Twelve thoughtful gift ideas for loved ones

Lifestyle : 18 April 2023

It’s not always easy to think of new and unique gifts for the people important in your life – your spouse, kids, colleagues, friends, family, or even for treating yourself!

Here’s a curated list of charming ideas that you might want to save for the next birthday or Valentine’s Day or thinking-of-you moment – several are lovely Emirati brands – and they’re all available in Sharjah!

A wholesome picnic: Manbat Shop – Aljada

This brand-new farmers’ market retailer has varieties of products packed with nutrition and antioxidants. Start with a box of premium chocolate-covered dates – pair them with luscious strawberries grown right here in the UAE, a selection of natural honey minus the preservatives, roasted nuts, and freshly-prepared smoothies and you’ve got a hamper full of love!

Say it with cake: Vanilla Rose – Nasma Central

The advantage of shopping at a fleuriste-café is finding perfectly coordinated cakes and bouquets that go aesthetically hand-in-hand and are on-point with flavors and scents. Match the frosting with the petals for harmonious beauty to delight the whole family!

Scented surroundings: Bath & Bodyworks – Nasma Central

Venture beyond the brand’s popular line of candles and take a whiff at the Home Fragrance Sprays in comforting scents like Linen & Lavender and Warm Vanilla Sugar. Match them with invigorating Car Fragrances in Iced Dragonfruit Tea, Cactus Blossom or Eucalyptus Spearmint – these can be placed in Car Fragrance Holders available in Rose Gold, Matte Black and Matte Grey!

Unique floral tributes: Seasons Floristry – Aljada

Skip the usual clichéd options for flowers and head over to this zen-like floristry for exotic blooms and beautifully manicured East Asian plants. Artsy imports, plenty of bonsai, and earthy materials make for tasteful arrangements and memorable giveaways for special occasions!

Twirl in tulle: Moments Design – Aljada

Fashionistas will take delight in new tulle abayas at this Emirati abaya boutique with hand-embroidered beading – versatile layering for an evening out! Or for greater coverage, opt for a striking ombré-hued fabric abaya paired with a sheila in contrasting colors for a serious style statement.

Zentastic gifting: Wabi Sabi – Aljada

Your fave vegan bistro and bakery also has a boutique section with curated lifestyle products evoking holistic wellbeing. Take your pick from healing stones, trinkets, knick-knacks and ring-holders. There’s also eco-friendly upcycled products and breezy handmade apparel that supports sustainable living.

Tempting tins: Ben’s Cookies – Aljada

One’s never enough when it comes to these deliciously chunky delights! Pick out a variety and present them in a festive tin – Triple Chocolate Chunk, White Chocolate & Cranberry, Caramelised Crunch and Ginger Ginger are just a few of the flavors you can fill it up with!

Pie love you too: Spinneys – Aljada & Nasma Central

Want to take over some traditional homemade pie for a housewarming or welcome gift but don’t have the time to prepare one from scratch? Spinney’s bakery has some lovely pie options in Blackberry, Apple and Apple Crumble and they’re priced economically, too! Buy an extra pie to keep at home and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice-cream to bring out the flavor.

A thrilling experience: Virtuality – Aljada

For the gamer in your life, look no further than this impressive VR gaming center with high-tech AI, ambient lighting and fantastic sound quality. It’s a great way to entertain kids and adults with options for individual and group stations and take part yourself too!

Handy organizers: Mumuso – Aljada

Check out various color-coordinated organizer options for the desk, closet, and room to help keep kiddie areas clutter-free! Treat children to cute stationery with quirky motifs in fun colors or perhaps give them gift cards so they can pick out their own favorites.

Functional comfort: Pushd at Round – Aljada

Ladies – take a look at Round fitness studio’s retail section that displays Pushd – an exciting Emirati line of women’s activewear. Treat your besties to the squat-proof, high-waisted Seamless Ombré Power leggings in Ocean, Sky, or Sunset.

Gift yourself wellness: Wellfit – Aljada & Nasma Central

Book yourself a session at Wellfit’s brand-new padel courts at Aljada or sign up for a free trial at Wellfit Nasma Central! If you’re a resident at the Sarab community, you also have access to the swanky new Wellfit Sarab.

Fashion