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Alina Ali

Alina Ali grew up in Dubai and has spent the last ten years watching the UAE's fashion and lifestyle scene transform into one of the most dynamic in the world. As a writer, she was documenting UAE sneaker culture, high fashion, and luxury lifestyle before most outlets realised it was worth covering. She joined What's Hot in UAE as Fashion, Lifestyle & Sneaker Culture Writer after years of running her own fashion blog and building a following among Dubai's style community. Her network includes boutique owners, brand representatives, stylists and resellers across the UAE — which means her release guides, stockist lists, and fashion coverage are sourced from people with actual access, not copied from brand press kits. Alina covers everything from Nike and Jordan regional exclusives to high fashion, couture, luxury brands, beauty, and the UAE's homegrown streetwear labels making noise internationally. Lifestyle at What's Hot in UAE is her domain — and that means anything fashion, from the runway to the street. She is based in Dubai Marina and collects Air Maxes. Follow Alina's work on Muck Rack , Substack , Vocal , and Medium .

Couples dining elegantly on a rooftop with a city skyline illuminated at night.
Living in the UAE

UAE Unveiled: The Definitive Guide to Lifestyle, Money & Tech for Thriving in the Emirates

The United Arab Emirates—a dazzling tapestry of ambition, innovation, and unmatched opportunity—beckons individuals and enterprises from across the globe. Renowned for its towering skylines, futuristic visions, and lively cultural mosaic, the UAE has solidified its reputation as a leading destination for those seeking a dynamic environment to live, work, and invest. Thriving in the Emirates…

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A black hooded jacket with "JAPAN" and a Japanese flag patch on the front pocket, featuring additional white designs on the sleeves.
Lifestyle

The Polo Ralph Lauren x BEAMS JAPANORAK Reissue: History, Design, and Collectibility

A buzz has been rippling through the fashion world, signaling the highly anticipated return of a true archival gem: the Polo Ralph Lauren x BEAMS JAPANORAK. More than just a jacket, this reissue represents a confluence of heritage design, contemporary relevance, and an undeniable collector’s appeal. As a landmark collaboration for BEAMS’ 50th anniversary, this…

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People browsing sneakers and hats on display in a store with brick walls and wooden flooring.
Sneakers

Best Sneaker Stores in Dubai: 8 Verified Shops (2026)

The best sneaker store in Dubai depends on what you are buying. For current Nike and Jordan releases with the lowest authenticity risk, start with Nike or Jordan at Dubai Mall. For multiple mainstream brands in one stop, use Foot Locker. Level Shoes is strongest for luxury footwear, while thegoodlife. and FRAME offer a more…

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A person in formal evening attire walks confidently down a fashion runway holding a red object, with an audience seated on either side.
Lifestyle

Willy Chavarria’s Middle East Debut: Unpacking His Strategic Global Vision

✅ Updated June 2026 — Willy Chavarria has continued to grow his cultural footprint globally, becoming one of fashion’s most politically engaged and critically respected designers. His Middle East debut was a milestone — his first major presentation in the GCC region. Chavarria’s work is stocked at select boutiques in Dubai; check Level Shoes, The…

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A white and red sneaker with a clear heart-shaped tag featuring a silhouette logo.
Sneakers

Air Jordan 4 “Valentine’s Day” (2026): Your Official Guide to Release, Price, and Gifting

Every year, sneaker enthusiasts and romantics alike eagerly await the special holiday releases from Jordan Brand. These drops consistently blend iconic silhouettes with thematic flair, creating coveted items that often become instant classics. For 2026, the Air Jordan 4 “Valentine’s Day” is poised to be the crown jewel of romantic sneaker offerings, designed exclusively for…

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Three pairs of dark-colored slip-on shoes with rounded toes and flexible mesh material on a light background.
Sneakers

NikeSKIMS Rift Mesh: Unpacking the Fusion of Comfort, High Fashion, and Iconic Design

In the fast-changing world of fashion collaborations, a groundbreaking partnership has emerged that promises to redefine the boundaries between athletic heritage, luxury loungewear, and high fashion influence. The NikeSKIMS Rift Mesh, born from the collective vision of Nike, SKIMS, and Kim Kardashian, is not just a shoe; it’s a statement. This innovative split-toe silhouette smoothly…

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Air Jordan 6 Infrared "Salesman"
Sneakers

Air Jordan 6 Infrared “Salesman”: The Definitive Deep Dive into Its Mythical Origin & Unprecedented Authenticity

For serious sneaker collectors, the Air Jordan 6 holds a hallowed place in history, forever linked to Michael Jordan’s first championship. Yet, amidst its iconic releases, a shadowy legend persisted: an unreleased 1999 seasonal catalog sample, known only to the most dedicated enthusiasts. This mythical iteration, a precursor to the 2000 retro, stirred curiosity and…

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