Forget Snow White’s mirror — this one doesn’t compare, doesn’t critique, and answers only to you. Introducing self.space, a revolutionary sealed-room mirror photography studio that’s as private as your thoughts and as flattering as your best angle.

In a region where modesty and privacy are deeply valued, self.space is reimagining the photoshoot experience. No photographers. No spectators. No pressure. Just you and a smart mirror, inside a sound-insulated, self-directed studio designed for complete comfort and control.

Traditional photoshoots can feel intimidating — unfamiliar surroundings, judgmental eyes, and the pressure to perform. self.space changes that. Walk into a sleek studio, close the door behind you, and watch the privacy light switch on. Now it’s just you — free to pose, express, and capture your image on your terms.

“We found that people reject photos not because they lack beauty or talent — but because tension stays on their faces,” say co-founders Mitia Muravev (Founder & CEO) and Peter Bondarenko (Founder & CPO). “That tension is stronger in the Arab world, where privacy and modesty are part of daily life.” Mitia drives the brand’s vision and partnerships, while Peter leads the tech — from embedded cameras and edge AI to full-stack infrastructure. Together, they’ve created more than a photo studio — they’ve packaged confidence.

How it works:

1. Walk in – Door closes, privacy light turns on.
2. Capture – Use the remote to take unlimited shots.
3. AI Perfects – Instant, natural-looking touch-ups preserve your true look.
4. Gallery Ready – A secure link to your encrypted gallery is sent to your phone before you leave.

Whether you want professional portraits, personal mementos, or a quiet moment of self-reflection, self.space offers something rare: a private, pressure-free space to simply be yourself — and love what you see.

Starting Friday, July 25, UAE banks will begin phasing out those familiar one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS and email. Instead, you’ll need to verify all your financial and online transactions, including transfers within and outside the country, directly through your bank’s mobile app.

The change is part of a Central Bank of the UAE directive aimed at boosting digital banking security and making things smoother for customers.

According to an official circular, banks have been instructed to shift entirely to in-app authentication, requiring customers to enable the feature through their mobile banking applications.

The document notes: “Based on instructions from the Central Bank of the UAE, please note that the receipt of one-time passwords via text messages or email will be gradually phased out. Customers can now complete electronic transactions with ease via the smart application by selecting the ‘Authentication via App’ feature.”

So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to update your banking app and get familiar with app-based authentication, no more scrambling for SMS codes, and a whole lot more security.

In a landmark move to boost digital banking security, banks across the UAE will begin phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS and email starting Friday, July 25, 2025. The transition comes in line with new directives issued by the UAE Central Bank, mandating the adoption of app-based authentication for all local and international banking transactions.

The shift will be implemented in stages, with customers required to activate app-based verification systems to continue approving transactions. The complete phase-out of SMS and email OTPs is expected by March 2026.

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The UAE Central Bank’s initiative marks a significant departure from traditional OTP delivery methods, which have increasingly become targets for cyber threats. In contrast, app-based verification offers a more secure and reliable method for transaction approvals, leveraging advanced technology to safeguard user data and banking operations.