be cleaned as soon as we had used them (sadly, he is not included in the deliveries). We worked in pairs to try out various cuisines and menu options following the included instruction cards. The meals selected for us included a quick to prepare delicious chicken “egg roll” noodle bowl with cabbage, carrots and bean sprouts, a colourful fajita chicken
with cheesy Mexican rice, salsa and sour cream, comfort food such as cottage pie and a classic mushroom risotto with parmesan crisps. We also whipped up a mozzarella, tomato and rocket pasta salad and even had time to make a couple of desserts.

After a fun hour or so of cooking and chatting in the spacious and well-equipped test kitchens, we sat down to sample our efforts. All the meals we made were from the 2-person box option and were very generous quantities. All were fresh, tasty and disappeared quickly, with many of us going back for seconds. Luckily, we had a little bit of room left for a decadent tiramisu (which even those of us who aren’t coffee fans found delicious) and a light, fluffy zingy lemon and blueberry cake with a cream cheese drizzle – a definite favourite.

We also had chance to chat to the inspiring Finnish-French founder of Hello Chef, Olivia Manner, who has grown the business from delivering to 10 friends and family customers a week in 2015 to serving thousands of homes 10 years later. Having heard of the company, it was great to have an opportunity to sample the products. I’m now planning to order some meals for the week we start school and work after the holidays as they were so clearly laid out and easy to follow, just what is needed when life gets hectic again!! Many thanks to Josephine for organizing such a delicious experience, highly recommended.

Write up by Hannah Dowson

China Tang 4th July 2025

We were thoroughly spoiled when we visited China Tang at The Lana, Dorchester Hotel in Business Bay. Having dined at its sister restaurant in London expectations were high… and it didn’t disappoint.
The decor was very classy and elegant downstairs where we had dinner. The upstairs lounge area was a gorgeous sleek space. The view outside of the skyline an added bonus.
We were warmly welcomed by the courteous staff who were very informative with the menu.
Then began the delicious meal. First some very tasty mocktails followed by the yummy starters. The prawn toasts designed as swans were a standout. By the time we’d finished the soup we were full. Then came the duck. It was carved at the table beautifully, a real show piece.
Next came the main meal, the fish was light and delicate. The beans spicy and a good accompaniment, along with the rice. The sweet n sour chicken was uniquely presented as balls of pineapple and chicken.
Finally, the dessert. The mille feuille was a delight but the real surprise was the jelly served with an assortment of fruits and nuts. The textures were satisfying and unexpected. It was a triumph. The whole evening was a pinch me moment. It’s a great addition to an already expansive fine dining repertoire of restaurants here in Dubai. It’s a stylish place with great food and service what more could you ask for.

We Want To Hear From You

This is your newsletter, and we need your contributions!
What can you share? Maybe something from your RL Circles activities, your travels, favourite place to visit, or how you and your family celebrate cultural or religious festivals? Please send short articles (as a guide 200 to 400 words max), with photos, if possible, to ranches.ladies@gmail.com or the RL Web Updates Group.
Please send any articles or items for the newsletter to ranches.ladies@gmail.com (by Friday midday for inclusion in the next Monday’s newsletter.)

Tuesday Coffee Morning

Ranches Ladies Tuesday coffee mornings takes place at Larte, Studio One Hotel, from 10:30am to 12pm. Ladies of all ages, wherever you live, are welcome to join us.

Reviving My Beloved Kate Spade Bag

Well ladies

Just like we all need to visit the doctor from time to time, our favourite items do too. My well-loved grey leather Kate Spade bag, a beloved gift from my husband bought at Mall of Emirates some years ago and well used, was feeling a bit worse for wear. It’s been my go-to bag for years for everything and known for carrying the kitchen sink (carrying so many different things if and when needed by someone).

As someone who believes in fixing things instead of tossing them, I knew my bag deserved a little tender loving care (TLC). After some research, I discovered The Shoe Doctor, a fantastic place that specializes in refurbishing bags and shoes.

I reached out to them, sharing some photos of my bag over WhatsApp, and explained that it needed some piping repairs and stitching on the handles. They let me know that it was going to be a tricky job, but they were up for the challenge. Having dabbled in sewing myself as a teenager ( long ago), I truly appreciated the effort that goes into restoring such beautiful pieces.

To get the best results, they recommended redyeing the leather. And let me tell you, the outcome was nothing short of amazing. My Kate Spade bag now looks as good as new, both inside and out.

If you have any precious items that need a little love, I highly recommend checking out The Shoe Doctor. They handle all types of shoes, sneakers, hats, and bags, helping to give our beloved belongings a longer lifespan.

So, why not treat your favourite pair of shoes or handbag to some professional care. Let’s keep our treasures looking fabulous!

Useful information so here is the contact Info:

Website: The Shoe Doctor DXB
Phone: ‪+971 58 503 3701‬

My experience by Josephine McBurney

The Walking Circle

The Laughter Factory is back with even bigger laughs! Studio One Hotel on 12th July at 8:30pm
Did you miss the show last month? Fear not! The Laughter Factory is bringing the entertainment once again. We’re promising you a night of pure laughter, tears of joy and a whole lot of entertainment! Clear your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of comedy because you’re in for a treat. Join us for a memorable and entertaining night of big laughs, delicious food and drinks at our Studio One Hotel on 12th July at 8:30pm. The nights lineup includes:

Steven Briggs – As seen on Netflix’s ‘Unbelievable’ and HBO’s ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm
Kelsey De Almeida whose sharp wit and infectious charm will have you and your mates in stitches.
Maher Barwany – Back by popular demand!

Get ready for a night of non-stop laughter – it’s a laugh you won’t want to miss

RL Circles Calendar

For more activities, see our website for the Circles Calendar: https://arabianranchesladies.com/circles-calendar/

Email circles.ranches.ladies@gmail.com if you would like to join any circle. If you are a member but not yet on the members only Ranches Ladies Whatsapp group please email ranches.ladies@gmail.com

Our website is http://www.arabianranchesladies.com and you can find us on FB and Instagram as Ranches Ladies

Your Suggestions Matter

Do you have any ideas for Ranches Ladies activities and are you willing to get involved?
Would you like you start a new circle? Or would you just like to give some feedback?
We would love to hear from you!

Discounts

Summer Exclusives for Ranches Ladies Members

This July and August, we are excited to bring you exclusive summer offers from some of our amazing partners, just for Ranches Ladies members! Whether you are staying in Dubai or looking for ways to relax, move, or connect during the warmer months, we’ve got something special lined up for you.

OrthoPro Clinic Special Offer for our Members

OrthoPro Clinic has been one of our valued wellness partners, supporting Ranches Ladies members with expert care in orthopaedics, physiotherapy, and sports rehabilitation.

This summer is the perfect time to prioritise your health and well-being during the quieter months. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, improving your posture, or simply maintaining your physical wellness, the dedicated team at OrthoPro Clinic is here to help you feel your best.

Take advantage of their personalised approach and make this season a time to check and recharge your body.

OrthoPro Clinic – Dubai Science Park

Simply mention Ranches Ladies when booking to enjoy the exclusive member benefits.

The Halm Collective

We are proud to have The Halm Collective as one of the Ranches Ladies partners! This serene wellness and wellness hub on Jumeirah Beach Road blends elegant spaces, a Swedish-Arabic fusion café, and reformer Pilates in a beautifully designed setting.

Exclusive Summer Offer:
Ranches Ladies get 2 complimentary reformer sessions when purchasing the Summer Reformer Package – pay for 10, get 12! Free valet parking available!

Valid till end of August 2025

Your RL membership card is your passport to great discounts from our dozens of discount partners. Check the discounts section on the website for a full list (use the drop down category list), including recently added new discounts.
Present your membership card to avail the discount. For any discount related enquiries or suggestions please email discounts.rl@gmail.com

For any enquiries or suggestions please email ranches.ladies@gmail.com

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Tuesday