Executive Life

September - October 2015

TAILOR-MADE The Style Issue

Indian celebrity masterchef Vikas Khanna gets behind Dubai’s hottest new menswear brand Autumn Travel Special: Portugal, Italy, Maldives, Thailand‌ Where should you book this season?

PLUS Investing in Turkey, Fine Dining for Business & the latest Aston Martin Vanquish

+971 4 888 3888 or email dubai@armanihotels.com armanihotels.com

C

EDITOR'S NOTE

elebrity brand ambassadors: love them or hate them, there’s no denying the power of an A-list endorsement. Kim Kardashian is the perfect example of someone who knows how to make a quick buck by reportedly charging thousands of dollars for ‘Insta-plugs’. Basically, whenever the reality princess endorses something on her blog, app or Instagram page, know that she’s probably doing it, not out of genuine love for a brand, but because she is getting paid A LOT to do so.

With an increasing number of celebrities willing to promote just about anything for the right price, it has become difficult to know which products are really worth investing in, and which are just popular due to hype.

And that’s why Vikas Khanna is a breath of fresh air to the high fashion industry. The celebrity masterchef – who recently jetted in to the UAE to launch menswear boutique Vavci Dubai – became associated with the brand after a chance encounter with its designers. Turn to page 12 to read more about our cover star and just why he wanted to be associated with Vavci’s first store in the GCC. As for the rest of this month’s Style Issue, we bring you interviews with some of the industry’s most hardworking individuals. Fast becoming one of the Arab world’s best-known perfumers, Mohammed Ne’emah gives us an insight into his journey so far, and offers tips on how to fragrance for an occasion. That’s on page 18.

Further afield, we spoke to former White House director Sonal Shah, and Hollywood actor and social innovator Adrian Grenier to learn more about the companies that are thinking beyond profit (page 16). We hope that the social enterprise is one trend that sticks around for years to come.

As for new kids on the block, we invited Aimee Changco, founder of UAE activewear brand Baembu to let us know more about just what goes into running a successful startup. Her guest column is on page 14.

In other news, what do you think of our revamp? Yes, you may have thought that we had taken a break over the summer, but in reality we were working hard on a sophisticated new look along with more sections, features, reviews… you name it. Kudos to our amazing contributors and design team, and we can’t wait to hear what you think of it all. If you have any comments or suggestions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Enjoy the Executive Life...

Rachel McArthur

Chief Executive Sandeep Sehgal Vice President Ravi Raman

EDITORIAL Editor Rachel McArthur rachel@digitalinkdubai.com Contributors Sue Abraham Sarah Ahmed Matt Freeborn Miranda Smith Jessica Williams Guest Columnist Aimee Changco, Baembu

ART Art Director Steven Castelluccia Senior Designer Nadia Mendez Designer Jack Strand

MARKETING AND SALES Assistant General Manager Poonam Chawla Advertising Manager Neema Sajnani Assistant Sales Manager Dima Mousselli Marketing Executive Prithvi Chauhan Circulation Manager Rochelle Almeida Circulation Executive Rex Emmanuel

EL is a special supplement for Bloomberg Businessweek Middle East subscribers. Not to be sold separately.

UMS International FZ LLC P.O Box 503048, Building no 10, Office 346, Dubai Media City, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 432 9467 Fax: +971 4 432 9534 Printed at Emirates Printing Press LLC, Dubai

For sales and marketing enquiries, please contact Poonam Chawla on +971 50 144 7656 or email poonam@businessweekme.com

THE STYLE ISSUE 4 4 TRENDING

Fresh off the runway

6 THE LUXE LIST

CONTENTS

Key looks for him and her

10 CASUAL FRIDAYS Weekend wardrobe essentials

12 ON THE COVER

Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna launches Vavci Dubai

14 EL GUEST COLUMNIST

With Baembu co-founder Aimee Changco

16 GIVING BACK IN STYLE

Sonal Shah and Adrian Grenier on the key to achieving a successful social enterprise

18 FIVE MINUTES WITH...

Mohammed Ne’emah, CEO of Ne’emah Fragrances

ABOUT TOWN 20 20 IN TIME

The latest must-have pieces on the market

22 FRESH NEW SCENTS

From the newest perfumes for her to the latest colognes for him

24 BEYOND BUSINESS Interview with Taj Dubai’s Jason Harding

AT THE OFFICE 26 26 GREAT GADGETS

This month’s top tech gizmos

28 MY WORKPLACE

A day in the life of Armani Hotel Dubai’s general manager, Spencer H Wadama

THE COMMUTE 30 30 LUXE LUGGAGE EXECUTIVE LIFE|Contents

Latest travel accessories

32 ON THE ROAD

Luxury cars for the modern CEO

34 ME AND MY MOTOR

With Porsche Middle East’s Deesch Papke

38 TRIED & TESTED

Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition

AT HOME 40 40 PROJECT: EXPO 2020

Cityscape Global 2015 and its focus on Dubai

42 ON THE MARKET Showcasing The Nest at Al Barari

SELF 44 44 NEW SEASON, NEW YOU Fitness routine lacking excitement? Try these new ideas

TIME OUT 46 46 THE MUST LIST

What to see, and where to be seen right now

48 FABULOUS FAYRE: THE EL FINE DINING GUIDE

Perfect for that leisurely lunch or business dinner

52 DUBAI: THE DESIGN CAPITAL

All about the inaugural Dubai Design Week

BUSINESS CLASS 54 54 READY FOR BUSINESS A round up of the latest travel offerings

56 CHECK-IN: RAFFLES DUBAI How does this five-star property measure up?

JET SETTER 58 58 TOP 10: AUTUMN GETAWAYS

Family-friendly resorts to romantic city breaks

60 MARVELLOUS MALDIVES

Switching off and unwinding at the stunning Baros

64 THE ETHICAL ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE Exploring Anantara’s Golden Triangle Elephant Resort

66 TURKISH DELIGHT Why GCC investors are turning to Turkish real estate

THE FINAL PAGE 68

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Contents

WEALTH 66

THEMED STYLE ISSUE

THE

TRENDING | THE LUXE LIST | CASUAL FRIDAYS | ON THE COVER | GUEST COLUMNIST | GIVING BACK IN STYLE | FIVE MINUTES WITH

TRENDING

Shop the look: SUITS

Fresh off the runway – Autumn/Winter 2015-16

Classic cuts

CANALI

ARMANI COLLEZIONI

Classic fit check wool suit

Trim fit check wool suit

BOSS

BURBERRY LONDON

Johnstons trim fit threepiece stripe wool suit

Millbank travel virgin wool suit

AED 7,885

AED 6,300

BERLUTI

AED 4,525

AED 7,900

All looks are available at Nordstrom.com

Precious time MAX MARA IN THE POCKET, LA MONTRE HERMÈS

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

AED 132,000

Reinvented in 2012 under the name In The Pocket, this iconic model by La Montre Hermès returns in 2015 with a unique rose gold timepiece clad in ‘H red’ leather. A 40mm pocket watch that can be transformed into a 49mm wristwatch, it is driven by the manufacture Hermès H1837 movement with a 50-hour power reserve. Magnifique. hermes.com

DOLCE & GABBANA

6

THE LUXE LIST Key looks for the new season

� OUT AND ABOUT Game of Thrones actor Ed Skrein, British singer Leon Else and Italian actor Luca Calvani were just three of the famous faces in attendance for Diesel Black Gold’s Autumn/Winter 2015 show in Milan.

For the label’s latest collection, creative director Andreas Melbostad has conjured up a singular look inspired by the different, contrasting forces behind the multifarious British tradition.

References to England’s impeccable tailoring heritage – using fabrics such as tweeds, checks and tartans – are combined with the subversive, irreverent influences of the country’s iconic youth sub. cultures.diesel.com

� AWAY ON BUSINESS Fine Italian wools and authentic Scottish and Irish tweeds coexist with laser cut technology to create Z Zegna’s latest line.

Reinforcing and boosting its core Tailoring meets Sportswear philosophy, the Italian brand brings its identity to the next level with a collection of deconstructed tailored coats and jackets.

Perfect for that next business trip. zegna.com

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

� MODERN WORKWEAR Pinko’s autumn-winter 2015/16 collection is perfect for the modern corporate woman. Here, the brand combines daywear elements with evening ones that feature formally opposing styles: glamour meets sport, luxury street wear, and 'menswear romanticism'.

Clean and elegant lines, warm colours – mustard, burgundy, deep blue, emerald green and forest – and camouflage, check and floral prints describe the collection. Flawless.

Available at The Dubai Mall.

8

THE LUXE LIST

� SHINE BY BIL ARABI Lebanese designer Nadine Kanso’s jewellery brand is back with a new collection. Sophisticated and fun, The Shine Collection features dramatised star shapes of all sizes delicately fused together by beautiful Arabic calligraphy lettering.

“For this collection I wanted to capture the inspiration that blankets you when looking up at an endless night sky shining with an infinite amount of stars, and the creative romanticism it evokes,” Kanso explains.

Available at Bloomingdale’s Dubai Mall, Harvey Nichols Mall of the Emirates and Sauce.

Prices available upon request.

BEAUTY BUYS

M I H R O F Cult brand Kiehl’s can do no wrong in our eyes.

Their latest Body Fuel (AED 200) is an invigorating cleanser for body and hair that’s formulated with caffeine, vitamin C, zinc and menthol. kiehls.com

Problem skin? Exfoliation could be the solution. The Alpha Fit by Clarisonic (AED 750) is a cleansing device engineered specifically for men’s skin. It loosens dirt and oil, removes impurities from pores and preps skin for a closer, smoother shave. clarisonic-me.com

�BOW TIE BUSINESS Established in the UK in 1871, Ascots & Chapels has solidified its position as as one of the world’s best bespoke tailors for businessmen, celebs and royalty.

So when they release a new line, we take notice.

Head to one of A&C’s shops in Abu Dhabi or Dubai and pick up one of these fun knit-style bow ties.

Perfect for the upcoming season. Prices on request.

Need a weekend boost? Prep your skin for the week ahead with Molton Brown’s superb range of exfoliators. The Infusing Eucalyptus Stimulation Body Polisher (AED 200) is our favourite. moltonbrown.com

ascotsandchapels.com

R E H FOR Designed to help tighten and tone the appearance of skin, Perricone MD DMAE Firming Pads (AED 317) are a lifesaver for those constantly on the go. The non-acidic pads will leave your skin looking and feeling revitalised. perriconemd.com

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

� WORKING GIRL Business doesn’t have to be boring. Inspired by an imaginary futuristic cyber world, Aspinal of London has created a snazzy capsule collection of tech accessories and playful bug designs for the on-trend female. From the cutest mini Hepburn bug bags to appliquéd leather tech accessories, these little characters are a must-have item for the season. Prices start from AED 1,700. aspinaloflondon.com

Deliciously scented and packed with apricot oil, aloe vera and Himalayan spring water, Herbline Essentials Apricot and Honey Face Scrub (AED 129) exfoliates, removes blackheads, nourishes dehydrated skin and evens out skin tone. herbline-essentials.com Beauty session while you sleep? Yes, please!

US brand Philosophy has combined the concentrated power of a serum with the nourishing benefits of a cream to introduce Ultimate Miracle Worker Night (AED 320) – a cream that helps reduce the signs of aging and fatigue while you sleep. philosophy.com

10

ME AND MY MOTOR

CASUAL FRIDAYS The latest for your weekend wardrobe

� FIVE OF THE BEST |

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

PAUL SMITH

AED 1,540

AED 1,285

Button-down shirts

ROBERT GRAHAM AED 1,580

PUBLIC SCHOOL AED 1,660

BURBERRY

AED 1,390

Shirts are never a bad investment for your closet. Pair these new button-up tops with jeans, or black or grey trousers for a look suitable season after season.

Available in stockists across the UAE and the rest of the GCC. Call ahead for availability.

� THE GEORGE TOP Designed by Dubai-based Syrian designer Zena Presley, the George Top is the must-have item of the season. Wear with a crisp, clean white skirt or pair of trousers for a chic statement look. zenapresley.com

� WINTER WARDROBE

� CELEB JEANS

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

Make like the A-list and bag yourself a pair of G-Star RAW for the Oceans jeans.

Co-designed by Pharrell Williams, every pair is constructed using denim made from recycled ocean plastic, making it the first apparel of its kind on the market. Available for men and women, the G-Star RAW for the Oceans – which retail from AED 809 – are favourites of stars including Rihanna (pictured in the Type C super slim fit), Sarah Jessica Parker and Adrian Grenier. g-star.com

Is it bad that we want everything from H&M’s Studio AW15 show? This stunning collection features effortless pieces with themes including tomboy feel, sporty energy, utilitarian futurism and starburst shine.

Zip-up coats and jackets have a modern freshness, while rollnecks are this season’s essential, along with lurex sweaters and pants – both straight-legged and flared.

Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M, tells EL: “Sporty zip-ups are perfect for the street, while rollnecks give a layered look. The shimmer of lurex makes it a season to celebrate, whether it’s day or night.” studio.hm.com

For the 5th year in a row, we are chosen the best airline in Europe.

Every year, Skytrax, the world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey asks millions of passengers around the world to choose their favourite European airline.

For the past five years, the answer has always been the same.

Turkish Airlines remains the best airline in Europe.

We would like to thank you and congratulate our employees for making this possible.

TURKISHAIRLINES.COM

12

ON THE COVER

FIT FOR AN A-LISTER For Indian designer power couple, Vishal and Kanika Mehra, what started as a dream to launch their very own Dubai fashion house turned into a reality thanks to one very special person. EL meets the duo along with celebrity chef, Vikas Khanna | Sarah Ahmed

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

Celeb

ambassadors – they’re hardly a new phenomenon. A-listers are well aware of the power of their personal brand; they can make millions just by lending their name to a designer label, makeup, food… you name it.

So it’s very rare to come across a famous face who endorses a product because they truly believe in it.

But that’s just what happened to the designer duo, Vishal and Kanika Mehra.

The Indian couple – the brains behind renowned menswear brand, Vavci – recently launched their first standalone boutique outside of their home country. Vavci Dubai is their third store – the other two are located in Amritsar, and it’s all thanks to celebrity chef, Vikas Khanna.

Kanika explains: “Vikas belongs to our hometown, and our families have known each other for years. However, it is a very well known fact that he does not make courtesy visits to any stores.”

According to the designer, it was Khanna’s father who asked him to pay a visit to one of the Amritsar stores – “just for five minutes” – to view what was on offer.

“Surprisingly, he ended up being there for a good 45 minutes admiring and appreciating each and every corner of the studio,” she continues. “It was then and there that he told us that Vavci ‘didn’t belong here’. “‘You need to go global’ he told us, and his conviction has led us to take this leap. As simple as he may seem, he has a strong sense of fashion, colour and detailing. He is a true connoisseur of art and creativity.”

Fast forward to 2015 and it was Khanna himself who launched their Dubai boutique.

13

INDIA’S TOP BRAND AMBASSADORS Vikas Khanna is the latest in a line of famous faces who have partnered with a wellknown brand or two…

Katrina Kaif

Priyanka Chopra In 2013, Priyanka Chopra became the first Indian actress to become the face of fashion brand, Guess. “I’m like their first brown model,” she said at the time. “For a global fashion brand, for them to move their campaign into a global space, for me it’s an honour.”

Hrithrik Roshan The Bollywood actor star represents a number of brands, his most famous being with Rado. Roshan has been a brand ambassador for the Swiss luxury watchmaker since 2011.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

The award-winning Michelin starred chef, restaurateur, and Masterchef host was on hand to meet with GCC fans and promote the label to this region.

“To me, fashion means that you have the courage to wear whatever you want to wear,” he said at the launch. “Sometimes you want to but can’t wear clothes that represent your profession, yet at the same time represent what you believe in. That makes a very powerful statement. You want to retain the integrity of fashion and not overdose.

“Vavci has done this very intelligently.

They’ve merged fashion with tradition very subtly to give it a modern look. Exactly what I do with my food.”

He added: “The sensibility of taste and colour you will find at Vavci and its Dubai location is really appreciable.”

And it’s not all talk. Khanna has worn Vavci for numerous events, including the India Vogue Awards and for Mercedes Benz commercial shoots.

Open now, Vavci Dubai specialises in individual bespoke tailoring, carrying a selection of the finest materials, such as wool, cashmere, linen, cotton, silk, and vicuna. It’s also home to a wedding collection.

So what’s the key to a good quality business suit?

“A bespoke suit is individually patterned with a floating canvas using hand crafted techniques. Well-tested fabrics and impeccable craftsmanship are must haves for a good business suit,” says Kanika. “The only thing to avoid is compromising on what you want. A business suit should reflect your attitude and style, and should be a confidence booster, even brighter shades can look great if used in the right way.”

When it comes to brand ambassadors, this Bollywood beauty comes out on top.

According to the 2015 Annual Brand Trust Report, Kaif emerged as the number one choice for celeb endorsments in India. At present, the Bang Bang! Actress represents brands including L’Oreal, Veet and Lux.

14

EL GUEST COLUMNIST

“I’M ALWAYS UP BY 6.30AM!”

A DAY IN MY LIFE 6.30am Wake up and have a cuppa, with my daily reminder flashing on my phone, teaching me to focus.

7am Go through my to-do list; check my calendar for the day, then drop a quick message to my business partner, Matt, and spend the next 10 to 15 minutes updating orders, payments and other Baembu-related matters. That sets me up for what’s ahead for the rest of the day.

Writing for EL this month is Aimee Changco, cofounder of sustainable sportswear brand, Baembu

“WHEN I WANT TO UNWIND AND RECHARGE MY BATTERIES, ‘VITAMIN SEA’ IS THE ANSWER” I’m really excited to be featured in the latest issue of EL, and share with you little bits of what it is like in a typical day of a self-funded startup. Our aim is to make a significant positive impact on the environment, which is why Baembu’s products are 100% sustainable, consisting of 70% bamboo and 30% organic cotton. We’ve got all the all the international accreditations, from the supply chain up to the manufacturers and producers, and we are forever passionate with what we do. We’ve got big plans for the next few months, so stay tuned!

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

THIS MONTH, I’M LOVING...

second to none, and it always help me get the job done. ② Mophie Juice Battery Pack: Extremely reliable at big events and long meetings, which are notoriously cruel to a phone’s battery life. ③ 13-inch MacBook Pro: the obvious choice! ④ Headphones: I still rely on my old pair, which has been with me for years now. The ear buds suit me perfectly. ⑤ Baembu Stationery Kit: Stickers, postcards, business cards, bookmarks and notecards… these have my contact details on them, and also make for perfect photo opportunities on Instagram.

The convenience of apps. It saves me so much time during the day. I use MindBody Connect for all my wellness bookings… be it for yoga or barre classes, for instance. Then there’s Beem Beauty App for all my beauty emergencies, especially blow-dry and nail appointments. Both are easy to use, they track my visit history and payments, and it’s even possible to make last-minute bookings.

B E YO N D B U S I N E S S

M Y 5 B U S I N E S S M U S T- H A V E

For more information about Baembu, visit baembu.me

① iPhone: The camera continues to impress and delight me, the App Store selection is

When I want to unwind and recharge my batteries, ‘Vitamin Sea’ is the answer! Be it in Dubai – or, if I am lucky and time permits, abroad – I love walking by the shore, soaking in the sunshine, taking a dip in the water and even taking part in a quick session of paddleboarding. The sea is always the ideal respite from the busy start-up life.

8am Jumpstart to client emails and update all social media platforms for the business. It’s also an opportunity for me to catch up on the world news.

9am Head to barre class.

11am The day really begins now. From here on it’s meetings, Skype calls, networking, closing deals, collecting payments, administrative work, picking up merchandise for campaigns I carry out personally outside of Baembu, and squeezing in lunches. I love having my meetings at Pavilion Downtown, Tom & Serg, Mokha 1450 or Bystro – as long as I can get a decent caffeine fix! This goes on until about 6pm.

6.30pm I either take a yoga class or go on a bike ride around Downtown Dubai.

This is followed by a healthy dinner, which are always home-cooked on weekdays.

10pm Shower, feet up, and start working again on emails received after 6pm or website updates.

11pm In bed with a light cucumber/passion fruit mask, and the alarm set for the next day.

I WANT

A CULINARY ADVENTRUE PLEASE

You now have even more to choose from, all week long. So whether it is a yummy tasty meal, or drink with friends, join us for different themed night, every day.

Saturday: Pub Night at c.mondo from 6.30 to 10.30pm Sunday: Mexican Night at c.mondo from 6.30 to 10.30pm Monday: Noodles Night at c.taste from 6.30 to 10.30pm Tuesday: Burger Night at c.taste from 6.30 to 10.30pm Wednesday: Tandoori Night at c.taste from 6.30 to 10.30pm Thursday: Italian Night at c.taste from 6.30 to 10.30pm Friday: Free-Flowing Brunch at c.taste from 12:30 to 4:00pm.

For more information and reservation, please call +971(0)4 704 0048 or email fb.centrobarsha@rotana.com

*Price is subject to 10% service charge and 10% tourism fee.

16

GIVING BACK IN STYLE More entrepreneurs are looking at ways of making a living while benefitting their communities at the same time. EL meets Sonal Shah and Adrian Grenier to find out more about what makes a great social enterprise | Rachel McArthur

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

C

onsidering Sonal Shah’s many roles include leading the first White House Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation, as well as leading Google’s global development initiatives for its philanthropy, it’s safe to say that she knows a thing or two about social enterprises.

And this year, the American-Indian entrepreneur and economist added a new post to her CV – becoming a judge on the very first edition of The Venture, a global search for the world’s most promising social entrepreneurs.

In this first competition of its kind, social enterprises – defined as businesses that trade to tackle social problems or improve communities, people’s life chances or the environment – apply to receive much needed funding. This type of funding is crucial to companies of this kind as they do not need to repay the money that they win (in contrast to via a venture capitalist, for instance).

And Shah tells EL that this type of business is definitely one to watch in the coming years.

“A few years ago, if you had told me that we would be talking about social entrepreneurship in 2015, I would have been surprised,” she says. “But this is very exciting, because having a business invest in social enterprises by running this type of competition is a great idea.”

17

A FORCE FOR GOOD All it takes is a great idea to create change. Meet some of the world’s most creative social entrepreneurs of the year.

Applications are now open for the 2016 edition of The Venture. To enter, visit theventure.com.

COOLPEDS With air pollution and traffic congestion becoming ever more serious problems around the world, Chinese social enterprise Coolpeds designs and manufactures the lightest electric transporters. These scooters are foldable, produce zero emissions and can even charge a phone. And best of all, there’s a briefcase attached. coolpeds.us

DISECLAR Where others see rubbish and waste, Diseclar sees furniture. The Columbian company recycles non-degradable plastic and vegetable fibres that come from agro-industrial waste sites to produce furniture suitable for both indoors and outdoors. diseclar.com

DUMYE What began as a meaningful gift between founder Sahar Wahbeh and her child went on to inspire Dumyé, a doll company handcrafting personalised cloth dolls. For each one purchased, a doll is gifted to one of the millions of children orphaned around the world, to make their own through an art workshop. dumye.com

SENSPROUT SenSprout’s mission is to make farming more efficient by producing more crops with less water. Led by CEO Kazuhito Mine, the Japanese company helps farmers better understand their crops and fields, through low-cost sensor technology. These wireless field-monitoring systems are able to provide real-time data on factors such as soil conditions and environmental information. sensprout.com

LUMKANI This South African social enterprise uses technology to decrease the risk of devastating fires in informal settlements. This small fire detector – which detects heat as opposed to smoke – is networked in order to transmit information to other homes within a 60-metre radius. lumkani.com

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

With over 1,000 individuals, including businesses from the Gulf region, applying for the chance to win $1million in funding, choosing a winner for The Venture 2015 was never going to be an easy task. Shah – along with Hollywood actor and producer, Adrian Grenier; Pernod Ricard Chairman and CEO, Alex Ricard; and Co.Exist editor, Morgan Clendaniel – narrowed it down to 16 finalists, with the majority of the cash prize being awarded to the top five.

So what’s the key to a good social business? Says Shah: “It’s always personal. It’s never just an intellectual idea, especially in the social space. It always comes from a place that’s personal to them. That’s how entrepreneurship begins.

“Personally, I look for three things [in a social enterprise]. Number one is the resiliency – are they willing to adapt if something goes wrong and willing to change their business model if so?

“Two – are they going to keep the mission of the social and the business? Because you could easily go down the route of business only in order to make more money and reach more countries, and cut the corners.

“And three – personal leadership. Are they personally vested in the business themselves?

Or is it just an intellectual idea? It’s about how much you believe in this idea.”

Entourage star Grenier – who is known to lend his name to a variety of good causes – agrees: “I’m very lucky to have an opportunity to give back and support causes that help the world, and over the years I’ve learned that the best causes are regenerative; social enterprises are so important because they are businesses that are not only looking to make a profit but also looking to benefit the planet. As those companies grow, the good that they create also grows.”

Speaking of The Venture, and its future editions, he adds: “To me, a good social enterprise has a leader or CEO who is going to go to the distance; someone who is passionate and committed. It’s also about an idea, and how it can scale.

“We’re looking at the companies that need the support. Social entrepreneurship challenges society to reimagine what is possible, and inspires us to create a better future and a better world.”

18

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

In your opinion, how many scents should an individual own at one time?

I’d say one for every time of the day. It’s best to use fresh, light scents to start your morning, followed by bold, stronger scents in the evening.

For the busy businessperson on the go, what are the keys to a good scent for the business day?

Your perfume is your calling card to everyone you meet, and comfort for everyone you love. So a man’s scent should smell like his personality. Don’t choose a perfume because it’s what you want to smell like, choose it because it smells like you.

THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

EL meets Kuwaiti perfumer Mohammed Ne’emah, the CEO and creator of the GCC’s brand du jour, Ne’emah Fragrances

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Style Issue

Rachel McArthur

C

onsidering that he is the third in his family’s generation to pursue the art of perfumery, it’s hardly surprising that Mohammed Ne’emah knows a thing or two about creating a successful fragrance line. Born and brought up in Kuwait – where he is still based – the 36-year-old entrepreneur is the brainchild behind Ne’emah Fragrances, one of the most sought-after homegrown brands in the GCC. A politics graduate from the University of Kuwait, Ne’emah’s journey into the world of perfumery began early; selling fragrances in a small shop in his home country from the age of 17. In 2009, the successful entrepreneur signed and exclusive deal with Sephora, and his creations are now available all over the Middle East, as well as the Asia and Pacific region. EL met the expert to find out more about the art of perfumery.

How important is it for a customer to choose the right scent?

Your perfume should be one of the most personal, subtle messages you send to people around you as it can trigger strong emotions in people, which to me, is the primary purpose of a fragrance.

Can a scent reveal anything about a personality?

I’d like to think that while perfumes do serve as a reflection of your personality to an extent, it’s more to do with an individual’s frame of mind at that very moment. How you are feeling at the time. If looking at character, then I feel that stronger scents are often worn by bold, more confident people while shy people prefer light, citrus scents.

What notes are exciting you for the 2015/16 season?

Anything and everything oriental; it’s the new trend, the world over. I think florals are also going to make a big return, along with zesty citrus notes to refresh and revive.

Whose work in the industry do you admire?

I’d have to say Tom Ford. The quality of everything he lays his hands on, including his perfumes, is exceptional. He revolutionised the world of fashion and beauty.

And finally… is there really a correct way to spritz?

When you use a perfume, you want it to last and you want to be recognised by the scent. The pulse points on your body are the best spots to apply a perfume. A quick spray behind your ear, at the bottom of your throat, on your wrist, inside your elbow, and behind your knee will leave you smelling good for a long time. Wait for ten minutes to allow the full range of the fragrance to emerge.

Ne’emaah is available at Sephora Middle East. Prices start from AED 330.

ABOUT TOWN IN TIME | FRESH NEW SCENTS | LIFE AFTER WORK

EXCALIBUR STAR OF INFINITY, ROGER DUBUIS

PILOT TYPE 20 SQUELETTE, ZENITH

Roger Dubuis premiered this stunning piece at the Watches & Wonders exhibition in Hong Kong. Needless to say, the price is in the details. Created as an amped-up version of RD’s flagship Excalibur Skeleton, this 45mm white gold case timepiece boasts 312 diamonds. rogerdubuis.com

With its blue enamel bezel, and 60mm-diameter case carved in sapphire, the new Pilot Type 20 Squelette has been entirely skeletonised in order to reveal its exceptional mechanism. Interested? Best be quick, as the timepiece is part of a limited edition of just five examples. zenith-watches.com

AED 2.9 million

AED 755,000

EXECUTIVE LIFE|About Town

IN TIME

PORTUGIESER CHRONOGRAPH, IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

CLASSIC FUSION 42MM, HUBLOT

The elegant design and moderate height of its case has made the IWC Portugieser one of the most sought-after Portuguese models of all time. Its elegant silver-plated dial features recessed totalisers, embossed numerals and perfectly proportioned feuille hands for hours and minutes. iwc.com

This slim and glossy automatic timepiece, which is water-resistant, is topped with a rugged sapphire crystal glass and fitted to a waterproof alligator rubber strap. Additionally, it is powered by Hublot’s automatic 1110-calibre movement with a 42-hour power reserve. hublot.com

AED 34,000

AED 31,000

21

ONLY WATCH, VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

ONLY WATCH, VACHERON CONSTANTIN

DATOGRAPH PERPETUAL, A. LANGE & SÖHNE

For the sixth edition of the Only Watch charity auction, Van Cleef & Arpels has created a timepiece from the Pierre Arpels Heure d’ici & Heure d’ailleurs collection.

This watch’s dial displays a radiant Mediterranean blue and elegant calligraphy that evokes the waves. onlywatch.com

Another manufacturer taking part at Only Watch 2015 is Vacheron Constantin, with its very cool 40mm Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées timepiece. Featuring an 18-carat white gold case and red detail, this sculptural work is airy, transparent and finely constructed. onlywatch.com

The Saxony-based watch brand’s latest release is a sleek and sexy version of the popular Datograph. The argenté-coloured subsidiary dials and deep-blue moon disc on the new white-gold model stand out particularly clearly thanks to the dial’s subtle grey background. alange-soehne.com

Price available on request

Price available on request

Price available on request

TAZIO NUVOLARI 336, EBERHARD & CO

SATELLITE WAVE GPS WORLDTIME MULTIFUNCTION, CITIZEN

AEROSPACE EVO 30TH ANNIVERSARY, BREITLING

Inspired by the world speed record set by Tazio Nuvolari in 1935 on the Firenze-Mare Motorway, this timepiece is notable for its ceramic bezel made entirely by CNC milling, particularly thick from the side view for a three-dimensional effect accentuated by the hollowed markers. eberhard-co-watches.ch

Perfect for the busy jetsetter, Citizen’s latest Worldtime Multifunction model automatically analyses the time zone where the watch is located at that moment and corrects the time and date accordingly – and fast. In fact, it takes as takes as little as three seconds to receive time signals. citizenwatch.com

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the the Aerospace Evo Night Mission’s launch, Breitling has introduced a black satin-brushed titanium version as a 300-piece limited edition, which features 1/100th of a second chronograph, countdown timer, second time zone and alarm. breitling.com

AED 15,500

AED 15,000

AED 22,000

EXECUTIVE LIFE|About Town

EL takes a look at the latest must-have pieces on the market

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22

E

REPLICA – FLOWER MARKET

OLD WORLD JASMINE FLOWER WATER

O

AED 320

F

Crabtree & Evelyn is celebrating 40 years of fragrance with a new Limited Edition Heritage Collection, which includes this beautiful feminine scent bursting with tones of jasmine and sparkling citrus. crabtree-evelyn.com

FRESH NEW SCENTS

DAISY DREAM FOREVER BY MARC JACOBS AED 350

With top notes of grapefruit, blackcurrant buds and pear, the eau de parfum version of this Marc Jacobs favourite retains its signature berry scent. marcjacobs.com

From the newest perfumes for her to the latest colognes for him, we round up the best new fragrances around to speak to your every mood

LUNA ROSSA SPORT AED 350

Prada’s latest fragrance is all about the active man, combining lavender, ginger, juniper berry, tonka bean and vanilla. prada.com

F

DARK REBEL BY JOHN VARVATOS

O R H IM

EXECUTIVE LIFE|About Town

R

To coincide with its fashion line of the same name, Belgian label Martin Margiela has launched a collection of Replica fragrances. Its first of the three is Flower Market, crafted around notes of freesia, Egyptian jasmine and peach. maisonmargiela.com

H

AED 500

AED 270

EMBLEM

AED270

This eau de toilette by Montblanc is classic and timeless with notes of cardamom, sage and frosty violet leaf.

Warm, sensual and totally luxurious. montblanc.com

This eau de toilette is perfect for the individual who wants to stand out. Featuring a mixture of woody scents, black leather and sweet tobacco, this fragrance is unapologetically intoxicating, tough and rebellious. johnvarvatos.com

24

BEYOND BUSINESS

LIFE AFTER WORK Every issue EL meets one of the GCC’s top business executives to find out more about their hobbies outside of the workplace

JASON HARDING

EXECUTIVE LIFE|About Town

Area Director and General Manager, Taj Dubai

Tell us a little more about your role.

I play a dual role; one, as General Manager of the newly opened Taj Dubai, and the other, as Area Director for the company. Hence my responsibilities are also focused on expanding the brand’s presence in the UAE. What do you like to do in your free time?

My wife and I were blessed with a baby boy this May, and he has taken over all our free time... quite rightly so! I enjoy fitness in general and competed in Ironman Western Australia in December 2014. I have more events to look forward to in the coming months.

When it comes to travel, where would be your ultimate destination?

My favourite place to holiday is California,

25

“NEVER STOP BELIEVING IN YOUR TEAM’S POTENTIAL. THAT’S THE KEY TO SUCCESS”

IPHONE 6

Eating out – yay or nay?

Apart from the restaurants at Taj Dubai of course, I love eating at La Serre because of Izu’s cooking, its simplicity and focus on quality.

Are you a motoring fan? Do you have a favourite car or motorcycle brand?

I’ve had the same car, a Jaguar XKR, for nearly 10 years, but have updated it a few times.

Returning to the workplace, what is the one gadget that you cannot live without?

I guess that would have to be my iPhone!

And if you could have/install any one deco-

rative item in your office – price no object – what would you opt for?

Not exactly a decorative item, but something of immense value to me – I’d love to have my time trial bike set up on an indoor trainer.

GIORGIO ARMANI

In terms of dressing for success, who is your favourite designer for business wear?

That’s an easy one... Armani!

And your go-to watch brand?

I really like vintage and sports Rolexes, but also love brands such as Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne and Audemars Piguet.

Finally, in your opinion, what is the key to success?

Knowing that your team can be great; never stop believing in everyone’s potential.

AUDEMARS PIGUET

EXECUTIVE LIFE|About Town

especially along the coast from San Francisco down to Los Angeles. We look forward to travelling along with our little boy soon.

AT THE OFFICE GREAT GADGETS | MY WORKPLACE

GREAT GADGETS

Looking to make your work life easier? Whether it’s for the office or while you’re on the go, these are the top tech gizmos worth getting your hands on this month OUD S TABLE LAMP

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At The Office

It may look simple, but the minimalist Oud S Table Lamp uses solid oak from sustainably managed forests in France, making it extremely eco friendly.

Delivered flat, the lamp is easy to assemble, and a guaranteed conversation piece for months to come.

AED 1,270 | fancy.com

An oldie but a goodie. If you take a lot of notes during the day, then this nifty little pen is for you. The ZPen allows you to write, sketch or draw on any paper before converting the notes into digital form on your computer. If only we had this back at college…

AED 115 | amazon.co.uk

ZPEN

NEATCONNECT TOSHIBA SATELLITE L10W Part laptop and part tablet, Toshiba’s latest Satellite L10W features an 11.6-inch screen with the latest Intel processors, combining ultimate mobility and precision. But it’s also great for the office – this hybrid offers full-size connectivity with an HDMIout port, USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, and an SD card slot.

Price TBC | toshibamea.com

Ready to go paperless? NeatConnect transforms documents into digital files and sends them straight to the cloud – without the need for a computer. This nifty gadget uses InDocument Identification Technology to automatically identify, extract, and organise key information from scanned data.

AED 1,837 | neat.com

Formerly known as Drop Cam, The Nest Cam is a simple device that allows you to monitor activities in your office – or home – while you are away. And it’s all through a simple app on your smartphone. Don’t have time to check in on your feed? Nest Cam detects any strange motions or abnormal sounds and alerts you via app message.

AED 750 | nest.com

NEST CAM

27

HTC ONE M9

HOMCOM EXECUTIVE OFFICE MASSAGE CHAIR PANASONIC MB2100 SERIES Boasting speeds of 24 pages per minute, Panasonic MEA’s new multifunction printers are all about boosting productivity. Additionally, the series’ Secure Print function can prevent confidential documents from being leaked by restricting copying and printing with a department code.

AED 600 | panasonic.com

Corded headphones are so last year.

Sol Republic Middle East’s Shadow Wireless Headphones are the perfect hands-free accompaniment for music or even talking on the phone. And from its metallic terminals to the beautifully integrated buttons, this is a real smooth statement piece.

Lightweight and fully flexible, it rests comfortably on your neck, and its clean, minimalistic design blends with any style.

AED 404 | solrepublic.com

SHADOW WIRELESS HEADPHONES

CONSIGNED COROMANDEL STATIONERY HOLDER Sold by Bromley Antique Restoration, this beautiful ebony 19th century Victorian stationery box comes with covered file holders and a secret drawer. Well worth the investment.

AED 5,900 | houzz.com

Office AC always too cold? The HomCom ergonomically designed Executive Office Massage Chair attempts to bring in traditional style and ergonomically sound features, while also including massage and heating features to sooth aching muscles. This chair comes with six different massaging settings that range from healing back support to leg circulation and comfort.

AED 730 | primeratrio.com

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At The Office

One of the most popular smartphones of the summer, the HTC One M9 features a 20MP camera with sapphire cover lens to deliver crisp, clear photos. Front-facing stereo speakers with built-in amp and Dolby Audio surround, meanwhile, make for the ultimate audio experience.

AED 1,645 | htc.com

28

MY WORKPLACE

EL meets Spencer H Wadama, general manager of Armani Hotel Dubai, who tells us more about his role and his favourite perks of the industry

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At The Office

Number of years based in the UAE: Dubai has been my home for over four years now.

My role: As the GM of Armani Hotel Dubai since May 2014, my primary role is to ensure that the iconic hotel upholds its reputation as one of the world’s leading ultra­luxury properties, assuring high levels of service and standards across all aspects of operation. I am hands­-on involved in driving and managing the

property’s various facets on a daily basis with some truly world­class professionals who are passionate about the brand. After all, Armani Hotel Dubai is truly a one­-of-­its-­kind property that celebrates the joining-of-hands of two of the most respected names in the industry: Emaar – the developer of Burj Khalifa, in which Armani Hotel Dubai is located – and Mr Giorgio Armani, the fashion legend who has personally designed every aspect of the hotel.

29

“GUESTS CAN JOIN OUR CHEF TO SOURCE FRESH FISH FROM THE MARKET, THEN JOIN IN A COOKING LESSON.”

My favourite Armani restaurant is: Armani/ Hashi, our contemporary Japanese restaurant.

It is a favourite for purely personal reasons. I am American­-Japanese and my father originally hails from Osaka in Japan. He has been a great inspiration in my life and Armani/ Hashi in many ways is about connecting with my roots. The restaurant’s Friday brunch is an absolute must-­try; it opens to spectacular views of The Dubai Fountain.

Travelling soon? Here’s an exclusive insider secret: One of the innovative experiences that we offer is the master­class whereby guests can accompany our chef to source fresh fish from the local market, and join him/her for a cooking lesson. Meanwhile, several talented artists perform at Armani/Prive, our lounge – another experience not to be missed.

If I could choose any well­-known personality to stay at Armani Hotel Dubai, it would be: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visits our property occasionally and it is always our high honour and privilege to welcome him. A man of great vision, passion and commitment to excellence, His Highness is an inspiration for all.

As for an international celebrity that I would like to host, I feel that Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt would be interesting. I respect their passion for philanthropy and the fact that they use their influence to make the world a better place and bring attention where it is needed.

The strangest request I have ever received has been: During my 20 years in the industry, I have encountered several quirky requests from guests. There have been requests to organise marriage proposals by the beach, and on one occasion, I had to arrange for camels for an event in Egypt. Then there were guests who would complain of insomnia and I recall sitting late at night with some of them chitchatting after which they would retire to sleep. Celebrities have insisted on specific colours and materials for their linen and even the wallpaper.

At Armani Hotel Dubai, I haven’t encountered many strange requests as yet but – of course – I often have our guests asking if they can meet Mr Armani and which rooms he stays in!

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At The Office

My typical day: Starts at 7.30am, when I review reports about guest arrivals, any concerns that need to be addressed, followed by a walk­through of the hotel. I host an executive team briefing at 9am after which we hold internal strategic meetings. Following the meetings, I conduct another walk­through of the restaurants and meet and greet guests.

At 12.30pm, I ensure I have lunch with my team, after which we have further internal meetings that are focused on various aspects such as marketing, operations and finance.

The evening is spent walking the restaurants, speaking with our ambassadors, meeting guests, evaluating the events. I do try and carve out time for exercise to stay healthy.  If I could name three unique things about my workplace, they would be: One, Armani Hotel Dubai has an exceptionally unique location within the world’s tallest building in a very dynamic city. Two, it brings the world’s first hospitality experience designed by Giorgio Armani. While these are a true matter of pride for me, the workplace further delights me – it’s a multicultural workforce of over 120 nationalities. Our 600­-strong team is our biggest asset and not a day passes by without learning something new from these dedicated people.

THE COMMUTE LUXE LUGGAGE | ON THE ROAD | ME AND MY MOTOR | TRIED & TESTED

Montegrappa | AED 7,615

TROLLEY CABIN BAG

Bally | AED 6,990

NOLAND

COMMUTER EXPANDABLE UPRIGHT

This stylish trolley cabin bag in blue and grey leather features an ergonomic net cut handle, a deep front pocket with metal zip and extendable pole. Suitable for a business trip or a vacation. montegrappa.me

Crafted with the most luxurious leather, the Noland business bag has substantial space for all essentials during the working week.

The Dottic finish renders the leather scratchresistant. bally.com

This compact, lightweight suitcase is the perfect carry-on for overnight trips. The bag can expand up to 33%, then compress back down to store in the overhead compartment or under your seat. briggs-riley.com

Briggs & Riley | AED 2,055

LUXE LUGGAGE

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

The latest accessories to keep you looking smart and stylish on the go

CHYRA

LEATHER BACKPACK

VOYAGEUR

Ted Baker | AED 1,980

Marni | AED 6,340

Tumi | AED 1,995

Big adventures deserve beautiful luggage.

Super spacious yet pleasingly lightweight, Ted’s flower-adorned case with spinner wheels starts off a business trip or quick getaway in style. tedbaker.com

The Italian luxury fashion label’s softly structured bag offers three different looks in one, with harness straps that cleverly convert from a chic tote to a shoulder bag and finally to a backpack. marni.com

The US brand’s updated Voyageur collection brings together sophisticated, feminine and iconic elements to create versatile travel, business and everyday designs for the girl on the go. tumi.com

32

On the Road FERRARI 488 GTB

The latest luxury cars for the modern CEO | Matt Freeborn

ri’s legendary styling. The seamless interweaving of form and function is clear in every detail. Certain design elements are also obvious nods to the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired styling of the flanks.

An exceptional engine and sophisticated aerodynamics combined with refined vehicle dynamic controls radically improve the already razor-sharp responsiveness of Ferrari’s road cars to near-track level. Power (670hp) and engine and vehicle response times (0.8 seconds and 0.06 seconds, respectively) give the Ferrari 488 GTB a unique character and guarantee unmatched driving pleasure.

Price available on request

Four years on from its global launch, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) returned last month to the USA’s famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance with a selection of distinctive and beautiful commissions.

The bespoke division of McLaren showcased some of the individualisation options that it will make available on the forthcoming new 570S Coupé, the first model to join the McLaren Sports Series. Two examples have been created.

The first 570S Coupé by MSO (pictured) features the captivating Mauvine Blue paint finish coupled with a bespoke interior finished in carbon black leather with co-ordinating detailing, carried through from the exterior colour.

A second 570S Coupé, finished in Ventura Orange and fitted with a selection of styling details from the MSO Defined range of options, took up position on the popular Concept Lawn at the event. The highly prized location previously played host to the 12C, 12C Spider and, most recently, the McLaren P1 GTR Design Concept.

Meanwhile, two limited edition models represented the McLaren’s Super Series range. The 675LT, the manufacturer’s lightest and most track-focused, yet road-legal, model is strictly limited to 500 examples worldwide, all of which have now been assigned. The more exclusive 650S Le Mans is limited to just 50 cars – also now all sold.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

MCLAREN 570S COUPÉ

From AED 955,000

Ferrari’s exciting mid-engined V8 berlinetta, the 488 GTB, has finally touched down in the UAE and is now available at Al Tayer Motors.

This sleek motor – which made its international debut at the Geneva International Motor Show last March – not only delivers unparalleled performance but extreme power that is exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level.

As for its design, the 488 GTB’s sculptural forms are completely new. They accentuate the car’s sportiness yet retain the classically clean, pure lines typical of Ferra-

33

manifolds. The high-performance engine also offers an additional 20hp and 50Nm more torque than the previous engine. All the performance improvements result in the Cayenne Turbo S completing a lap of the North Loop of the Nürburgring in 7:59.74 minutes, setting a new record for SUVs. Standard features reflect the top-level status of this model. They include 21-inch wheels in distinctive 911 Turbo design with black painted edges, LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus), and full-leather interior with Porsche logo embossed on all head restraints as well as interior carbon accents.

From AED 692,800

Driving dynamics plus long-distance comfort: the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 delivers compelling performance with efficient fuel consumption, outstanding design dynamics and a high level of everyday usability. And the interior and exterior design is more distinctive than ever before.

Dirk Fetzer, director of sales and marketing, Daimler Middle East & Levant explains: “The high-tech package offered with the four-door sedan includes the newly developed eight-cylinder biturbo engine which, in combination with myriad dynamic driving features, delivers outstanding performance, efficiency and great fun.

“The successor to the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG – which has sold more than 40,000 units worldwide – the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 will add to this success as it sets new benchmarks and further strengthens our brand promise of ‘Driving Performance’.”

The C 63 is at the forefront of the competitive field, being the only one in the segment to be equipped with an eight-cylinder engine that features bi-turbocharging; with the two chargers located within the cylinder V. Benefits include compact engine dimensions, optimum responsiveness and low exhaust emissions.

From AED 330,000

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

MERCEDES-AMG C 63

PORSCHE CAYENNE TURBO S

The new Cayenne Turbo S – which made its debut earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit – has arrived in the region and is now on display at Porsche Centre Dubai, Al Nabooda Automobiles. The top model of the sporty SUV series features a re-engineered 4.8-litre V8 biturbo engine, which delivers 570hp and 800Nm of torque.

Accelerating from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in 4.1 seconds, Porsche’s latest Cayenne takes 0.4 seconds less than its predecessor. In fact, its top speed is now 284 kilometres per hour, its responsive engine a result of the turbochargers now being housed directly in the exhaust

34

ME AND MY MOTOR

DRIVING EVOLUTION Every issue EL goes behind the scenes to find out just which vehicles the region’s top executives prefer to drive

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

“Having a good sound system is very important; any driver can relate to that” � Name: Deesch Papke Role: Chief Executive Officer, Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE Nationality: South African

INTRODUCING MY MOTOR. “Currently, I enjoy driving the Cayenne as one of the latest evolutions of our hugely successful SUV model range.

It’s an all-rounder that likes the short sprint as much as the long distance. It’s powerful and athletic with everyday comfort and practicality, great for driving around the city and also for weekend trips away.”

At Hamad International Airport, Qatar Duty Free is radically changing the concept of travel retail.

Alongside the ever popular core duty free products, there is an array of unique concept stores, comprising a toy emporium, gourmet foods and a gentlemen's store, in addition to a selection of branded boutiques.

A key part of our strategy has always been to offer something for every passenger, and to make duty free shopping a memorable experience.

With over 100 retail and food and beverage stores, spread across 40,000 square metres of space, our friendly staff from over 40 countries are looking forward to welcoming you at Hamad International Airport.

Welcome to Qatar Duty Free. We have been expecting you.

36

ME AND MY MOTOR

LE MANS

� THE ONE CAR FEATURE I CANNOT GO WITHOUT “Having a good sound system in a car is very important; I think that’s something any driver can relate to. High fidelity audio enhances a driving experience and delivers that soundtrack to the journey. I love the bespoke Burmester High-End Surround Sound System built especially for Porsche. The skill and technical knowledge that goes into creating one of these systems is matched only by the feelings it evokes. The hair stands up on the back of my neck as it acts as a medium for my favourite tunes. It’s my ultimate start to the day!”

� MY DREAM ROAD TRIP

“During my time with the company I have had the pleasure of driving a Porsche on some of the most beautiful roads in the world. My absolute dream – should border crossings and areas of conflict not be potential issues – would be to drive from Tunis right down to the Cape of Good Hope in my native South Africa.”

BURMESTER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM

� A CAR CAN REVEAL A LOT ABOUT YOUR PERSONALITY

� MEMORABLE MOTORSPORT EVENT

“The businessman who owns a 911, for instance, is clearly someone who understands the importance of a work-life-balance. He would have chosen the specific model for its iconic character, linking heritage, its timeless design and benchmark resale value. But the 911 is much more than just that, it is an authentic sports car in which you can drive comfortably to work every day and take to the race track on the weekend. It showcases the perfect combination of sport, moderation, everyday practicality and style. A smart choice for a smart businessman.”

“That’s an easy one: Porsche at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year. I think everyone who not only works within but has some kind of connection to Porsche knows how much that result meant to the brand. We are, and always have been, a sports car manufacturer and to take first and second in the toughest endurance race of them all extends Porsche’s unrivalled legacy on the racetrack. That is hugely important for all of us.”

PORSCHE DESIGN LUGGAGE

� MY FAVOURITE UAE ROAD TRIP SO FAR

� FAVOURITE ACCESSORIES FOR WORK

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

“Driving from Dubai up to Jebel Jais – the tallest mountain in the UAE – is a trip I have enjoyed very much, with a stop in Fujairah to have some fresh seafood. I hope to be doing it again towards the end of the year when the cooler weather arrives.”

“For me it’s the Porsche Design luggage line-up – largely based on the amount of time I spend in airports. It’s perfect for travelling and immaculately styled. I also find the laptop bag from the Roadster Softcase Series extremely functional and I have a real soft spot for my P’6780 Diver watch.”

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

38

Tried Tested

This British luxury brand has introduced a monochrome special edition of its popular Vanquish model. But is it worth the upgrade? | Rachel McArthur

� ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH CARBON EDITION

F

ull disclosure: at the time of planning this piece, I had fully intended not to mention 007 and his love of Aston Martins. Not even once. But as soon as I stepped foot into the gorgeous Vanquish Carbon Edition, all good intentions had gone out of the window.

Because simply put, whether you’re male or female, this stunning sports coupe is made to bring out your inner James Bond (who says the name ‘James’ can’t work for both genders anyway?) and there’s nothing wrong with that.

The Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition is for the sleek and sophisticated, those who appreciate the finer things in life.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

THE CAR Available in classic white or black, this special edition of the British carmaker’s Vanquish model is a sight for sore eyes. While EL had access to the two-door coupe with 2+0 seating, there’s also a ‘Volante’ body style – better known as a convertible – with 2+2 seating. But let’s be realistic, either version is a winner really.

And while both colours look gorgeous up close, the white version wins thanks to the region we live in. It just works better in the GCC. So what about the rest of the exterior?

Well, this model is just like Mr Bond likes his ladies… with curves in all the right places.

Dramatic lines, black window surrounds and a set of 10-spoke alloy wheels finished in gloss black complete the look, and we

haven’t even looked beneath the surface yet.

What sets the Carbon Edition apart from the regular Vanquish is no doubt the interior. Here, it’s all about the carbon pack… carbon roof with carbon mirror caps, as well as carbon front and rear splitter. The edgy black speaker grilles installed for the Bang & Olugsen audio system, along with the quilted leather upholstery and red (or black) trim, completes the look.

AT THE WHEEL The Vanquish Carbon Edition hasn’t had any performance upgrades from the regular model, but with a six-litre, V12 engine that produces 576 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, you don’t really need one. In fact, the coupe goes from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in under four seconds, and is able to reach a maximum speed of 324 kilometres per hour (please don’t try that anywhere but with a professional on a proper race track).

While it indeed packs an impressive punch on the road, the Vanquish Carbon Edition isn’t one of those cars that leave a lot to be desired on regular roads. Far from it. When it comes to luxury motors for everyday use, this model blows a whole lot of competition out of the water. It’s not just a weekend drive; this car can be used for everyday business.

It’s no wonder it’s Bond’s vehicle of choice.

Shaken not stirred indeed.

39

SPECIFICATIONS VEHICLE: Two-door Coupe body style with 2+0 seating ENGINE: All alloy quad overhead cam 48-valve 5935 cc V12.

Front mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive POWER: 568 bhp @ 6650 rpm TORQUE: 465 lb ft @ 5500 rpm ACCELERATION: 0-100km/h in 3.8 sec MAXIMUM SPEED: 324km/h TRANSMISSION: Rear-mid-mounted ‘Touchtronic III’ eight-speed automatic gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control system

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Commute

STARTING PRICE: From AED 1.3 million

SELF AT HOME DUBAI’s PROPERTY BUSINESS BOOM | PROPERTY SHOWCASE

PROJECT: EXPO 2020

The 14th edition of the Middle East’s largest property show largely focused on completing phases of developments ahead of the World Expo in Dubai

“DUBAI’S CURRENT MARKET IS APPEALING FOR INVESTMENT.”

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At Home

M

ajor developers from the UAE and around the world launched a number of high profile residential and commercial projects at this year’s edition of Cityscape Global.

The 14th edition of Cityscape Global – which was opened by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai – saw thousands of international and local visitors descend upon Dubai World Trade Centre for the exhibition.

The UAE’s major developers were out in full force, with market leaders including Emaar, Dubai Properties, Nakheel, Meraas, DAMAC, Dubai South, Union Properties and Deyaar showcasing their latest portfolio.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, a significant focus has been placed on completing phases of developments ahead of the World Expo 2020. These include The Villages, an innovative concept in urban living at Dubai South; Meydan One by Meydan City Corporation, and Burj 2020 by Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).

More projects that took centre stage this year included 1/JBR, a new luxury residential development by Dubai Properties; Creekside 18 residences in Dubai Creek Harbour

by Emaar, and Palm Promenade by Nakheel, which will transform Palm Jumeirah trunk into a pedestrian-friendly beach, park, retail and café complex.

Speaking at the event, Gautam Sashittal, CEO of DMCC said: “This is our first time participating and what a great start we have had.

We were very excited to profile two very important projects at this event: Burj 2020 district and 1 JLT tower.

“We saw a lot of excitement at our stand; it was full of visitors all day. The event created the right opportunities for us and it was absolutely the best venue for DMCC to launch such important projects.”

Appearing at the 2015 event, Lara Al Barazai, head of real estate research at YouGov told EL that investment in Dubai real estate is on the rise: “The positive market sentiment and growth expectations in Dubai illustrated by UAE industry experts, together with an anticipated rise in sales and rental property prices, are all indicative of how appealing the current market is for investment.

“As long as Dubai provides stability and greater protection, the real estate market will remain a top priority amongst investors.”

Sharjah also made a big announcement this year, launching Sharjah Waterfront City, a series of ten islands interconnected by manmade canals and spread across 36km of coastal land on the north-eastern coast of the emirate.

The development, once completed is expected to be the largest commercial, residential and tourism development in Sharjah.

“Sharjah Waterfront City is a project so ambitious in its planning, so grand in its nature and so effective in its economic and social impact,” said Hayssam El Masri, president of Sharjah Oasis Real Estate Development. “The interest that we have received so far from investors and from the public has exceeded our expectations.”

While all the big local players were out in force at Cityscape Global this year, international representation was also strong, with Turkey representing the largest international pavilion.

42

ON THE MARKET Every issue EL showcases one of the region’s must-watch real estate developments. This month’s spotlight is on Dubai’s Al Barari

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At Home

About The Nest The Nest collection totals 99 exquisite villas, each with a built up area of 6,300 to 7,000 square feet, with plot sizes ranging from 9,000 to 15,000 square feet. The exclusive 99-villa community will span 2.41 million square feet.

The Setting Offering lush surrounds and an unparalleled blend of community and lush living, the 99 contemporary villas will face the city skyline, with sweeping vistas of the Burj Khalifa.

The Features All villas feature a private pool and outdoor shower, barbeque area, landscaped gardens with a lawn, and parking for two cars. Floorto-ceiling windows let light flow freely between the floors. The same attention to detail applied to the outdoors is also present inside the home – luxury finishes include Italian tiles and white quartz stone tops in the kitchen.

Design Villas are available in two categories that offer subtle differences in layout and lifestyle, giving buyers the choice of homes to suit their personal tastes. The homes enjoy natural light and high ceilings and are rooted in contemporary architecture. Colour palettes include shades of cream, grey and white.

ON THE MARKET

43

THE MUST KNOWS Development: The Nest @ Al Barari, Dubai Location: Accessible by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), The Nest is located approximately 15 minutes away from Downtown Burj Khalifa in the Al Barari estate, and occupies the land adjacent to The Reserve.

Show homes available: Type a and type b four-bedroom villas.

Sustainability elements: Yes, including solar panels on each home, daylight harvesting, thermal mass, smart control irrigation and water treatment and recycling.

Starting price: AED 7.7 million Delivery: Payment is made through escrow, where money will be deposited into an account and released according to completion of each phase. The payment plan is linked to the construction timeline. All homes are freehold.

“We have always sought to be the benchmark and are at the forefront of sustainable living. We were the first to bring the ‘green’ concept to the UAE and since then, it has been an incredible journey.

While other developers were focusing on creating buildings with as many apartments as possible to maximise profit, we sought to create a low-density community nestled in lush greenery that focuses on quality of life. With green surrounds, our aim was to bring that soothing, calming effect of nature to the community and allow residents to be at one with their environment.”

Facilities

Future Plans

With separate visitor parking and a 322,000sqft community centre, everything is pretty much available on your doorstep.

All residents receive access to the worldclass facilities of the wider Al Barari development, including Body Language health club, a fully-equipped gym, an outdoor temperaturecontrolled pool and tennis courts.

Al Barari says it plans to launch a retail village, bars and dining venues, a ‘six-star’ boutique resort, creative hub, and more.

For more information on The Nest as well as other projects, visit albarari.com.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|At Home

Mohammed Bin Zaal, CEO, Al Barari

SELF

NEW SEASON, NEW YOU

NEW SEASON, NEW YOU

It’s autumn, which means everyone’s back from their summer holidays, the kids have returned to school, and business is in full force. But don’t neglect yourself… If your fitness routine is lacking a little excitement, why not pay a visit to one of these concepts? | Jessica Williams

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Self

BARE This fitness studio in Dubai’s Business Bay is careful to distance itself from the city’s mainstream gym scene, driven by founder Dylan Eiffe’s conviction that “gyms don’t work”. Rather, Eiffe presents BARE as a more holistic approach to wellness, and one with nutrition and education at its core.

The supportive team of trainers operate under the ethos of ‘Eat, Train, Learn’.

Says its website: "We know that physical results are achieved through 70% nutrition and 30% fitness. It was this knowledge that drove us to bring together two totally independent industries.”

Membership begins with an in-depth body composition analysis, an hour-long consultation with an expert personal trainer and an in-depth nutritional plan that outlines your suggested caloric intake and guidance on what you should eat for each meal.

Clover Bay Tower, Business Bay, Dubai +971 4 558 4720 | bare.ae

SHP Dubai (Scandinavian Health & Performance Dubai) A fitness centre in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, SHP Dubai takes a well-rounded approach to wellness with a variety of experts on hand, from personal trainers to nutritionists, sports masseurs and physiotherapists. They even offer dry needling, a therapy similar to acupuncture, which can alleviate physical pain as well as headaches, anxiety and insomnia. For anyone struggling with an injury and in need of rehabilitation, this holistic approach and wealth of knowledge on offer is invaluable.

The gym itself is sleek, modern, stylish and never crowded. Membership is results-focused, and will include an initial consultation, regular meetings and workouts with a personal trainer, and re-evaluation of your progress every four weeks to keep you on track.

Swiss Tower (Cluster Y), Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai | +971 4 368 7800 | shpdubai.com

My30Minutes Perhaps the biggest barrier to optimal fitness is a lack of time, and My30Minutes offers the perfect solution. This workout uses Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS) technology o intensify your full body workout. Participants wear a special suit, sensor straps and vests hooked up to a Miha Bodytec machine. As you complete a circuit of exercises such as squats, bicep curls and lunges, an electric current is pulsed through the suit, creating a vibrating sensation and ensuring that at least 90% of your muscle fibres are engaged (as opposed to 40% during a typical gym session).

The workout takes just 20 minutes (with five minutes to get changed and five minutes to cool down). If the brevity isn’t recommendation enough, world-class athletes Lionel Messi and Usain Bolt are said to be fans too.

Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai | +971 4 385 5353 | my30minutes.com

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AND RELAX...

Three of the best spas this month.

Alba Spa Royal Rose Hotel, Abu Dhabi This recent addition to Abu Dhabi’s wellness scene offers high-end pampering treatments right in the heart of the capital. Much of the menu focus is on youth-enhancing facials that incorporate natural ingredients such as caviar, chamomile and marine collagen, while other therapies include full body massages, scrubs and wraps.

Call +971 2 672 4000 or visit royalrosehotel.com.

So SPA Sofitel Downtown, Dubai This five-star facility in the heart of the Sofitel Downtown is one of the newest, and finest, additions to Dubai’s booming spa scene. The décor is soothingly minimalist yet luxurious, with quilted massage beds and a stunning couples’ spa suite. So SPA uses high-end products from Parisian brand Thémaé – try the So Invigorating massage for a revitalising treat. Call +971 4 503 6666 or visit sofitel.com.

CrossFit is the cult workout that’s taken the world by storm – and with the arrival of CrossFit Abu Dhabi, its international status is further cemented. Although not the first centre in the UAE capital to offer this strength and conditioning programme, what sets CFAD apart are its expert trainers, state-of-the-art equipment, hip graffiti’d studio, and strong sense of community promoted by founder Hisham Awad.

Located in the Al Mushrif area, workouts take place in a specially designed “box” (gym) fully kitted out with free weights, kettle bells, medicine balls, boxes, bars and more.

CrossFit AD is designed to challenge everyone from novices to elite athletes, and beginners are required to sign up for a two-week course to learn the fundamentals.

Al Mushrif Area, 19th Street, Abu Dhabi | +971 50 646 8995 | crossfitabudhabi.com

Talise Spa Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel, Kuwait Kuwait’s most luxurious hotel has recently received the Green Globe certification for its earth-friendly practices, making its luxurious Talise Spa a good choice for eco-friendly pampering. Signature treatments include a two-hour long chakra balancing therapy that incorporates massage, aromatherapy and healing minerals.

Call +965 2226 9600 or visit jumeirah.com.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Self

CrossFit Abu Dhabi

TIME OUT

THE MUST LIST | FINE DINING FIT FOR BUSINESS | DUBAI: THE DESIGN CAPITAL

The Must List

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Time Out

What to see, and where to be seen right now

GO VINTAGE AT VII

OPERA GOES POP

With the weather cooling down we’re predicting that Vii Dubai – Conrad Dubai’s newest nightspot – will become the place to be this season. Cigar aficionados will love the venue’s ‘ViiNTAGE’ evening, where every Monday the first 50 guests are invited to a complimentary cigar and beverage between 8.30pm and 10.30pm. Call +971 50 169 6777 or visit facebook.com/VIIDubai

This October marks the return of the hugely popular Opera-Pop at the Royal Majlis, Emirates Golf Club.

Comprising soprano Guzel Teymour along with Murat Ozturk and Wim Hoste, Opera-Pop’s newest show – set to take place on October 10 – will be dedicated to Giuseppe Verdi in honour of his 202nd birthday. Tickets cost AED 495 per person, and includes a seated gala dinner. Call +971 4 417 9999

VIP FROM YOUR SMARTPHONE Let’s face it; it can be a nuisance trying to call a nightclub to book a table, particularly when most venues don’t open for business until the early evening. However, now you can book a table at your favourite nightspot at the touch of an app button thanks to Exclusive Tables. Available for iOS, Exclusive Tables allows you to book VIP tables and packages in some of the UAE’s best clubs and lounges. It’s also available in Barcelona. exclusivetablesapp.com

MICHELIN STAR WORTHY

WELL-HEELED

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has launched its Culinary Journey promotion, offering diners the chance to sample exciting cuisines from renowned chefs, including Takagi Kazuo, Dean Brettschneider and Theo Randall (pictured). Running until November 15, this series of three-course menus will be available at restaurants across InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn hotels in the GCC. ihg.com

Mercury Lounge at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai is offering the ultimate ladies night. The lounge – located on Jumeirah Beach Road – has teamed up with Manolo Blahnik to launch High Heels, offering 50% off food and beverages every Tuesday from 6pm. But that’s not all... they’re also giving one lucky guest the chance to win a pair of designer heels, every month. Where do we sign up?

Call +971 4 270 7804

Kahlil Gibran's 'The Prophet' Limited Edition Fountain Pen

Dedicate to Kahlil Gibran's most celebrated work Now available at the Montegrappa Boutique The Boulevard - Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 3880620 www.montegrappa.me

48

Fabulous Fayre

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Time Out

The UAE’s culinary scene is drawing some of the biggest chefs in the world. Here are the best new launches, perfect for that leisurely lunch or business dinner | Jessica Williams

Coya

Catch

Arabesque Café

Four Seasons Resort Dubai One of a number of Peruvian restaurants to recently open in Dubai, there’s no doubt that Coya is the most highly anticipated given its coveted spot in the Four Seasons Dubai on Jumeirah Beach Road.

As you’d expect from the five-star resort, the food is nothing short of impeccable. The food is served sharing style, with the seafood being a particular highlight – the ceviche is (predictably) excellent, as is the baby squid with its crisp coating of quinoa.

Add the elegant interior, and the elusive, exclusive members’ bar, and it makes for the perfect setting. +971 4 316 9600 | fourseasons.com/dubaijb

Fairmont Dubai With a name like Catch, there’s no doubting that it’s a seafood restaurant. What you might not know, however, is that this stylish new venue at the Fairmont Hotel is a New York export straight out of the hip Meatpacking District, and the first branch to be opened outside the city. With its exposed brick walls and vibrant colours, it certainly feels like a slice of the Big Apple. The menu is a masterful mix of lighter fare, such as sushi rolls, and fish and shellfish-focused comfort food – try the decadent lobster mac and cheese. + 971 4 332 5555 | fairmont.com

Arjaan By Rotana The charming Arabesque Café is a popular spot for business lunches and meetings, thanks to its prime location in the Arjaan by Rotana at the heart of Dubai Media City. As the name suggests, the kitchen serves up a largely Arabic-inspired menu, although a range of international dishes are on offer too. Almost every night of the week, this warm and welcoming cafe hosts a different themed buffet dinner, from Asian cuisine on Sundays to Italian on Tuesdays. There’s also a popular brunch on Friday afternoons from 12pm to 4pm. +971 4 436 0141 | rotana.com

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Black Lion

Pearls by Michael Caines

H Hotel Dubai New York Speakeasy meets old-fashioned British pub at this new addition to Dubai’s dining scene.

Located on the ground floor of the elegant H Hotel, the Black Lion serves up high quality American gastro pub fare in generous portions: think juicy burgers, short rib hash and various iterations of surf n’ turf including a pairing of sirloin steak with Canadian lobster. It’s a popular spot for a post-work drink, the bar lined with business suits. However, the trendy setting, nostalgic tunes and novelty ‘Lock In’ menu of late night snacks ensures that the Black Lion is lively well into the early hours. +971 4 359 2366 facebook.com/theblackliondxb

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Opening late last month, this new venture from British chef Michael Caines MBE is one of the most hotly anticipated restaurants to arrive in the capital. Caines’ many accolades include the two Michelin stars awarded to the restaurant at Gidleigh Park, where he has worked as the Head Chef since 1994. He’s even cooked at 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister. Pearls is definitely one to watch. +971 2 811 5555 | jumeirah.com

Garden

Jean-Georges Dining Room

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai The latest restaurant offering from the JW Marriott Marquis has quite the reputation to live up to, sharing its location with renowned steakhouse Prime 68 and the Atul Kochhar backed Indian restaurant Rang Mahal. Fortunately, Peruvian eatery Garden is able to hold its own, with its colourful interior, attentive service and decadent menu.

Choose from four types of ceviche, plus a range of meat and seafood dishes, and sip on a pre-dinner aperitif from the dedicated pisco bar. Just be sure to leave room for one of the decadent desserts – the Tres Leches sponge cake comes highly recommended. +971 4 414 0000 | marriott.com

Four Seasons Resort Dubai Another recent launch at the Four Seasons is that of world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who has unveiled not one, but two eateries.

While Jean-Georges Kitchen is the more low-key of the two, Jean-Georges Dining Room is a true showstopper – unsurprising, given that its New York counterpart has three Michelin stars. In fact, many of the world famous dishes from the NYC menu have made it across to Dubai – look out for the toasted egg yolk with caviar, as well as the tasty diver scallops. Other menu highlights include the Welsh lamb chops, and the crab and squash blossom tempura. +971 4 343 6118 | fourseasons.com/dubaijb

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Time Out

P+C by Sergi Arola Shangri-La Abu Dhabi P+C is the hip new revamp of Pearl and Caviar, a longstanding Abu Dhabi institution. Located in the Shangri-La Abu Dhabi, the brand new menu is a breath of fresh air to the capital’s dining scene (as is the hip soundtrack of modern rock that filters through the dining room). The brainchild of world renowned Spanish chef Sergi Arola (whose Sergi Arola Gastro in Madrid has two Michelin stars), the seafood dishes that Pearls and Caviar were known for have been replaced by an altogether more Mediterranean flavour. For starters, there are tapas plates made for sharing, with cheese croquettes and patatas bravas particular menu highlights. +971 2 509 8888 | shangri-la.com

Fogueira Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Brazilian restaurants tend to be a carnivore’s dream, and Fogueira is no different. Located in the Ramada Plaza JBR Hotel, this churrascaria (Brazilian barbecue) spot services up 15 cuts of perfectly barbecued meat, including beef and lamb. The food is presented ‘rodizio style’ – which means that the waiters wander among the tables with skewers of meat, offering up whichever cut they are carrying to your plate. You can continue to request as much as you want until you’re well and truly stuffed, although you may want to leave room for dessert too. +971 4 439 8888 | ramadaplazajbr.com

27-30 OCTOBER 2015 | DUBAI

THE ONLY FAIR IN THE MIDDLE EAST DEDICATED TO ORIGINAL, HIGH QUALITY DESIGN

LEAD SUPPORTER

FURNITURE | LIGHTING | KITCHENS | BATHROOMS CARPETS & FLOORING | ACCESSORIES | TECHNOLOGIES

DOWNTOWNDESIGN.COM

52

Dubai:

The design capital

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Time Out

A

rt fans mark your calendars – a brand new event is coming to Dubai, one that’s aiming to position the emirate as the emerging design capital of the world.

Debuting soon is the very first edition of Dubai Design Week (DDW) – a joint venture between Art Dubai Group, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Design and Fashion Council – which will showcase work by a plethora of international designers and emerging brands, along with workshops, interactive shows and much more.

“The inaugural edition of Dubai Design Week is a tangible step towards our com-

mitment to raising the profile of Dubai as the emerging capital of design,” explained Nez Gebreel, CEO of the Dubai Design & Fashion Council. “This initiative marks a pivotal point in establishing a world-class design community in Dubai and being the catalyst that elevates the emirate’s design industry to the international stage.

“We look forward to transforming Dubai into a key gateway that brings together regional designers with creative thinkers from around the globe.”

EL takes a look at some of the highlights of the inaugural event, which takes place from October 26 to 31 at d3.

53

Abwab Six pavilions will be dedicated to the work of exciting designers, studios and curators from six countries in the MENASA region. This year’s event will showcase the UAE, Kuwait, Pakistan, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.

A curator from each participating country has been selected to lead the designers to work individually or collectively and generate never beforeseen design content under one unifying theme.

DDW 2015’s theme, Games: The Element of Play in Culture, will see the designers investigate how the tools and rules of a destination might be understood through its more playful activities.

� FEATURED CURATORS The Dubai-based trio of visual communication designers’ approach spans a wide range of design disciplines – from experimenting with kinetic typography to Design House, a curated space of non-commercial design created for Dubai’s Sikka Art Fair.

Salman Jawed

Waleed Shaalan The Kuwaiti multidisciplinary architect, artist and storyteller has worked with a number of design firms, from Perkins and Will in Chicago to SSH Design in Kuwait, and has collaborated with esteemed organisations including Atelier Jean Nouvel and Cloud 9 Barcelona.

The Pakistani artist melds new ideas with local materials to create a hybrid of past and present. Leading the way in industrial design in his native country, Jawed is the co-founder of Karachi-based studio Coalesce.

Downtown Design

Destination

The only platform in the Middle East for the region’s trade professionals to discover original, high quality design from all over the world, Downtown Design 2015 will take place during Dubai Design District. Now in its third edition, the fair – which will run October 27 to 30 – will exhibit a carefully edited roster of established and emerging brands across a range of product categories; including furniture, lighting, bathrooms, kitchens, textiles and accessories.

Visit downtowndesign.com for more info.

This initiative will play a key role in DDW’s mission to provide a commercial platform for smaller, creative design brands from all over the world.

Destination will showcase innovative new talents from six global design week cities – Beijing, Helsinki, Istanbul, Melbourne, Mexico City and San Francisco – creating a unique cultural design exchange from around the world in Dubai. Each participating city is set to present a co-curated collection of three of their leading young brands to buyers, designers and visitors attending the event.

Global Grad Show

Installations

Visitors to the exhibition will have an unprecedented overview of what the world’s emerging designers are working on and a first glimpse at the technologies that will shape the future. Exhibits will include degree shows of the Royal College of Art, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); Keio University (Tokyo); National University of Singapore; Tsinghua University (China) and Hong Kong Polytechnic University. dubaidesignweek.ae.

DDW 2015 will commission a number of renowned designers and architects internationally, regionally and locally to create installations that will be placed in landmark locations around Dubai during the week.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Time Out

Mobius Design Studio

BUSINESS CLASS

READY FOR BUSINESS | CHECK-IN

Private jets on the increase

Luxury for all seasons

Qatar Executive has announced the expansion of its aircraft management business from its Doha hub, having added three owned jets to its fleet over the past 18 months. Now, aircraft owners can request for their jet to be rented to third parties when not in use, thereby generating revenue to offset the costs of ownership.

The private jet division of Qatar Airways, Qatar Executive provides tailored aircraft services to owners, including flight operation, trip planning, the allocation of highly experienced pilots and flight attendants, right up to the organisation of catering.

The Four Seasons will launch three hotels in the GCC in 2016, the luxury hotel group has announced. Joining next year’s Four Seasons Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island and Four Seasons DIFC (pictured) is Kuwait’s first FS property: Four Seasons Kuwait at Burj Alshaya. Located in the central business district, this 263room property will feature interiors by Yabu Pushelberg, as well as an indoor pool and spa and fitness complex. An Italian dining concept, plus a pan-Asian restaurant – both with outdoor terraces on the penthouse level – will be among five dining options.

+974 4010 0720 or email request@qatarexec.com.qa

fourseasons.com

READY FOR BUSINESS

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

A round up of the region’s latest travel offerings

In The Driver’s Seat

Business class (without breaking the bank)

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts in the UAE is now accepting bookings for its exciting new Driving Experience promotion, where guests can check-in to either the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah or Waldorf Astoria Ras al Khaimah, and receive access to a new Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini or Porsche for the day. Guests can choose between morning, afternoon or evening pre-arranged courses that will take them through some of the country’s most beautiful routes and historic landmarks.

Each driving experience will last around two-and-a-half hours.

There’s no doubt about it; flydubai’s business class offering is a complete game-changer for those looking to fly a little more comfortably for just a couple of thousand dirhams more than an economy ticket. As well as having access to dedicated checkin counters at Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport, travellers can also take advantage of priority immigration services and baggage collection. In flight, business class services include a dedicated cabin service, gourmet meals and comfortable leather seats.

You’ll arrive refreshed and ready for your day of business ahead.

waldorfastoria.com/drivingexperiences

flydubai.com/en/business

businessweekme.com

Keeping the Middle East’s most influential decisionmakers connected to the latest news and analysis they want—wherever they are, whenever they need it.

MAGAZINE AVAILABLE ON THE APP STORE OR PICK UP YOUR COPY AT ALL LEADING NEWSSTANDS AND BOOKSTORES. Pre-order your copy at subscribe@businessweekme.com / SMS subscribe +971 56 934 5398 facebook.com/Businessweekme • businessweekme.com

56

CHECK-IN: RAFFLES DUBAI

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

With its strategic location, fuss-free service and luxurious rooms, it’s little surprise that this Dubai hotel is a favourite for the business traveller | Rachel McArthur

57

HIGHLIGHTS

Pay a visit to these venues.

A

nother day, another new hotel opening… Or so it sometimes seems in the UAE. That’s how fast buildings appear to pop up out of nowhere in the country. After all, the Emirates is one of the hottest destinations in the region, pulling in millions of tourists and other travellers from all over the world.

And just look at the numbers. The National Council of Tourism and Antiquities forecasts that the tourism sector is set to contribute an impressive AED 130 billion to the national economy this year alone, thanks to inbound tourists expected to number 20 million. That’s a lot of hotel rooms to fill.

While there are plenty of new projects in the pipeline, there are also many hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond that have remained faithful to their customers over the years, never compromising on quality and service.

AZUR

� ESSENTIALS Getting there: Raffles Dubai is a 10-minute drive from Dubai International Airport. It is in close proximity to a number of landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall.

Location: Sheikh Rashid Road, near Wafi Mall Prices: As of this month, rooms start from AED 1,100 per night Booking info: Visit raffles.com/ dubai or call 800 1 723 3537

Opt for breakfast when choosing your room rate; the buffet at Azur is well worth the extra dirhams. Featuring an international selection of favourites – bread and pastries, egg station, sausages and more – along with Arab and Asian dishes, breakfast at Azur is the perfect start to the day.

TOMO This homegrown concept by renowned chef Takahashi has fast established itself as one of the best Japanese restaurants in the UAE. Here, sushi is ultimately the order of the day. The selection is vast and impressive.

RAFFLES DUBAI IS ONE OF THEM

A C C O M M O D AT I O N Here, the hotel rooms are spacious and stunning. Every signature room – available in twin or king bed options – with its modern

classic décor, features a generously-sized private balcony with views of the Dubai skyline and overlooks the outdoor swimming pool, which is on the fourth floor.

And the rooms mean business. There’s an ergonomic work station, as well as that all important tea/coffee maker, and alarm clock – and all stays come with free Wi-Fi. But there are plenty of fun elements as well, thanks to the inclusion of a massive flat-screen TV with satellite channels and minibar. The luxury bathroom features separate tub and rain shower areas, and for someone travelling heavy, the walk-in wardrobe could handle the wardrobe of a celebrity.

If you can, try and book a stay on a Thursday and stay for the weekend. The outdoor pool area with swim-up snack bar is one that shouldn’t be missed. Even in the summer heat, there’s plenty of shade to cover up and the water will keep you cool. The best part is that it’s open until 10pm, so there’s plenty of time to take advantage of the facilities.

Meeting friends? Raffles Dubai also offers day passes for visitors to the pool and fitness centre, which cost AED 250 per person.

SOLO BISTRONOMIA & VINO BAR A combination of bistro and gastronomia (gastronomy), this restaurant serves up homemade, family-style Italian dishes. All of the items on the menu – from the breads right through to sauces and pastas – are made in-house.

RAFFLES SPA With six treatment rooms, including a couple’s spa suite, choose from a wide range of treatments such as the signature Lotus Transformation or Enrich Indulgence and the decadent 24-Carat Egyptian Gold Facial.

Other treatments are also available.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

Since its opening in 2007, the luxury fivestar property has earned numerous hospitality awards and accolades, including the Best Hotel in the Middle East and North Africa, and one of the Top 100 Resorts in the World (both at the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards). Most recently, the hotel was named as the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice 2015 winner for Best Service, and currently ranks third out of all of the hotels in Dubai on the website.

So there’s no doubt the team behind the brand are doing something very right.

Located next to Wafi in the Dubai Healthcare City area of the emirate, Raffles Dubai couldn’t have chosen a better area for the business traveller. It’s not far from the airport – about a 10-minute drive away – but it’s also not far from business hub of Dubai. It takes 10 minutes to get to Downtown Dubai, for instance, and there are plenty of options in the Egyptian-themed hotel for when you have a little free time. Don’t believe us? There are seven restaurants and nightclub, a spa, and an outdoor swimming pool area and fitness centre.

JET SETTER

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AUTUMN GETAWAYS | MARVELLOUS MALDIVES | THE ETHICAL ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE

0 1 P TO Autumn

Relax and unwind in luxurious Rome Flight time: Approx. 6 hours With its rich history, beautiful scenery and worldfamous cuisine, Rome is the perfect city to experience la dolce vita or ‘the sweet life’. It’s an ethos embodied by the Rome Cavalieri, a stunning fivestar hotel located in a private 15-acre Mediterranean park. Relax in the luxurious spa, grand rooms kitted out with king-size ‘floating featherbeds’ and the three-Michelin starred restaurant La Pergola.

Starting from AED 885 per night romecavalieri.com

getaways

From family-friendly resorts to romantic city breaks, here’s our pick of destinations to inspire your mini-break ideas this season

A family-friendly city break in Lisbon Flight time: 8 hours Portugal’s capital is one of the most child-friendly destinations in Europe, with a wealth of attractions that includes Lisbon Zoo, a planetarium, football stadiums, beaches and national parks. Corinthia Hotel Lisbon makes the perfect base for sightseeing, and the hotel’s Bring the Kids Along package has a host of perks including in-room movies and cookies and milk for the kids before bedtime.

Starting from AED 4,000 per night corinthia.com

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

Experience Arabian hospitality in Abu Dhabi Flight time: 1-2 hours from rest of the GCC For UAE residents, a getaway doesn’t having to involve getting on a plane. The Emirates boasts plenty of five-star hotels, fine dining restaurants and world-class attractions right in its capital.

Why not check in at the elegant Southern Sun Abu Dhabi? Along with its luxurious facilities and discounted rates over Eid, there will also be an Arabian Opera themed feast.

Starting from AED 250 per night tsogosunhotels.com

TI M E O N YO U R S I D E bringing wonderful back into our lives. nurai, your private island resort.

beach retreats . beach villas . beach houses . water villas . beach estates

gps: 24° 36.880’, 54° 28.567’ t: +971 2 5066 222 e: reservations@nurai.com w: zayanuraiisland.com

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Romantic getaway in Borneo

A staycation at the Shangri-la Hotel Dubai Flight time: 1-2 hours from rest of the GCC The right staycation can provide all the luxury and experience of overseas travel, but without the hassle and expense of travel itself. Book into the renowned Shangri-La Hotel Dubai and you’ll experience true five-star luxury, as well a newfound appreciation for the city, with the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai right on your doorstep and just waiting to be explored. Make a reservation for dinner at The Act, a unique theatre and dinner show concept on the top level of the hotel.

Starting from AED 1,100 per night shangri-la.com

Flight time: Approximately 12 hours Few travel destinations can measure up to Borneo when it comes to exotic wildlife and beautiful scenery. You can experience both when you book a room at Gayana Eco Resort, a gorgeous hotel on a coral reel island off the coast of Borneo. The luxurious overwater villas, with their mountain views of Mount Kinabalu, make for an unforgettable stay. Until November 30, guests will receive half off their second and third night’s stay, with breakfast included.

Starting from AED 650 per night gayana-eco-resort.com

Have a romantic holiday in Kuwait Flight time: Approximately 1.5 hours Kuwait may not be the first country that springs to mind when you plan a romantic getaway, but in fact its luxury resorts are the perfect place to relax with a loved one. At the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa, you can opt for a special Romantic Stay package, which includes complimentary flowers and chocolates, a three-course meal for two in fine dining restaurant Salt, and access to the Talise Spa. Starting from AED 1,200 per night jumeirah.com

An island escape to the Philippines

Explore the great outdoors in Oman

Flight time: Approximately 9 hours There’s never been a better time to travel to the Philippines, thanks to a new Kids Go Free campaign for visitors from the Middle East. You can enjoy week-long stays at three, four and five-star hotels throughout the Philippines, and two children under the age of 11 get complimentary accommodation, activities, food and more. Try the Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa for a truly idyllic island escape.

Starting from AED 1,400 per night shangri-la.com

Flight time: Approximately 6.5 hours Bangkok is one of the most fascinating cities in Southeast Asia, and when time is short, you want to be in the heart of all the action. The Oriental Residence Bangkok is a stylish yet laid-back hotel in Bangkok’s bustling embassy and shopping district, with lavish rooms and a rooftop swimming pool. Families can make use of the Family Escape Promotion, which includes two nights in a twobedroom suite, breakfast at Café Claire and discounts on attractions.

Starting from AED 2,350 for a two-night package | oriental-residence.com

Flight time: Approximately 1 hour When it comes to family-friendly destinations in the GCC, the luxury hotels of Muscat provide an oasis of calm. The Millennium Resort Mussanah is one such hotel, with enough attractions to keep guests of all ages entertained – including five swimming pools, an outdoor fitness park and a spa. Opt for the Leisure for Longer package where you can enjoy 15% off the best available rate at time of booking, when you stay for four nights or more.

Starting from AED 400 per person sharing a double room | millenniumhotels.com

Experience a city break in Sri Lanka

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

Thai break on a budget

Flight time: Approximately 5 hours While many people who travel to Sri Lanka head straight for the beach resorts, there’s so much to discover in the capital city of Colombo. OZO Colombo makes a charming haven in the heart of the city with its cosy rooms, rooftop infinity pool and ocean views. Opt for the Glimpse of Colombo package and you can enjoy a bus tour of the city.

Starting from AED 520 per night ozohotels.com

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62

marvellous maldives

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

Overworked? Need to switch off and unwind? The perfect vacation is closer than you think. EL explores the stunning Baros Maldives Resort | Sue Abraham

T

hanks to the increasing number of flight routes from the GCC region, the Maldives is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations for those looking for a quick getaway. It offers great weather, stunning scenery, and is no longer reserved for honeymooners.

In fact, this tropical nation is known to offer options for travellers, including groups of friends; families with children; and even for corporations’ teambuilding retreats.

With the flight time averaging four hours from the UAE, the key to enjoying a quick holiday in the Maldives is to choose a resort that’s not too far from Male International Airport. Locals will always advise you to avoid any hotels that need to be reached by seaplane, as they will eat up your holiday time. Instead, opt for a location that can be reach by speedboat.

Baros Maldives fits the bill. Located 20 minutes away from the airport, this resort is the perfect option for the busy executive. Here, fun is restricted to grown ups only... the atmosphere is relaxing, the resort’s staff is discreet, and there’s always plenty of space at the beach – you’d be forgiven for feeling that you actually own the tiny island itself.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Getting there: Most major GCC airlines fly to Male. For the best value experience, flydubai offers business class flights from as little as AED 6,000 per person this month, and the carrier’s timings mean that you can arrive early in the morning to enjoy the day as fully as possible.

Location: Baros Maldives is located in Male City, which is approximately a 20-minute speedboat journey from Male International Airport. The resort offers transfers from and to the airport.

Prices: From $594 per night (excluding tax), inclusive of breakfast, and up until the end of October a 25% discount is available to all GCC nationals and residents booking direct.

Booking info: baros.com

THE VIP EXPERIENCE This five-star resort is home to 45 beachside and 30 water villas, all of which are beautifully designed using sandstone and timber to blend with the natural surroundings.

If possible, opt for a water pool villa, as they offer the ultimate privacy, not to mention stunning views.

Each water pool comes fitted with a private infinity swimming pool that overlooks the ocean, plus offers direct access to the sea via a deck. But that’s not all… from the veranda guests have direct access to the bathroom and bedroom areas.

FINDING NEMO The best thing about a Maldives getaway is that you can cater it to your needs… whether it’s for a weekend of fun with a friend, a relaxing romantic break for two or a family holiday, there are plenty of things to do. You just have to decide if you want to do them.

All the rooms at Baros feature a unique directory of things to do, along with an itinerary of what’s happening for the week ahead, so you’ll never be short of options.

But considering its stunning environment, most activities centre on diving and snorkelling or water sports.

The resort is home to not one but two marine hubs – fittingly named the Dive Centre and the Marine Centre – that are dedicated to sea exploration and other activities.

PADI-certified divers can take advantage of 30 worldclass dive spots, located a mere 50 minutes by boat. The Dive Centre also offers an eco diving experience.

But if you don’t fancy venturing far out, don’t fret, as you won’t be completely missing out thanks to the resort’s stunning house reef full of fascinating creatures that’s just a few strokes from the beach. All guests can borrow snorkelling gear for no additional cost, and the friendly marine biologists are on hand to guide you as to where the best snorkelling spots are. They’ve even named some of the turtles, so see if you can spot them!

At checkout, we noticed a number of awards that Baros Maldives has won over the past years, and it’s easy to see why. Simply put, the resort is spectacular and the only regret you’ll end up having is why you didn’t book more days off.

THE LIGHTHOUSE RESTAURANT Baros’s signature fine dining concept is located in an over-water pavilion with a white sail pinnacle roof, offering stunning views of the sea and entire resort. The dishes here are gorgeous and hearty… perfect for dinner.

CAYENNE For more casual dining, Cayenne serves up light lunch and interesting dinner options under the stars. Opt for the salad bar along with a main course of grilled fish. Or head to the teppanyaki table for a special meal of grilled meats and fish, cooked in front of your eyes.

ISLAND DINING Whether you’re looking for a private meal on the beach or an inroom dining experience, Baros offers customised island dining options. One not to miss is the Maldivian buffet, which takes place right by the beach.

THE SPA What’s a resort without its signature spa? Here, guests can take advantage of a whole host of treatments including massages, scrubs and wraps; couple treatments; signature experiences such as Ayurveda; and even yoga sessions.

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

� ESSENTIALS

64

the ethical elephant experience

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

Chiang Rai’s Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort works with foundations to help rescue elephants from Thailand’s city streets. Here’s what to expect at this fabulous getaway | Miranda Smith

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GETTING THERE Airline: All major airlines operating in the GCC – including Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Thai Airways – offer direct business class flights to Bangkok.

ACCOMMODATION Perched on a hilltop and designed in royal Thai Lanna style, 58 rooms and 19 suites overlook the misty hills of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, as well as the mighty Mekong and tranquil Ruak rivers. Each room and suite boasts a spacious balcony with a built-in sofa and stunning Golden Triangle views.

Vintage inspired interiors showcase the elegance of traditional Thai culture through the use of silks, local textiles and teakwood furniture, complemented by a host of modern amenities. The generous bathroom features a terrazzo bathtub for two and sliding glass doors that can be opened onto the bedroom so that guests can soak in complete privacy with a view of their breath-taking surrounds.

WALKING WITH GIANTS Set up in 2003 as a traditional mahout village, the elephant camp works alongside Anantara’s Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation to rescue street performing elephants, and provide a save haven for them.

In fact, the camp now supports more than 25 elephants and 60 people, and according to the resort, while all elephants receive the utmost care, the mahout (an elephant’s keeper) and his family receive food, free housing, medical insurance, schooling for their children, and 100% of the profits from a traditional silk weaving business.

In a natural extension of the regular ethical elephant activities, a new two-hour Walking with Giants experience has been introduced, offering a more personal and enriching encounter. This tour has been devised for guests looking to get to know the elephants better and develop a deeper emotional connection. Much more than simply a walk, it enables visitors to experience the natural joy of the elephants’ daily free roaming time. You can join the elephants on their daily stroll – accompanied by their mahout caregivers and either the camp’s resident vet or biologist – and then join them at the grasslands or forest, depending on the season, for further antics. Don't believe us? River bath time or playtime in the mud illustrates just how cheeky these cute creatures can be! Guests can also help prepare snacks for the elephants, as well as help with activities for their behavioural enrichment.

Location: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a scenic one-hour drive from Chiang Rai Airport. Feeling adventurous? Opt for the VIP Regal Elephant Arrival, where you’ll ride an elephant for part of the journey, trekking through the resort’s natural grounds, past bamboo trees and a lotus pond, before arriving at the lobby.

For more information, visit anantara.com.

North

RELAX AND UNWIND There are plenty of other activities to take part in. At Anantara Spa, guests can soak in a terrazzo bathtub on a private terrace with three country views, or hideaway in one of five teak wood suites, each featuring a shower, steam room, Thai massage platform and outdoor deck.

Budding culinary students, meanwhile, can sign up for a Thai Cooking Class. This richly interactive experience commences with a market tour, coffee with the locals, a temple offering and a breakfast picnic in the temple grounds. Returning to the resort, students tour the herb and vegetable garden, before cooking a series of authentic Thai dishes, guided by a master chef.

Heading to Thailand on business? While the luxurious natural retreat is an ideal venue for weddings and events, it’s also perfect for business as meetings can be combined with unique team building activities such as elephant polo. Beats the typical office party!

Central

West

East

South

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Business Class

W

ith social media raising awareness of the negative effects of animal tourism, more of us are turning to ethical experiences where animals are treated well and aren’t really removed from their natural environment. And where else is better to experience a day out with elephants than in a natural reserve in Asia?

Set amidst northern Thailand’s lush jungle and hill tribe culture, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is home to Asia’s premier elephant camp. Here, the gentle giants have room to roam around and play, thanks to over 160 acres of bamboo forest, rice paddy fields, countryside and indigenous gardens. The natural retreat resides in the heart of the Golden Triangle, which overlooks the fabled convergence of three countries and two rivers.

Making the most of the legendary setting, all guests receive access to the Discovery Package, which combines luxury accommodation, along with full board gourmet dining, and a daily choice of signature experiences.

Flight time: Approximately 7 hours, after which you’ll need to take a connecting 1 hour 20-minute flight to Chiang Rai using a local airline, such as Bangkok Airways or Thai Air Asia.

WEALTH Turkish delight

TURKISH DELIGHT

An increasing number of investors from the GCC are turning to Turkish real estate. Here’s why | Rachel McArthur

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Wealth

L

ooking to invest in the next best destination? It’s closer than you think. Turkey is fast emerging as one of the region’s top investment hotspots for GCC investors, and it’s easy to see why. In recent years, the country has strengthened its status as a top market for GCC nationals. Latest figures by the Turkish Consulate General Cultural and Information Office show that visitors exceeded 200,000 between last October and January, an increase of 39% compared to that of the previous year.

Moreover, analysts have highlighted Turkey as one of the most attractive real estate investment destinations in the region, thanks to its average GDP growth of 3.6% and

the tripling of the size of its economy to reach $813 billion in 2014.

Wouter Molman, director of Cityscape Group, explains: “Turkey is home to a young and fast growing population of 77 million residents, providing a solid foundation for its housing market.

“Istanbul in particular has seen its population expand consistently over the past few years, bringing with it an increased demand for homes within commutable distance to the bustling city.”

With a 55.6% year-on-year increase in property sales to foreigners in 2014, it’s no surprise that more Turkish companies are turning to the GCC market.

67

WHERE ELSE TO INVEST

Plenty of Turkish real estate developers are keen to attract GCC investors this year. Here are some of the top opportunities to look out for.

Renowned Turkish industrial conglomerate, Nurol Holding recently launched its real estate unit in the region. EL sat down with Nurol REIT’s Ceyda Carmikli to find out more about the investment opportunities available for GCC buyers.

Outside of real estate, are there any other attractive investment options?

While real estate is the most preferred one, Turkey is among the most advanced countries when it comes to finance and banking.

As a result, we’re witnessing a lot of collaborations in this area.

Due to our high population of skilled workers, we are also highly involved in other sectors, from automotive to electronics, and natural resources to agriculture.

But if you are not looking at joint ventures or partnerships, sole investors are predominantly interested in property due to the fact that it is a ready product that brings a significant return on investment (ROI) over the years.

Why is Turkey better than other markets at the moment?

The Turkish market has many advantages for GCC investors, such as the country’s growing economy as well as the rules and regulations, which enable foreign investors to purchase

from the country. Additionally, Turkey’s strategic geographical location – being close to the region and the similarities in culture – are among other advantages for GCC investors.

What tips do you have for investing?

Do your research and stick with recognised organisations when you are investing in property in Turkey. Consider the factors of lifestyle, location and type of the project, the city’s and country’s growth rate, and of course, the price of the property.

At Nurol, we believe each project should provide a balance of investors and end-users, to give it a healthy atmosphere. If the project is full of investors, that will affect the ROI of the property.

Any tips for beginners?

First, you have to decide on the type of investment you would like to go forward with.

Second, and in my opinion the most important step, is the research. Once you have decided your investment type consider the various finance options that will be the most suitable for your scenario. When it comes to the acquisition stage, visit the site and the organisation you are collaborating with. It is also essential to check the information from a legal perspective as well.

With the on-going political instability in the region, should investors be worried about any potential negative effects on investment?

When compared to other world economies, Turkey is recognised [as being] on the growing scale. When markets are stable, especially in metropolitan cities, then individuals are encouraged to invest in real estate properties with confidence. A stable economy means more investors and more investors stimulate growth.

Europe is so last year. Five of Turkey’s top real estate companies have partnered together to work on the increasingly popular Kartal Platform, which is offering real estate opportunities in the Kartal district of Istanbul.

With the Asian side of Istanbul set to become the financial hub of the city, more GCC investors – particularly those from Saudi Arabia – are turning to developments such as Kartal.

H. Inanc Kabadayi, chairman of the board of Ege Construction explains: “A few years back, foreign investors from the Middle East showed keen interest only in the European side of Istanbul, but returns on investments have considerably increased in the past few years in the Asian part of the city.”

Kartal Platform will exhibit its latest offerings at the upcoming edition of Cityscape Global, set to take place September 8-10 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

� NEW LIFE TURKEY

This consultancy focuses on properties in the area of Alanya on the Turkish Riviera.

Exhibiting at the last edition of Cityscape Abu Dhabi, general manager Wissam Abou Chahine revealed demand has been so high that they have even hired Arabic-speaking staff to help.

“In the last 12 months we’ve started to accommodate the Arabic market, and appointed a new Arabic-speaking team, specifically catering to the needs of the MENA region.

“Like fellow Turkish real estate developers, we have seen a fast evolution in the market and increased demand, allowing us to expand to countries like Oman, Tunisia and Algeria. We also plan to launch in Qatar and Kuwait in the very near future.”

� SPOT BLUE INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY

The UK-based real estate company is one of the best known for international investors looking to purchase property in Turkey.

The company focuses on Istanbul, Mugla, Antalya and Aydin, and its director, Julian Walker, explains why Turkey is so keen to attract GCC buyers.

“The Gulf-Turkish affair is gaining momentum.

[In April,] Istanbul hosted an investment summit during which Turkish President Abdullah Gul invited investors from Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE to come to Turkey.

“For Gulf investors, Istanbul is an attractive stepping stone between the East and West, as well as a place to be seen. Typical buy-to-let investments are in the $150,000 to $200,000 bracket.

“The market is moving quickly though. New apartments in prime areas of Beylikduzu that were on the market six months ago for $80,000 could be worth circa $100,000 once the development is completed later in the year.”

EXECUTIVE LIFE|Wealth

What are the most popular types of projects that GCC investors turn to?

The predominant investment type is the mixed-use project. As Nurol REIT, we are developing three mixed-use projects in Istanbul: Nurol Tower, Nurol Life and Nurol Park.

� KARTAL PLATFORM

THE FINAL PAGE

EXECUTIVE LIFE|The Final Page

Dubai

watch

The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority has partnered with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), for the inaugural Dubai Watch Week (DWW), the emirate’s first event dedicated to horology.

Taking place October 18 to 22, DWW 2015 will feature watch-making master classes conducted by some of the industry’s most respected watchmakers, a series of dis-

week

cussions by experts, and a dynamic exhibition of must-see timepieces.

“The appetite for greater insight into the world of watchmaking continues to grow exponentially in the Middle East, which has become a key export market during the last several decades,” said Abdulhamied Seddiqi, vice chairman of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons.

Visit dubaiculture.gov.ae

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