Afternoons with Helen Farmer

A laid back look at life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what's happening and where to go with free advice, expert opinion and storytelling which gives an inside scoop in to real life UAE. Calling foodies, culture vultures and people who want answers from our trusted team of engaging experts.

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Episodes

  • Surge in cardiac arrest cases among youth

    Thursday, 20 August 2026

    20 minutes

    Why are cardiovascular diseases on the rise among young adults? Dr. Georgie Thomas, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist & HOD - Burjeel, spoke about the different factors affecting the surge in cases and whether tracking gadgets can help enhance overall health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Charging your children rent

    Wednesday, 19 August 2026

    1 hour 26 minutes

    Would you ever quit your job to pursue a different career or passion? Amani Eltigani left behind her career in architecture to pursue pottery, art therapy and cognitive behavioural coaching. Which brings us to our next question: are younger generations taking up more grandma hobbies? Mohammed Aissaoui, the founder of MyFarm, talks about an evident interest in gardening as more people visit his farm. Plus, schools are around the corner, and Principal Lisa says this entails properly preparing children.And finally, would you charge your children rent to teach them money management? Find out wh...

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  • New weight loss treatment changes Dubai woman's life

    Tuesday, 18 August 2026

    1 hour 41 minutes

    Dubai resident Dunia Obaidy says she tried numerous diets, two bariatric procedures and GLP-1 medication, but continued to struggle with hunger and weight regain. She has now lost 19kg following a new, minimally invasive endoscopic treatment called gastric mucosal ablation. Dunia joins us alongside the doctor who performed the procedure, Dr Mohamed Abdelhafez, Consultant in Gastroenterology at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital in Dubai. Former Emirates cabin crew member Sharlene Lowe visited more than 200 cities and became the person passengers and colleagues turned to for honest, practical...

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  • Men and divorce: What they're not telling us

    Monday, 17 August 2026

    1 hour 28 minutes

    Following a viral article about post-divorce realisations, we’re exploring heartbreak, accountability and what both parties can learn from the end of a marriage with Karen Sutherland, family-law mediator and solicitor, and Of Counsel at Ibrahim Alserkal Advocates and Legal Consultants. An exceptional ruling from the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court has placed a 12-year-old expatriate boy in the full custody of his maternal aunt.  We learn the details from Byron James is Head of the Expatriate Law team in the UAE, an international family-law expert and author of The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court ...

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  • The Playbook for Restaurant Operators

    Friday, 14 August 2026

    1 hour 46 minutes

    It might be so busy on a weekend, but what do you do from Monday? We have top tips for restaurant operators on how to distinguish between a temporary squeeze and a business model that isn't working. We also meet the man behind a pizza place who is so confident in opening during COVID and during more uncertain times. We fill you with lots of foodie talk from hand rolls to new restaurants opening in September. Goin' for donuts? We're sharing a hidden gem with you. And more camps for your little ones and teens are ready be it in a theatre or on the golf course.    See omnystudio.com/listener f...

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  • Raising grounded kids in Dubai

    Thursday, 13 August 2026

    40 minutes

    Dubai is an amazing place to raise kids, but when five-star hotels, holidays, brunches, deliveries and household help are just part of everyday life, how do we teach our children to appreciate more what they have? And probably the remaining weeks of summer break is your time to declutter... the help you need is here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Travel smarter: Your travel checklist covered

    Wednesday, 12 August 2026

    1 hour 38 minutes

    A Porter Airlines flight, which was preparing to depart from Victoria to Toronto had to return to the terminal as a "young child was standing in their seat and would not secure their seat belt". The delay meant the flight could not depart before the runway closed after midnight so passengers had to be rebooked on a flight the following day. Discussing travel etiquette, cruises and itineraries with travel journalist Sarah Hedley-Hymers. After years of bigger, flashier and more Instagrammable, are the ultimate status symbols now things we can’t buy in a boutique: time, privacy, access and the...

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  • Did you ever pay off your student loan?

    Tuesday, 11 August 2026

    1 hour 33 minutes

    If you graduated from a university in the UK, what happened to your student loan? Have you finished paying it off, or is it still hanging over you 17 years later? Sending children to private schools here in the UAE takes a huge chunk out of our budget. So, how much do we actually need to spend to give our kids a good education? A new report suggests that, for many women, the problem isn’t whether they have health insurance, but what happens when they actually try to use it. Two women are on a mission to create a solution. And while we’re getting our kids ready for back-to-school, it’s not j...

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  • How old is too old to get hired?

    Monday, 10 August 2026

    1 hour 40 minutes

    Many experienced women are finding it hard to find employment nowadays. What does ageism in recruitment actually look like? Dubai Police have joined us to talk about Hemaya International Centre and how 1,402 students from 31 nationalities graduated through its 2026 Summer Student Programme. We meet a teenager who has lived with more than 50 severe food allergies since infancy. Thousands of people across 15 US states have reportedly become ill during an outbreak of Cyclospora linked to recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Hundreds have been hospitalised and two deaths have b...

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  • Homegrown Hits, Hidden Gems & Dubai's Best AED 10 Eats

    Friday, 7 August 2026

    1 hour 51 minutes

    Homegrown favourites under one roof in Mirdif, staycays, Dubai’s heaviest chicken sandwich – we’ve got more on the list! From the kitchens of some of India’s most celebrated hotels to 15 years helping turn Dishoom into a household name in the UK, Chef Naved Nasir has spent much of his career telling stories through Indian food.  Open kitchen, no delivery. What’s in a restaurant to have this confidence? We ask the husband-and-wife chefs of LahKee. Earlier this week a text came into the show asking for a little help. Best friends Ayesha and Yaseen have poured their savings, time and probably ...

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  • It's just a small kidney stone? Think Again.

    Thursday, 6 August 2026

    1 hour 18 minutes

    Doctors here in the UAE say they see a noticeable rise in cases during the hottest months, with dehydration the major culprit. So who is most vulnerable, what should we be looking out for, and how quickly can a stone actually form?  New research suggests half of Gen Z say the cost of going out and meeting new people is getting in the way of their financial goals, while another study found 51 percent are spending absolutely nothing on dates.  Meet the community helping People of Determination develop more skills, confidence, independence and connection through arts. And more summer camps for...

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  • How easy is it for kids to make friends?

    Wednesday, 5 August 2026

    1 hour 32 minutes

    Friendship can look like something that just happens naturally in childhood, you find someone in the playground, start playing and off you go. But those relationships are actually where children learn some of their most important life skills. So what happens when making friends doesn’t come easily?   Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it always comes naturally. We've got expert advices for mums and mums-to-be. If you're confused where to bring your kids for camp this summer, we've got you covered from indoor experiences to teaching them about business. And we share another ...

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  • Why we buy what we buy

    Tuesday, 4 August 2026

    1 hour 41 minutes

    We’ve all done it. You pop into the supermarket for milk and somehow leave with chocolate, crisps and a “buy one, get one free” you never planned to buy. There's an explanation for that. One person's diagnosis can help protect brothers, sisters, children and even cousins by prompting earlier screening and potentially life-saving treatment. Today we talk about genetics and hereditary illnesses with a geneticist and with someone who's lived this reality.  And what role do our earliest relationships play in shaping how we connect with others?   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Smarter Health, Less Waste and Finding Your Confidence

    Thursday, 16 July 2026

    1 hour 19 minutes

    From wearable technology and preventative healthcare to reducing food waste and building confidence through comedy, we look at how small changes and practical habits can improve everyday wellbeing, communication and quality of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Is Your Brain Forgetful — or Just Overloaded?

    Wednesday, 15 July 2026

    1 hour 17 minutes

    How much of what feels like forgetfulness is actually an overloaded brain, and can learning new skills help build resilience as we age? Plus, new pathways for Emirati orchestral musicians, and how playing in a band can build confidence in children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Are Our Everyday Habits Harming Our Children's Eyes?

    Tuesday, 14 July 2026

    1 hour 42 minutes

    It's not just screen time affecting children's eyesight, with more children developing short-sightedness at a younger age. Plus, the new rules of digital etiquette, how social sport is helping adults make new friends, the rise of women's football in the UAE and a mid-year personal finance check-up, with practical advice on managing and paying off debt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Could Your Experience Become Your Next Career?

    Monday, 13 July 2026

    1 hour 50 minutes

    Could your years of experience open the door to a new way of working? The show explores the rise of fractional leadership and why it could offer a fresh career path for experienced professionals. Plus, tips on dressing for the job you want, the latest Instagram features aimed at Gen Z and an update on Meta's smart glasses. And in the Legal Hour, freelancing after leaving a job, debt, missed mortgage payments and why you really should read the fine print before signing a contract.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • The Stories Behind Dubai's Favourite Restaurants

    Friday, 10 July 2026

    1 hour 45 minutes

    From hidden gems to global ambitions, we're serving up the best of Dubai's food scene. Zeena meets the chefs and founders redefining Mexican, Lebanese, Japanese and Filipino dining, while uncovering the stories behind the city's most-loved restaurants. Expect big flavours, bold ideas and plenty of recommendations to add to your must-visit list.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Travel state of mind

    Thursday, 9 July 2026

    1 hour 3 minutes

    Family vacations are meant for slowing down and staying in the moment, but what if work and emails are keeping you pressured? Psychologist Hiba Salem from Sage Clinics explains how our brain and behavior work. We also have Orchids Roy in the studio to share why etiquette should be learned by kids early on. Plus, our Motor Mania team Damien and Naz take us on a ride in choosing a great multi-functional family car.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Bouncing back after a major loss

    Wednesday, 8 July 2026

    1 hour 20 minutes

    Egypt fans are left devastated after their loss to Argentina, which prompted Helen to ask - how do we teach our children to bounce back after a major loss?  This doesn't only apply to sports but also to our daily life. Ex-athlete Alicia Tillman and executive coach  Megan Johnson share their thoughts. Plus, fancy joining a singing community? Helen learns more about One Day Choir, founded by David Conway. And finally, how can you improve your voice to sound more powerful/ Voice architect Kim Page has some tipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Do young graduates have what it takes to succeed in the workforce?

    Tuesday, 7 July 2026

    1 hour 22 minutes

    That's the question Helen put to Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar of the Al Ghurair Foundation. HR expert Avtar Gill weighs in on today's graduates and employees who are technically excellent - but have a poor attitude. Dr. Thoraiya and Helen do a deep dive into life as an expat - and what lessons we can learn by being away from home. Plus, husband and wife Sarah and Ahmed tell us the story behind Chill Me Worlds, a community that wants to see genuine friendships form in the UAE. And finally, Rhiannon Downie Hurst of Bride Club ME shares some wedding trends this season.See omnystudio.com/listener for p...

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  • Can playing with Lego really make people better leaders and colleagues?

    Monday, 6 July 2026

    1 hour 40 minutes

    We bring Lego bricks in the studio, not just because it's Helen's favourite, but to talk about its benefits in the workplace. We speak to YouTube about their new supervised kid accounts in the region. WhatsApp has parental controls now, we get the details from Cyber Fareedah.  Why are shingles cases rising? If you are still thinking of where to go this summer break, we've got you covered. And we meet a man treating delivery riders in the emirate.      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer Live from The Abu Dhabi Edition

    Friday, 3 July 2026

    22 minutes

    Join Helen Farmer for a special live broadcast from Abu Dhabi to talk all things food and hospitality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Women, ready for your 50s?

    Thursday, 2 July 2026

    38 minutes

    For years, women have been told that menopause is just something to get through. But our guest today thinks it's time we change that conversation and she's on a mission to help women feel informed rather than frightened.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Burnout in uncertain times at work

    Wednesday, 1 July 2026

    1 hour 27 minutes

    We discuss how to recognise burnout before your body and mind force you to stop. Job seekers need to stop thinking like employees and start thinking like business developers selling their own skills, says executive search recruiter Hamza Zaouali, discussing more ways for people to land their dream job. Are smart glasses really going mainstream? How much is too much when it comes to screen time? Discussing childhood myopia with Dr Sandra Fiorentini And we share more reasons how Dubai is becoming more accessible to people of determination.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Delaying the onset of Type 1 diabetes

    Tuesday, 30 June 2026

    1 hour 5 minutes

    A new immunotherapy drug doesn't cure type 1 diabetes, but for people identified in the very earliest stage of the disease, it can delay the need for insulin by an average of almost three years. Does overpraising kids create more harm than good? How's your netiquette? Yes, internet etiquette. And university acceptance rates are falling, but why?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Keeping your kids active, screen-free

    Monday, 29 June 2026

    1 hour 38 minutes

    Children have around 620 hours of free time over the summer so how will you keep them busy and still learning during the holidays? Find out here. Why do performing arts doesn't always translate to social confidence? What can you do about it?  And we also have the check list for you when it comes to house repairs and keeping your homes safe while you're away.          See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Not your usual French-style bakery

    Friday, 26 June 2026

    1 hour 42 minutes

    We've got your weekend covered with everything delicious— from freshly baked bread, pizza, coffee, and chocolates to comforting ramen, mushrooms, and edible flowers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Life after raising kids

    Friday, 26 June 2026

    33 minutes

    When children leave home, what happens to the parents? We discuss the challenges of empty nesting, what parents can do to adapt to this new chapter and find purpose beyond parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Fixing women's health gap

    Wednesday, 24 June 2026

    1 hour 1 minute

    Studies have shown women are more likely to experience delayed diagnoses, dismissed symptoms and gaps in care. Today we're asking why that happened, what it means for women in the UAE, and how we start closing those gaps. It might not be just dry skin... find out when it's already chronic dermatitis. And why do the World Cup affect us so deeply?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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