Arabian Woman June 2013

(ISSUE #161) JUNE 2013

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SPECIAL ISSUE JEWELRY AND WATCHES #161

Dazzles with Arabic pride

Nadine Kanso June 2013

Special Issue

Jewellery & Watches

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Features 44 Baselworld report Check out who shone the brightest and stole the limelight at Baselworld 2013

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An Arabic legacy

Nadine Kanso’s love for the Arabic culture is breaking down the barriers of jewellery design

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It’s not your fault

Abuse may come in many forms, but bruises and scars are the inevitable similar outcomes

90 Staying different Especially for the art buffs, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel offers an experience like no other

Tory Burch Spring Summer 2013

Regulars

Banana Republic Summer 2013

12 Editor’s pick 20 A-list celebs 22 entertainment 24 artsy 26 Calendar 28 Glam events 64 beauty products 66 scents 68 get the look 88 Dine out 96 Travel news 98 the coveted

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editor’s letter

Special

Issue

Watches and Jewelry Whether you’re an aficionado that collects or someone who opts for investment buys, we know that this month’s features would simply delight all. Uncovering the blinding glitter of luxury – mainly, jewels and watches – is our aim in this issue. And, we know, we do not disappoint.

From the dazzling display of beauty and fashion during the recently held Cannes Film Festival to the breaking news we received from the most-awaited Baselworld, we also give you the latest glamorous events that happened all around the globe.

Our special fashion editorial goes to the stunning pieces that only designer extraordinaire Ezra Santos can put into reality. Be mesmerised by EZRA’s breathtaking and highly creative take on couture. On one hand, our cover woman, Nadine Kanzo, inspires jewellery designers to the core – taking pride of her Arabic origins that show magnificently in her creations.

Louis Vuitton

Nadine Kanso

Maha Al Sibai

This month, we also bring you our constant accounts on parenting, women’s issues and health. Don’t miss our pages on movies, technology, art and upcoming events, as well.

To wind down, we also take you to the dizzying charm of two properties from Jumeirah Group: the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and Jumeirah Creekside Hotel.

From the stellar service to amazing facilities, we would vouch for a stay that’s simply fantastic.

Enjoy,

Sherry 10

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Bakur A. Azher Associate Publisher Ayah R. Lunsford senior editor Sherry Tenorio SUB-EDITOR/ARTICLES WRITER Faizal Dahlawia SENIOR Designer Virgie L. Santillan Agencies and SYNDICATION Planet Syndication Rex Features design Assistants Sajid-Ali Shaik Advertising Manager Hamdi M. Shiba - Jeddah Advertising executives Abdul Raouf Al Zubairi - Jeddah Leena Hamza - Riyadh Administration & Finance Ahmed Ali Ibrahim - Jeddah Mohamed Fathy Raslan - Dubai Business Development Manager Ladan Rahbary

Distribution Manager Muneer H. Abul Huda For Advertising Information email: awsales@azherinfo.ae Arabian Woman is a registered trademark and published by Azher Information Technology Group Ltd, 6 Thermistoclis Dervis St, 4th floor, Office D4, PO Box 4185, 1702 Nicosia, Cyprus.

ARABIAN WOMAN IS PRINTED BY PREMIER PRINTING PRESS Tel: 04-8853633; Fax: 04-8852777 Dubai Investment Park, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE No part of Arabian Woman may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers.

Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher and editorial staff.

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editor’s pick

Red Carpet Perfection From donning Dior, Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armani and Chanel, Hollywood sweetheart Nicole Kidman owned the red carpet this year at the Cannes Film Festival. Among the stylish ensembles, this smashing floor-sweeping pristine white Valentino dress, we say, was the best. An epitome of femininity, Nicole’s beautiful and dainty style was hyped by the sartorial romanticism of the gown. Indeed a match made for red carpet, the Moulin Rouge actress won our hearts this time.

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Out & About

The world is a stage, you just need to look closely, and enjoy the performance.

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AW SHOPS Moschino Monochrome Purse Tory Burch’s Careen Loafer Pump

Marc Jacobs SS13

Star Studded Wallet From Giorgio Armani

Boat Inspired Moschino Shoulder Bag

Funky Bag

By Zayan

Monochrome Madness

The season finds itself crazy over monochrome fashion, and AW jumps into the bandwagon.

Be inspired by Marc Jacob’s awesome take on this trend, and scour the shops for these must-buy accessories that would go together perfectly with the monochrome look.

Loewe Sunnies

Jimmy Choo’s Sparkling Raven In Mirror Leather

Silver Bangles And Ring From Roberto Coin

Nomad Snake Natural Colour Glittered Gold Shoe

By Matthew Williamson

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Black And White Necklace From Paul Smith

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AW trends

Bring the Bling

Like a diva Peplums stay in season, and this Theory’s fresh take on the ubiquitous peplum style – a crisp cotton-blend top – is perfect for styling with some flashy bling. To keep it sleek, pair it with Paige high-rise skinny jeans and skyhigh heels.

Theory’s crisp peplum top

Make a stand in your fashion choices.

This season’s key trends find the limelight with standout fashion jewellery to elevate every outfit, from off-duty cool ensembles to evening glamour gowns.

Tom Ford at Harvey Nichols Dubai

Kenneth Jay Lane at Harvey Nichols Dubai

Alexander McQueen jersey jumpsuit

Giorgio Armani black stilletto

Paige stretch high-rise skinny exclusive at net-a-porter.com

Givenchy by Susan Caplan Vintage at Harvey Nichols Dubai

Flashy and chic If you think that statement jewels must only be matched with plain numbers then you better think again. This zesty bright-orange hue and a fluid silhouette stretch-satin jersey jumpsuit from Alexander McQueen is a fantastic choice for making an entrance. Style this eye-catching piece with gold jewellery to maximise the colour.

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Tory Burch sandal in Tory Navy and Derby Green Heel

AW trends

Calvin Klein Collection’s black t-shirt

Oscar de la renta at Harvey Nichols - Dubai

Sweet sophistication Pristine white for an evening affair? Definitely! Pleated and draped from fluid jersey, Gucci’s gown narrows at the waist for a sumptuous hourglass shape. The daring back split is perfect for spotlighting statement jewels and shoes – choose a pair with an stiletto heel for impact.

H Stern Bracelet in rosé gold and Noble Gold set with diamonds at Harvey Nichols-Dubai

Prada at Harvey Nichols - Dubai

RED Valentino’s faille skirt

Matthew Williamson new wave suede coral

H Stern Anéis de ouro amarelo e rosé com topazio nude e diamantes at Harvey Nichols-Dubai

Gucci’s white jersey gown

Back detail

Simply gorgeous Don’t want too much drama? Opt for this Calvin Klein Collection’s black T-shirt that is chicly understated. Wear it with this RED Valentino’s faille skirt that is printed with pixelated florals, lending the illusion of an intricate tapestry. Offset the fabulously full silhouette by teaming standout necklace and heels.

Jimmy Choo’s Anouk-Jaguar Printed PonyNoisette

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A-LIST CELEBS

SHOWSTOPPERS

From the Cannes Film Festival to the MET Gala, and from Dior to Tiffany & Co., we bring you an explosion of fashion inspirations.

The 66th Cannes Film Festival French Singer Lorie looked stunning in a silk satin, crepe and lace gown from DINA JSR SS13 Collection

Marion Cotillard looked beautiful in a multicoloured silk bustier dress by Dior for the premiere of ‘Blood Ties’ Chinese actress Fan Bing Bing wore a pale yellow gown with an embroidered bodice, with three-quarter sleeves and a leather bow belt from the Elie Saab Haute Couture.

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Zoe Saldana wore Lanvin – dark brown cap sleeve washed techno satin gown with asymmetrical hem from the Hiver 2013 Runway Collection – to the Lexus Short Film Series ‘Life is Amazing’

Italian Actress Valeria Golino attended the premiere of ‘Miele’ wearing a Bulgari High Jewelry Serpenti bracelet in white gold and full diamond pavé

A-LIST CELEBS

The Annual Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit Carey Mulligan was decked in Tiffany & Co. diamonds including pearshaped diamond earrings from the 2013 Tiffany & Co. Blue Book Collection, at the premiere of ‘The Great Gatsby’.

Jessica Biel attended the ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’ Premiere wearing a Bulgari Serpenti High Jewellery necklace with diamond pavé and emeralds

Sienna Miller wore a crêpe open-back plunging dress with crystal and stud embellishment studded cropped biker jacket, clutch bag and shoes all by Burberry

Dita Von Teese wore Masterpiece Anima earrings in yellow gold with brown diamonds and smoky quartzes

by Damiani

Eva Longoria wore Blue Moon diamonds earrings with yellow gold profiles by Damiani

Jennifer Lopez wore a custom black leopard sequinembroidered gown with long sleeves and an open back by Michael Kors

Linda Evangelista wore a diamond Tiara, Layered Diamond Rings and Multiple Diamond Earstuds from Harry Winston Emma Roberts wore a Bulgari Serpenti bracelet in pink gold with black onyx and diamonds, and a Serpenti ring in pink gold with black onyx and diamonds

Gisele Bundchen looked stunning carrying the Sabrina clutch in Graphite Metallic Leather by Tiffany & Co.

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gear/movies

Take a break from the cinemas and head down to the Madinat Theatre for some live performances for a change Elvis Forever ELVIS Forever is a tribute to the one and only King of Rock ‘n Roll, Elvis Presley. This spectacular show captures the onstage excitement of Elvis’ greatest performances and energetically reproduces hits spanning the 50’s 60’s and Vegas-70’s when people rocked like there was no tomorrow. With an 11-piece band and three backup singers, you can look forward to timeless hits.

Whose line is it anyway?

An entertainment rollercoaster takes centre stage with special performances of the regular members of the Comedy Store Players. Bring your imagination to life in the most hilarious and wacky way possible and don’t miss this limited run of performances.

Under African Skies This successful production about the history of South African music takes you on a melodious journey through the ages. Starting off in the 1940’s and 1950’s, progressing through the decades right up until the 1990’s, it features the music of Johnny Clegg, Mango Groove and Paul Simon, just to name few. With a live six-piece band and eight vocalists, this popular music extravaganza will give you a chance to celebrate the music under African sky.

For more information, visit www.madinattheatre.com

Ticky Techy Sony Xperia ZR The new Sony Xperia ZR features a 4.6” HD Reality display, 13-megapixel fast capture camera, 4G LTE and a host of other snazzy specs. The waterproof phone can be submerged in 1.5m of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Combined with its dedicated camera key, the waterproof capabilities let you shoot videos in Full HD or snap pictures underwater, capturing the sharpest visuals. The Xperia comes in black, white, pink and mint – each allowing you to express your individual style.

Panasonic NE series The Panasonic SC-NE5, SC-NE3 Wireless Speaker System models come with a 2-Way Speaker System featuring a 3-1/8-inch Long Stroke Woofer with Nano sized Bamboo Cone and a 1-inch Tweeter, and an Aero Stream Port with a 3-dimensional use to produce dynamic bass. To use, you simply install the Panasonic Music Streaming App onto your smartphone and stream music to the SC series wireless speakers.

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BooKs/Tv/mUsiC

Recommended Books Girl With No Name by Marina Chapman Abducted as a 4 year-old from her village in South America and abandoned in the jungle, little Marina was facing perilous odds before being adopted by a group of capuchin monkeys. At age 10, she was discovered by a pair of hunters who took her to the lawless Colombian city of Cucuta where, in exchange for a parrot, they sold her to a brothel.

When she learnt that she was to be groomed for prostitution, she made her plans to escape. But her adventure wasn’t over yet. This rousing story of a lost child who overcomes the dangers of the wild and the brutality of the streets to finally reclaim her life will astonish readers everywhere.

Inferno by Dan Brown The best-selling author of The Da Vinci Code is back with another page-turning thriller that you won’t be able to put down. Inferno sees Robert Langdon once again racing through some of the most beautiful cities in the world, this time trying to stop a psychotic bio-terrorist who plans to unleash a terrifying punishment upon the entire population. From Florence, through Venice and on to a heart-stopping finale in… well you’ll just have to read to find out. With a truly spectacular and very controversial final chapter, Inferno is not to be missed.

And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini From the man who gave us The Kite Runner comes another spectacularly emotional and deeply satisfying tale of love, loss and family. To Abdullah, Pari is everything. More like a parent than a brother, Abdullah will do anything for her, even trading his only pair of shoes for a feather for her treasured collection. One day the siblings journey across the desert to Kabul with their father. Pari and Abdullah have no sense of the fate that awaits them there, for the event that unfolds will tear their lives apart; sometimes a finger must be cut to save the hand.

Tube Talk Persons Unknown Every Sunday at 22:00KSA A surreal mind-game of a series centering on a group of strangers who awaken in a deserted town with no memory of how they arrived, only to realize that there is no escape. Watched by omnipresent security cameras, their every attempt at leaving the town’s borders is thwarted by mysterious forces. The only source of information is fed randomly through remotely controlled televisions, and as mistrust begins to breed, every alliance will be tested, especially when new guests begin to arrive.

Music Top Charts The Piano Guys 2 by The Piano Guys The Piano Guys are back with their new album, The Piano Guys 2, that continues their unique take on music from Pachelbel to The Turtles to Bruno Mars, and more of the imaginative mash-ups and arrangements that made their last album so successful, creating an incomparable style that appeals to audiences.

Demi by Demi Lovato Demi Lovato’s fourth studio album features her newest smash hit single, Heart Attack, which is already gold in a number of countries. Demi is Lovato’s most personal album to date, where she co-wrote nearly every song, is an affirming celebration of life.“I’m incredibly proud of this album, it’s better than anything I have ever done! I experimented with a variety of different sounds and poured my heart into writing these songs. I’m so excited for everyone to finally get the chance to hear them!”

Golden by Lady Antebellum Lady Antebellum’s fourth release showcases a reinvented version of the band that’s familiar but simultaneously unlike any of its predecessors. It s an achievement that comes from the band s journey, and from its willingness to risk. ‘Downtown’, GOLDEN’s funky lead single, first announced the new direction in January. In some ways, GOLDEN also reaffirms the very beginnings of Lady Antebellum. The project focuses on deft songwriting and fresh uses of their talents, which was at the heart of what drew them together in the first place. In the end, the mix of their road experiences, songwriting and challenging outside songs adds a brightness to the album.

Traffic Light Every Day at 01:00KSA A comedy about how friendships and romances both enhance and complicate our lives, which centers on three long-time friends and their attempts to navigate the demands of their relationships.

Louie Every Tuesday at 22:00KSA Louie is a stand-up comedian and divorced father of two girls. This series follows him through his everyday life, as he meets various characters, struggles with his love life and pursues humour.

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ARTSY

Refine yourself And what would life be like without a little bit of art and culture…

ART OF THE MONTH

– Meta White, A Tranquil Force German artist Udo Rutschmann and Moroccan artist Safaa Erruas both occupy worlds filled with exquisite contradictions.

Where understatement meets expressive and simplicity leads to complexity. The omnipresent use of monochromatic whiteness deeply informs both Safaa’s and Udo’s work and gives them yet another area of common aesthetic dialogue.

Where Udo interrogates and exposes the unpredictable and transformational forces of time and energy through his ‘Incubator’ series, Safaa explores the complexities of society and its underlying polarity in a body of work entitled ‘Chronic Shadows’.

Annual Students’ Exhibition at DIAC The Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) is hosting an Annual Students’ Exhibition in June. “It is a celebration of some amazing work by our students,” said Chairwoman of the DIAC, Ayesha Chen McKeever.

The exhibition, that will take place at DIAC’s Gallery 76, would showcase the very best of paintings, sculptures, mixed media and photography by the centre’s young ‘maestros’.

“The annual event serves as the first public platform for our students. From this show to the all-important Prize Winners Exhibition in 2014 – it’s an incredible journey for the participating artists – one that is designed to launch them into the world of arts,” Ayesha stressed.

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Safaa approaches her subject matter with the keen eye of a surgeon and the mind of a social anthropologist to create artworks that draw the viewer in with their subtle, sensual contours that are juxtaposed against her trademark components of powerfully intriguing complexity. The pieces force observation, demand to be decoded and leave the viewer feeling every incision, rupture and tear.

On observing Udo’s unique processes and resulting work, there is no escaping the presence of the analytical mind of a scientist and the inquisitive investigations and experiments of a skilled alchemist at work. This combination of precision and unpredictability inherent in the artist’s work draws the viewer in to uncover more. The observer experiences a sense of discovery and a desire to understand these highly distinctive and organically beautiful monochromatic ceramic slabs in a more complete manner.

ARTSY

Art of Bollywood Gallery One has launched the ‘Art of Bollywood’ collection in its galleries around the UAE. In aid of Bollywood celebrating its 100th year of Indian Cinema, Gallery One has launched a striking collection of classic Bollywood film posters.

The art pieces have a stunning and seductive array of colors, which sees the films come to life and capture the excitement of its classic storylines.

The vibrant collections are painted between the 1960’s and early 80’s, when Bollywood was at its most adventurous, making the film posters beautiful examples of a genre that has become hugely iconic in cinema and taken the Western world by storm.

The vintage pieces give a sense of Bollywood nostalgia and are a great reminder of a seductive art form from such an inspiring era in cinematic history. They depict the glamour of Indian cinema perfectly and would be ideal piece of art if you’re looking to give your room an element of inspiration and colour.

Introducing – Tariq Dajani Tariq Dajani is a highly respected, awardwinning photographer currently living in Spain. Born in England in 1965, Dajani spent most of his childhood alternating between his home country of Jordan and Europe.

This oscillation helped the artist to gain an understanding and appreciation of different cultures and traditions, which is beautifully reflected in his distinctive style of photographic artwork.

Dajani is best known for his expressive collections that have the ability to take the admirer deeper into the nature of the subject and portray the individual personalities therein. The sharp colours and distinctive backgrounds fill the pictures with emphasis and emotion and just a quick glance draws the eyes through the use of elusive colours.

The Saqr Collection is Dajani’s latest compilation of stunning photography. Saqr, meaning falcon in Arabic, is a respectful and elegant tribute to the Middle Eastern traditions of falconry, capturing the regal birds of prey in a variety of stances, ranging from beautiful close-up angles to breath-taking shots of their extraordinary wingspans. Dajani’s patience and respect for his subjects has enabled him to capture the sheer beauty and grace of these remarkable birds of prey in numerous environments and at a variety of angles. In this intimate collection, the revered birds’ faces, eyes (whether hooded or unhooded), tails and spectacular wing spans are captured using various lenses and filters which has resulted in an interesting collection of over 20 stunning and unique large format photographs of Gyr, Peregrine and Saker falcons.

SPOTLIGHT ‘A moon without a people’

by Larissa Sansour

In the exhibition ‘A moon without people’, the artist Larissa Sansour, born in East Jerusalem, takes us to the complexity of the Palestinian reality through cinematographic and pop culture language.“A small step for a Palestinian, a great leap for humanity”, it is the motto that the artist chose to treat with humor and irony on the current situation of the Palestinian people.

The central piece of the show is ‘A Space Exodus ‘, a video with reminiscences to the famous movie ‘2001: Odyssey in space’ by Stanley Kubrik, in whom the artist with an astronaut suit is the first Palestinian citizen in treading on the Moon, imposing herself as the leader of the Palestinauts. A Moon who turns into a new Palestine: a land without people for a people without land.

“Jerusalem, we have a problem” is the beginning of the short of five minutes in which Sansour reflects the happiness of conquering a land and the solitary experience of Palestine in the exile: Jerusalem answers only with a silence.

Arabesque elements ranging from the space suit to the music are merged within a dreamy galactic setting and elaborate special effects. The film offers a naively hopeful and optimistic vision for a Palestinian future contrasting sharply with all the elements that are currently eating away at the very idea of a viable Palestinian state. The ironic symbol of planting the Palestinian flag on the Moon suggests that the more the Palestinians move away from their mother land, the more they are moving away from Jerusalem. The ‘exodus’ is a new beginning in which the freedom is joined to the exile. Obtained this victory, the jump is so big that the astronaut ends up floating in the space.

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CALENDAR

7

1

Dubai Rock Fest 2013

7-8

Michael McIntyre Live in Dubai

ival, Muju Firefly Festa South Kore

2013 June Events

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Party n o o M l Ful angan, h P h o in K ailand Th

24 – July 7

Wimbledon 2013, London

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25-30 Music Al Balald, Jordan Festiva

7-15

Festival of Wo rld Music, MorocSc

15

13 – July

ival, t s e F rts Bali Andonesia I

26-30 Glastonbury Festival, UK

5

CALENDAR

Sacred co

13-16 d Art Basel, Switzerlan

20

– July 28

14-16

15

Arab International Festival, USA

Trooping the (Queen’s BirtColour Parade), Lonhday don

22

Coney Islan d Mermaid Pa rade, USA

23

Champakulam Boat Race, India

Chinese Opera Festival, Hong Kong

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28-30

– July 7

The Knysna Oy st Festival, South er Africa

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Tour de France

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– July 5

ance D e u g a New Prestival F

Rainforest World Music Festival, Malaysia

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glam

“Anniversary Follow The Drive” To mark the 180th anniversary of Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin’s centenary, an event and three original timepieces symbolise the ties between these avant-garde companies. To celebrate these two memorable anniversaries, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin organised 'Anniversary Follow the Drive': a journey through the two partners’ history and heritage.

Darren Turner, official works driver for Aston Martin Racing, competing in the FIA GT WEC championship, winner in GT1 of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2007 and 2008, headed the field on an amazing adventure leading from Aston Martin’s headquarters in Gaydon to the Vallée de Joux. During the trip from England to the Vallée de Joux, fans of watchmaking and motorsports had the chance to discover the first models in the Aston Martin collection, as well as the brand-new AMVOX5 World Chronograph equipped with a high-tech case in reinforced cermet combining lightness, resistance and excellence performance.

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glam

Middle East Launch of Baume & Mercier Clifton collection Swiss Maison d’Horlogerie Baume & Mercier presented its newest watch collection Clifton at an exclusive evening at The Cigar Lounge, The Address Downtown Dubai. Themed to reflect the masculine Clifton collection territory and its historic roots in the 'Golden Fifties', the atmosphere enriched the brand’s historic standing as a fine luxury watch creator and offered a welcoming environment for guests to gain remarkable insights into the legacy of the Baume & Mercier world and its 183 years of watchmaking expertise. Clifton reflects the core values of the brand inherited from its rich history – affordable luxury that combines excellence, expertise and aesthetic elegance – and also showcases the brand’s quest for excellence that shaped its destiny. The new timepieces are now all available in points of sale across the region, including Baume & Mercier’s only boutique in the world in The Dubai Mall.

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glam

Vacheron Constantin opens first boutique in Paris Vacheron Constantin invited a prestigious selection of guests to two unique events to celebrate the opening of its first Boutique in Paris. An exceptional evening of ballet first brought them together at the Palais Garnier to honour the tercentenary of the French Dance School (Ecole française de danse) created by Louis XIV. Aurélie Filippetti, French Minister of Culture and Communication, was present alongside Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, sponsor of the Gala. During this event, guests discovered the unique timepieces Métiers d’Art Hommage à l’Art de la Danse, specially created for the occasion. And the next day, Vacheron Constantin celebrated its new Boutique at 2 rue de la Paix. During the evening opening of the Boutique that took place the day after – an evening dedicated to dance and opera as well – Vacheron Constantin presented several exclusive watches, created for the occasion. Among them, as an ultimate refinement and in the lines of the exceptional timekeepers designed by the fine watchmaking manufacturer since its creation in 1755, Vacheron Constantin unveiled a new collection dedicated to the tercentenary of the French Dance School. Three unique models Hommage à l’Art de la Danse, revealing the ancestral art of Grand Feu Grisaille enameling.

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glam

Zenith watches partake in the launch of “Ya Arabi�

In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, a member of Dubai’s Ruling family and in their capacity as strategic partners, esteemed Swiss watchmakers Zenith watches participated in the recently held launch of the first Arab themed electronic search engine with smart and secure e-technology. The event also witnessed the attendance of numerous notable personalities such as Consul Members, Ambassadors and celebrities from diverse fields. The high profile guests witnessed the unveiling of the unique search engine with the final moments of the launch revealing the 'Ya Arabi' web page on a huge screen for the audience, transforming an ambitious dream into a grand reality.

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glam

IWC Schaffhausen at Cannes

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Swiss luxury watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen hosted another of its glamorous evening events during the Cannes International Film Festival. At an exclusive “For the Love of Cinema� dinner, IWC celebrated with Friends of the Brand and other world-famous celebrities including actors Naomi Watts, Eric Dane and Christoph Waltz, top model Karolina Kurkova, gallery owner Tim Jefferies, musicians John Helliwell and Aloe Blacc and racing driver Lewis Hamilton. Highlights of the evening were the presentation of the IWC Filmmaker Award to well-known screenwriter Alan Trustman and a private concert by Jamiroquai.

glam

A. Lange & Söhne presents the one-of-a-kind Lange 1 Time Zone

The prize ranks among the most coveted trophies of the eminent competition in the domain of classic automobiles. The US-American fashion designer Ralph Lauren received the jury's 'Best of Show' prize in Como. Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid handed over to him a special model of the LANGE 1 TIME ZONE crafted exclusively for this event for his Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic Coupé with a coachwork from Jean Bugatti built in 1938. The watch was presented to the winner within the scope of a gala dinner at Villa d'Este, the venue of the Concorso d'Eleganza, which is deemed to be one of the most exclusive events dedicated to historic automobiles and concept cars. This was the second year for A. Lange & Söhne as a sponsor of the 'Festival of Beauty' which has taken place on the shoreline of Lake Como since 1929. The Saxon watchmaking company has gained many friends in the realm of historic automobiles. For Lange, the event had proven to be a perfect match alongside its other cultural commitments. On this occasion, numerous VIP guests and visitors expressed their enthusiasm for technology, style, and elegance.

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Fashion

More than just bling, accessories are meant to be appreciated for their artistry.

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haute couture

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haute couture

A romantic exploration of exceptional fashion from the latest collection of designer extraordinaire, Ezra Santos

Flair for drama

Haute Couture Collection: EZRA; Photography: Jef Anog; Assistant Photographer: Jonathan YBera ; Styling and Set Design: EJ Valera; Make-up: Sarah Murphy; Hair Styling : Berry Canam Calanza; Model: Lenka Josefiova; Location: XVA Art Hotel

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haute couture

Sweet mini frock with capped sleeves, detailed with gold sequins.

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haute couture

From collars to sleeves, the drama continues in this innocent nude gown 39

haute couture

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haute couture Mother of train flows freely in pristine elegance

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haute couture

Stunning with lace on skirt and bodice, with gold embellishments

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haute couture Closer look at the piece reveals an intricate back with geometrical cuts, embellished with elongated sequins, and silver and gold materials

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IN FOCUS

Queen of jewels

D

espite collecting accolade after accolade, jeweller extraordinaire Maha Al Sibai only recently opened her first boutique. She founded her high-end jewellery line in 2006, with an emphasis on the use of diamonds and other precious stones to make a statement.

“It has been a long but incredibly rewarding journey thus far,” said Al Sibai. Opening my first boutique is a very important milestone for Maha Al Sibai Jewellery. I am glad to have a space where clients and collectors can see my work the way I intend.

Maha Al Sibai Jewelry’s latest collection reflects emotions and feelings of love. The line depicits the use of flowers in all shapes and colour because she feels flowers are a symbol of love, affection and compassion and, are exchanged between two people who admire and adore each other.

Al Sibai has been designing jewellery for over 12 years. Since childhood, she has had the aptitude and interest to admire design, art and craftsmanship. Al Sibai won the Best Jewellery Designer in the Middle East award in 2001 and 2002, and was shortlisted as one of the best jewellery designers in the world in Italy in 2003. In 2004, she was awarded a certificate of excellence by the jewellery association in Lebanon. 2008 saw her assume the role of Ambassador for the World Gold Council’s annual Audition Arabia contest.

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cover story

Taking Arabic To Another Level...

Nadine Kanso With a strong propensity for all things beautiful, designer, photographer and journalist, Nadine Kanso infuses creativity into all of her artistic endeavours. She constantly navigates innovative ways to convey what it means to be an Arab in today’s modern times and expresses wholeheartedly in her creative works.

Saadiya Ahmad met with Nadine Kanso to learn more about her photography, jewellery and her Arabic infused Bil Arabi line.

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cover story

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cover story

The Roots “I was born in Beirut, Lebanon and though I am Lebanese, I consider myself to be Emirati at heart. I studied Advertising Design and Communication Arts, radio, TV and film, so it was actually nothing close to jewellery design except for my love of design and typography that I excelled in during my school years while studying graphic design. In fact, I have always liked art and was always interested in ‘Design and Form’ from an early age. For instance, I always liked colours and bold paint brushes.

In my early teenage years, I was more of a tomboy, but I guess my mother’s influence in the realm of fashion and love for beautiful pieces obviously marked me. And today, everything inspires me in my creativity and creations, from buildings to faces to a word and even to a poem read... I actually love history and even stories that incorporate history and politics.”

“My personal hobbies include reading; travelling and I also love to take photos whether just for fun, for work or just for nothing! And of course, a walk on the beach is always needed.

My husband and kids love what I do and share their love and support which makes my life easier to manage and balance. They understand that I need to have my time to create and are always there to give me feedback and ideas! My mantra in life is in fact, ‘live and let live’… ‘live love and love life’.”

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Photography “I am proud of my Arab heritage and began looking for ways to express what it means to be an Arab in today’s world and to try and capture the modern Arab identity. Being an artist photographer is a great way for me to express myself, particularly on identity issues and on socio-political subjects.

And again, the theme of Arab identity and politics is inter-woven into my work and the objects and people I photograph. Therefore whether it is a building in Beirut, a street, a wall or a person, the message is clear – it is about our culture, the history, the rich language and who we really are and what happens around us triggered by war as well as the hidden and sublime messages. I grew up in a household where being an Arab Nationalist meant everything, so I guess this is where my love and belonging to my identity, culture and language sort of inspired me and was later infused into literally everything that I do.”

Jewellery “The first piece of jewellery which I designed and produced was in 2006. I forayed into this line as I felt I needed to express myself not only in photography but also in a medium that people can have access to and able to buy and promote on a larger scale. An artistic photograph is bought and then hung on the wall somewhere in a house while a piece of jewellery is worn and as a result, more people can

cover story actually see it while it is being worn. I wanted my statement about my Arab identity to be heard and appreciated through my love of my Arab culture and the Arabic language. In my case, the most important element in designing is bringing the Arabic Calligraphy medium to a different and higher level and working with letters as form more than anything. I love big pieces in plain gold as they more often than not, make a statement and you really cannot miss them. Having said that, I also love emerald gemstones and diamonds that are properly mounted but that are simple at the same time; in fact, who doesn’t? My own personal piece of jewellery is a gold and diamond vintage heart that my mother gave me at the time of my first son’s birth. It was actually her own personal piece and she had worn it for as long as I can remember, so it was really special.”

typography and predilection for all things bling bling. The result was the Arabic ‘noon’ or the equivalent of the letter ‘N’ in Arabic. Using 18-carat gold and embellished with a semi precious stone, the ring – entirely handcrafted and designed – was a hit and soon enough, one letter led to the whole alphabet which evolved to complete words and eventually full phrases. The first word I designed on a pendant was ‘Bhibbak’, or ‘I love you’ which was initially a confession of love to Lebanon but can be adapted by the

wearer to the love of a person. I am actually very interested in providing a basis to express pride in being Arab and being the keepers of such a rich cultural legacy and in fact, I consider my jewellery as one medium for communicating what it means to be young and Arab and proud.”

“The jewellery is unique in its design and when I embarked on this collection, it sort of filled a niche in the market which, at the time, was lacking in beautiful jewellery that

What is Bil Arabi “The literal translation of the words ‘Bil Arabi’ is ‘In Arabic’ and it is essentially an 18-carat gold bold jewellery line which goes beyond just ornamental bling and is actually also about identity and of being truly proud of who we are. Bil Arabi began as a singular ring in 2006; a one-off experiment that merged my design background with my passion for

I wanted my statement about my Arab identity to be heard and appreciated through my love of my Arab culture and the Arabic language.

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cover story

used the letters of the Arabic alphabet as their core form and design. Our clientele are mostly Arabs who love the Arabic calligraphy and believe firmly in their Arabic roots, identity and culture. However, we also have many non-Arabs who are attracted by the beauty of our Arabic calligraphy and actually view it as a true art form, especially individuals who are cutting edge, design savvy and broad-minded in their perspectives. Arabic is truly all about what Bil Arabi stands for, about a statement as I mentioned earlier.

It is prominent in my work both in photography and jewellery. It is the wave of now. Artist’s works of today are essentially the blueprint that is mirroring what today’s societies are all about; whether we agree or disagree

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on what they say in their work or what they don’t say… it is an archived print in time that can be as powerful as an article written or a picture taken.

Therefore it is essential to give artists exposure so we can move forward.”

“Being both an artist and designer, I really tend to experiment and try to discover new innovative ways of expression as well as, new forms and new materials. And having said that, Bil Arabi also can be juxtaposed in any form and hence bearing this core philosophy in mind, I of course ventured into creating other forms of art. This line is known as NADINE K and are limited edition lifestyle items which include stationary, scarves, tables, t-shirts, pouches, cushions, and

Artist’s works of today are essentially the blueprint that is mirroring what today’s societies are all about... it is an archived print in time that can be as powerful as an article written or a picture taken.

cover story

stools… when you are on the go you just go I guess!”

Today “The journey of creating is an interesting and challenging one especially as it was nothing I had studied in University but rather something I learnt through personal experience and something I am still learning even today. Facing challenges and being ahead of the game is a part of the journey. We always need to look for what’s new and different to offer to the market without losing track of our identity as a brand. Always trying to find new stones and ideas so that the Bil Arabi line stays ahead of the game especially that we have inspired many to start copying us! And now

the region is more and more open to new trends and fashionable jewellery.

Women are prouder and more inclined to wear Arabic letters instead of Latin ones.”

The Future for Women “I feel that women have taken matters of career and lifestyle choices in their own hands a long time ago, they are now much more independent. I don’t quite understand why it has become an issue nowadays as if women had never had the power or the freedom to pursue their careers and dreams…

My personal advice to women is to stand strong and hold on tight to what you want and move forward, never be discouraged, there is always a way and a solution to anything...”

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BASELWORLD REPORT

Glitziest show on

Earth

If you’ve ever dreamt of being surrounded by fine watches and stunning jewellery, then Baselworld is your ultimate playground.

For eight days, Switzerland played host to the annual biggest watch and jewellery show, Baselword 2013. This year’s redesigned and revamped show concept not only brought about the excitement of a new era, but also new records.

The 41st Baselworld saw 1,460 exhibitors from a total of 40 different countries showcasing their exclusive innovations and high-quality collections. Even the number of journalists saw a big hike, attracting around 3,610 to the newly-opened hall complex by architects Herzog & de Meuron.

Visitor numbers read 122,000 from 100 countries, underlining another milestone reached in the history of the event.

We’ve picked out some of the major highlights of an unforgettable show.

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BASELWORLD REPORT

ARMIN STROM Gravity Collection ARMIN STROM Gravity is the first watch from the Biel-based Manufacture to feature an automatic winding mechanism with micro rotor. ARMIN STROM wanted to express the essence of a fundamental law of physics – that of gravity. Thus, the laws of gravity are used in an automatic watch to transform movements into a mode of indicating the time.

However, the ARMIN STROM Gravity does not simply provide a glimpse of how this transformation works, rather, the dial is designed to proudly display the micro rotor, which captures the power of the movements and transforms them into energy.

The visibility of this mechanism is made possible thanks to an innovative concept of transmission for the rotor, which remains smaller in size than the diameter of the going barrel.

The ARMIN STROM Gravity collection is available in four colourways that represent the four elements: FIRE, EARTH, WATER and AIR, all boasting the same exceptional level of finishing that has contributed to the reputation of the brand and of its eponymous founder. This is a timepiece that will appeal to connoisseurs of fine watch-making wishing to celebrate the movement in all its forms.

With BASELWORLD 2013 we have set new standards. This has further reinforced the uniqueness of this event. There is nothing comparable in the luxury goods industry anywhere in the world. We shall be doing everything within our power to further expand our leading position next year too. – For Sylvie Ritter, Managing Director of BASELWORLD

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BASELWORLD REPORT We are delighted to confirm that a new century has been heralded in for the watch industry with BASELWORLD 2013. We have concluded exceptional business deals in this exceptional infrastructure.

– François Thiébaud, President of the Swiss exhibitors at BASELWORLD

Louis Vuitton – Tambour collection Tambour Twin Chrono

The Tambour Twin Chrono features a world premiere complication: the ability to simultaneously measure two distinct times and to display the difference between these two measured times – all at once on the same dial. This innovation has been created by the fine watchmaking workshop of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton Manufacture and is regarded as a significant milestone in the history of chronograph.

Tambour Spin Time Regatta Pink Gold

The Tambour Spin Time collection offers two functions: chronograph and regatta 5-minute countdown; visually indicated on the dial by five rotating cubes. After the white gold version revealed in 2012, Louis Vuitton offers this year a limited and numbered pink gold edition of the Spin Time Regatta. This edition features a precious pink gold case with crown and push buttons overmolded with rubber, a transparent grey sapphire crystal dial enabling to see the movement and its Côte de Genève finishing and an elegant dark grey alligator strap.

Tambour eVolution

A new masculine interpretation of the Tambour, this timepiece with taut lines and a high-tech silhouette – encased using the innovative material ‘Black MMC’.

The Tambour eVolution is a strong aesthetical departure from the classic tambour. Designed for the modern, urban, globetrotting man, the Tambour eVolution is the definitive evocation of everyday performance. Available in a GMT three-hand version and a GMT chronograph, in steel or pink gold.

Tambour Bijou Secret Ornamental Stones

Lapis lazuli, malachite, aventurine, pink mother-of-pearl and even turquoise, the Tambour Bijou Secret, launched in 2012 in gold and mother-of-pearl, is now available in a new colorama of five ornamental stones. A watch and jewel in one, each model features a shiny lizard bracelet to match the colours of the stone: electric blue, light green, bright navy, pink or blue turquoise.

Tambour Monogram

Following in the footsteps of the Tambour, Tambour Monogram establishes its uniqueness with a case which has been inverted and refined. Elegant and timeless, the character of the watchmaker’s savoir faire is shown through the automatic winding and Manufacture calibres. This exceptional piece is further enriched by the most illustrious of complications: the Tourbillon. In steel or in pink gold, it lights up thanks to the sparkle of the diamond, and its case plays with the light through a sun-patterned traditional engraving and a subtle Monogram reflection. Tambour Monogram is available in seven references and in different sizes.

BASELWORLD 2013 proved to be a highly successful edition, despite the fact that it was held later in the year than usual. All the markets were present, and we recorded a very good media presence at our stand.

Both our guests and the journalists were delighted with the new shop layout.

– Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard

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BASELWORLD REPORT

This show remains the not-to-be missed rendezvous for the industry. The atmosphere was indeed highly satisfying. We had a good number of visitors to the stand and were able to welcome 1.200 journalists.

– Nicolas Beau, Directeur International Horologerie at Chanel

Perrelet launches Turbine Chrono For the first time since its launch in 2009, Perrelet’s iconic Turbine collection welcomes a horological complication; a chronograph, offering a further demonstration of the brand’s technical expertise. The additional function is clearly displayed on the dial of the Turbine Chrono automatic model without detracting from the singular identity of the collection.

Thanks to the transparency of the chronograph counter, the signature rotor of the Turbine watches remains perfectly visible. One can easily admire the blades freely sweeping

over the under dial surface. On the Turbine Chrono, they create discreet effects highlighting the unusual date display.

The latter appears in an aperture at 6 o’clock in step with the movements of the turbine gliding over it.

With the Turbine Chrono, Perrelet pushes the creative barriers, proving that horological complications along with the additional indications they imply may be integrated within the Turbine collection while preserving the initial visual impact. An important step has been taken, thereby paving the way for promising development.

BASELWORLD 2013 proved to be a highly successful edition, despite the fact that it was held later in the year than usual. All the markets were present, and we recorded a very good media presence at our stand. Both our guests and the journalists were delighted with the new shop layout.

– Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard

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BASELWORLD REPORT The general mood was an exceptionally positive one. This key meeting point for the industry enables us to meet all our dealers, establish their views and perspectives for the current year and present our innovations to them.

– Thierry Stern, President of Patek

Concord Chronograph Black PVD This year, Saratoga Race Course is celebrating its 150th birthday. August 1863 saw the opening of Saratoga Race Course and simultaneously witnessed the official ‘inauguration’ of thoroughbred racing. The two have become inseparable and together now embody America’s oldest continuous racing tradition at the nation’s oldest sporting venue.

In celebration of Saratoga Race Course’s 150th birthday, Concord launched Saratoga’s timeless original design in full PVD in the 2013 version of its 2004 Concord Saratoga SR. The Concord Saratoga Chronograph 2013 is the ultimate in sleek sports luxury, a contemporary watch in which its predecessor’s classic features are subtly metamorphosed into ergonomic perfection.

The thunder of a hooves of the purest thoroughbred horses on a legendary track … immortalised on the case-back of every Concord Saratoga watch case – a symbol of the progression over a quarter century of signature features moving with the times to produce perfect reinterpretations of the original design.

Casual and versatile, the all-new full PVD Concord Saratoga Chronograph is an intricately crafted timepiece whose black PVD finish stainless steel case is firmly anchored on its meshlook black PVD-treated stainless steel bracelet with gleaming stainless steel links throughout, resulting in greater suppleness and thus enhanced comfort. This is a shining

56

demonstration of technological advances in action.

Maintaining the integrity of the original Saratoga Chronograph design, the new Concord Saratoga Chronograph houses larger counters, big date and crystal clear Roman numerals in its 42mm diameter case, providing an ideal complement for its easily recognisable eight-sided signature bezel.

BREITLING EMERGENCY II The world’s first wristwatch with a dual frequency locator beacon, Breitling has reaffirmed its pioneering role in the field of technical watches and instruments for professionals by creating the very first wristwatch with a built-in personal locator beacon (PLB).

The Emergency II is a high-tech gem equipped with a dual frequency transmitter compliant with the specifications of the Cospas-Sarsat international satellite alert system and serving both to issue alerts and to guide search and rescue missions.

Developed in conjunction with major scientific institutes, the Emergency II is distinguished by numerous microelectronic and microtechnical innovations, including a revolutionary rechargeable battery, a miniaturised dual frequency transmitter and an unprecedented integrated antenna system – three features specifically developed for this model.

As the first ever wristworn dual frequency PLB, it establishes itself as a safety and survival instrument in all distress situations on land, at sea and in the air.

BASELWORLD REPORT

This is an exceptional year for us. We have been to inaugurate our new pavilion by Toyo Ito. This stand reflects our brand in an outstanding manner. We were able to welcome around 800 journalists. The number of buyers has also risen. This show is an event not to be missed for us.

– Luc Perramond, CEO La Montre Hermès

BVLGARI BVLGARI Catene watch Simplicity, tradition and elegance intertwine in this precious creation by Bulgari. Pink gold links form a beautifully subtle extension of the gold case which bears not just the double BVLGARI logo on its bezel, but also a mother of pearl dial featuring 12 brilliant cut 0.133 carat diamonds and a rubelite cabochon accenting the ridged crown.

This sophisticated timepiece is inspired by the historically classic gourmette. The gourmette, the French name for the vintage ‘name-plate bracelet’, has been reinterpreted by Bulgari and restored to its former familiarity. Such an eternally sentimental symbol is now customised as a wrap-around bracelet watch, and a suppleness attributed directly to its sophisticated construction.

The apparent simplicity of the timepiece’s smooth elegance betrays its complex construction: the supreme savoir-faire of Bulgari goldsmithing creates a bracelet to twice encircle the wrist with a comfortably lithe embrace.

As it oft does, Bulgari has taken inspiration from history, and the vintage nature of such a classically playful decoration: Bulgari reasserts itself once again as a House of inspired creativity.

We are very impressed by the new building. It gives the exhibitors the opportunity to stage higher-quality presentations.

BASELWORLD is now a genuine luxury show. We are particularly satisfied, since our new stand, in its new position, gives us enhanced visibility. This meant we were also able to benefit from an increased visitor frequency.

– Guido Terreni, Managing Director Watch Business Unit at Bulgari

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BASELWORLD REPORT We can look back on a brilliant event. All the effort that went into it, together with the commitment of the exhibitors, the show management and the political authorities, has paid off. And now we can reap the fruits of this labour – a show boasting a new quality and aesthetics, unrivaled anywhere in the world.

– Jacques J. Duchêne, Chairman of the Exhibitors ‘Committee

“Watch of the Year 2013” The title ‘Watch of the Year 2013’ was awarded to the LANGE 1 TOURBILLON PERPETUAL CALENDAR by A. Lange & Söhne. This is the 10th time A. Lange & Söhne has won this award.

Only just launched last year, the top-tier model of the eminent Saxon manufactory competed with 150 men’s models of other watch brands and ended up being the undisputed winner of the watch contest.

The LANGE 1 TOURBILLON PERPETUAL CALENDAR unites two classic complications in the iconic LANGE 1 style. Thanks to an ingenious arrangement of the calendar displays around the time indication, it presents a host of information in a superbly legible format.

Lights, camera, action!

Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture unveiled the first Cinema Watch, containing an amazing animation complication, the first ever in a mechanical watch.

The Cinema Watch contains two movements: the timekeeping movement proper and an animation movement based on the principles of a zoopraxiscope. The animation function is launched manually and shows a small movie of a galloping horse and rider in a small window at 6:00.

The Cinema Watch is designed to resemble an antique photoor cinema camera. The square steel case is finished using three techniques: polishing, grinding and hot pressing. The dial is designed to resemble an antique camera lens with the hour and minute chapter rings resembling aperture or f-stop rings on a camera lens. The face itself is finished in black lacquer decorated with ‘clous-de-Paris’ guilloché. A transparent sapphire caseback reveals the unusual inner works of the Cinema Watch. Finally, a black, custom-made alligator skin wristband completes this elegant and unusual watch. The animation movement in the Cinema Watch contains a Maltese cross stopwork which turns a disc engraved with 12 images of a galloping horse and rider in different poses.

The Cinema Watch contains a bridge and movements finished in

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a classic style appropriate for luxury class watches: with bridges decorated with pearling and ‘clous-de-Paris’, ruby bearings set in elegant gold chatons and gold-plated gear trains. What is unusual is the presence of two winding drums: one for the watch movement, one for the animation. Both are wound using the same crown, which is turned clockwise to wind the watch, and anti-clockwise to wind the animation.

BASELWORLD REPORT An excellent edition for TAG Heuer: we were able to record two-digit growth rates. The new position and the new stand offered our customers greater comfort and convenience. The new hall gives the show even more prestige and definitely puts it in the top league. BASELWORLD is, above all, an out-of-the ordinary communication platform, which gives us the opportunity to speak to the world’s press and keep abreast of the market within the space of just a few days.

– Françoise Bezzola, Vice President Communication at TAG Heuer

Alpina Baselworld Novelties

2013

Since 1883, the contribution of Alpina to the Swiss watchmaking industry has been in the innovation of calibre and watch production methods and organisation. It can be rightly said that the ‘Alpina Union Horlogère’, whose members were called the ‘Alpinists’, was the ancestor of today’s modern Swiss watch groups. With the creation of the legendary ‘Alpina 4’ in 1938, Alpina invented the modern sports watch by defining and uniting in one watch the four necessary criteria – which still

apply to this day – for a watch to be called a sports watch.

Since 1883, Alpina has conceived and manufactured its own movements and chronometers in-house. The famous 877, 582, 592 movements, just to name a few, today have their modern counterparts in the Alpina AL-980 Tourbillon, AL-950 Automatic Regulator, AL-718 WorldTimer and the AL-710 Small Date manufacture movements.

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Beauty

It’s easy to look or smell like somebody else. To be your own person, that is the true challenge.

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BEAUTY

My Favourite Summer Beauty Products

Staying protected from the harsh summer sun has never been easier with today’s SPF-loaded beauty products. From lipsticks to anti-ageing creams, Saadiya Ahmad unveils her favourite tried and tested products for the summer...

1.

Bliss The Youth As We Know It Anti-Aging Moisture Lotion SPF 30 This product has a unique formula that helps to correct the top 10 signs of ageing while preventing sun damage. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 UVA/ UVB protection and is a great lightweight daily moisturiser I use to keep my skin looking young and luminous. The second I put it on, it absorbs, feeling literally like you have nothing on and gives a smooth effect with no icky telltale traces of SPF. A few days of using this product, my skin was looking more even, toned and felt great.

Price: AED340.75, available at Debenhams – Mall of the Emirates

3.

Biolite’s Indian Summer Bronzer in SPF 26 This is the perfect must-have product for getting that sunkissed, bright, healthy look without much effort. I used this on my cheeks for a hint of colour and on my décolleté for a summery look. The best part of this is that it contains the highest grade of minerals in rich tones and being SPF 26 means I just get more protection from the harmful rays of the sun with the added benefit of a multi-purpose beauty product.

Price: AED165, available at Biolite Skin Clinic Dubai

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2.

Benefit’s Hello Flawless Oxygen WOW foundation with SPF 25 I have been searching for a barely-there foundation that would give great coverage. Not only does this provide super light brightening coverage, but it’s also oil-free and chock full of hydrating benefits and light-diffusing properties. The consistency is runny which helps blend it out evenly and adapt to my own skin colour. The best part is that the SPF included in the product means one less step in my makeup routine!

Price: AED144, available at Sephora

Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Cream Compact Foundation with SPF 15 Extra-virgin olive oil and ultrapure minerals make up the ingredients in this ultra creamy compact foundation. As I blended this on my face, I found the finish surprisingly soft and matte. For medium to full coverage it’s a perfect formula and because it’s super blendable, buildable, looks flawless and covers small imperfections, it created an airbrushed effect. Also it doesn’t contain any parabens, making it safe to use while providing sun protection.

Price: AED99, available at all Body Shop outlets

4.

BEAUTY

5.

Elemis Liquid Layer with SPF 30 This lightweight, broadspectrum product is a great fusion of anti-ageing and sun protection all rolled into one.

Also the product’s packaging uses a narrow spout that makes the product ease out with control. The consistency is thin which made it super easy to spread and left no residue at all. It’s also sweat and water-proof and literally glided on, but didn’t feel sticky. The cellular protecting anti-oxidants and photo protectants help to defend against daily pollutants.

Price: AED185, available at Bloomingdale’s Dubai Mall

6.

Clarins Instant Smooth Crystal Lip Balm Clarins Instant Smooth Crystal Lip Balms combines the elements of a lipstick, a lip balm, and a gloss with SPF into a yummy treat for your lips. I tried the shade 06 Crystal Mandarin. Out of all four balms – Crystal Mandarin, Crystal Rose, Crystal Gold Plum, and Crystal Berry – I felt this not only had the maximum amount of pigment but looked great on my naturally golden tan skin. The outer portion of the balm provides moisture and shine while the inner core gives lips colour.

Price: AED109, available at Clarins Boutique Dubai Mall

Guerlain’s Correcting UV Base Brightening Pearl Perfection with SPF 30 This ultra-corrective silky beige base gives natural coverage and imperceptibly corrects dark spots, blemishes and dull complexions. I used this to help with my patchiness and to help impart an even and polished look without having to resort to heavy makeup or concealer. The result was my skin looked even, supple and the patchiness vanished.

Price: AED308, available at Guerlain counters

7.

Keraskin’s Voile Ultime A fluid for the face and neck, this product is infused with Octoparsol to preserve the skin’s beauty reserves while maintaining the natural balance of the skin. Unlike other SPFs, Voile Ultime has the combination of two UVA and UVB filters which provide very high daily protection against sun rays, effectively acting as a protective barrier. I loved the fact that this product was very light and fluid therefore not at all heavy or oily.

It penetrated immediately and left my face looking even and balanced.

This is more than an SPF product; in fact, this is a must-have for your anti-ageing arsenal to keep you looking younger.

Price: AED263, available at all Sisters Beauty Lounge branches

8.

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BEAUTY

9.

Minx Sealed with a Kiss Matte and Shimmer Lipstick with SPF 20 The clever two-in-one double ended product is ingenious and offers one medium coverage lipstick with a glossy matte colour and the other with a light coverage shimmer that can be worn alone or over the matte lipstick. It immediately solved my problem of having to carry multiple lipsticks and the best part is that it has a built in SPF 20 so it keeps my lips protected, moisturised and supple, even during harsh summer sun rays.

The textures are easy to work with and you can literally just swipe it on without a mirror. The lipstick is also quite light so you really don’t feel like you’re wearing lipstick; it’s more of that lip calm feeling perfect for summer.

Price: AED72, available at Mikajy retail outlets

11.

12.

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Kiehl’s Targeted Sunscreen Stick For Face and Body SPF 50 This super portable and power packed SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick is a must-have essential to carry to the beach or the ski slopes for the summer. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It leaves no greasy residue and is fragrance-free and light and gives great complete water-proof sun protection. The targeted treatment also works to prevent premature ageing.

Price: AED100, available at Bloomingdales and Harvey Nichols

10.

Obagi Nu-Derm Sun Shield SPF 50 This power packed mega-SPF product combines high UVB absorption and dynamic UVA blockage in an elegant, matte finish with 10.5 per cent zinc oxide and 7.5 per cent octinoxate.

And despite it having a mega amount of SPF and substantial amount of zinc oxide, it went on clear, not white or chalky and gave a great matte finish. It’s a great product for regional summers where the skin tend to get shiny. I love that it’s broad spectrum and high SPF, and yet feels weightless and doesn’t smell like sunscreen. I also noticed that my dark spots are diminishing and my skin looks brighter and overall more even-toned simply due to the fact that I protect my face and neck with this sunscreen each and every day.

Price: AED175, available at all major pharmacies, including Bin Sina and Super Care.

Rodial’s Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Moisturiser SPF 15 This is a multi-functional day cream that not only provides SPF15 protection but also works synergistically to plump and firm dehydrated skin throughout the day.

Hyaluronic Acid and Gransil target the concern of dehydrated skin and help to tighten and soften fine lines while ingredients such as Chromabright and vitamin B3 helped even my skin tone and illuminate my skin for a brighter complexion.

I loved the texture of this product as it immediately created an instant tightened appearance to the skin’s surface. Just a few days of using this and I have noticed the fine lines around my eyes have softened already.

Price: AED270, available at available at Harvey Nichols Mall of Emirates and at Shuiqi Spa Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

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Scents

Summer scents for him and her Don’t miss out on the fragrance releases for summer.

AW lists the latest fresh wonders for the olfactory this season. Check them out…

Guerlain’s Habit Rouge Since its creation in 1965, this first oriental fragrance for men was composed with passion, daring and freedom. Its bitterness comes across as freshness, playing on the sophisticated accords of lime and bitter orange. For this limited edition, the removable and reusable coat embodies and exalts the elegance of the stylish and impeccably booted horseman, with a timeless trail. This distinguished collector’s piece makes a perfect gift, for all those who appreciate this fragrance that has taken them off the beaten path for generations.

Diptyque’s Eau Moheli Eau Moheli is the latest addition to the Floral Water Collection. The new fragrance pays tribute to ylang-ylang and offers a unique interpretation of this exotic note. Its petals have a highly narcotic scent that has become one of the great classics of perfumery.

In some fragrances, its round note gives volume to the fragrance, in others, it adds a heady cheerfulness to the most beautiful bouquet.

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Bentley for Men Bentley is for the first time presenting a premium fragrance, Bentley for Men, a fragrance that meets the very highest requirements and is sure to cause a sensation in the perfume world. Bentley for Men’s top notes offer an exhilarating cocktail of spicy and aromatic essences

Salvatore Ferragamo’s Acqua Essenziale According to the style of Salvatore Ferragamo, authenticity is the highest form of luxury. From this philosophy comes the inspiration for Acqua Essenziale. It is a combination between essence as the highest form of authenticity, and water as the most essential natural element. Indeed, it is a signature scent that celebrates a man’s real essence.

Eau de Lacoste L.12.12 Noir Evocative and enticing, EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 Noir is both fresh and aromatic whilst deep, intense and warm, inhabiting an olfactory space not unlike dusk, where elements of day and night mingle to create a truly unique moment. It opens with a refreshing, summer breeze of cooling watermelon and then, in the same way that daytime aromas intensify in the heat of the early evening, the warming aroma of Egyptian Basil is revealed, with aromatic facets of Lavender and Verbena.

Davidoff’s The Game The Game is a latest eau de toilette by Davidoff. This refined new fragrance was designed for those who are not afraid to stand out and assert themselves. It states that existence is a game that should be played to win. It belongs to the aromatic woody family.

A unique accord of Gin Fizz based on juniper berries generates a dazzling touch of style.

Scents

Prada Candy L’Eau Prada Candy L’Eau’s packaging is fresh and feminine, with a sensual palette of nude and gold. Vintage yet daring, it conveys an uplifting sense of sophistication. The fresh and joyful sensation of Prada Candy L’Eau lies in its mix of zestful and sweetly addictive notes. High-quality ingredients combine to form this modern and sophisticated fragrance where a trinity of White Musks, Benzoin and Caramel is heightened by the presence of Citrus and Oriental floral notes, to create a vibrant ensemble.

Lolita Lempicka’s l’Eau Jolie The latest fragrance from the Lolita Lempicka symphony is l’Eau Jolie: a fruity-floral Eau de Toilette that brings to mind a deliciously refreshing peach blossom-blackcurrant sorbet: a delightfully fresh fruity-floral fragrance – perfect for the summer months.

COULEURKENZO Kenzo’s spirit of fashion blows across fragrances. KENZO creates a collection of fragrances garnished with flowers. First is this COULEURKENZO Rose Pink – a dazzling radiance of a chic and shock scent. The trail-blazing duo of rose spiced up by safron unravels in a fresh scent of grapefruit and angelica.

The second is Jaune Yellow, a radiant fragrance, like a splash of sunlight.

Like a gourmand sunny floral, the fragrance has bergamot and citron, Mediterranean citrus fruits merge with solar flowers, jasmine and orange blossom, warmed by vanilla.

Guerlain’s La Petite Robe Noire It is a deliciously fresh, sunny, playful scent that lingers. In the transition from Eau de Parfum to Eau de Toilette, this reinvention seems familiar yet totally unique. The first arabesque is an armful of fresh flowers. This bouquet of roses, jasmine and orange blossom, picked in the early hours of morning, gives off a delicate, light and deliciously feminine fragrance as it rises into the air.

Reem Acra Much like Reem Acra’s design philosophy, the eponymous fragrance is a direct reflection of her appreciation for traditional classics coupled with modern luxury and sophistication. Inspired by Reem Acra’s memories of collecting amber as a child in the forests of Lebanon, acclaimed perfumer Pierre Negrin of Firmenich created a sleek sheer amber effect apparent throughout the entire fragrance and balanced it with shimmering fruit, voluminous flower petals and sensual musk.

Escada’s Cherry in the Air Cherry in the Air is the enchanting new, limited-edition Spring/Summer fragrance from ESCADA – an irresistible scent inspired by the unmistakable, fresh and sweet scent of blossoming cherries. As the first fruit of summer, a glimpse of cherries ripening in the trees instantly awakens the delightful anticipation of long, warm, carefree days ahead. It features a captivating blend of succulent red fruits and addictive gourmand notes that ignite your zest for life and trigger the same joyful contemplation of funfilled summers as flourishing cherries.

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Get the look

You too can look as glamorous as the stars. Make-up artist Michelle Waldron gives us the tricks of the trade to emulating the beauty of the celebrities.

Jennifer Lawrence:

Accentuating God’s gifts To achieve Jennifer Lawrence’s glamourous crimson lip, start off by prepping and exfoliating your lips using Lush ‘Sugar scrub in mint’ to get rid of any dryness. Next apply a matte foundation like Laura Mercier’s secret finish mattifying using a MAC duo fibre brush to get a flawless finish. Let your base settle and move onto the kohl rimmed eyes. Lawrence has deep set eyes with a slightly protruding eyebrow bow. To counteract, apply MAC eyeshadow ‘Concrete’ high above your socket line using a MAC blending brush #217. Lawrence’s eyes have been lined with winged gel eyeliner along the top two thirds of her eye and then the bottom outer third of her eye.

Using an angled brush like Kryolan #14 with Bobbi Brown black gel eyeliner, slightly wing your eyeliner on top and line the bottom of the eye from ¾ of the way outwards.

If you have problems winging your eyeliner at the edges, use something to guide you like a business card placed at the edge of your lash line to get the straight edge! Finish off the eyes with lashings of Giorgio Armani Eyes to kill mascara in black. Conceal any under eye darkness or blemishes with Benefit’s ‘Erase paste’.

For the luscious red lips, first apply Benefits Benetint as a base for the lips. This can also be used to create the soft blush tone on the cheeks. Always use a lip liner when applying red lipstick to ensure it stays in place. Line the lips with MAC ‘Redd’ lip liner in a slightly circular shape if you have a more angular face and vice versa. Using a lip brush also ensures your colour to last longer. For a show stopping red, apply Giorgio Armani’s ‘Rouge d’armani 400’.

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Get the look

Marion Cotillard : Kerry Washington:

Shimmering windows to the soul The plum sultry shades are a slight twist on your classic smokey eye. To create her flawless base, apply Giorgio Armani’s Luminous silk foundation using an Armani blender brush.

This foundation has a slight radiance to add a glow to your complexion. Washington’s cheek shape is amazing; to contour, use a matte shade two tones darker than your foundation. I like to contour with cream based products.like MAC crème colour base in ‘Rroot’. Use an angled brush like Sephora angled contour brush #75 to guide you. Using Chanel’s powder blush in ‘Malice’, sweep it high and angle towards the temples to create a high popping blush effect.

For Washington’s soft, shimmering smokey eye, use Christian Dior’s 5 couleurs in shade ‘Petal shine 809’. Start off by applying the palest shade all over the eyelid area. Apply the soft plum on the main eyelid area and contour the socket line with the darkest shade. For extra emphasis on the eyes, smudge some of the darkest plum shade underneath the eyeline as well, using a smudge brush. Line the inside waterline of your eyes on the top and bottom with Sephora collection retractable waterproof eyeliner in black. To create some flirty eyelashes apply Lancome ‘Hypnose doll lashes’ mascara. To finish off Washington’s look use Smashbox’s lip enhancing gloss in shade ‘candid’.

Sophisticated French beauty at its best.

This sultry smudged khaki eye look is stunning. Cotillard’s foundation base is just almost there, very natural. For a base that has a little bit of coverage but at the same time remaining quite natural, choose Jane Irdeale’s BB cream. The blush is almost non existent as well, this look really is all about the eyes. For a soft natural blush shade apply MAC’s crèmeblend blush in shade ‘‘Something special’ using a blusher brush.

For the eyes, first line close to the lash line with Make-up forever’s Aqua eyes liner in shade ‘5L’, a golden khaki tone, and smudge it using a Laura Mercier smudge brush. With any leftover on the brush, lightly smudge along the bottom of the lash line as well. Next apply MAC’s eyeshadow shade ‘club’’ along the main eyelid. This colour is fantastic as it reflects different tones, it appears a golden brown khaki colour. For that little bit of gold sparkle on the eyes, use Lancome’s colour design infinite in shade ‘101 eternal gold’ just above your socket line and blend using a large blending brush like Giorgio Armani’s large eye contour brush. For an extra sparkle in your eye, finish off with L’oreal ‘s Voluminous million lashes ‘Diamonds’ mascara.

Lastly for the lips, use a natural lipstick colour that has a slight dewy effect like Benefit’s ‘Skinnydip’.

For more information, contact make-up Artist Michelle Waldron at www. michellewaldron.biz

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AW Life

Life has its ups and downs.

The choices you make decide which of the two you have more of.

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special FEATURE

The Silent From insults to mind games and derogatory comments; emotional abuse can chip away at an individual’s self-respect, self-esteem and ultimately erode selfworth. Saadiya Ahmad takes a closer look at emotional abuse and how it leaves its victims feeling worthless, dejected and desolate.

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special FEATURE

S

andra and Mike have been married for three years and she says though he is a great husband in many ways, when he gets mad, he lashes out at her verbally, making her feel sad and hurt.

“Mike works hard to provide for the two of us but if he gets angry – at anything – he lashes out at me. Last week his boss had given him a warning about his mediocre office presentation and he came home and shouted at me for about two hours straight.

How lazy, fat, and ugly I was and how it was my fault for not encouraging him to do better. Another time he had an argument with his brother and when we returned home, he again verbally lashed out at me.

Though I always feel upset whenever he does this, I always bear in mind that he just vents on me to cool down...”

Defined According to Dr. Raymond H. Hamden, Clinical and Forensic Psychologist at Human Relations Institute and Clinics, emotional abuse can be defined as the systematic diminishment of another, whether it is intentional or subconsciously, over a period of time. “Emotional abuse is not a single event, but a pattern of behaviours repetitively occurring over time,” he says. It can be presented through acts of verbal aggression, constant criticism and dominant behaviours to more subtle tactics such as jealous behaviours, intimidation and manipulation. Contrary to common belief, emotional abuse is considered to be as harmful as physical abuse and in some respects even worse, stresses Dr. Hamden. “When it comes to the more severe forms of emotional abuse, it is usually more psychologically harmful than physical abuse as it tends to occur on a daily basis and the victims tend to place the blame on themselves.”

Signs Leaving no tell-tale bruises, marks or broken bones, emotional abuse, points out Dr. Hamden, can be hard to recognise at first. “People who are being abused may exhibit the following symptoms: seem afraid or anxious to please their partner, check in often with their partner to report where they are and what they’re doing, receive frequent, harassing phone calls from their partner and may talk about their partner’s temper, jealousy, or possessiveness,” he explains. “Also, they may have very low self-esteem, even if they used to be confident, show major personality changes – for instance, an outgoing person becomes withdrawn, be

depressed, anxious, or suicidal, be restricted from seeing family and friends have limited access to money, credit cards, or the car.” Emotional abuse is characterised by manipulation and the invalidation of their partner; he says and can come in many forms such as rejecting, degrading, terrorising, isolating, corrupting, and exploiting as characteristics of emotional abuse. “Subtler emotionally abusive tactics include insults, putdowns, arbitrary and unpredictable inconsistency,” he notes.

The Effects Besides being linked to a plethora of negative psychosocial outcomes such as adult depression, suicidal anxiety, and dissociation, according to Dr. Hamden, emotional abuse leads to a chronic state of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as being abused by someone who is supposed to be trustworthy and nurturing leads many women to feel abandoned, betrayed, or even crazy, with depression being by far the most common symptom of domestic violence. “The feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that many victims fall prey

to have a profoundly undermining effect on their mental and emotional wellbeing,” indicates Dr. Hamden.

Family Some studies, says Dr. Hamden, demonstrate that survivors of childhood emotional abuse experience depression, anxiety, dissociation, and difficulty identifying their feelings without perceiving themselves to have been abused. “Also, emotional abuse can impair a child’s selfimage, self-esteem and interfere with his/her ability to function adequately in society and with peers,” he explains and in fact, negativity in the home can impact a child’s academic success and ability to form healthy, pro-social, and intimate long-term relationships.

Patterns There are three general patterns of abusive behaviour, explains Dr. Hamden.

“These are aggressing, denying and minimising,” he says. “Aggressing is when the abuser demoralises the victim by name-calling, accusing, threatening and

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special FeaTURe Red Flags Of Emotional Abuse:

ordering.” Denying is done namely by withholding, which is when a person’s emotional needs are denied, especially when they need it, with the intention to hurt, punish or humiliate them. This, he says, can be done by refusing to listen, refusing to communicate and emotionally withdrawing as a punishment. “Invalidating is done when the abuser refuses or fails to acknowledge reality by denying their actions and behaviours and blames their partner for being too sensitive or too emotional when they hurt their feelings,” he says. “And lastly, minimising is a less extreme form of denial where the abuser does not deny the particular event but pick at the victim’s emotional experience or reaction to the situation, making the victim question their emotions and place blame on themselves,” he says, with examples of statements such as ‘You’re exaggerating’ or ‘You’re just too sensitive’.

Repercussions In the long term, Dr. Hamden says that emotional abuse can cause physical, mental, and/or emotional damage that is difficult to recover from. “It can indeed take a huge toll on a person’s health and well-being as it has a range of negative effects on the recipient,” he says and psychologically, it can cause feelings of isolation, anger, depression, anxiety, hurt and stress. Additionally, physical ailments can also be experienced such as headaches,

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bloodshot eyes, diarrhoea or constipation, cold sores, stomach pains, insomnia and fatigue. “The emotional state can also impact the person’s eating habits which could result in an eating disorder,” he explains. Additionally, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even cancer have been linked to emotional abuse as a result of extreme and extended emotional stress.

Stopping It The first and foremost step is for the victim to trust their own feelings and perceptions, emphasises Dr. Hamden. “As human beings, we are intuitive beings and can sense when something is not right, regardless of how much we may be blinded by love for that person; if they are doing something that is harming you or others, they must seek help,” he says, and if the person fears their partner, then something is definitely wrong.

“Recognising abuse is the first step in ending it,” he says and in fact, when the victim is able to see that he/she is in the wrong and ‘this cannot go on’, they are half way to saying ‘Stop this behaviour’.“ In most cases, it is important to realise that the abusive party cannot change so either get out of the relationship or start utilising your energy to change yourself and the way in which you react to and handle the situation if you decide to remain in the relationship,” he says.

u Using Harmful Language: name calling, playing mind games, making someone feel insecure/ guilty, and/or telling lies or private information about someone to others. u Using Social Standing: using popularity, class, race or disability to manipulate someone else, making all the decisions for someone and/ or being the only one to define roles in the relationship. u Using Technology: sending unwanted text messages, breaking into someone’s social networking profile, email, or cell phone. u Using Intimidation: making someone afraid by using looks, actions, or gestures, smashing, destroying, or stealing property, abusing pets or loved ones and/or displaying weapons. u Minimising, Denying, or Blaming: where the impact of the abuse is minimised and even saying the abuse didn’t happen or blaming abusive behaviour on stress, drugs, or jealousy. u Using Threats: making threats to use physical or sexual violence, threatening to leave, to commit suicide, or report someone to the police or making someone do illegal things. u Exclusion: controlling what someone does or where she/he goes, deciding who someone sees, talks to, or what she/he wears, limiting outside involvement and even isolating someone from their friends or family. u Using Physical Violence: hitting, scratching, shaking, choking, pinching, pushing, biting, or grabbing.

relationships

Amicably

Let’s face it, no couple gets married thinking later down the line, the marriage will turn out miserably and ultimately end up in divorce. Unfortunately the harsh reality is that many couples do divorce but Saadiya Ahmad learns that as difficult as it may seem, a divorce can actually be done amicably...

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relationships

W

hen Maryam married her college sweetheart Adil, she had high hopes and expectations.

But unfortunately it all fell apart when he filed for divorce after just two years of marriage. She narrates, “We met in college and immediately hit it off. He proposed a year later and I happily accepted. Our big day came and it was like a fairytale. The initial months were amazing until his family, namely his mother and four unmarried sisters, opted to move into the apartment right next door to us. It was fine initially but then they began meddling in everything, from the way I cooked to the way I decorated our home. I just grit my teeth and bore it but the most shocking part was how Adil always took their side. It started going downhill all the way for us. I tried to explain to him that I needed his support but he could not refute his family, ever.

When I gave him the ultimatum that we either move or split up, he shocked me by readily agreeing for the latter and in fact asked for a divorce. I was hurt and felt betrayed. The worst part was how life changed overnight for us; suddenly it was a battleground – screaming, shouting, and his family insulting me. I just could not deal with the ugliness of the entire scenario...”

The See-Saw of Emotions Maryam’s marital demise is certainly more common than not. Making a marriage is an occasion for celebration but breaking it is the opposite and is often fraught with pain, emotional upheaval and lots of mental and psychological trauma that involves the entire family and the couple.

Yet according to Dr. Kennon Rider, Associate Professor at Zayed University/ Marriage and Family Therapist in The German Neuroscience Centre, this does not have to be the case. “In the case of a relationship breakdown, there are barrages of emotions that includes, but are not limited to, anger, including rage, self-righteousness, sadness, despair, guilt, anxiety as well as for some individuals and certain circumstances, feelings of relief,” he says. Experienced by both women and men, these see-saw emotions can wreak emotional havoc and create disorientation. “If a couple has agreed that divorce is the best option, then an amicable divorce should be possible as long as they both also agree to be fair and friendly with the other,” he

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explains. “However even jointly decidedupon divorces can get ugly, for example when one person from the couple demands unfair advantage with money or with child custody, for instance.”

Being Amicable Civility is paramount and Dr. Rider reminds us that two-thirds to three-

quarters of children whose parents have divorced actually grow up to be indistinguishable from kids from intact marriages. Such is the case of divorced couple Elizabeth and John who divorced one year back. Elizabeth says that while it was hard to make the decision, both of them have worked very hard to make it as amicable as possible for their two

relationships teenage children. “Of course it was upsetting but we have maintained a very strong commitment to our kids. We both follow rules; for example, no bad mouthing the other person, no insulting and no negativity. John also is a very good father and we make the effort to be there together for family and school events. As a result, our kids are well adjusted, happy and love both of us...”

Not surprisingly, what distinguishes children who do well versus those who do not is essentially how well the parents managed the divorce and the postdivorce years later on. In fact, divorcing parents have an enormous influence on the outcome of their children and should assume responsibility for civility and maturity especially for the sake of their children. “I encourage couples who are divorcing to make a distinction between the phases of break-up,” he says.“Once the decision has been made to divorce, let go of what you think ‘caused’ the divorce and instead now focus solely on how to get through this in the best way possible.” Even couples who are highly charged, conflicted and emotional can, if they choose to, gain control of the reins of their hostility for the sake of their children. “Basically if the parents value their children, this is the option they must take,” he says and in fact, communication with a child through social media such as Facebook and Twitter as well as communication via a webcam are cheap and easy ways to ensuring a good relationship between you, your child, and your spouse.

Children While we used to think that kids always

suffered tremendously when their parents divorced, it’s not nearly as much as we used to think. Social scientists, suggests Dr Rider, have studied children and divorce extensively now for over 30 years, and explains that we know quite a lot about what helps them get through what can be a devastating experience.

“In general, kids and the couple suffer when parents continue to have conflict and if they direct that conflict through their children,” he says, and especially hard is if a child loses contact with the non-custodial parent. He or she will also suffer more if the custodial parent has her own psychological issues that reflect in her not providing reasonable care and discipline for the children.

Advice Communication may be the reason your marriage ended in the first place, therefore maintaining some communication between you and your ex-spouse is essential to staying on good terms after a divorce. Talking in person or on the phone is the best way to communicate in any situation because there is less room for misunderstanding but even texting, e-mailing and other forms of electronic communication will help to foster a better relationship between you and your spouse. As time elapses, this communication may be less frequent and if this has tapered off naturally, then it is likely that you and your ex will still be on good terms.

Tips To Help During a Divorce: u Take responsibility for your role

in the failure of the marriage; no one person is all wrong and no one person is all right. After that, accept that the marriage didn’t work, and vow to move on with your life. u Make the decision to be happy irrespective of your marital status.

That may mean, at least initially, doing a whole lot of soul searching.

Who are you? What do you like to do? If your life is feeling empty, what

responsibilities and duties do you have to fulfil in order to fill up your life? u For some, divorce increases the happiness quotient as they may have felt trapped in a marriage for so many years and now they feel free.

Other people feel sad and a sense of loss. It is okay to mourn the failed relationship to a certain point – if that will stand in your way of feeling happy. But beyond a certain point,

you have to move on. u Try to remember that the reason

you divorced is because the marriage didn’t work. It doesn’t matter who did what. It’s over. Just vow to move on with your life, with your existence.

Accept things as they are. u Find new friends outside your old circle that you had with your ex.

Start fresh. Start over. Think of all the possibilities you have and embrace these new possibilities.

(Credit: http://www.divorcesaloon.com/2010/08/24/how-to-have-a-happy-divorce)

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CAREER

Love your child Worried about the responsibilities of parenthood? Educate yourselves on all things child-related and ease those nerves.

Mother & Child Swimming Programme Coral Beach Resort – Sharjah has launched a special Mother & Child Swimming Programme in partnership with Absolute Swimming.

Elaborating on what prompted the resort to plan the programme, Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Coral Hotels & Resorts, said,“Swimming from an early age gives a great introduction to the aquatic environment to children and mother and child swimming together is part of bonding.

Besides, swimming classes enhance the child’s physical, mental, cognitive and social skills in a safe, structured and multisensory environment.”

The other benefits, especially for the tiny tots, include learning water safety and survival skills and in the process, overcoming fear of the water.

ART ACTIVITIES AT DIAC Let your children join in the fun at the Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC), the go-to place for cool creative indoor activities, specifically the excitement-packed summer camp for children.

The summer camp will offer different activities every day. Among the activities at the DIAC Summer Camp 2013 will be Tie & Dye, Decoupage & Mixed Media, Jewellery Making, Clay Modeling, Beading, Glass painting, Drawing & Painting, Felt Toys and much more. The activities are available for two age groups:. 4-7 years and 8-12 years.

Summer Camp to Dispel the Blues If you’re looking for ideas to keep your children gainfully entertained through the long summer holidays, you might want to consider the Summer Camp 2013 at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.

From June 30 - August 1 and again from August 15 to 27, the capital’s popular beachfront holiday destination will unveil its first-ever summer camp aimed at engaging and entertaining young aficionados through the summer.

Catering to ages 4 to 12 years, the thoughtfully designed program will combine fun with education and feature an array of activities ranging from art and crafts, cooking and baking, indoor and outdoor exercises and competitive games, amongst other activities.

No Dramas With Kids’ Theatre Works!

Make the long hot summer months count for your kids by enrolling them in a week-long Summer Drama Camp hosted by Kids’ Theatre Works!

Jam-packed with writing, acting, singing and dancing, the popular workshops are a great way for children to express themselves and build self-confidence whilst learning all the tricks of the trade from a team of talented performance instructors.

Five fun-filled weeks of theatre-craft will be held where children of all levels can come together to see their creative ideas develop into their very own show.

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WELLNESS

HealthMatters Cycling in water?

Combining exercise, hydrotherapy and massage, Spabike, a private Jacuzzi with an integrated pedaling system that uses hydraulic resistance, offers a highly efficient and soothing way to get and stay in shape.

Indeed, the bicycle gives users a traditional workout. Moreover, training in an aquatic element both reduces stress and impact on your joints while also helping minimise water retention and provides a simultaneous massage. It is an easy private workout and a perfect concept for everyone who wants to do pain-free fitness activities.

Vitamin D: more may not be better In recent years, healthy people have been bombarded by stories in the media and on health websites warning about the dangers of too-low vitamin D levels, and urging high doses of supplements to protect against everything from hypertension to hardening of the arteries to diabetes.

But new research from Johns Hopkins finds that blood levels of the so-called ‘sunshine vitamin’ higher than the top of the range suggested by the Institute of Medicine confer no additional benefit.

Muhammad Amer, an assistant professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University

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School of Medicine, said,“At a certain point, more vitamin D no longer confers any survival benefit, so taking these expensive supplements is at best a waste of money.”

The primary source of vitamin D is the sun, and although it is found naturally in very few foods, commercially sold milk is usually fortified with it. Amer says as people spend more and more time indoors and slather their bodies with sunscreen when outdoors, concern is rising that many are vitamin D-deficient.“There are a lot of myths out there and not enough data,” concludes Amer.

Two Spabike models are available to fit different needs. The first one, Spabike Tonic, allows users to bike in either sitting or standing positions, its multi-position handlebar allows users to customise their experience. The second one, Spabike Relax, which provides a smooth and progressive workout in a semi-horizontal position, is an excellent solution for pregnant women and users with reduced mobility. Both models offer a powerful lateral massage jets system with variable power that surround the whole lower body.

WELLNESS

Gluten-free goodness Gluten-free living is the current dietdomination of the celeb world, with A-listers Gwyneth Paltrow and Zooey Deschanel leading the loyal converts.

calorie-conscious cereals to delectable deli dippers, breads and pasta sauces – even those with a sweet tooth can enjoy an after-dinner chocolate indulgence.

Once a doctor-ordered diet, going gluten-free is now a lifestyle change to be considered by all, with die-hard celeb followers crediting the diet for their svelte silhouettes, glowing skin and boosted energy levels. milK&HONEY, pioneers of healthy living, homegrown gourmet grocer, offers a huge array of culinary treats to ensure going gluten-free no longer means being a dinner party pooper. From

For those lazy mornings when you’d prefer an extra 15 minutes of sleep over a big breakfast, opt for gluten-free toast and jam or freedom FOOD’s Rice Flakes – a healthy alternative to your everyday cereals. And if you’re worried it won’t keep you till lunch, make sure to pack some gluten-free peppered deli-dippers, freshly baked cake slices or even a dairy-free chocolate bar!

Hypoxi-targeted body shaping Body shaping experts BodySmart say you can achieve a better body and appearance, without resorting to surgery. All you need is to set aside time, a little application and HYPOXI, a treatment that is popular with celebrities like Robbie Williams and Cheryl Cole.

HYPOXI combines alternating high and low pressure with exercise to help target fat in those areas which just won’t budge. The gentle 30-minute workout is safe, pain-free and completely natural – helping your body tap into stubborn fat stores while you work out.

In just 12 sessions, clients can lose up to 30cm from problem areas – giving greater results than conventional training. Depending on your objective choose from the stationary exercise bike enclosed in a vacuum chamber, or wearing a Vacunaut pressure suit on a treadmill, or reclined cycling vacuum compression massage.

‘GoSleep’ Sleeping Pods Need some shut eye during your transit?

Introducing the ‘GoSleep’ sleeping pods at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The ‘GoSleep’ is the latest, state of the art chair that converts into a private flat bed. The stylish, Finnish designed sleeping pods are easy-tooperate and feature a partial or fully enclosed sliding shade that isolates the customer from noise, light and crowds. After an initial launch phase, the chairs will be upgraded to include Internet access, will include secure storage for luggage and other valuables, and will allow customers to charge their laptops, mobile telephones, and other electronic devices.

Helping asthma patients Geography and climatic condition make this region a dust pocket and that does not bode well for asthma patients.

Asthma is a disease that consists of two main components: constriction and inflammation, both affecting the lung passageways. A person experiencing an asthmatic attack will typically have trouble catching breath and usually coughs and wheezes to ease breathing.

To meet potential rising demand in MENA region, Panasonic has developed cutting-edge technology of producing nanosized electrostatic atomised water particles, called ‘nanoe’, for the air purifiers, drastically improving air quality and inhibiting pollutant.

These ‘electrostatic atomised water’ contains highly reactive components called OH radical which inhibits air-borne pollutants. ‘nanoe’ is more than just for air purification, it can penetrate into fabric and deodorises unpleasant smell too as well as hydrating skin. These new air purifiers are also equipped with Mega Catcher, it targets the area within 30cm above the ground where air impurities like house dust lie abundant – which is also the major cause of breathing disorders.

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HOME & DECOR

My humble abode

No matter where you are, there’s no place quite like home.

So add your own individuality to truly make it your own.

2XL’s Living Room Collection This summer, 2XL unveils its latest living room collection, featuring classic and modern pieces. Mix and match unique living-room pieces to suit your own personal style. Go for something regally classic or try a uniquely flamboyant piece, or if you prefer a simple and chic look, the 2XL Classic Living Room Set with eye-catching floral engraving is highly recommended. 2XL shares some great gift ideas comprising a vast collection of beautiful pieces

Sofa Psychology by

THE One

Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, achiever, dreamer or perhaps even an inspired traditionalist, your choice of sofa reflects your personality.

THE Entertainer: BELLUCI sofa You are a born performer and a fun-loving extrovert – one who likes entertaining and being the centre of attention. Your home is your stage, where you act out your role in full colour for the benefit of your audience. You live for the moment and are prepared to take risks, shunning rules and routines. THE One’s BELLUCI sofa in ruby red velvet is your perfect prop. Also available without chaise longue.

THE Diva: COUTURE sofa You’re a self-confessed drama queen and proud of it. You often fantasise about becoming a movie star and enjoy watching classic films while lounging around looking the part. Elegant and chic, you’re a creative spirit who is artistic, intuitive and mysterious. Your home is where you have the freedom to dream and imagine yourself in the leading role.

You go with your gut feeling – instinct often overrides reason. But whatever the outcome, you’re always right! THE One’s gorgeously glam COUTURE sofa in gold velvet is so you, ‘dahling’.

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THE Connoisseur: CHESTERFIELD sofa Distinguished and discerning, you appreciate the finer things in life.

You value tradition and are knowledgeable, reliable and meticulous.

Although you generally live by the philosophy of ‘tried and tested is best’, you’re more adventurous than your average traditionalist.

Your home fashion style is tastefully coordinated, warm and inviting.

For you, THE One’s brown leather CHESTERFIELD sofa with its eye-catching UAE flag print is an inspired living room piece that will stand the test of time.

HOME & DECOR Sub-Zero & Wolf Opens Flagship Store The new showroom for global refrigeration and kitchen appliances leaders, Sub-Zero & Wolf, will house Miton Cucine, one of Italy’s fastest growing designer kitchens, as well as S-Box, the awardwinning and revolutionary new storage concept for the kitchen and home.

UAE and regional dealers will now make use of the new flagship store to host live cooking events for their clients with the Sub-Zero and Wolf chefs as well giving product demonstrations to clients, designers and architects from across the GCC.

Handcrafted from nature for your home As we become more environmentally cautious – we need more product solutions that go beyond their basic function. A brand that offers more in terms of sustainability is Bambu.

The Bambu range features beautiful collections of bamboo products for the kitchen and home. Bamboo is a highly renewable, sustainable, and sturdy material which makes it an excellent choice for both contemporary style and functionality. Products range from bamboo cutting boards, cork cutting boards, serving pieces, and bamboo kitchen tools, as well as a line of baby and toddler products for feeding.

Bold and bright exotic homeware

Give your summer servings a mix of east and west with bold and beautiful glass flamed teaspoons from Kathre. With bold stems of either bottle green, flaming red, or sky blue, and colourful twisty tips of tulips or eyes to choose from, this is an addition to homeware that will be cherished and enjoyed by all.

Kathre’s eclectic style reflects the Turkish craft of glass adorned accessories and objects, while blending the east with a western Mediterranean twist. The result presents you with quality, unique handmade designs that give a contemporary feel to the culture of Turkey.

A world of interior treasures Enter a realm of exciting interior design possibilities at Wysada.com, the UAE’s latest e-commerce offering dedicated entirely to luxury home décor.

Wysada.com grants members fast and convenient access to irresistible luxury interior design and high-quality homewares at exceptional value. Its deep discounts of up to 75 per cent on featured products make Wysada.com a compelling source of interior eye candy. Bespoke treasures are found alongside more familiar, premium interior brands such as Black + Blum, Joseph & Joseph, Feather & Black, Koket, Jamie Oliver, Kira, OXO, Alessi, Gaggia, Bloomingville, pols potten and Pomax.

Wysada.com features home décor products in a wide range of categories such as Décor & Accessories, Furniture & Lighting, Bed & Bath, Kitchen & Dining, Kids & Babies, Gifts & Gadgets, Electrical & Home Appliances, as well as Outdoor & Garden.

Kathre’s accessories are produced and designed by a very special technique called ‘flame working’. In this technique, Italian glass rods are melted in a flame at a very high temperature. They are kiln annealed pieces and simply one of a kind. The most prized, sculptured pieces are then combined with silver and goldplated silver after the crafty and highly skilled torch working process.

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Agenda

Understanding

AW goes techie with the aim of understanding the business solution software called Openbravo. Now considered one of the most important web-based business tools, the company’s Channel Business Manager for the Middle East & Africa, Sunando Banerjee, shares relevant information detailing the solution’s nature. Read on as we explore the ABCs of open source technology.

4Can you please, in layman’s terms, provide description of what Openbravo does?

Openbravo is a complete ERP solution built in Open Source Technology and 100 per cent Web Based Solution. ERP Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is business management software that allows an organisation to use a system of integrated applications to manage the business. ERP software integrates all facets of an operation, including Production Planning, Financial Accounting, manufacturing processes, sales &marketing etc.

4How does Openbravo benefit businesses who use it in their operations?

Openbravo brings an unique offerings among the contemporary ERP solutions. The first benefit that you get is a huge reduction of price. Openbravo is hugely less expensive when you compare it on the total cost of ownership with other ERPs. The product is developed in Open Source which also makes

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AgendA it extremely flexible and adaptable to multiple countries and language.

4What kind of companies would get the most advantage from using Openbravo?

Practically any company of any size benefited out of Openbravo. If you look at our customers, we have multi-billion dollar company to a few hundred thousand dollar company using our product. Openbravo is used by more than 6000 companies across the Globe. Any organisation which wants to streamline their operation at minimal cost with one integrated solution, the choice is Openbravo. Specifically for companies who are growing faster and opening at multiple locations, Openbravo is a great choice for its multi-language and multi-currency support.

4How do you think the technology behind Openbravo can keep up with the fastchanging tech industry?

Openbravo technology is always way ahead of its competition. In early 2000, we started as a native web-based solution. Now when all other ERP are thinking of SaaS based solution, Openbravo launched it pretty early.

Openbravo on-demand or Cloud Edition is available for more than four years now.

Openbravo also launched its new Retail Solution with a Web POS, which is again a great technological advancement. Openbravo also provides a platform for Mobility that is the solution is available over Smart Phones or Tablets.

4What tips can you share with business people in using open source technology?

Think simple. Open Source is not as difficult a technology as it sounds. It is just another technology where the code is open giving you better control over your systems. The best part of Open Source is that there are huge amount of interaction going all over the world. You need to be a part of it. For example, to know Openbravo better, you need to see Openbravo wiki, Openbravo Planet, Sourceforge etc. There are ample amount of documentation available for even a layman to start using the product.

Use the forums to ask your questions, be active participants.

4Are the users in the Middle East ready for this kind of technology? Why or why not?

Yes. We have seen huge interaction in the Middle East for the last couple of years on Open Source. Today, Middle East is one of our key potential market spaces. The whole region is growing at an exponential rate. Apart from KSA, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain have shown keen interest in Openbravo. We found the Middle East is not an orthodox market space when it comes to technology.

Probable price is not a great reason to look for alternatives but the large economy and changing Global Market has made the region curious and inquisitive. Middle East does not want to stay calm anymore. They want to learn new things and grow in a different dimension.

4What future projects or developments are in your pipeline? Anything exciting your customers must watch out for?

Openbravo has launched its new solution on Retail last Year. This year, we introduced a mobile platform; you can actually have a complete Point of Sale Solution fully integrated with ERP at your smartphone or ipad. Openbravo is going to launch its new solution for co-working space. This is an exciting project that is going to be a new product offering from Openbravo.

We can also plan to set up an Openbravo knowledge center.

4Can you provide tips for our readers on how they can get involved in this industry?

As I mentioned earlier, there are enough material available on the web. I suggest you start knowing what is Open Source Technology. To know Openbravo better, they may start from the Openbravo wiki which is a detail technical and functional documentation on Openbravo. But before anything, please understand Open Source is just a format a different philosophy in terms of Software distribution. Anyone can master it soon.

4The industry seems to be an exciting place for building careers as well. With your operations getting bigger in the Middle East, how do you think you can help in adding up opportunities in the region?

We are sincerely looking for more resources.

Our partners in this region normally look for expats to come and work for them. Any Open Source resource development needs a little help from the government also. We are working with some other governments in other countries to spread the knowledge of Openbravo. In Middle East also we are looking for that help. We can actually have a localised training program for graduates on Openbravo.

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Travel

See the world for yourself and not let the media blind you with folly.

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dine out

Couscous Mechoui at Almaz by Momo Couscous Mechoui is a signature dish of Almaz by Momo and is a ‘must-try’ from its menu. This dish features lamb shoulder slowly cooked and is served with light and fluffy couscous with raisins, chickpeas and Harrisa, alongside vegetable broth.

North African cuisine is loyal to the traditions of centuries and focuses on the gathering and preparation of natural spices and fresh herbs. Couscous Mechoui features a blend of ingredients: garlic, thyme leaves, fresh coriander, flat leaf parsley, and paprika, whilst the garnishing of thyme sprigs and cumin completes the flavour and presentation.

A Slice of France

PAUL Bakery & Restaurant has put a fresh spin on its popular selection with new dishes complementing its extensive list of classic French favourites.

Bountiful Breakfasts Wake up to a mouth-watering new breakfast selection including sweet and savoury viennoiseries and breads warm out of the oven, crêpes and galettes stuffed with delicious fillings, hearty classics like Eggs Benedict and Omelette Marseillaise and aromatic coffees and teas. You can also pick your favourite combinations of freshly baked bread and croissants, a selection of jams, an omelette, fresh orange juice, coffee or tea for a complete breakfast spread.

More to Try The new all-day menu abounds with French flavours, with well selected new dishes to try

Connoisseur’s

Choices

Pop into THE One Restaurant in their Khalidiya Theatre to treat your taste buds to the new additions to their Gourmet Theatre menu. Worth a mention are the Connoisseur’s Choices featuring delicacies ranging from Tom Yam Goong Soup and a Spicy Crayfish Salad to the mouth-watering Steak and Swiss Cheese Panini and ever-popular Lamb Shank.

Guaranteed to be love at first bite!

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such as Salade de crevettes a la mangue – a fresh green salad tossed with plump poached shrimp and a tangy lemon mayonnaise dressing. Those looking for something more robust can tuck into the Poulet roti aux amandes – a tender almond-flavoured chicken breast with runny camembert cheese, served with hearty sides of potato puree, carrots and beans and a fruity raspberry sauce.

For a quick pick-me-up, browse through their luscious selection of fine desserts, sweets and confectionary, with new additions such as Café Surprise – a steamy cuppa served with a mini pot of crème brulée, mini moelleux au chocolat and two melt-in-your mouth mini macaroons, or their Pain Perdu – French toast like you’ve never tried before made from thick chunks of eggy bread, served with a drizzle of sweet caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream.

dine out

A ‘Wild’ New Menu The Rainforest Cafe, Dubai’s favourite themed family restaurant and the perfect getaway for kids, has introduced a fresh, new, wild menu.

High on the taste factor, the new menu is a perfect mix of fun and flavour, packing enticing ingredients and wholesome goodness for you to indulge in. The Rainforest Café is located next to the Aquarium at the Dubai Mall and has an interactive rainforest set up to keep kids entertained and also teach them about the various rainforest animals.

Dig into the Jungle Steak & Shrimp and if you are feeling adventurous, go for the spicy Raging Thunder Buffalo Wings. Pair your all-time favourites such as Spaghetti Bolognaise, Wild River Salmon or Pastalaya with a long list of side orders. Before you decide to call it a night, make sure to indulge in one of Rainforest’s signature desserts such as the Sparkling Volcano, the Monkey Business Bread Pudding or the new Tuki’s Rocky Mountain Mousse.

Biryanis And More at Zafran

Running till July 5, Zafran is bringing you six delectable biryani dishes as part of a festival, ‘Biryanis And More’.

From mouthfuls of sumptuous rosewater and saffron marinated chicken in the Chicken Awadhi Biryani, to a generous portion of Bengali inspired prawns in the Prawn Dum Biryani, all tastebuds are in for a treat at Zafran. For meat-eaters looking for something slightly more carnivorous, chunks of tender mutton are combined with traditional spices creating a delicious Lamb Biryani, while vegetarians are catered for too as they get to sink their teeth into the Vegetarian Subz Dum Biryani, comprising a variety of sweet corn, prepared to ensure it holds its own against the meat varieties. A Fish Dum Biryani and Chicken Zafarni Biryani complete the menu, ensuring that Zafran has something to offer all palates.

The biryani ingredients have been specially selected, tried and tested to ensure that a multi-national clientele can appreciate and savour the distinct flavours of India during this not to be missed celebration of traditional food. The ‘Biryanis And More’ special will be available at both the Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre outlets of Zafran.

Culinary journeys at

Atlantis, The Palm opened as the culinary destination in Dubai: offering a variety of dining experiences that are as varied, exciting and multifaceted as the resort itself.

The culinary journey at Atlantis extends itself to a sumptuous steakhouse, Seafire, which is a modern steakhouse boasting an exceptional butchery, and an open theatrical kitchen. An extensive menu features Seafire’s own brand of ‘Certified Atlantis’ cattle from Australia, all prepared to order on a custom wood-burning grill and served with the finest sauce mustard and side dishes.

Every Friday, Seafire impresses with a culinary demonstration of countless dishes, inspired by the freshest handpicked ingredients at the Seafire Friday Brunch for AED435 per person including selected beverages. On offer at Seafire’s Brunch are the finest cuts of Atlantis beef, the freshest seafood, a vast selection of starters, artisan breads and a dessert station with the sweetest temptations. All this is complemented beautifully with a live band playing everyone’s favourites, making it a truly indulgent brunch experience.

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hotel Review

different

Experience something

Fancy staying in a hotel that doubles up as an art gallery? Go down a different path and immerse yourself in artistic splendour at the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel.

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A

s you drive up to the main entrance, your eyes are immediately drawn not to the façade of the actual physical building, but to an interesting sculpture that towers seemingly out from the ground.

Named DiscOriental, it’s just a small taste of the art experience that you will encounter inside the hotel.

experience within an experience.

More than your typical hotel, the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel is an art gallery, dedicated to bringing exposure to regional artists. All in all, 482 works by over 51 contemporary artists, from paintings to sculptures to videos, have been commissioned specifically for the hotel. This is part of the Jumeirah Hotel Group’s mantra of ‘Staying Different’, and this is an

In the lobby, the signature artwork Flying Carpet, by Iranian artist Halil Al Karim, immediately grabs your attention. Its bright pink colour is a reference to joy and happiness while the impression of flight signifies a soul leaving its being through a symbolic Arabic mashrabiya repertoire.

It matters not if you’re an art connoisseur or a noob for there is a dedicated office on the lobby for art education. Not only does it offer a selection of art books but also guided tours, talks, workshops and film screenings. All these suggest the desire to help guests discover the region’s thriving art and culture scene.

And as you wait for the elevators,

hotel Review “Flying Carpet” by Iranian artist Halil Al Karim

“The Ruins” by Algerian artist Zoulikha Bouabdellah

you will be drawn to The Ruins, a reinterpretation of Ingres’ Grand Odalisque

by Algerian artist Zoulikha Bouabdellah.

The famous Harem slave looks over her shoulder as if from a distant, antiquated past. By fragmenting her piece into nine different panels and rendering it in a minimal monochromatic technique, Bouabdellah confines the idea to an obsolete past, shattered in parts, and as a result, challenging the overused diminishing image of oriental women.

The hotel is virtually littered with amazing art pieces that deserve some time and appreciation. The more you explore the hotel, the more you get lost in a world of vision, perception, and hope. One of the most stunning pieces however, is tucked away in a corner, almost obscure. But once your eyes zoom in on the rich blue colour of Enveloped, you’re bound to move in for a closer look. Once close enough, you realise that this is no painting, but a photograph.

No surprise then that this was the creation of UAE artist Lateefa Bint Maktoum, whose background is in painting and drawing.

“Enveloped’ by UAE artist Lateefa Bint Maktoum

At every corner you turn and every space that is available, you can find an art piece that is just waiting to be admired. But while the art pieces can take the limelight to a

certain extent, the hotel itself is a scene stealer.

It’s a hotel too Overlooking the Dubai Creek& Golf Club, the view is simply stunning, with the whole skyline of Dubai’s financial district looming in the background, topped off with the sparkling lights of Burj Khalifa.

Inside, the hotel is a contemporary (industrial feel) but with traditional finishes (Persian rugs), the hotel is an amalgamation of vibrancy, style and substance. From the main lobby, also vying for your attention as the Flying Carpet installation, is a transparent box about six floors ups, part of an outdoor swimming pool that juts out into the lobby space, where you can observe swimmers doing some laps, though there is a general suspicion that many woudn’t want to be in that area of the pool since you are totally vulnerable to peeking eyes from the bottom.

All 292 rooms and suites include a 42-inch plasma TV for your viewing pleaure, along with other modern amenities like a central control unit, an iPod speaker and dock as well as a well-stocked minibar that is completely free of charge. And there’s free wifi throughout the building as well.

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hotel Review However, the views from the room is certainly a game of roulette; you either get the magnificent view of the creek as mentioned, or you get a depressing view of a small street leading to a carpark on the other side. It would be wise for you to request your room view as well as the view can really dampen what is an excellent room.

Some of the highlights of the Deluxe room include a hanging door right above your bed, an open concept bath tub, complete with a bright rubber ducky, books for you to read (or purchase if you like them that much) and a big rain shower space with a stool (up to your imagination what you would do with it). The only downside of the room has to be the powerboard; it may include all the different and necessary plugs for travellers but leaving them in the open is a bit of an eye sore.

But there’s more to hotels than just the rooms. Restaurants are now a given extension to any high-end hotel and Jumeirah Creekside Hotel boasts some fabulous eateries that will delight any taste bud. For breakfast, you have Nomad, a

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multi-cuisine restaurant sprawled over a large space, touching the swimming pool, the garden and even the gym.

For your evening meal, head to Blue Flame, a modern eatery where blue is the dominant colour and steaks are their specialty. The mixed meat platter is a carnivore’s dream; wagyu beef, sirloin, and the seafood platter includes lobsters, salmon and the likes. If you’re feeling like a movie to go along with your meal, Blue Flame offers nights where you can dine in the hotel’s screening room where you can enjoy classic movies as you tuck into the delicious food.

If you’re susceptible to that guilty post-binge eating the next day, the Aviation Health Club is at your service. Inside, the gym is well-stocked and well-organised. You almost feel that you have to work out or your whole trip was a waste.

The Jumeirah Creekside Hotel truly is a unique hotel, largely thanks to its art collection. Not only does the hotel offer the most modern of amenities, but it also offers a thought-provoking look into how others view the world, all from the eyes of artists that are just waiting to be truly discovered by the world.

getaway

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers: Abu Dhabi’s new star A weekend getaway to the capital proved to be a stellar experience of luxurious lifestyle only offered at one of its newest star accommodations, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

W

hen in Abu Dhabi, we say, one must stay at Jumeirah Etihad Towers. It’s definitely a must.

Tried and tested during our recent flight to the capital, we found no question why one would opt for a different hotel. The hotel was luxurious. The rooms were exceptional, and the views spectacular.

The service was fantastic. The restaurants were exquisite. What else could we ask for?

Arrival Set on a beachside location and in an oasis of azure pools and landscaped gardens, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is one of five monolithic towers at Etihad Towers.

This stunning development also includes an office block and three residential towers, and presents the most spectacular panoramic views over the Arabian Gulf and world-famous Corniche. It offers quick and easy access to the airport (37km away) and is within minutes of the city’s most exclusive shopping malls, central business district and Ministries’ Area.

The hotel features a number of unique venues for social events, outstanding conference and meeting facilities, and 382 elegant rooms and suites, which afford some of the most stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

It was quite a drive through the still roads of Yas Island and Saadiyat Island to get

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getaway

breathtaking moment that we still fathom till today.

To add to the brilliance of the hotel was the fully automated (remote controlled) facilities that simply identify the room’s modern luxuries. And, being fond of warm baths, we gave the thumbs up to the tub and the bathroom for its cleanliness and organised.

to the hotel, but the beautiful lobby that welcomed us in this massive city hotel was a charm we could not resist. Even the friendly staff who valet for us, checked in our stay and ushered us to our room on the 33rd floor did not disappoint in giving us signs to the start of an amazing stay.

Stay Once inside the room, we noticed

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the cute fish-designed fruit gift that was a small yet precious gesture from the hotel. Then, we observed the magnificent picturesque view of the city of Abu Dhabi from our room.

Rising majestically from its beachside setting, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers’ dramatic sculptural form and spectacular design set a new standard for luxury accommodation. It was indeed a

The stellar look of the hotel was matched by the fast and five-star service, and more. Having had some medical concerns prompting us to call for the paramedics, we did not have to wait long to get help.

The staff were very attentive to our needs, and also followed up the next day to check the status of the health of its guest.

Amazing indeed.

Dining There is sensational dining at any one of its top restaurants. From a poolside snack to formal dining, there are 12 restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from. Set in sophisticated and luxurious surroundings,

getaway choice of international cuisines, fine wines and imaginative cocktails available at the hotel’s restaurants and bars.

Also, we sampled the experience of seeing more of Abu Dhabi through the hotel’s Observation Deck at 300. Located on Level 74, it is the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi and offers simply stunning views across the city and Arabian Gulf.

Aside from the best place to view the city, the deck also offered High Tea, offering an enjoyable array of specialties.

Verdict As we’ve mentioned, the exquisite and offering a totally luxurious 5-star experience, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is the perfect choice when staying in Abu Dhabi. No question, we’d love to be back to this modern and sophisticated haven of luxury.

they offer the freshest and most diverse selection of cuisine from around the world, including French, Japanese and contemporary Lebanese.

We chose to try the famed Tori No Su for dinner, the gourmet Japanese restaurant of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.

The restaurant was sleek, filled with high profile crowd, which made us think that this was the place to meet Abu Dhabi’s top personalities. The food was as wonderful as the restaurant’s interior.

Opting for mouthwatering salmon sashimi and spicy salmon (salmon, spicy mayonnaise and tempura flakes) for starters to moving into sumptuous Gindara Miso Yaki (block cod marinated with miso) and Karaage Oyako Donburi (rice, chicken, vegetable and egg) for main

course were the best things we did for the night. No doubt that this traditional Japanese style dining was a lively testament to being an exciting addition to the city’s burgeoning restaurant scene.

Activity Other than the best room in town, as we said, there is an amazing array of facilities and features from fine dining, the health club and Talise spa, through to two levels of boutique shopping at the podium, one of Abu Dhabi’s largest conference centers, and the dazzling Mezzoon ballroom.

Since we were not so keen on swimming, we went shopping in the gloriously beautiful Avenue that was a shopaholic’s dream-come-true. The world-renowned Avenue at Etihad Towers gives a dizzying

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Travel news

Globetrotting lifestyle Be travel savvy and every holiday is almost guaranteed to create new adventures and lasting memories.

Rixos Hotels celebrates new hotel projects in Egypt Rixos Hotels, the leading hospitality chain from Turkey, celebrated the collaboration with a number of key investors from Egypt across multiple hotel projects, in order for the hotel group to continue its dynamic expansion within one of the world’s most recognised travel destinations.

One&Only Resorts Dubai Wins Prestigious Awards One&Only Resorts Dubai has received three new awards, recognising the standards of One&Only and the experience delivered to guests, awarded by professionals of the hospitality and travel trade.

One&Only Royal Mirage was the recipient of ‘2013 Best UAE Leading Hotel’ and One&Only The Palm was the recipient of ‘2013 Middle East Best Romantic Beach Resort’ by the World Travel Awards.

Just recently, One&Only The Palm was awarded the ‘Best Hot Spot 2013 Spa’ award by Conde Nast Traveller Magazine.

Sponsored by experts in spas and spa breaks, the awards this year named winners in eight categories, chosen by the magazine’s editors and readers.

The World Travel Awards support, promote and develop the global travel and tourism industry by identifying and rewarding excellence and inspiring its practitioners to continually raise the standards of their product and service offering.

After the triumphant entry in Sharm El Sheikh in October

2012, Rixos Hotels announced it would now grow further through a number of projects spanning across Egypt, including the capital Cairo.

In Sharm El Sheikh, one of the world’s leading diving and leisure destinations, the project showcases a colossal property consisting of three resorts, one boutique hotel and 80 villas, the biggest SPA center of Sharm El Sheik and a total of 2,576 rooms.

Grosvenor House Dubai awarded Middle East’s Leading Business Hotel Grosvenor House Dubai has received two awards at the 2013 World Travel Awards (WTA) – Middle East. Identified as a forerunner in the travel industry, Grosvenor House Dubai was named the ‘Middle East’s Leading Business Hotel’ and ‘Dubai’s Leading Business

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Hotel’.

The prestigious award ceremony recognises excellence within the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector and is attended by regional and global leaders as well as VIPs from the industry.

Travel news

Hyatt updates plans for France and KSA Hyatt updated its key regional stakeholders on its development plans for major properties in KSA and France, two critically strategic markets for the US-headquartered hospitality company.

Within Hyatt’s pipeline are the 257-room, 37-suite Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, and Hyatt Regency Mecca, offering 628 guestrooms, in addition to meeting facilities, several dining venues, a Regency Club lounge, a spa and fitness

center, and 24-hour in room dining.

And, in time for summer travel, Hyatt’s four newly branded French properties are expected to be fully converted, drawing heavily from the Gulf States as many travellers identify France as a top summer travel destination.

The hotels will add more than 1,700 rooms to Hyatt’s existing hotel portfolio in France.

The newly-branded hotels include Grand Hyatt Cannes

Dusit to Open Doors in Doha

Located in the heart of Doha’s diplomatic district overlooking the Doha Corniche, the iconic property offers views across the Arabian Gulf. The building’s proximity to the Malls, Doha Exhibition Centre and the upcoming Doha International Conference and Exhibition Centre makes it appealing to both short and long-stay guests travelling on leisure or business.

The project is set to redefine

Etoile (previously Concorde Lafayette), the only hotel with direct access to Palais des Congrès, the largest conference venue in Europe.

Hotel du Louvre, one of the most sought-after tourist and commercial districts in Paris, will become an Andaz following a two-to-three year renovation.

Afternoon Tea gains popularity in the capital Afternoon Tea, a tradition that dates back to the classic English Victorian era continues to gain popularity in the sunnier climes of the capital.

Fresh after the soft launch of their second hotel property in the UAE, leading Asian hospitality group Dusit International has announced their latest hospitality project at West Bay, in Doha, Qatar.

Slated to open in the last quarter of 2013 during the company’s ‘Year of Expansion’, this will be the first Dusit branded property in Qatar, but the company’s 5th in the Middle East.

Hotel Martinez (previously Hotel Martinez) on the exclusive Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediterranée, (formerly Palais de la Mediterranée Hotel and Casino) boasting an excellent location in the city centre, and prominent beach frontage, Hyatt Regency Paris

standards of luxury in Doha’s international hospitality sector, with exceptionally high finishes and attention to detail delivered with the outstanding levels of gracious hospitality Dusit is famed for.

Dusit International is actively seeking luxury hotel and serviced residence management opportunities within the region, with a focus on KSA, Bahrain and Oman, and to further solidify its presence within the UAE where it has been operating for over a decade.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, the city’s beachfront address, has reported a threefold increase in number of discerning guests indulging in the leisurely activity of afternoon tea, which includes an assortment of sweet and savory foods, since its opening in December 2011.

During the Gilded Age in New York, Lady Caroline Astor would host intimate gatherings with an indulgent selection of sweet and savory treats, adopting the tradition as her own. Today, the timehonoured Tea Ritual called Time for Tea comes alive every afternoon at St. Regis hotels across the globe.

At The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi the Tea Ritual is available between 2-6pm where guests can savor an assortment of finger

sandwiches, scones and other pastries served with beverages of choice, including exclusive tea blends such as the St. Regis Arabian Tea Blend and Iridium Spa Tea Blend.

The afternoon tea at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort was recently awarded the best in Abu Dhabi at the Dilmah Real High Tea Challenge. In 2012, it received the accolade of Highly Commended Afternoon Tea at the Time Out Abu Dhabi Awards.

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THE COVETED

Rouge Passion

Red is winning our hearts this year especially with its comeback in Pomellato’s latest creation, the Rouge Passion.

Pomellato is able to bring shades of such an intense red through the use of synthetic rubies (Burma), tangerine sapphires (Tangerine) and pink sapphires (Jungle) backed with mother-of-pearl. These gems are as soft as fine silk lingerie, as iridescent as a glamorous evening dress and as bright as a glossy lacquer, thus turning them into perfect drops with intense reflections. As with every piece Pomellato produces, the Rouge Passion earrings (AED8,300), rings (AED4,700) and pendants (AED3,300) display the Milanese Maison’s fine craftsmanship. The intense red hue of the cabochon drop stones are complemented by being set in 9-carat gold. This fantastic collection is now available in the UAE, exclusively at Bloomingdale’s Dubai.

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