Durrah 60

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First Impression A word from the Editor-In-Chief

Editorial Editor in Chief

Khalid Ahmed Juman

Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji

Art Director Ronald Fuentes

Features Editor

Tariq Khonji

Editors Amy Vaya

Mohammed Hassan

Charlie Holding

Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor

Production

Production Support

Venkatesan J. S

IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE

PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555

It is with great pleasure and profound gratitude that I welcome you to the 15-year anniversary edition of Durrah magazine. This milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering the epitome of luxury lifestyle content to our discerning readership.

For a decade and a half, we have tirelessly strived to curate an unparalleled blend of fashion, art, travel, architecture, gastronomy, and all the elements that compose the tapestry of a luxurious lifestyle. This pursuit of excellence has allowed us to forge enduring relationships with the most influential figures, brands, and visionaries across various industries in the region. As we commemorate this significant milestone, we would be remiss not to express our sincere gratitude to our esteemed readers, loyal advertisers, and our dedicated team who have all played an integral role in our journey. It is through your unwavering support and shared passion for the finest things in life that Durrah has blossomed into the quintessential guide for luxury living.

Our 15-year anniversary edition delivers more of the quality that you have come to expect from Durrah. Banking takes center stage as Chief Customer Experience Officer at American Express Saudi Arabia, Nizar Abou Hassan reveals the impact of the Platinum Card® on Saudi Arabia’s flourishing premium segment. We discuss the surge in demand for cashless transactions with Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) General Manager, Dr. Adel Salem, and we delve into the unique features of the new KFHBahrain Wealth App with Executive Manager of Wealth Management and Private Banking at Kuwait

Finance House-Bahrain, Rashid Alkhan.

We also bring you more insights from the leaders of luxury lifestyle brands such as Tag Heuer Heritage Director, Nicolas Biebuyck; Van Cleef & Arpels International Marketing and Communication Director, Jean Bienayme; General Manager at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Slim Zaiane and many more.

We take a tour of Istanbul, courtesy of ShangriLa Bosphorus Istanbul Hotel, were we visit some of the iconic locations captured by the lens of famed Armenian and Turkish photojournalist, Ara Güler. And we celebrate more of the culture that the Turkish capital has to offer with Istanbul Modern Art, a prominent contemporary art museum that recently undergone a significant renovation and expansion, and a top destination for art enthusiasts worldwide.

Plus, we bring you the best that the world has to offer in exclusive destinations, coveted fashion collections, visionary architecture, the culinary delights that have tantalized the palates of the world’s connoisseurs, and much more.

Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey. Here’s to 15 years of Durrah, and to many more years of exquisite inspiration, luxury, and the art of living beautifully.

Enjoy your read!

COVER IMAGE

A prestigious legacy

DURRAH is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.

www.durrah.bh

e.mail: info@durrah.bh

June 2023 WELCOME
DURRAHMAGAZINE
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June 2023 012 CONTENTS CONTENTS Volume 15 Issue 04 Summer 2023 010 First Impression Editor’s Letter 016 A Historic Celebration The Coronation ceremony of His Majesty King Charles III 020 Powering the Next Generation The official inauguration of BAPCO energies 024 Legacy of Excellence Interview with National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) Chairman, Farouk Almoayyed 028 Unlocking Extraordinary Experiences Interview with American Express Saudi Chief Customer Experience Officer, Nizar Abou Hassan 030 Excellence in Customer Experience Interview with Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) General Manager, Dr. Adel Salem 032 Innovating Ethical Finance Interview with Executive Manager of Wealth Management and Private Banking at Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain,Rashid Alkhan 034 Endless Creativity Interview with Van Cleef & Arpels International Marketing and Communication Director, Jean Bienayme 036 Making History Tick Interview with Tag Heuer Heritage Director, Nicolas Biebuyck 040 Dubai’s Hospitality Gem Interview with Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates General Manager, Slim Zaiane 044 Durrah Celebrates 15 Years With its 60 th milestone issue 048 Eye of Istanbul Seeing Istanbul through the eyes of late artist Ara Güler 052 Sculpting Identities Interview with artist Jamal Alyousif 056 The Ultimate Art of Haute Joaillerie Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection 2023 020 016 034 052
060 Tribute to an Icon Boucheron’s Histoire de Style, Like a Queen collection 064 Stellar Success Qannati Objet d’Art’s award winning debut collection, “Celebration of Time” 068 Time Stamped with Emotion Rolex’ new versions of the Day-Date 36 070 Braver, Bolder, and Brighter The Unnamed Society’s Limited Edition of Winchester 072 Haute Horlogerie Watches for men 076 Elegant Timekeeping Watches for Women 080 Innovative Revamp Istanbul Modern Art Museum 084 Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men 088 Alluring Fragrances Perfumes for women 092 Beauty Trends The latest in luxury cosmetics 096 An Artistic Fusion Interview with artist Luigi Ballarin 100 Redefining Fashion Alexander McQueen’s Pre-Fall Winter 2023 Collection 102 A Basketful of Summer Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2023 Men’s Collection 104 Sartorial Excellence Dolce&Gabbana’s exclusive UAE collection 106 In Transit Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2023 Women’s Collection 108 Comfort and Class Ancient Greek Sandals’ first ever Bridal collection 110 Exquisite Style The latest in ladies’ brand name bags 114 Quality and Class The latest in high-end men’s shoes 068 096 108
June 2023 014 CONTENTS 212 142 118 Stepping in Style The latest in designer brand women’s shoes 122 Exquisite Splendor Majolica’s fine pottery 124 Boutique Experience Luxurious shopping destinations 138 The Best of Summe r The Bicester Collection 142 Iconic Experiences Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort 148 Redefining Hospitality The best hotels in the world 160 Serene Treatments The best spas in the world 172 Cultural Flavors Interview with Chef Fatih Tutak 176 Refined Taste Top dining locations 186 The Ultimate Jazz Experience The Jazz Club at Aman New York 188 From Dream to Reality Renowned shipyard and Ferretti Group brand, CRN 192 Cutting-edge Capabilities The new Range Rover Sport SV 194 Electrifying Experiences Genesis unveils Electrified G80, Electrified GV70, and GV60 198 Six Decades of Excellence 60th anniversary of Lamborghini 200 Driving In Style Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry 212 Must Haves for Men Luxury items for men 218 Must Haves for Women Luxury items for women 224 Final Pearl 49th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition 188 118
HAPPY SPORT

A HISTORIC Celebration

HM the King participated in the ceremony at the invitation of HM King Charles III. HM King Hamad congratulated HM King Charles III on the occasion, wishing him abundant health, happiness and continued success in leading the United Kingdom towards more progress, as well as in consolidating its pioneering role and the prestigious status it enjoys at the international level thanks to the leadership of the late HM Queen Elizabeth II.

HM the King affirmed that his participation in the Coronation ceremony embodies the solid deeprooted relations between the two friendly royal families and countries, as well as the distinction of their strategic ties and robust partnership that extend for more than 200 years of bilateral coordination, fruitful cooperation and constructive joint work in various fields.

HM King Hamad underlined his determination to continue working with HM King Charles III to further strengthen the distinguished relations between the two friendly kingdoms in order to serve their

interests and achieve the aspirations of their peoples.

HM King Charles III expressed thanks to HM King Hamad for attending the ceremony, appreciating HM’s congratulations and noble sentiments that embody the strength of relations between the two friendly kingdoms.

HM King Charles III wished HM King Hamad abundant health and wellness, and the People of Bahrain further progress and prosperity.

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, also participated in the enthronement ceremonies of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands in Amsterdam, and His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan in Tokyo.

HM the King’s Personal Representative, His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, also attended the inauguration ceremony of President Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia.

Royal.uk

June 2023 016 SPECIAL FEATURE
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, attended the Coronation ceremony of His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Head of the Commonwealth, held at Westminster Abbey Church.
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HM King Charles III wished HM King Hamad abundant health and wellness, and the People of Bahrain further progress and prosperity.

02 His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Head of the Commonwealth with Her Majesty the Queen consort 01 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa arrives at the coronation 02
June 2023 018 SPECIAL FEATURE
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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa with His Majesty King Charles III 04
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HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister with His Majesty King Charles III Part of the royal ceremony
June 2023 020 SPECIAL FEATURE
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“ Today is a historic day as we embark on writing a new chapter for the future of energy in the Kingdom of Bahrain. ”

Powering the Next Generation

His Royal Highness noted the importance of diversification and development of the Kingdom’s economy in accordance with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and in line with the Kingdom’s comprehensive development led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

His Royal Highness highlighted the importance of investing in the oil and gas sector, as well as strengthening initiatives that ensure sustainability, create opportunities for Bahraini citizens, and impact the development of vital sectors.

His Royal Highness commended the initiative to advance the oil and gas sector, specifically the efforts of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Oil and Gas Holding Company (Bapco energies), which has enhanced the sector’s competitiveness.

His Royal Highness expressed gratitude to Team Bahrain members for their vital role in meeting the sector’s ambitious aspirations. In this regard, HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister noted

the importance of using creative and innovative approaches in realising the Kingdom’s development objectives designed to benefit both present and future generations.

During the launch of Bapco energies, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa shared: “Today is a historic day as we embark on writing a new chapter for the future of energy in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Energy security is confronted with the realities of the world we live in and we need to implement a forward-thinking transition roadmap, mobilized by a diversified mix of energy sources, while ensuring we meet our climate action commitments.”

“With Bapco energies, we are evolving from a traditional oil and gas holding company into one that is innovative, progressive, open, ambitious, and will support us as we secure our energy future. Embracing renewable energy not only unlocks new investments, but also fuels innovation in financing, fosters collaboration among technology leaders, and creates economic

opportunities for the nation,” His Highness added.

Under Bapco energies, the existing operating companies, including Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), Bahrain National Gas Company (Banagas), Bahrain National Gas Expansion Company (Tawseah), Bahrain Aviation Fueling Company (BAFCO), Tatweer Petroleum, and Bapco Retail Company (Tazweed) will be integrated and rebranded into seven businesses over the next three years. The seven businesses include three new ventures focused on maximizing enterprise value through trading and investing in new technologies and renewables.

The inauguration was attended by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Oil and Gas Holding Company (Bapco energies), His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and

bapcoenergies.com

a number of other senior officials.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, inaugurated Bapco energies, the new brand identity of the Oil and Gas Holding Company, nogaholding.
02 HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister with HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa at the ceremony
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01 HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Oil and Gas Holding Company (Bapco energies) delivers a speech
June 2023 022
03 HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister and HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa with members of Team Bahrain Victorious 04, 05, 06
03 05 06 04 SPECIAL FEATURE
Some of the captivating entertainment at the ceremony
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01 June 2023 024 UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Legacy of Excellence

NBB RECENTLY WON THE ‘BEST RETAIL BANK IN BAHRAIN 2023’ AND ‘BEST APP FOR CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE IN MENA 2023’ AWARDS. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE BANK’S SUCCESS?

Our achievements can be attributed to several key factors. Driven by our brand promise, ‘Closer to You’, we have always placed a strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and innovative banking solutions. Our commitment to understanding and meeting our customers’ needs has been instrumental in creating a positive banking experience. Our continuous investment in technology and digital transformation has driven us to deliver convenient and user-friendly banking services through our award-winning app. The combination of personalized services and advanced technology has contributed immensely to our success in the retail banking sector.

NBB WAS ALSO RANKED FIRST IN THE MENA REGION FOR ITS ESG PERFORMANCE. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT

ABOUT THE ESG INITIATIVES THAT LED TO THIS ACHIEVEMENT?

The bank has proudly positioned itself as a leading organization in the ESG realm, largely supported by our extensive 3-year sustainability framework and our vision to enrich the lives of generations. Over the years, NBB has implemented various initiatives to promote sustainability, corporate governance, and social responsibility. These include adopting environmentally friendly practices, such as implementing a comprehensive environmental conservation plan and promoting energy efficiency through our range of products and services. We have also focused on creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and supporting community development through our philanthropic activities. Our strong ESG performance is a testament to our commitment to responsible banking practices and to give back to the community in which we operate.

NBB RECENTLY WELCOMED ITS NEW GROUP CEO, USMAN AHMED. DO YOU

EXPECT ANY CHANGES UNDER THIS NEW LEADERSHIP ?

We have the utmost faith in Usman’s capabilities and expertise, and we expect a positive shift and further strategic advancements under his leadership. He brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the organization. We anticipate that he will drive innovation, enhance customer experiences, and further strengthen NBB’s position as a leading bank in the region. We look forward to witnessing the bank’s future direction under his guidance.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES THAT NBB INTEGRATES INTO ITS OPERATIONS?

With the industry constantly evolving, integrating cutting-edge technologies has been a priority to ensure that we maintain high-quality operations at all times. We have implemented the latest innovations, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, and blockchain solutions, to enhance operational efficiency, improve risk management, and provide innovative products and services to our customers.

Chairman of the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Farouk Almoayyed, discusses factors contributing to NBB’s ongoing success, the Bank’s latest ESG initiatives, and its new leadership under Group CEO Usman Ahmed.
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Chairman of the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Farouk Almoayyed

By leveraging these technologies, we aim to stay ahead of the curve and offer the best-in-class banking experience to our customers.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE IN TRYING TO GROW THE COMPANY’S PRESENCE IN THE REGION AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO OVERCOME THEM?

Challenges are a prominent aspect when growing your organization’s presence in the region. NBB has encountered intense competition, regulatory changes, and evolving customer expectations. In order to overcome these challenges, the bank has adopted a more proactive approach by continuously innovating and improving our products and services. We invest in talent development and training to ensure our employees are equipped with the skills necessary to meet market demands. We also strive to maintain strong relationships with our customers and stakeholders, by seeking their feedback and understanding their individual needs.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF LEADERSHIP?

I believe that through a multi-faceted approach to leadership we can truly motivate and inspire our team to achieve excellence at all times. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, I encourage open communication, valuable teamwork, and empowerment within the organization. We lead by example and promote a culture of accountability and integrity that is rooted in our core values. A good leader guides the team by giving them the tools to grow and a clear direction to set the industry standard.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT STATE OF THE BAHRAINI

ECONOMY, AND HOW DO YOU SEE IT EVOLVING IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS ?

The Bahraini economy has shown resilience and positive growth in recent years. As it ventures into non-oil-based activities, the Kingdom has implemented several economic reforms and diversification strategies, which have helped attract investments and stimulate various sectors. In the next five years, the Bahraini economy will maintain its upward trajectory, driven by continued diversification, innovation, and a focus on emerging sectors such as fintech and tourism. Bahrain’s strategic geographic location, business-friendly environment, and commitment to economic development will further contribute to its growth.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS WHO ARE LOOKING TO VENTURE INTO THE BANKING INDUSTRY?

To our young, ambitious entrepreneurs, I urge you to strive for innovation. In a competitive industry, you need to identify the current gaps in the market and develop unique solutions that directly address your customers’ needs. Embrace technology and digital transformation by investing in the latest cutting-edge technologies that deliver seamless customer experience.

Since its inception, NBB has integrated customer-centricity across its business. As such, I encourage you to focus on building strong relationships with your customers and providing a suite of personalized services. Additionally, a commitment to responsible banking practices can fortify your position as a sustainable business owner, which will help build trust with your future customers and industry peers.

nbbonline.com

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
June 2023 026 03
Over the years, NBB has implemented various initiatives to promote sustainability, corporate governance, and social responsibility. ”

A TASTE OF JW MARRIOTT CANCUN RESORT & SPA

There is a Story behind every dish. Our Chefs inspiration comes from a fusion of local ingredients, new trends of modern and international cuisines

At JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa enjoy an extensive gastronomic experience crafted by our culinary team. Discover and unleash your strength with the soul through a culinary journey, every night for dinner our guests are invited to enjoy not just the best food bust also the best entertainment as at each dining option has a unique way to engage a memorable experience whatever you would be celebrating from a romantic getaway, family reunion or friends scape to paradise. We proudly present 4 Specialty Restaurants:

The Bravio menu will showcase an experience rooted in authentic Spanish traditions and culture, while incorporating a modern twist. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the finest culinary experience, complemented by modern and innovative mixology. Be Brave. Be Strong. Be Bravío. Inside Bravío you will also discover La 16, the first and only Speakeasy at JW Marriott Cancun. La 16, named after Mexico’s independence. On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo called the town of Dolores to rise up in arms against the viceroyalty of New Spain. Every year, the entire country becomes the biggest celebration to commemorate the anniversary of the Independence of Mexico. Gustino derives from the Latin word “Justinus” which means fair and honest. Serves authentic Italian food with fresh and seasonal flavors in a lively and welcoming atmosphere “Sasi Thai ” in thai means “The restaurant sunset”. Offers a modern culinary style, based on Thai cuisine specialties highlighting an exclusive environment with authentic bungalows where you will enjoy the best sunset view in Cancun.

The only thing left to do is toast to it all with creative craft cocktails offerings from the JW Lobby Bar’s that features a 150 Margaritas menu, carefully curated by our mixologists. All our Restaurants are open daily from 5:30Pm to 11:00PM, reservation can be done on site with our Concierge Team, we look forward welcoming you in a new future at our Resort. More details and information: mhrs.cunjw.concierge@marriott.com.

Unlocking Extraordinary Experiences

With 20 years of experience in the payment industry, Nizar Abou Hassan plays a pivotal role in identifying opportunities, developing partnerships, and implementing initiatives to enhance the wide range of products and services offered by one of the Kingdom’s leading players in the sector. Durrah Magazine had a one-on-one with Abou Hassan to explore the impact of the Platinum Card® on Saudi Arabia’s flourishing premium segment and how its members’ experiences in air travel, fine dining, and world-class shopping have now been transformed.

THE PLATINUM CARD® HAS UNDERGONE A COMPLETE REVIVAL RECENTLY, WITH NEW BENEFITS AND A SLEEK METAL DESIGN. HOW DO THESE CHANGES REFLECT THE GROWING NEEDS OF THE AMERICAN EXPRESS SAUDI ARABIA CUSTOMER BASE?

American Express Saudi Arabia, through the Platinum Card® and the entirety of our card portfolio, is keeping pace with evolving consumer trends the affluent segment in particular... The Kingdom’s new lifestyle dynamic and market landscape shifts are other significant factors. The Platinum Card®, with its unique metal design, meets the demanding lifestyle needs of our customers, offering enhanced benefits and rewards for the most exclusive experiences locally and globally. Those include a wide array of airlines, airport lounges, hotels, and dining programs and value benefits. In addition, the Platinum Card proposition is supported by a 24/7 concierge service.

IN SUCH A COMPETITIVE AND DYNAMIC MARKET, HOW DOES THE PLATINUM CARD® DIFFERENTIATE ITSELF FROM OTHER PREMIUM OPTIONS AVAILABLE IN SAUDI ARABIA?

Throughout the years, the brand has always given special attention to the premium segment, with American Express Saudi Arabia being a key player in this space. Sustaining and reinforcing our position in this segment has always been a top priority. The Platinum Card® sets itself apart by offering a combination of valued benefits, exclusive rewards, and personalized service. Our partnerships, through the International Airline Program, with renowned airlines such as British Airways, Emirates Airlines, SAUDIA, and Qatar Airways provide our Cardmembers with special offers, complimentary upgrades, and exclusive airfares. Additionally, access to over 1,300 airport lounges in more than 600 cities worldwide is made available through the complimentary Priority Pass Membership. This includes the American

Express global lounge collection, which features notable lounges such as the Delta Sky Club® lounge, American Express® Lounge, and The Centurion® lounge, offering a diverse range of luxurious options. The Fine Hotels and Resorts service provides early check-in and guaranteed late check-out at over 1,800 hotels around the world. Cardmembers are also granted benefits and upgrades across leading chains such as Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton, Radisson, and others. In addition to our international programs, American Express Saudi Arabia has collaborated with local brands to deliver great offers and benefits tailored to meet the needs of our Platinum Cardmembers. Those benefits cover different sectors such as retail, dining, entertainment, and other dedicated Cardmembers’ activities. Through American Express Saudi Arabia’s agreements with financial entities such as the Al Rajhi, Saudi National Bank and Riyad Bank and others, we have been working closely to expand our merchants’ acceptance which has a coverage of 75% of the market reach,

June 2023 028 UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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American Express Saudi Arabia Chief Customer Experience Officer, Nizar Abou Hassan

particularly for everyday spending. As of early 2023, the number of ATMs available to our card members has surpassed 3,500 across Saudi Arabia.

THE PLATINUM CARD® CONCIERGE SERVICE IS AVAILABLE 24/7, OFFERING ROUND-THE-CLOCK ASSISTANCE TO CARDMEMBERS IN SAUDI ARABIA. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT HOW THIS SERVICE ADDS VALUE AND ENHANCES THE OVERALL PLATINUM EXPERIENCE?

American Express Saudi Arabia’s concierge team comprises dedicated Platinum Account Managers who are truly our heroes. These seasoned professionals are dedicated to going above and beyond in assisting our Cardmembers, ensuring their needs are met while delivering outstanding experiences whether locally or abroad. As our Cardmembers’ needs are constantly evolving, the Platinum team is always available, 24/7, to assist with fine dining reservations, curated travel experiences, and personalized recommendations. This commitment to service excellence remains a top priority as we strive to fulfill our mission: to become essential to our customers by providing differentiated products and services that help them achieve their aspirations.

ASIDE FROM THE CARD’S IMPRESSIVE AIR TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY PERKS, WHAT OTHER ADVANTAGES CAN CARDMEMBERS IN SAUDI ARABIA BENEFIT FROM THROUGHOUT THEIR TRIPS?

Aside from the exclusive air travel and hospitality benefits offered by the Platinum Card®, Cardmembers can benefit from a range of additional advantages throughout their trips. One notable advantage is its car rental feature. With The Platinum Card®, renting a car while abroad becomes incredibly hassle-free. Cardmembers can enjoy increased savings on car rentals worldwide and receive exclusive monthly offers from Avis, SIXT, and Hertz. Beyond travelspecific benefits, we have curated an exceptional shopping experience through partnerships with various renowned luxury brands and destinations. Moreover, we are excited to offer complimentary platinumtier access to FARFETCH’s loyalty program, allowing customers to explore one of the world’s number-one luxury product platforms with ease. Additionally, our exclusive local dining programs allow travelers to enjoy complimentary drinks, secure same-day reservations, and receive exclusive dining benefits. Cardmembers can enjoy total peace of mind while traveling, thanks to the comprehensive coverage provided by Platinum travel insurance. This coverage extends to unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, alleviating the stress and anxiety that can come with travel. Additionally, Cardmembers have access to 24/7 travel assistance services that offer a sense of comfort and reassurance while abroad. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Platinum travel insurance can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. americanexpress.com

EXCELLENCE IN Customer Experience

Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) General Manager Retail Banking, Dr. Adel Salem reveals details about the Bank’s credit cards, the surge in demand for cashless transactions, and BBK’s unwavering commitment to customer service.

WHY DID BBK DECIDE TO INTRODUCE A NEW RANGE OF CREDIT CARDS?

BBK’s decision to introduce a new range of credit cards stems from our unwavering commitment to continuously enhance our services and meet the evolving needs of our customers. We place great importance on actively listening to our customers and ensuring that their needs are effectively addressed. In response to the growing demand for credit cards among our customers, we have taken the initiative to offer a wide range of credit cards. Our goal is to provide our customers with a comprehensive and diverse selection of financial products and services that cater to their individual requirements.

WHAT FACTORS LED BBK TO BELIEVE THAT THIS WAS THE RIGHT TIME TO INTRODUCE NEW CREDIT CARDS?

In response to the significant surge in demand for cashless transactions, both during and after the pandemic, BBK promptly introduced its range of credit cards. With the introduction of these credit cards, we now offer our customers the convenience of instant credit facilities solely using their cards, along with numerous additional benefits. By recognizing the need for accessible and efficient cashless transactions, we believe that this is the ideal time to provide our customers with an enhanced credit card offering.

THE BANK INTRODUCED THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CREDIT CARDS AND EACH TYPE HAS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT FEATURES AND REQUIREMENTS. WHAT IS THE UNDERLYING CONCEPT BEHIND THIS DECISION?

This strategic decision was made based on a thorough understanding of our customers’ needs, with careful consideration given to their specific requirements and profiles. We have effectively segmented our customer base and designed each credit card to precisely align with their unique lifestyles, preferences, and demands. By offering a range of credit cards with distinct features and requirements, we aim to cater to a diverse range of customer preferences and provide tailored financial solutions that best suit their individual circumstances.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BANK’S DIGITIZATION EFFORTS TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE?

BBK has rolled out many initiatives as part of its digitization efforts which have significantly improved customer experience. These include the opening of accounts digitally via the BBK Mobile app, opening of 5 digital branches (BBKPLUS), a new website, the BanKey corporate app, in addition to Ask BBK service, and self-service machines. Moreover, the Bank launched the Apple Pay service and introduced Samsung Wallet as well as enabling payments through Fitbit Pay and Garmin Connect services. BBK also launched BBK Virtual, a virtual reality experience through the Metaverse, making it the first bank in Bahrain to launch this service.

HOW HAS THE SHIFT TOWARDS DIGITIZATION REFLECTED ON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE?

With the Bank embracing numerous digital transformation initiatives, we have managed to cultivate long-term positive relationships and

experiences with our customers by delivering convenience, speed, security, accessibility, and expanded offerings. We regularly monitor customer satisfaction through our “Your Voice Matters” survey and assess customer feedback and recommendations. For instance, one of the many customer recommendations implemented, the Bank recently enabled the feature of receiving OTPs on international numbers. Moreover, as a result of all the efforts to encourage customers to utilize our digital channels, we noticed a large uptake of transactions conducted online versus transactions conducted in-branch. In 2022, we saw 77% of all transactions were conducted over digital channels. We expect the usage of digital channels to increase during the year 2023.

WHAT DISTINGUISHES THE BBK CREDIT CARDS FROM THOSE AVAILABLE AT OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN BAHRAIN?

BBK credit cards offer a wide range of advantages that set them apart from those available at other financial institutions in Bahrain. These advantages include complimentary access to airport lounges and the option to participate in the Equal Payment Program, which enables customers to convert any transaction into equal installments spanning a maximum of 24 months. Additionally, customers can earn loyalty points with every purchase, make cash withdrawals of up to 50% of their credit limit, acquire supplementary cards for immediate family members, and enjoy many other attractive features offered by BBK or any of its business partners. We strive to provide a comprehensive and rewarding credit card experience that goes beyond standard offerings in the market.

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DOES THE BANK OFFER ANY LOYALTY POINTS TO REWARD CUSTOMERS FOR USING BBK CREDIT CARDS?

BBK takes pride in its loyalty program, “Thameen,” which serves as a token of appreciation for our esteemed customers. Through this program, our valued customers earn points for every purchase made using their credit cards. These points can be redeemed for an array of rewards, including enticing options such as cashback and air miles points. We believe in recognizing and rewarding our customers’ loyalty and ensuring their credit card experience is both fulfilling and beneficial.

WHAT OTHER BENEFITS WILL BBK CREDIT CARDHOLDERS ENJOY?

As a BBK credit cardholder, you will enjoy a host of significant advantages, notably through our widely acclaimed Equal Payment Program, available with numerous retailers both within Bahrain and across the globe. This program boasts a highly sought-after feature, “Buy Now, Pay Later.” It empowers you to conveniently cover any local or international transactions worth BD100 or more in convenient installments, spanning a maximum period of 24 months. Currently, we have forged collaborations with esteemed retailers such as iWorld, the authorized distributor of Apple products, GIG insurance group, Extra, and YK Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan and Infiniti). Furthermore, we are continuously expanding our network of partners, and more details will be unveiled in due course.

bbkonline.com

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01 General Manager Retail Banking, BBK- Dr. Adel Salem
“ BBK credit cards offer a wide range of advantages that set them apart from those available at other financial institutions in Bahrain. ”

Innovating Islamic Finance

Executive Manager of Wealth Management and Private Banking at Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain, Rashid Alkhan

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE NEW KFHBAHRAIN WEALTH APP? WHAT ARE ITS MAIN FEATURES?

The KFH-Bahrain Wealth App is a dedicated wealth management application that provides our clients with a comprehensive overview of their investments, accounts, cards, and financings, all on one convenient platform. What sets this app apart from our original version, which catered to retail clients, is its focus on managing client portfolios in an easy and intelligent manner. It created a personalized journey for our valued wealth management clients enabling them to manage virtually all their assets on a single platform. The new app offers a consolidated view of all client holdings, including accounts, time deposits, sukuk investments, instant reports and more. This information is readily available as a snapshot summary easily accessible at their fingertips. Additionally, the app delivers notifications to alert users about new investment opportunities. It also simplifies zakah calculations, which was previously a manual task many clients found challenging; Zakah calculations are now calculated automatically. We have a strong pipeline of new features which will be launched soon and are excited about expanding the app’s services.

IN 2022, YOU LAUNCHED KFHB WEALTH AS A DIGITAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT PLATFORM. HOW WOULD YOU EVALUATE ITS PERFORMANCE THUS FAR?

We have received excellent feedback regarding the performance of KFHB Wealth since its launch. A majority of our investors are actively using the platform. They are processing all their banking needs in addition to viewing their investments in one place. Moreover, we recently partnered with Beban to host their crowdfunding platform on the KFH-Bahrain Wealth App. Beban is a subsidiary of Hope Fund, a fund established by a Royal Decree with the vision to invest in local entrepreneurs who are looking to develop, grow or expand their business ideas with the goal to spur a culture of entrepreneurship amongst the community. Through this partnership our clients and investors can access through the app various investment opportunities in the region in a seamless manner. The investment process is straightforward, and individuals can start investing even with small amounts. There has been a significant surge in users, not only from our existing bank clients but also from retail customers who aspire to invest in and support these projects.

WHAT STRATEGIES DOES KFH-BAHRAIN EMPLOY TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN HIGHNET-WORTH INDIVIDUALS (HNWI) AS CLIENTS?

KFHB Wealth Management has become a trusted name in the market with an extensive network of clients. Being one of the early movers in this space, overall portfolio and assets-undermanagement have been growing steadily over

the years with high investment volumes. Our approach revolves around continuously introducing innovative products, services, and solutions for our clients. We have offered a unique suite of products and services that are in line with clients’ return expectations, liquidity needs, and risk profiles. We benchmark ourselves against renowned international banks, aiming to provide services that exceed our clients’ expectations within our region. In addition to proprietary products, we actively seek partnerships with specialized managers which enables us to offer our clients access to the best-in-class opportunities in various sectors and geographies worldwide.

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE WHEN IT COMES TO ASSESSING AND MANAGING INVESTMENT RISKS FOR CLIENTS?

As we serve a diverse clientele, including seniors, retirees, doctors, youth, family offices, and institutions, each client possesses a unique risk profile, liquidity needs, and return expectations. Some clients possess more sophistication in financial matters, while others may require more guidance. Raising awareness about investment risks and educating clients is an integral part of the business. It is crucial for us to provide detailed and documented information to ensure clients fully understand their investment decisions and feel comfortable with them. Transparency and honesty are of utmost importance to us, as our clients place their trust in us.

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delves into the unique features of the new KFH-Bahrain Wealth App and the bank’s vision for expanding its global reach.

WHAT MEASURES DOES KFH-BAHRAIN HAVE IN PLACE TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH WEALTH MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS IN THE KINGDOM?

Full compliance with regulatory and industry requirements are ensured at times by the internal Compliance and Risk Management teams. They ensure adherence to applicable laws, oversee various aspects of risk management, and put into effect the necessary procedures and mechanisms required to comply with the applicable standards, and regulations. As a bank, we maintain internal controls regarding exposure limits, financing amounts, and financing rates provided to clients. These decisions undergo review by committees and adhere to both our internal policies and those set by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE EVOLUTION OF THE WEALTH MANAGEMENT SECTOR IN THE FUTURE?

The wealth management sector is experiencing exciting innovations globally such as robo-advisory and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for asset allocation strategies. Many discussions revolve around how these technologies will revolutionize the industry. However, we believe that they will not entirely replace traditional practices. For instance, in terms of relationship management, maintaining a human connection with clients remains crucial. Clients still value personal interactions with professionals who understand their needs and still prefer to engage with them in a personal manner. Building trust through these human connections plays a vital role that cannot be fully replaced by technology.

For more information call 77 000 500

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01 Executive Manager of Wealth Management and Private Banking, Rashid Alkhan

ENDLESS CREATIVITY

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS IS A BRAND WITH A RICH HISTORY AND HERITAGE. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE BRAND’S JOURNEY AND HOW IT HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?

Van Cleef and Arpels was founded in 1906 by Alfred Van Cleef and his brother-in-law, Charles Arpels. Van Cleef & Arpels has oft turned to nature as an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Enthralled by the constant metamorphoses of flora and fauna, the Maison creates pieces that echo the blooming of flowers and the lushness of gardens. Over the years, they developed new techniques and created milestone pieces like the mystery setting technique in 1933, transformable pieces, and the iconic Alhambra design in 1968. Their expertise and innovative techniques have allowed them to continually expand their collections and client base.

WHAT INSPIRED THE CREATION OF THE ICONIC ALHAMBRA COLLECTION, AND WHAT MAKES IT SO ENDURINGLY POPULAR?

The Alhambra design was created in 1968 and is instantly recognizable. It celebrates daytime jewelry, which was not the norm at the time, and is a symbol of good luck with its clover shape.

Using new materials, the Maison has reinvented the design over the years while still preserving its original character.

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS IS KNOWN FOR ITS INTRICATE AND BEAUTIFUL PIECES OF JEWELRY. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE PROCESS OF CREATING A PIECE, FROM THE INITIAL IDEA TO THE FINISHED PRODUCT?

At the heart of Van Cleef and Arpels is its identity, which is reinforced through its heritage, expertise, positive vision of life, protection of nature, and artistic approach. The inspiration comes from the brand’s patrimony, with a focus on nature, as well as meeting the highest criteria in terms of stone selection.

HOW DOES VAN CLEEF & ARPELS ENSURE THAT IT MAINTAINS ITS STANDARDS OF QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP IN EVERY PIECE IT PRODUCES?

Van Cleef and Arpels not only maintains its quality standards but continually improves upon them. The techniques used today are significantly better compared to 40 years ago. We have our own stone department, which inspects and selects each stone. Using new enamel techniques, we

create new colors and tell unique stories with every piece.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF MARKETING A LUXURY BRAND LIKE VAN CLEEF & ARPELS IN TODAY’S WORLD?

The jewelry and watchmaking industry is highly competitive, but Van Cleef and Arpels stays true to its identity and inspiration. We stay creative. We truly believe that as long as the brand maintains its authenticity, it will continue telling its endless creation story.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE FROM VAN CLEEF & ARPELS IN THE FUTURE, IN TERMS OF NEW COLLECTIONS OR EXCITING PROJECTS?

Van Cleef and Arpels has many exciting projects in the pipeline, including ones focusing on new automation techniques and complicated pieces. We have a new Lady Féerie watch coming in September, which features a fairy holding a magic wand that indicates the minutes, enamel setting, and rubies and sapphires.

vancleefarpels.com

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Van Cleef & Arpels International Marketing and Communication Director, Jean Bienayme shares insights into the rich history of the brand, its iconic designs, and its commitment to innovation.
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The inspiration comes from the brand’s patrimony, with a focus on nature, as well as meeting the highest criteria in terms of stone selection. ”

Making History Tick

AS THE HERITAGE DIRECTOR OF TAG HEUER, WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN THE BRAND’S HISTORY, AND WHY?

As the Heritage Director of TAG Heuer, I consider the most significant milestone in the brand’s history to be when Jack Heuer joined the family business in 1958. Jack Heuer was the fourth generation of the family to work in the organization, and he was highly educated, having studied at ETH in Zurich. He also had a great sensitivity for design, which he had developed even before joining the company. His first job was to set up the company’s subsidiary, HeuerTime Inc., in Manhattan, where he observed the American advertising industry, fashion, and music. He launched several iconic models, including the Autavia in 1962, the Carrera in 1963, the Monaco in 1969, and the Camaro in 1968, among others. He also introduced courts and high-precision electronic timekeeping to the brand. During his 20-year tenure, he laid the foundation for the company’s direction and collections.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE DESIGN OF THE CARRERA CHRONOGRAPH LEGEND?

Regarding the Carrera Chronograph Legend, the design inspiration was driven by Jack’s focus on readability and legibility. The dial has minimal text, featuring only the model name and make, and where it was produced. The Carrera Chronograph Legend also features other elements, such as the date complication and the reverse panda dials. The solid gold Carreras provided to Ferrari drivers are also an iconic feature.

HOW HAS THE BRAND MANAGED TO MAINTAIN ITS TIMELESS ELEGANCE OVER THE YEARS, AND WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS IT APART FROM OTHER LUXURY WATCH BRANDS?

TAG Heuer’s timeless elegance is maintained through its philosophy of innovation, design, and connection to motorsports. The Carrera is an excellent example of the brand’s innovation, from its design and engineering to the Carrera Plasma,

which was launched last year and continued this year. The brand’s connection to motorsports has been evident throughout its history, from timing partners for Scuderia Ferrari in the 1970s to its present partnership with Porsche and Redbull.

TAG HEUER HAS A LONG-STANDING CONNECTION WITH MOTORSPORTS. CAN YOU SHARE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE OR MOMENT WHERE THE BRAND’S RACING SPIRIT WAS ON FULL DISPLAY?

TAG Heuer’s connection with motorsports has been a cornerstone of our brand’s history. We have had many memorable moments that highlight our racing spirit, but a few stand out. Firstly, from 1971 to 1979, we were the timing partners for Scuderia Ferrari. During this time, we set ourselves apart from other luxury brands by sponsoring a racing car and having ambassadors, which was a first at the time. Later, in 1986, Mansour Akram Ojjeh of the TAG Group purchased TAG Heuer. This investment brought us even closer to the world of motorsports, especially Formula One, due to our relationship

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Tag Heuer Heritage Director, Nicolas Biebuyck on the brand’s most significant milestones, inspiration behind the design of the Carrera Chronograph Legend, and timeless elegance over the years.
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01 The Carrera Chronograph Glassbox
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02 Tag Heuer Heritage Director, Nicolas Biebuyck

with the McLaren team. This partnership lasted until 1999 and further cemented our commitment to motorsports. From 1992 to 2004, we served as the official timekeeping partners of Formula One, which was a huge honor for us. This role allowed us to be an integral part of the sport, and we were able to contribute to its growth and success. Today, we continue to be a part of the motorsports world, partnering with Porsche and Redbull. Throughout our company history, TAG Heuer has always been about motorsports, and it’s a passion that we will always carry with us.

THE CARRERA CELEBRATED ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY RECENTLY. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS MODEL FOR THE BRAND, AND HOW IT HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?

The Carrera is a significant model for TAG Heuer, having celebrated its 60th anniversary recently. Although introduced in 1963, its codes were in place in the 1950s. The Carrera was in production until 1984 but was relaunched in 1996 as a heritage design model. In 2004-2005, there was a massive design uplift for the collection, which ushered it into the modern era. Today, it’s one of the most identifiable and loved collections.

HOW DOES THE BRAND APPROACH INNOVATION WHILE STILL STAYING TRUE TO ITS CORE VALUES AND IDENTITY?

Innovation has always been part of TAG Heuer’s history, with several key innovations over its 160 years. Examples include the hermetically sealed pocket watch in 1884, the oscillating pinion for the chronograph in 1887, and the timer trip dashboard times in 1911. The brand also introduced the micrograph, the first watch timed to one one-hundredth of a second, in 1916, and the microtimer, the first one one-thousandth of a second timing device, in 1966. The brand continues to innovate today with plasma and innovative complications in the 2010s. Innovation is part of the brand’s DNA, and it remains true to its core values and identity.

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tagheuer.com 03 Carrera Chronograph Automatic, 42 mm, Steel
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TAG Heuer’s timeless elegance is maintained through its philosophy of innovation, design, and connection to motorsports. ”
Licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional retail bank 17 500 600 www.bbkonline.com Apply today and get ready for a world of possibilities. We complete your world Get your BBK Credit Card today!

Dubai’s Hospitality Gem

With mesmerizing views of Ski Dubai and seamless connection to the Mall of the Emirates, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates stands out with its commitment to personalized service, exceptional dining experiences, and sustainable practices. Slim Zaiane, General Manager at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates reveals what makes the iconic property a true treasure in Dubai’s hospitality landscape.

THE KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES IS KNOWN FOR ITS LUXURIOUS AMENITIES AND PRIME LOCATION. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY FEATURES THAT MAKE THIS PROPERTY STAND OUT?

At the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, our exceptional experience is defined by luxurious amenities and a prime location. With easy access to Ski Dubai and the Mall of the Emirates, guests enjoy convenience at their fingertips. Our elegantly designed rooms and Aspen Chalets offer stunning views, while our award-winning dining caters to diverse palates. The Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers top-notch amenities, such as a cutting-edge fitness center, a luxurious spa, and a refreshing swimming pool, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience during your stay. The hotel also provides a private cinema by VOX with a seating capacity of 15, creating an ideal setting for intimate gatherings and exclusive events. Guests can enjoy a hushed, monastic and completely customizable spa experience at SENSASIA Stories Spa, which is operated by the largest independent, multi award-winning spa group in the UAE. Situated in the heart of Dubai, adjacent to the Mall of the Emirates, we provide easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as popular attractions like the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.

THE KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES IS HOME TO A VARIETY OF HIGH-END DINING OPTIONS. CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR RESTAURANTS ON THE PROPERTY?

The dining options available at our hotel are a standout feature that our guests truly appreciate. We take pride in offering a wide variety of award-winning restaurants that cater to diverse palates. Some of our most popular choices include Salero Tapas & Bodega, where guests can savor traditional Spanish tapas in a vibrant atmosphere with live music and dancing.

Olea offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes with stunning skyline views from its outdoor terrace. Aspen by Kempinski is a chic lounge that exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy mountain lodge. Here, guests can indulge in a timeless afternoon tea experience, enhanced by the presence of a tea sommelier, adding a distinctive touch to their enjoyment. Hailing from London, our tea taster has over 10 years of experience and can help you pick the right tea. Lastly, Mosaic Chill provides a poolside dining experience with refreshing cocktails and scenic skyline views in a lush setting. We are also preparing to launch two brand new restaurants by the end of the year.

HOW DO YOU AND YOUR TEAM ENSURE THAT GUESTS HAVE A MEMORABLE AND PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE DURING THEIR STAY AT THE HOTEL?

Our team at the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates takes great pride in delivering personalized service that exceeds expectations. From the moment guests arrive, we strive to understand their preferences and cater to their needs throughout their stay. With bespoke amenities and services tailored to individual requirements, we aim to provide an unforgettable experience. Our well-trained team anticipates guests’ needs and proactively offers personalized recommendations. Our commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail consistently earns high praise from guests, setting us apart from other hotels.

THE HOTEL HAS A UNIQUE FEATURE - SKI DUBAI. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT HOW THIS ATTRACTION FITS INTO THE HOTEL’S OVERALL STRATEGY AND HOW IT ENHANCES GUESTS’ EXPERIENCES?

Ski Dubai, the indoor ski resort, is a key selling point that sets our hotel apart. It offers guests a unique and memorable experience, allowing them to hit the slopes just steps away from the hotel. This

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01
01 Slim Zaiane, General Manager at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

aligns with our strategy of providing diverse activities and attractions for our guests, complementing the offerings of the Mall of the Emirates. Ski Dubai also provides a refreshing escape from Dubai’s hot climate, offering a convenient and accessible way to enjoy the outdoors within the comfort of our hotel.

SUSTAINABILITY AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM ARE INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. WHAT MEASURES HAS THE KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES TAKEN TO REDUCE ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?

We actively implement various measures to reduce our environmental impact. This includes using energy-efficient lighting, installing lowflow showers and toilets, implementing recycling programs, and minimizing the use of single-use plastics. Guests are encouraged to participate in these initiatives through the provided information on energy-saving and water conservation practices. We also prioritize sustainable food and

beverage practices by sourcing from local and sustainable suppliers, offering vegetarian and vegan options, and minimizing the environmental impact of transportation while supporting the local economy. Additionally, our hotel engages with the local community by supporting charities and organizations, sponsoring events, and providing guests with opportunities to participate in cultural experiences. We are dedicated to making a positive impact both within and beyond our hotel premises.

WITH DUBAI BEING A POPULAR DESTINATION FOR BOTH LEISURE AND BUSINESS TRAVELERS, HOW DO YOU CATER TO THE DIVERSE NEEDS OF THESE TWO GROUPS?

Our facilities and amenities are designed to support the productivity of business travelers, offering high-speed internet access and meeting rooms. For leisure travelers, we provide spa facilities, a fitness center, and swimming pools for relaxation and rejuvenation. We offer various room

configurations to meet the preferences of each group, providing work-friendly spaces for business travelers and comfortable seating areas for leisure travelers. Our dining options cater to different schedules and preferences, with grab-and-go breakfast options or room service for busy business travelers, and leisurely dining experiences for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Business travelers can enjoy nearby attractions or short tours, while leisure travelers can immerse themselves in longer excursions and experiences that showcase the local culture and attractions.

THE KEMPINSKI BRAND IS KNOWN FOR ITS LUXURY AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CORE VALUES THAT YOU AND YOUR TEAM STRIVE TO UPHOLD ON A DAILY BASIS?

Kempinski is a luxury brand that combines tradition, service excellence, innovation, and sustainability. With a remarkable legacy spanning more than 120 years, Kempinski upholds its esteemed traditions and provides guests with

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the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the

an authentic and timeless experience that celebrates its rich heritage. Exceptional service is paramount, with the iconic Lady in Red ensuring personalized attention. The brand embraces innovation, constantly seeking to enhance the guest experience. Sustainability and responsible tourism are integral, minimizing environmental impact and supporting local communities. These core values are ingrained in every aspect of the Kempinski guest experience, from classic design to outstanding service, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR THE KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES? ARE THERE ANY EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS OR RENOVATIONS IN THE WORKS?

At Kempinski, we understand the importance of continuous improvement and meeting the evolving needs of our guests. Periodic renovations and expansions are undertaken to update and enhance our facilities and amenities. We ensure our guests are well-informed about any upcoming developments or renovations through our website and email newsletters. For future plans regarding the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, we recommend visiting our official website or contacting our guest services team for the latest information. We strive to deliver an exceptional experience, and we sincerely value the guests’ enthusiasm in keeping abreast of our latest offerings and updates.

kempinski.com

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Our team at
Emirates takes great pride in delivering personalized service that exceeds expectations.
” 02,
03 Elegantly designed rooms with stunning views and luxurious interiors

Durrah Celebrates 15 Years with 60th Milestone Issue

Bahrain’s premier luxury magazine, Durrah, founded in 2006 by Miracle, has become a symbol of sophistication and refinement in the region’s publishing industry. Durrah celebrates its 15th year of providing discerning readers with exceptional content, breathtaking photography, and exclusive access to the best in luxury, fashion, dining, travel, and more.

Deputy Editor-In-Chief Ahmed Khunji

describes Durrah as a trusted guide for those passionate about fine living. He states, “Durrah has become a trusted guide for those who are passionate about living life to the fullest and enjoying all that the world has to offer.”

Durrah magazine has established itself as the go-to publication for luxury enthusiasts, known for its focus on excellence and delivering highquality content. Features Editor Tariq Khonji highlights Durrah’s ability to attract new readers and retain a loyal following, stating: “Durrah has established itself as the go-to publication for luxury enthusiasts, known for its focus on excellence and delivering high-quality content.”

According to International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor, Durrah magazine has evolved over the years to meet the changing tastes and interests of its readers. He adds, “Our 15th anniversary is a testament to our commitment

to excellence and our dedication to providing our readers with the best.”

The 60th edition of Durrah magazine is a celebration of the magazine’s journey so far, as well as a showcase of the latest and greatest in luxury. The magazine’s pages are filled with stunning photography, featuring the latest in high-end fashion, exquisite dining, state-ofthe-art technology, and much more. There are also feature articles on luxury travel, investment opportunities, and interviews with some of the world’s leading figures in the world of luxury.

As Bahrain continues to emerge as a hub for luxury and fine living, Durrah magazine has been at the forefront of showcasing the region’s rich heritage and modern developments. The magazine’s influence extends beyond Bahrain, with readers from around the world looking to Durrah as a trusted source of inspiration and guidance when it comes to the luxury lifestyle.

Durrah magazine has always been committed to delivering content that is not only informative but also visually stunning. The magazine’s signature style of visually capturing the latest in luxury is evident in the 60th edition, with breathtaking photography that brings the magazine’s pages to life. From stunning fashion shoots to awe-inspiring landscapes, the magazine’s photographers have captured it all.

The 60th edition of Durrah magazine is also notable for its collaboration with leading luxury brands. The magazine has always had a close relationship with the world’s leading brands, and the 60th edition features exclusive interviews and articles with some of the biggest names in the luxury industry. These collaborations are a testament to the magazine’s reputation for excellence and its ability to bring the latest in luxury to its readers.

As Durrah magazine celebrates its 15th

01, 02 Durrah’s issues throughout the years June 2023 044 SPECIAL FEATURE
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anniversary, the magazine’s readers can look forward to many more years of exceptional content, stunning photography, and exclusive access to the best in luxury. The magazine’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to delivering the highest quality content have made it a staple in the region’s publishing industry. With each new edition, Durrah magazine continues to set the bar for luxury magazines, showcasing the latest in fashion, travel, dining, and much more.

In conclusion, the 15th anniversary of Durrah magazine is a significant milestone in the magazine’s journey, and the 60th edition of the magazine is a testament to the magazine’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional content and stunning photography. As the magazine looks forward to the next 15 years, it is clear that Durrah will continue to be at the forefront of the luxury publishing industry, setting the standard for excellence and innovation in luxury magazines.

durrah.bh

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SPECIAL FEATURE
The 60th edition of Durrah magazine is a celebration of the magazine’s journey so far, as well as a showcase of the latest and greatest in luxury.
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Durrah’s team (left to right): International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor, Editor-In-Chief Khalid Juman, and Deputy Editor-In-Chief Ahmed Khunji
June 2023 048 MASTERPIECE 01

The Eye of Istanbul

One of Turkey’s few internationally known photographers, Güler spent most of his days strolling along traditional neighborhoods. His black and white photographs of Istanbul are still considered his best work. We walked through some of his favorite routes in Vefa and Ayvansaray; a traditional fisherman’s boat took us along the shores of the Golden Horn.

Our adventure began at the Yer Altı Camii, or Underground Mosque, nestled beneath Istanbul’s bustling streets. We were captivated by its mystical aura and stunning architecture, leaving an indelible mark on our memory.

Next, we ventured into the Tünel, the world’s second oldest metro car. Riding in this historical marvel was a journey back in time, connecting with Istanbul’s evolving landscape.

The colorful and lively atmosphere of the Perşembe pazarı, or Thursday Market, beckoned us. We indulged in the array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handmade crafts, immersing ourselves in Istanbul’s culinary delights.

We explored the maze-like corridors of the Kurşunlu Han, an ancient hotel turned creative hub for artists. The fusion of history and modern artistry reminded us of Istanbul’s enduring legacy as a cultural capital.

Crossing the Haliç Metro Köprüsü, or Golden

Horn Metro Bridge, we admired Istanbul’s iconic skyline. The bridge symbolized the city’s harmonious blend of tradition and progress.

Paying homage to the legendary architect Sinan, we visited the Mimar Sinan Türbesi, his final resting place. Inspired by Sinan’s enduring influence, we marveled at Istanbul’s architectural splendor.

The majestic domes and elegant minarets of the Süleymaniye Mosque captivated us. The serene atmosphere provided solace amidst the bustling city, evoking a profound sense of peace.

At Vefa Bozacısı, we savored the unique flavors of Vefa, a traditional fermented wheat beverage deeply rooted in Istanbul’s history.

The Şehzadebaşı Camii, or Head Prince Mosque, showcased Ottoman architecture’s grandeur. We admired its intricate designs and appreciated its spiritual significance.

Exploring the Bozdoğan Su Kemeri, or Valens Aqueduct, we marveled at its remarkable preservation and the whispers of Istanbul’s ancient past. The arches stood as a testament to Roman engineering.

The lively Kadınlar Pazarı, a meet and vegetable market, offered us a sensory feast of Istanbul’s culinary delights. We relished in the vibrant atmosphere and diverse cuisine.

Stepping into the Molla Zeyrek Camii, formerly the Pantacrator Church, we were immersed in its blend of

Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements. The mosque reflected Istanbul’s layered cultural heritage. The elegance and grandeur of the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque left us in awe. We admired its intricate details and the interplay of light and shadow that brought the mosque to life.

In the Balat neighborhood, we immersed ourselves in a tapestry of vibrant colors and cultures. We explored the Jewish Market, engaging with locals and delving into the area’s fascinating history.

The Fener neighborhood revealed Istanbul’s multicultural fabric through the Greek High School. We marveled at its impressive facade and historical significance, appreciating the city’s diverse identity.

Finally, we discovered the Demir Kilise, or Bulgarian Iron Church, hidden amidst Istanbul’s bustling streets. Its distinctive iron structure and intricate interior designs showcased the city’s religious diversity.

As our journey through Istanbul’s hidden gems concluded, we reflected on the city’s ability to preserve its rich history while embracing a vibrant and multicultural present. Each location unveiled a unique story, contributing to Istanbul’s captivating narrative. We left with a deeper appreciation for the city’s wonders and a longing to explore more of its enchanting secrets.

shangri-la.com

In this tour arranged by Shangri-La Bosphorus Istanbul Hotel, we traced the remains of ‘old Istanbul’ through the lens of Ara Güler, the late Armenian and Turkish photojournalist better known as the Eye of Istanbul. Our mission was clear: to capture the essence of Istanbul’s treasures that were captured by Güler’s lens and bring them to light through our own.
01 Demir Kilise, AKA the Bulgarian Iron Church 02
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Haliç Metro Köprüsü, AKA the Golden Horn Metro Bridge
MASTERPIECE
03, 04, 05 Iconic black and white
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photographs by Ara Güler

Sculpting Identities

WHAT ORIGINALLY INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ARTIST, AND WHEN DID YOU FIRST BEGIN PURSUING ART SERIOUSLY?

Growing up in an art studio surrounded by my father’s paintings was a truly special experience. Witnessing my father’s pioneering work in the Arab art world had a profound impact on me, shaping both my artistic approach and my outlook on life. From an early age, I felt a magnetic pull towards sculpture. There was something inherently captivating about working with stubborn materials and the immense satisfaction that came from conquering their challenges. I immersed myself in the exploration of various mediums, delving into the intricate realms of metals, glass, bronze, clay, granite, and marble. Each material possessed its own unique properties and presented its own set of hurdles, which endlessly fascinated me. My sculptures serve as a medium for self-expression, reflecting my thoughts and experiences within contemporary society. Through them, I seek to offer a commentary on the human condition, delving into the profound issues that surround us.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE AND HOW IT HAS DEVELOPED OVER THE YEARS?

My artistic style has evolved over the years as I’ve honed my skills and explored new avenues

of creativity. Initially influenced by my father’s work, I was drawn to a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in my early artistic endeavors. In the early stages of my artistic journey, I experimented with various techniques and styles, eager to find my own voice within the vast world of art. I delved into realism, capturing intricate details and striving for accuracy in my sculptures. However, as time went on, I found myself yearning for a deeper level of expression and a more personal connection with my art. As I gained experience and confidence, my style gradually shifted towards a more expressive and abstract approach. I began to emphasize the emotional impact of my sculptures, exploring the interplay between form, texture, and movement. I found that by focusing on the essence of a subject rather than its literal representation, I could evoke a stronger response and create a more thought-provoking experience for viewers. In recent years, I’ve delved into the intersection of different mediums, merging elements of recycled stainless steel and hand-sculpted glass. This amalgamation creates a captivating interplay between the robustness embodied by stainless steel and the delicate nature of the intricately crafted glass. By fusing these contrasting materials, I seek to evoke a powerful juxtaposition and explore the harmonious balance between strength and fragility. This interdisciplinary approach has been

instrumental in pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice and unlocking new dimensions of creativity. It has opened up exciting possibilities for experimentation and expanded the expressive range of my sculptures.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT TO DATE?

One of the most challenging projects I have undertaken to date was the creation of the “Athar” monument. It was a collaborative effort that celebrated the remarkable achievements of Bahraini women. To bring this vision to life, I approached BFG International, a renowned company known for its expertise in complex threedimensional structures and advanced composite materials. Working closely with BFG International, I encountered various complexities throughout the project. We had to fabricate and erect the monument using precision-molded shapes made from advanced materials. The durability of the sculpture was of utmost importance, especially considering the harsh environmental conditions it would face. BFG International’s specialized knowledge and proficiency in handling such intricate tasks proved invaluable, enabling us to complete the monument in an impressively short timeframe of less than two weeks. The fusion of art and engineering presented its own unique

June 2023 052 MASTERPIECE
An artist whose passion for sculpture was ignited at an early age, Jamal Alyousif’s work explores the interplay between materials and offers a commentary on the human condition. He discusses his artistic inspiration, style, challenges, international exhibitions, cultural identity, and advice for aspiring artists.
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01 Dreamer, 2.75m Height, 1.06m width, 0.8m depth, Stainless Steel, 2019 02 Artist
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Jamal Alyousif

challenges. My goal was to create an artwork that not only showcased the achievements of Bahraini women but also served as a symbol of empowerment and inspiration. Collaborating with a team of artists, engineers, and fabricators was instrumental in bringing this vision to fruition.

YOUR WORK HAS BEEN FEATURED IN GALLERIES AND EXHIBITIONS AROUND THE WORLD. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE EXHIBITING YOUR ART INTERNATIONALLY?

Exhibiting my art internationally has been an incredibly enriching and fulfilling experience. It has provided me with the opportunity to share my artistic vision and engage with diverse audiences from different cultural backgrounds. The exposure to international galleries and exhibitions has opened doors to new perspectives, collaborations, and artistic dialogue that have greatly influenced my artistic growth. One of the most rewarding aspects of exhibiting internationally is the chance to connect with people from various cultures and communities. Art has a unique way of transcending language barriers and fostering meaningful connections. It has been truly inspiring to witness how viewers from different parts of the world engage with my artwork, bringing their own interpretations and experiences to the table. The conversations, feedback, and discussions sparked by my exhibitions have expanded my own understanding of art’s impact and its ability

to resonate universally. Exhibiting internationally has also allowed me to explore and adapt my work to different exhibition spaces and contexts. Each gallery or exhibition venue presents its own unique characteristics and requirements, and I have learned to navigate and adapt my art to suit these diverse environments. This adaptability has challenged me to think critically about presentation, installation, and curation, ultimately enhancing my artistic versatility. Participating in international exhibitions has provided opportunities for collaboration and artistic exchange with fellow artists and professionals from around the world. Networking and connecting with artists, curators, and art enthusiasts has broadened my artistic horizons and exposed me to new ideas, techniques, and perspectives. These interactions have influenced my artistic practice, pushing me to continually evolve and explore new avenues of creative expression. The exposure gained through international exhibitions has also been instrumental in establishing my presence in the global art scene. It has opened doors to new opportunities, such as collaborations, residencies, and commissions, further expanding the reach and impact of my art. The recognition and validation received from international exhibitions have been invaluable in building my artistic career and fostering longlasting connections within the art community. However, exhibiting internationally also comes with its own set of challenges. Logistics, such as shipping artwork, coordinating installations, and

navigating customs procedures, can be complex and require careful planning and coordination. Additionally, cultural differences and unfamiliar art scenes may present new considerations when it comes to marketing, audience engagement, and understanding local art dynamics. Nonetheless, these challenges have been valuable learning experiences that have enriched my artistic journey.

HOW DOES YOUR WORK REFLECT YOUR PERSONAL AND CULTURAL IDENTITY?

My work is deeply intertwined with both my personal identity and cultural heritage. It serves as a reflection of who I am as an individual and how I navigate the world around me, while also drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of my cultural background. As an artist, my personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives shape the themes, concepts, and narratives that emerge in my artwork. My sculptures often explore universal themes such as identity, human connection, and the human condition. Through my creative expression, I aim to convey my own thoughts, reflections, and observations about life, society, and the complexities of the human experience. At the same time, my cultural identity is an integral part of my artistic practice. I draw inspiration from the cultural heritage and traditions that have shaped me. Growing up in a particular cultural context, I have been exposed to a wealth of artistic expressions, traditional craftsmanship, and historical narratives.

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WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING ARTISTS IN BAHRAIN AND BEYOND?

To Remember that the path of an artist is a personal and transformative one. Embrace the journey, trust your instincts, and create art that reflects your true self. Stay passionate, curious, and dedicated to your craft. With perseverance, continuous growth, and a commitment to your artistic vision, you can make a meaningful impact in the art world and beyond.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE, AND WHAT UPCOMING PROJECTS DO YOU HAVE IN STORE?

In the future, you can expect to see a continuation of my artistic exploration and growth. I am dedicated to expanding my artistic practice, pushing boundaries, and creating meaningful and thought-provoking artwork. As an artist, I am committed to engaging with diverse themes, experimenting with various mediums, and exploring innovative techniques. I will continue to exhibit my artwork in galleries and participate in exhibitions both locally and internationally. These opportunities allow me to connect with a wider audience, share my creative vision, and invite viewers to experience my art firsthand. Collaboration will also remain an important aspect of my artistic journey. Working with fellow artists, designers, and creative professionals allows me to explore new perspectives, learn from different disciplines, and create interdisciplinary projects that challenge traditional boundaries. Additionally, I am open to exploring public art installations and site-specific projects. Bringing art into public spaces allows for a unique interaction between artwork, environment, and the community. I am passionate about creating installations that inspire dialogue, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting impact. Continuing education and skill development are also vital for me as an artist. I will actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge, learn new techniques, and engage with emerging trends in the art world. This continuous learning process fuels my artistic growth and enables me to evolve as an artist. As technology advances, I am open to incorporating digital elements and exploring the intersection of art and technology. Embracing new mediums and technologies allows for innovative approaches and expands the possibilities of artistic expression. Ultimately, my aim is to create art that resonates with viewers on a personal and universal level. I want to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and provoke thoughtful contemplation.

jamalalyousif.com 05 06 07 03 Conversation
2021 04 Attachment, 44x50x20cm, Stainless steel and hand Sculpted glass, 2020 05 Faces - 30 x 24 x 29 cm - Hand sculpted glass, 2018 06 Blue Bird - 22 x 13.5 x 25 cmHand sculpted glass, 2018 07 Echo-(Glass) 34x17x20cm + (Stainless Steel) 35x18x21cm,Hand-sculpted Glass and Stainless Steel, 2023
With Self, Stainless Steel and Hand Sculpted Glass, H204xW105xD155cm,
June 2023 056 JEWELLERY

The Ultimate Art of Haute Joaillerie

For the 76th Cannes Festival, Caroline Scheufele has designed no less than 76 Haute Joaillerie masterpieces, an array of fascinating works reflecting the boundless curiosity of Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director. The prominent place she occupies in the creative world, her prolific travels and the artists she encounters continually hone her vision and open up vast realms of inspiration that she brilliantly reinterprets through these treasures.

A flair for perceiving and capturing details. The ability to glean – from architecture, museums, galleries, conversations, nature or starry nights – a range of fragments contributing to the essence of a creation. Therein lies the talent of Caroline Scheufele, who is able to embrace all the beauty of the world to assemble the wherewithal to shape the Haute Joaillerie collections she designs for Chopard. Mingling the Artistic Director’s creativity with ageold jewellery-making expertise passed down from generation to generation in the Chopard workshops, the Red Carpet Collection brings a whole range of emotions to the red carpet.

Annually creating an Haute Joaillerie collection featuring the exact number of jewellery masterpieces

matching the latest edition of the Festival represents an incredible challenge that is masterfully met each year by Chopard. Each piece of jewellery in the Red Carpet Collection thus highlights the talent and expertise of the Maison’s Artisans. To express Caroline Scheufele’s creative spirit, they explore the ultimate in innovation: from employing new materials such as titanium to using novel stone-cutting techniques. From design to volumes, from gold craftsmanship to precious stone mastery, these gifted Artisans combine their talents in giving life to this collection. It symbolises the quintessence of classic jewellerymaking know-how and carefully preserved tradition, nurtured by a fresh eye and a truly avant-garde spirit. One-of-a-kind models imbued with exceptional history and spirit come into being, borne by the fertile impetus of Caroline Scheufele’s chosen affinities with the world of the arts.

Caroline Scheufele draws inspiration from her travels, which she jots down in her travel diaries. It is the curiosity inherent in her approach to the world that fosters her creativity. Architecture, painting, literature, dance, music or cinema: any detail is enough to spark dreams of splendid adornments in

this passionate devotee of precious stones. Witness this incredible ring whose central yellow sapphire is supported by a group of antique-style sculptures carved in gold and attired in brilliant-cut diamonds; or a dog-collar necklace composing a veritable anthem to poetry with diamond feathers skilfully crafted to form gossamer-light volutes. Nature, the first artisan of all, also remains a powerful source of inventiveness, as embodied in a series of resembling beautiful butterflies that appear to alight on the silhouette with a flutter of their dainty wings. Chopard makes a point of honour of respecting Nature and works exclusively with the most exceptional gems, shaped by the Earth over the ages. The Maison is the gold standard on the Haute Joaillerie scene in terms of expertise and a selective approach to precious stones – with only the most extraordinary inspiring the jewellery creations in the making with their colour, volume, transparency and unmistakable aura. From discoveries made around the globe, Caroline Scheufele discerns the treasure to which her imagination gives life. The next Red Carpet Collection is set to reveal some unprecedented gems.

chopard.com

On the occasion of the Cannes Film Festival, Chopard achieves the peak of jewellery artistry by yearly reinventing the miracle of the Red Carpet Collection. Emotion, creative daring and technical excellence are the hallmarks of this 2023 edition, through which the Maison demonstrates its affinity with the Art.
June 2023 058 JEWELLERY

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Renowned French jewelry house Boucheron pays homage to the timeless elegance of Queen Elizabeth II with its exquisite High Jewelry collection, Histoire de Style, Like a Queen.

Inspired by a sentimental aquamarine and diamond double clip brooch gifted to Princess Elizabeth on her eighteenth birthday, the collection captures the essence of the Queen’s iconic style and presents it in a contemporary and vibrant way.

The collection features eighteen contemporary designs that reinterpret the Art Deco aesthetic, incorporating vibrant gemstones, transformable pieces, and versatile wearability. With its blend of sentimental value, vibrant colors, and innovative design, Histoire de Style, Like a Queen captures the essence of the Queen’s style and showcases Boucheron’s artistic craftsmanship.

Creative Director Claire Choisne embarked on a journey through Boucheron’s archives to find inspiration for the collection. The Art Deco design and the sentimental value of the original brooch fascinated her. Queen Elizabeth had worn the brooch on significant occasions throughout her reign, making it a cherished piece of her jewelry collection.

The Histoire de Style collection consists of eighteen contemporary designs that reinterprets the Art Deco aesthetic of the double clip brooch. Each piece reflects the spirit of the original design while incorporating modern elements. The collection showcases a variety of colorful gemstones, including aquamarines, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, set in white gold and adorned with diamonds.

One of the standout pieces is a necklace featuring a deep blue Ceylon sapphire clasped within a double arc of diamonds, accompanied by a

matching cuff bracelet. The collection also includes transformable pieces, such as a necklace that can be worn in multiple configurations and a ring set with a detachable emerald-cut diamond.

The monochrome Frosty White necklace, adorned with diamonds and rock crystal, offers six different configurations, while the Rolling Red set dazzles with Mozambique rubies and diamonds. The Color Block earrings feature multicolored sapphires in vivid tones, reflecting the Queen’s vibrant wardrobe choices.

The collection also embraces versatility, allowing both men and women to wear the pieces in different ways. The designs are intended to be worn as barrettes, brooches, chokers, or bracelets, adapting to the wearer’s style and preferences.

Boucheron’s Histoire de Style collection showcases the brand’s creativity and craftsmanship, honoring the enduring influence of Queen Elizabeth II’s jewelry. By reimagining the iconic double clip brooch and infusing it with contemporary elements, Claire Choisne and her team have created a collection that captures the essence of the Queen’s style while appealing to modern sensibilities.

The collection’s combination of sentimental value, vibrant colors, and transformable designs makes it a true testament to the genius behind Boucheron’s craftsmanship. Histoire de Style, Like a Queen is not just a jewelry collection but a celebration of timeless elegance and artistic innovation.

boucheron.com

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JEWELLERY
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“ The designs are intended to be worn as barrettes, brooches, chokers, or bracelets, adapting to the wearer’s style and preferences.
Moda Mall : +973 17 535 344 www.asiajewellers.com @mjbymayyanjaffar Moda Mall : +973 17 535 344 www.asiajewellers.com @mjbymayyanjaffar
01 June 2023 064 WATCH

Stellar SUCCESS

The awards, given in November 2022 by the French Design Institute and the Middle East Watch & Jewelry awards, come within just months of Qannati’s launch of its inaugural collection of Eternity bracelets and Quantum timepieces. Marking Qannati’s breakthrough into the world of jewelry bracelets and métiers d’art timepieces, Celebration of Time was unveiled on July 5, 2022, at an exclusive presentation in Paris, in the presence of the Maison’s founder, Mahmood Qannati, a Bahraini-born global entrepreneur; jewelry conceptor and designer Frédéric Mané, artistic director of Qannati; Jothi-Sèroj Ebroussard, master jeweler and sculptor; and Corentin Quideau, jewelry industry veteran and chairman of Qannati.

Qannati Objet d’Art and Frédéric Mané were jointly awarded the JANUS Patrimony & Innovation prize by the French Design Institute, for the collection Celebration of Time. Qannati’s “Space Conquest” Eternity bracelet” won Best Theme Jewelry, and Qannati Objet d’Art was recognized as one of the Middle East’s top three “Best Independent Watch Brands” at the 18th annual

Middle East Watch & Jewelry Awards 2022.

These two awards are a crowning achievement for Qannati Objet d’Art, an independent brand dually anchored in France and Bahrain.

A multidisciplinary jury of 14 experts awarded the “JANUS prize for Patrimony & Innovation 2022” jointly to Qannati Objet d’Art and Frédéric Mané, artist director of Qannati, for Celebration of Time, recognized as a “high-end watch collection that promotes sustainable practices.”

The JANUS award, a label of excellence created in 1953 by the French Ministry of Industry and Foreign Trade, is awarded by the French Design Institute (L’Institut Français du Design) to companies with an “outstanding and long-term commitment to progress in the service of people, industry and the environment.”

Qannati Objet d’Art’s second award, “Best Theme Jewelry”, was won at the 18th annual Middle East Watches & Jewelry Awards held at the Music Hall, in Dubai, before an audience of 200 guests. This year’s Middle East Watches and Jewelry Awards ceremony, sponsored by Arabian

Premier maker of precious wearable art objects, Qannati Objet d’Art has received two prestigious awards in separate global competitions for its debut collection “Celebration of Time”.
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d’Art 02 Sketch of the fine
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team behind Qannati Objet
details in the Gladiators Eternity bracelet

Watches and Jewelry, featured 23 jewelry and watch categories.

The piece that stood out in the eyes of the event’s prestigious jury in the Best Theme Jewelry category was the “Space Conquest Eternity Bracelet” a “futuristic” piece that features a miniature spaceship suspended over a “lunar landscape” under the glass dome of the bracelet. The spaceship is crafted from white gold and stainless steel sourced from the NASA Discovery Space Shuttle that traveled to space in 1992, with touches of fiery orange sapphire. Labradorite, fragments of volcanicstone meteorites, peridots, and black diamonds make up the precious landscape. The exquisite piece took 786 days to craft.

Additionally, Qannati Objet d’Art was recognized at the same event, as one of the Middle East’s top three watch brands in the “Best Independent Watch Brand” category. That is a resounding endorsement by industry peers, and an absolute achievement for a new brand that has only just emerged on the global landscape of luxury watches and jewelry.

qannati.com

June 2023 066 WATCH
04 The Magnificent Mosque 05 First Civilization Quantum 06 Monaco Race Quantum 04 05 06

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TIME STAMPED with Emotion

Rolex unveils three new variants of its Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36, full of joy and energy.

Crafted from 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold, these watches have adopted an original face. Rather than showing the day of the week, the arc-shaped aperture at 12 o’clock displays an inspirational keyword in English – ‘Happy’, ‘Eternity’, ‘Gratitude’, ‘Peace’, ‘Faith’, ‘Love’ and ‘Hope’. The window at 3 o’clock reveals daily one of 31 exclusive emojis in place of the date.

Entirely created using champlevé enameling, the dial is striking for the depth and intensity of its gleaming colors and decoration. The motif is inspired by a jigsaw puzzle. Turquoise blue, red, fuchsia, orange, green and yellow pieces fit together on a single-color background, each representing one of the key moments in life. The hours are marked by 10 baguette-cut sapphires in six different hues set according to the main color of the dial, which is turquoise blue on the 18 ct yellow gold and 18 ct white gold versions, and orange on the watch in 18 ct Everose gold.

The new versions of the Day-Date 36 are equipped with caliber 3255, a movement at the forefront of watchmaking technology, enabling them to display a special keyword each day of the week and an individual emoji each day of the month, as well as the hours, minutes and seconds.

Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.

At its launch in 1956, the Day-Date was a major innovation: it was the first calendar wristwatch to indicate, in addition to the date, the day of the week spelt out in full in an arc-shaped window at 12 o’clock on the dial – a technical feat at the time. The day of the week is available in a choice of 26 languages. Watches in the Day-Date range are made only of precious metals – 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold, or 950 platinum.

Worn by many of the world’s political figures, directors and visionaries, the Day-Date is instantly recognizable, in particular thanks to its emblematic

President bracelet, whose evocative name, together with the eminent figures who have worn it, ensured the Day-Date became known as the ‘presidents’ watch’.

A paragon of robustness and elegance, the 36 mm Oyster case of the new versions of the DayDate 36 is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). The middle case of these versions is crafted from a solid block of 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold. Its case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Twinlock winding crown, fitted with a double waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, which features a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock, is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses. rolex.com

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With the new versions of the Day-Date 36, Rolex brings an unexpected creative twist to one of its iconic models. By displaying a new emotion each day, the watch brings an element of spontaneity into the wearers’ daily life and allows them to invest the reading of time with their changing mood.
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01, 02 The new versions of the DayDate 36
Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist. ”

Braver, Bolder, and Brighter

The Unnamed Society unveils Chapter V of The Unnamed Society’s unfolding story. Following the resounding success of the first collaboration with famed Swiss clockmaker L’Épée on the rifleas-a-clock concept introduced last year, demand had been growing for a follow-up. But what do you do for an encore?

The answer was as surprising as it was selfevident: to explore the uncharted territory that lay beyond the frontier that had just been crossed! The Unnamed Society is known for arranging unexpected meetings between art and creativity, between tradition and innovation, always at the apex of exclusivity in materials and craftmanship – to create something that in every facet is so new, precious and special that it transcends itself. Winchester, reimagined is the fascinating fifth chapter of a continuing journey that explores the unknown behind the known.

Chapter III of Winchester, reimagined takes exceptional refinement in the choice of materials into uncharted territory. The bold statement made by the object is now matched with the bold combination of materials, colors and textures. The sleek, powerful lines are given a genuine freshness. A new, unexpected energy from unexpected associations to evoke

unexpected emotions, for an endlessly fascinating experience. Not just to behold, but also in the way it unleashes a daring note in any space.

The choice of metals allows for every nuance of self-expression: Winchester, reimagined comes in variations of steel, gold plated (3N), black chrome, as well as in a selection of bicolor (gold platedand-steel) iterations. Likewise, the stock and forestock provide the canvas for exploring new material combinations, truly pushing the boundaries of the rare and exotic: alligator, taurus, kangaroo, snake, lamb, shark, lizard, stingray, bloodwood, walnut, rosewood, oak, ebony.

The spectacular juxtaposition of materials and textures is matched only by the painstaking craftmanship that goes into the smallest detail.

In a respectful nod to the tradition of great gunsmithing, the receiver is engraved to further underscore the interplay of artistry at so many levels of perception. True to its trailblazing spirit, Winchester, reimagined also proposes an alternative to the classic arabesque motif: a modern interpretation of gun engraving by master bladesmith and knife designer Tashi Bharucha.

The original Winchester lever action repeating rifle introduced in 1866 was a gamechanger by its

approach to loading ammunition, cocking the hammer and chambering the bullet in one rapid, fluid motion – with a lever actioned by the trigger hand. It allowed for excellent handling and accuracy – without prior training. Hitting your mark took only a calm hand and determination. By 1866, the Swiss watchmaking Manufacture L’Épée had already been making precision clocks for 21 years. And yet, the Swiss manufacture would have been awed by the Winchester’s reliability and accuracy.

Today, L’Épée is not just creating a unique timepiece, but recreating a piece of a unique time in its workshops in Delémont, in the heart of the Swiss Jura mountains. The idea was never to bolt a clock to a gun. L’Épée reengineered the original’s hallmark loading and cocking mechanism to wind the timekeeping caliber and rethought its barrel system to indicate and set the time. On the original, the ammunition capacity without having to reload the magazine was 15 rounds. It is only logical for Winchester, reimagined to take 15 cocks of the lever to fully wind the mechanism, and generate a power reserve of approximately 7 days.

True to the spirit of the original that conquered the unknown West, this Limited Edition of Winchester, reimagined blazes a new trail into the world of interior art decoration and the Art of Gifting.
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theunnamedsociety.com

HAUTE Horlogerie

Take your pick from these watches that stand the test of time.

Arnold & Son Globetrotter Platinum

The Globetrotter Platinum watch showcases a central globe with intricate details of the northern hemisphere. Its 45mm platinum case is accompanied by a gold bridge. The globe features hand-painted oceans, illuminated coastlines, and highlighted mountain ranges, while the automatic A&S6022 movement adds further elegance with its guilloché motif and fine watchmaking decorations.

arnoldandson.com

Patek Philippe

Grandmaster Chime - Ref. 6300GR-001

Patek Philippe reinterprets the design of this exceptional watch by offering it for the first time in a “two-tone” version on which the reversible double-sided white gold case is combined with rose gold pushers, crown, minute repeater slide piece and swivel links. This model with its 20 complications is the most xgongs and five chiming modes: grande sonnerie, petite sonnerie, minute-repeater and two patented world exclusives – an alarm sounding the programmed time and a date-repeater striking the date at will.

patek.com

A. Lange & Söhne

Richard Lange Minute Repeater in Platinum

The Richard Lange Minute Repeater puts the focus on one of the most sophisticated chiming functions with a minute repeater that is classic but stands out with contemporary finesse. This model was introduced in 2022. The dial is made of white enameled white gold. The hands are made of blued steel. Limited to 50 watches, this edition is available exclusively in A. Lange & Söhne boutiques.

alange-soehne.com

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Hublot Square Big Bang Unico

After revealing the powerful contours of the Square Big Bang Unico at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2022, Hublot is unveiling eight new exclusive variations. The watchmaker has focused its attention on two models in particular, the first in titanium, the second in King Gold, an 18-carat gold alloy with copper and platinum to give it a redder hue than the 5N gold.

hublot.com

Cartier Santos-Dumont Skeleton Micro-Rotor watch

Elevating the slim, understated shape of the iconic SantosDumont watch: this was the new challenge taken on by the Cartier Manufacture who, in 2023, are introducing a new, specially developed 9629 MC automatic skeleton caliber.

cartier.com

Jacob & Co. Billionaire Timeless Treasure

880 carats of rough yellow diamonds have become 216.89 after thousands of hours of cutting to the demanding Asscher cut. These 425 gems are laid out individually as a mosaic of small dimensions and yet, unprecedented scale. Their Fancy Yellow and Fancy Intense Yellow color is enhanced by the unique green glow of tsavorites. The Billionaire skeleton tourbillon movement is adorned with another 57 yellow baguette-cut diamonds.

jacobandco.com

Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech - PAM01026

The contemporary and most versatile of Radiomir interpretations, Radiomir Quaranta, now comes in Panerai Goldtech™ material, matched with a white sun-brushed dial and a matt brown alligator strap. Panerai Goldtech™ is a gold material that includes a combination of platinum and copper giving an intense red appearance.

panerai.com

Roger Dubuis Monovortex™ Split-Seconds Chronograph

With the introduction of its new Monovortex™ Split-Seconds Chronograph, Roger Dubuis crafts the future of Hyper Horology™. Designed with seekers of adrenaline and advanced mechanics in mind, the timepiece reveals, in breath-taking

Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMTMaster II

Rolex introduces two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II that signal the return of 18 ct yellow gold to the model. The first is a yellow Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and yellow gold), whereas the second is crafted entirely in this precious metal.

rolex.com

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ELEGANT Timekeeping

Find the ideal timepiece that suits your style.

Patek Philippe

Ladies’ Calatrava - Ref. 4997/200R-001

The Manufacture is enriching its range of elegant watches for ladies with a new rose gold version decked out in purple – an original and refined color perfectly matching the warm nuances of the precious metal. The bezel set with 76 round internally flawless Top Wesselton diamonds (0.55 ct), highlights the dial with its embossed radiating pattern and the entirely polished case. The presence of ultra-thin self-winding 240 caliber with an offcenter 22K gold mini-rotor makes it possible to offer a very slim case (7.4mm).

patek.com

Beauregard Lili White Gold - Sky Blue Topaz

The Maison’s second creation, launched in 2020, was also shortlisted for the Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). With its high jewellery dial in Sky Blue Topaz, this remarkable and cosmopolitan creation captures the voluptuous curves of a flower in bloom, set on a bed of diamonds, inside a gold case with confident lines. This fairy stone has mesmerized peoples form the ancient Greeks to the European renaissance with its lively glow and luminous color.

beauregard.ch

June 2023 076 WATCHES - WOMEN

Breitling The Super Chronomat Automatic 38 Origins

The Super Chronomat Automatic 38 Origins is designed for women who wish to make a statement, whether paired with a power suit or a t-shirt and jeans. You can tell a Super from the rest of the Chronomat family by the ceramic rider tabs and crown, and the rubber rouleaux bracelet only available with this supercharged line. The Super Chronomat 38 Origins features small-scale gold and lab-grown diamonds. These precious materials are traceable from their origins all the way to the watch on your wrist—and detailed in a provenance record that comes with your watch in a blockchain-backed NFT.

breitling.com

Cartier Clash [Un]limited

The Clash [Un]limited watch is characterized by an elegant mechanism that stands out for its beauty, creating a jewellery watch that combines finesse with power. With beads, picot studs, clou carrés and mobility, the Clash de Cartier codes flow, intertwine, forge their way and manifest themselves in the form of a precious watch.

cartier.com

Chanel J12 Diamond Tourbillon Watch Caliber 5, 38mm

A bespoke solitaire diamond that rotates to the rhythm of the Flying Tourbillon movement developed by the CHANEL Manufacture. The subtle contrast between the smooth finish of the ceramic and the sparkle of the diamonds.

chanel.com

Chopard L.U.C XP BirdLife

Chopard unveils the L.U.C XP BirdLife, a remarkable Haute Horlogerie creation inspired by animal protection. Crafted in ethical 18-carat white gold, this one-of-a-kind timepiece features a delicately painted Pallas’s Rosefinch dial using the Grand Feu enamelling technique. The transparent caseback reveals the exceptional L.U.C 96.17-L in-house movement, showcasing Chopard’s watchmaking expertise.

chopard.com

Ebel Sport Classic Lady Tranquil Blue

The EBEL Sport Classic Lady Tranquil Blue watch is a vibrant and playful timepiece that embodies joy and elegance. It features a tranquil blue mother-of-pearl dial with gold Roman numerals and diamonds, complemented by slim 18K yellow gold and stainless steel case. The bracelet is crafted with brushed stainless steel and gold for comfort and flexibility. With its understated radiance and blue beauty, this watch evokes a breezy and sensory experience.

ebel.com

Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Féerie Or Rose

Like a protective muse, a fairy watches over the sky at sunset in her pink sapphire and diamond dress. Her wings made of pink plique-à-jour enamel echo the nuances of the backdrop, crafted in guilloché mother-of-pearl and set with diamonds. Delicately sitting on a cloud, she ticks away the minutes with her magic wand thanks to a retrograde movement. The sun indicates the hours in a mother-of-pearl aperture, magnified by a soothing halo.

vancleefarpels.com

June 2023 078 WATCHES - WOMEN

LAMBORGHINI REVUELTO

to be driven beyond.

Energy and power become something completely, authentically new. Emotions flow and run like you never expected.

Introducing Lamborghini Revuelto, the first super sports V12 hybrid plug-in High Performance Electrified Vehicle delivering 1015 CV.

For more information, call Lamborghini Bahrain on 17459800

Lamborghini-bahrain.com

From Now on. Get ready

Innovative REVAMP

Having initially opened its doors in 2004, the museum has been a leading cultural institution in Istanbul for nearly two decades. In this article, we will delve into the newly unveiled Istanbul Modern Art and its offerings for visitors.

The newly housed Istanbul Modern Art is situated in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Karaköy district, within an impressive new building. This innovative structure ingeniously blends old and new elements, incorporating the original structure of a former warehouse. The architectural design, created by Kengo Kuma and Associates, an Istanbul-based firm renowned for their incorporation of local materials and cultural elements, forms a striking and unique statement. The building’s façade consists of a series of overlapping slats, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow. These slats are crafted from a lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly composite material. Inside, the museum boasts spacious galleries that enable visitors to immerse themselves fully in the displayed artworks. The interconnected arrangement of these galleries creates a sense of flow and continuity as visitors explore the museum.

Thanks to its expanded space, Istanbul Modern Art now houses a more extensive and diverse collection of contemporary art. It showcases works from influential and innovative artists originating from

Turkey and various parts of the world. The permanent collection encompasses an array of mediums, including painting, sculpture, video, and installation art, thereby exemplifying the diversity and richness of contemporary artistic expressions.

An exciting addition to the new Istanbul Modern Art is the dedicated photography gallery, which features the works of celebrated Turkish photographers as well as international artists. The inaugural exhibition, titled “Photography in Turkey: 1840-2020,” provides a unique perspective on the country’s cultural and social evolution by tracing the history of photography in Turkey from its earliest beginnings to the present day.

In addition to its permanent collection, Istanbul Modern Art hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase the works of both emerging and established artists, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the latest trends and developments in contemporary art while engaging with artists from around the globe. One such exhibition, “The Event of a Thread,” explored the intriguing relationship between art and textiles. It featured works by prominent artists like Mona Hatoum, Ghada Amer, and El Anatsui, highlighting the power and thought-provoking nature of textile-based art.

Beyond its exhibitions, Istanbul Modern Art provides various educational programs and events,

including workshops, lectures, and film screenings. These initiatives aim to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary art and culture. The museum’s “Artists in Conversation” series, for instance, brings together artists, curators, and critics to discuss the latest developments in contemporary art, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the leading figures shaping the art world today.

Moreover, Istanbul Modern Art offers a diverse range of workshops and courses designed to nurture the skills and creativity of both children and adults. These educational programs cover a wide array of topics, such as painting, drawing, digital media, and performance art.

The recently unveiled Istanbul Modern Art stands as a testament to the vibrant and dynamic cultural scene in Istanbul. With its innovative architectural design, expanded collection, and engaging programs, the museum provides a distinctive and unforgettable experience for visitors, encapsulating the city’s rich historical heritage and contemporary spirit. Whether you are a lifelong art enthusiast or a first-time visitor to Istanbul, Istanbul Modern Art is a must-visit destination that caters to a diverse range of interests and preferences.

istanbulmodern.org

June 2023 080 SPECIAL FEATURE
Istanbul Modern Art, a prominent contemporary art museum, has recently undergone a significant renovation and expansion, resulting in the opening of a newly renovated museum. This development has further solidified its reputation as a top destination for art enthusiasts worldwide.
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Children enjoying the artworks on display
The revamped Istanbul Modern Art Museum
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03 04 05 June 2023 082 SPECIAL FEATURE
Various views of Floating Islands, the museum’s most comprehensive collection exhibition to date

FRESH and Bold

Aesop Gloam Eau de Parfum

An arresting first impression of spice characterises the opening accords of Gloam, one composed of Pink Pepper and Cardamom and softened by the fresh florals of Neroli and its sweeter counterpart, Orange Flower. This is followed by aromatic spice notes of Saffron and Clove, that unfurl alongside herbal Maté, heady Narcissus and pollen-like Mimosa.

aesop.com

Carolina Herrera Stallion Leather

Stallion Leather, the new Herrera Confidential fragrance, is a love letter to nature, beauty, and strength, based on floral, spicy, and leather notes that evoke memories of Balaclava, a fabulous racing horse that Carolina Herrera used to ride every day in her teenage years and has considered her lucky talisman ever since. Bottled in an evocative sculpture with honey accents.

carolinaherrera.com

Carolina Herrera

Bad Boy Extreme

Carolina Herrera blazes further into the world of sustainable men’s perfumery with the release of Bad Boy Extreme, a fiery new fragrance that boldly explores a daring new tension between fresh ginger and the warmth of vetiver dessables, together with a seductive hit of deep cocoa absolute and a woody base of patchouli. To portray the core message of brotherhood.

June 2023 084 FRAGRANCES - MEN
An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.

Dior Lucky

Created to be a good luck charm, Lucky is the fragrance of good luck, echoing the history between the house of Dior and Lily-of-theValley. Lucky is a fragrance that plays with its white flowers and Lily-of-the-Valley notes for a subtle discovery of its scent. The white purity of flowers, the wet green of the Lily-ofthe Valley accords.

dior.com

Chanel Bleu de Chanel Parfum Spray

The most intense of the BLEU DE CHANEL fragrances. Powerful and refined, the Parfum for men reveals the essence of independence and determination. A timeless scent with a strong masculine signature. An invigorating freshness opens, lingering on the warm fullness of cedar and New Caledonian sandalwood that sweeps throughout the intense, aromatic-woody accord, leaving a captivating trail.

chanel.com

Dolce&Gabbana

Light Blue Summer Vibes

The fragrance Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Summer Vibes Pour Homme Eau de Toilette captures the fresh energy of Italian holidays through an invigorating blend of Mediterranean citrus and woody notes. The design reflects the joy of summer in a trapezoidal bottle with soft lines, wrapped in the iconic majolica print, and embellished with a white cap.

dolcegabbana.com

Givenchy Faux Semblant

Each fragrance reveals the uniqueness of a personality linked to one of the spaces of the Hôtel Particulier. You mix with the tomboy Garçon Manqué, the incandescent Enflammé, the merciless Sans Merci, as well as the irreverent Trouble Fête. Created with the most precious olfactory materials, these unisex fragrances mirror unusual, asserted characters.

givenchy.com

Thameen Britologne Collection’s Fanfare

Reimagined as Cologne Elixir with more faceted nuances layering over the classical structure of cologne, it evokes memorable sillage and seductive longevity. Fanfare is inspired by the Flower Market in Covent Garden, which has been immortalized by film and musical representations, and most recently upcycled into a functional annex for entertainment.

thameenfragrance.com

Givenchy Gentleman Society Eau de Parfum

Gentleman Society is a floral woody aromatic fragrance with an intriguing, distinctive trail. Like all the House’s perfumes, it has an exclusive signature, that of a flower-wood duality. It unveils a captivating scent at the heart of which a wild narcissus flower is crossed by a deep woody accord. This unusual fragrance contains the best quality materials, selected for unique olfactory properties and traceability.

givenchy.com

Jack Henry Balance Cologne

The Balance fragrance was carefully formulated inhouse and combines organic ingredients to evoke a sense of optimism, tranquility, and vitality. It blends a base of amber, patchouli, and musk with heart notes of cedarwood, jasmine, and vetiver, topped with bergamot, mandarin, and aqua resulting in an intriguing aroma that evolves throughout the day.

jackhenry.co

Henry Jacques Clic-Clac Rafael Nadal Edition

The Clic-Clac Rafael Nadal Edition, limited to 120 pieces, is made from grade 5 Titanium, with a vibrant yet discrete nod to tennis thanks to a sweeping neon yellow abstract line, reminiscent of a ball. The minimalistic design of the Clic-Clac is contemporary and avantgarde, an extraordinary cult object that seamlessly merges technical excellence with almost 50 years of olfactory savoir-faire.

parfumshenryjacques.com

June 2023 086 FRAGRANCES - MEN

Color patterns of logo

3.01
Eight color patterns of logo
these.
Three-dimensional logo colored pattern
Three-dimensional logo one-color pattern
Three-dimensional logo reversed one-color
There are eight color patterns when Chery Automobile logo is used as the main image of the brand. No other color patterns are acceptable apart from
1.
2.
3.

Alluring Fragrances

Billie Eilish Eilish™ 100 ML

Billie Eilish’s debut fragrance. A captivating Amber Gourmand that attracts you with a warm, cozy scent that feels like home no matter where you are. The fragrance opens with sugared petals, accented by juicy mandarin and red berries. The heart of the fragrance unfolds with soft spices, rich cocoa, and creamy vanilla. The scent is anchored by base notes of warm musks, tonka bean, and sleek woods.

debenhams.com

Liquides Imaginaires Buveur de Vent

With top notes of bergamot, petit grain, juniper oil, cypress oil, lavender, tarragon oil, and cistus oil concrete Spain, the Buveur de Vent fragrance captures the spirit of the East. The heart notes feature clary sage, galbanum oil, and cedarwood Atlas, while the base notes include sandalwood from Australia, oakmoss, mat, and leather.

liquidesimaginaires.com

Chanel Les Eaux De Chanel

A sparkling floral-woody fragrance inspired by the legendary city where Gabrielle Chanel found inspiration throughout her life. The effervescent scent opens with fresh lemon and tangerine notes, then reveals the playful character of rose damascena. Dashes of spicy pink pepper and woody patchouli add an unexpected twist.

chanel.com

June 2023 088 FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.

Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Summer Vibes Eau de Toilette

The Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Summer Vibes Eau de Toilette fragrance captures the dream of a romantic escape to Capri. The iconic Light Blue fragrance is tinged with the fresh touch of Calabrian Bergamot accompanied by the sweetness of fruits and the soothing touch of woody notes. The design reflects the joy of summer in a rectangular glass bottle wrapped in the iconic majolica print.

dolcegabbana.com

Lootah Zabeel Mist

This stunning new fragrance is designed to transform any living space into an oasis of luxury and comfort, with carefully blended scents that create an immersive and captivating sensory experience and sure to transform any living space into a luxurious oasis of comfort and relaxation.

lootahperfumes.ae

Elie Saab Elixir

The House of Elie Saab introduces an enchanting chapter with the launch of a new fragrance. After Le Parfum, an iconic tribute to light, and Girl of Now, the sparkling and joyful fragrance, the House of ELIE SAAB explores feminine sensuality. Women’s beauty, the eternal inspiration of the designer Elie Saab, is once again enhanced by this new fragrance, as fascinating and charming as a love potion. This new floral is a sparkling elixir capturing the magical and captivating sensuality of women.

eliesaab.com

A completely new take on the duality that’s integral to every fragrance in the Good Girl collection, the floral core of the fragrance is blended in its base notes with traditionally noble sandalwood, mysterious and narcotic patchouli, as well as the rich warmth of vanilla and its more complex and fascinating relative, the tonka bean.

Dries Van Noten Beauty Collection

The house design codes of counterpoint and contrast are vividly reflected in the fragrance bottles and lipstick vials creating a striking visual statement through the playful use of juxtaposed materials, patterns and textures. Each bottle, an object of beauty itself, is a translation of the fragrance’s duality.

driesvannoten.com

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Forever

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Forever by Narciso Rodriguez is a Floral Woody Musk fragrance for women. The nose behind this fragrance is Sonia Constant. Top notes are Frangipani, Jasmine, and Gardenia. Middle notes are Osmanthus, African Orange Flower, and Tuberose. Base notes are Musk and Patchouli.

narcisorodriguez.com

Kayali Yum Pistachio Gelato | 33 Eau de Parfum Intense

This fragrance is a delicious explosion of irresistible and edible notes including creamy pistachio gelato, voluptuous whipped cream, roasted hazelnut, sweet rum, fluffy marshmallow, and fizzy cotton candy. A truly yummy fragrance that charms with an unforgettably intense, gourmand scent trail that will have you smelling good enough to eat!

firmenich.com

Penhaligon’s Highgrove Bouquet

A crisp, confident burst of warm energy opens the dance with vibrant lavender and geranium. As floral, powdery notes appear, a shroud of delicate yellow blossoms seem to fill the air, and to the mimosa, tuberose brings longevity and depth, a solar storm of rich delight. The restful, soothing base is a blend of elegance and sophistication from cedar woods and orris.

penhaligons.com

FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
June 2023 090

Experience a Luxury Escape at The St. Regis Cairo and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of our fully furnished apartments overlooking the Nile.

Book an apartment stay of three nights or more and enjoy 30% savings on the entire stay. Simply visit our website at stregis.com/cairo, select "Special Rates," and enter the promo code “BOG” in the designated section to avail of this offer.

Luxury Escape T&Cs Apply

BEAUTY TRENDS

The latest cosmetics from the most luxurious brands for that perfect look.

Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Crème Yeux

Hydra Beauty Micro Crème Yeux, the first microfluidic hydrating eye cream by CHANEL, is formulated with white camellia to awaken and illuminate dull, tired-looking eyes. It provides a unique sensory experience while capturing and sealing in water molecules, for immediate freshness and all-day hydration.

chanel.com

Charlotte Tilbury 3 Beautiful Skin Secrets

Skincare performance expert and makeup artist to the stars, Charlotte Tilbury has worked with world leading laboratories to create her 3 next-generation complexion innovations – Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation, Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer and Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Glow Bronzer. It’s makeup powered by skincare!

charlottetilbury.com

Divine Skin Rose 001 The Essence

This essence soothes stressed, lifeless, dehydrated skin and nourishes, hydrates, and rebalances it. It also softens and smooths skin texture, helps replenish the skin barrier, and imparts a luminous glow. It contains Pat McGrath’s 25-year secret to flawless makeup and is the first step to skin perfection to Calm and treat before makeup. It’s a must-have for revitalized luminous skin!

patmcgrath.com

June 2023 092 BEAUTY

Filorga Oxygen-Glow CC Cream

The OXYGEN-GLOW CC Cream, the new game-changing product from FILORGA, has a revolutionary formula that combines triple C control for color correction and carboxytherapy, a technique that reoxygenates cells by injecting a small quantity of sterile medical carbon dioxide into the skin. The first-of-its-kind hybrid formula acts as an oxygenation booster, complexion perfecter, and urban protector.

Int.filorga.com

Glist Sheet Mask

Glist is the first premium sheet mask brand that has been created exclusively for the Gulf region. Built upon time-honored East Asian rituals, in-depth knowledge and countless years of extensive research, Glist takes the complexity out of skincare and rejuvenates and replenishes your skin in just 20 minutes.

glistofficial.com

Foreo UFO 2

FOREO’s bestselling smart LED masking device UFO 2, not only boomed in sales during the pandemic due to at-home self-care but saw growth through organic social media content going viral on the popular growing platform Tiktok. Certain beauty categories are a shining beacon in an otherwise murky economic climate and have proved time-and-time again that it can stand an economic crisis.

foreo.com

Huda Beauty

GloWish Bright Light Sheer Concealer

The new Bright Light Sheer Concealer is packed with skin-loving ingredients to help illuminate, hydrate and rejuvenate the undereye. The ultimate no-makeup makeup, Bright Light Sheer Concealer creates a super-natural skin-like finish. Although it has a refreshingly light formula that smooths and hydrates, Bright Light never compromises on performance with its transfer-proof and crease-free finish.

hudabeauty.com

Guerlain

Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Advanced Serum

Featuring a new double formula that is enhanced by an equally unique and precious double glass bottle, the serum uniquely combines the efficacy of a radiance-restoring white honey concentrate3 with resurfacing AHAs and PHAs, as well as bio-polyfermented honeys, which natural properties are augmented by a new technology: bio-polyfermentation.

guerlain.com

Kylie Cosmetics

Mascara, Kylash Volume Mascara

Featuring a clean and vegan formula, it provides instant volume, lengthens and holds curl for the perfect full lash. The weightless brush fibers provide ultra-separation while having a featherlight feel, and the multidimensional definition gives the appearance of having more lashes. No clumps, smudging, or flakes – just fuller, lifted, and defined lashes.

kyliecosmetics.com

June 2023 94 BEAUTY

Givenchy Skin Perfecto

The skin loses energy when faced with daily onslaught of strain. To defend against this, Givenchy has developed Skin Perfecto, a concentrate of vitality, freshness and energy that reveals the skin’s natural healthy glow. Central to the range is the Vitamin Blend Complex, packed with vitamin-rich active ingredients which help to reactivate skin cell energy.

givenchy.com

Elizabeth Arden Visible Brightening Spot Correcting Night Capsules

Reformulated with Advanced MIx Concentrate™ II, a powerful blend of five potent brighteners that work with skin’s natural repair process to visibly diminish the number, size and intensity of dark spots, as you sleep. Now with double the brightening power, this encapsulated golden serum, evens tone, minimizes appearance of pores and visibly firms for younger-looking skin.

elizabetharden.com

YSL Rouge Pur Couture The Bold

The Bold is a bolder and more intense color that lasts all night long, yet with a skin-like thin film that sits comfortably on the lips, featuring a lovely smooth texture and moisturizing feel coming in many new shades. Bold pigments deliver shine and color, clutching your lips like a second skin in a texture that feels stretchable with a 10-hour comfort feel.

ysl.com

June 2023 096 MASTERPIECE 01

AN ARTISTIC FUSION

CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE AND THE INFLUENCES THAT INFORM IT? HOW HAVE YOU INCORPORATED BOTH EASTERN AND WESTERN ARTISTIC TRADITIONS INTO YOUR WORK?

My artistic style is heavily influenced by ancient and traditional decorative forms, which I reinterpret in a contemporary manner through two key elements: concept and technique. By employing mixed techniques and acrylic medium, I create unique and unconventional decorations. Up close, they may appear imprecise, but when viewed from a distance, they exhibit a sense of perfection. This deliberate ambiguity and fragmented geometry form the essence of my artistic expression. If everything were flawlessly precise and predictable, it would lack the ability to evoke excitement. The concept behind my work involves exploring the sacred in a renewed context. A prominent example of my artistic philosophy is reflected in my piece titled “Believers at Mecca.” From afar, one can discern geometric patterns reminiscent of the spiritual dimensions described by Kandinsky. However, upon closer inspection, the painting reveals hundreds of individuals, each conveying the painting’s core message: the interconnectedness of community, rhythm, and prayer.

YOUR HOMETOWN IS VENICE, KNOWN FOR BEING CONNECTED TO THE WHOLE MEDITERRANEAN AND THE MIDDLE EAST THROUGH ISTANBUL, THE ANCIENT BYZANTIUM. HOW HAS THIS INFLUENCED YOUR WORK?

Being born in Venice, a city historically connected to the Mediterranean and the Middle East through Istanbul (formerly Byzantium), has had a profound influence on my artistic work. Venice itself has a rich history of cultural exchange with both the Near and Far East, and growing up in this vibrant environment has nurtured my penchant for oriental-inspired decorations and motifs. I have always been drawn to the Middle East, and my travels to the region have enchanted me with the allure of the unknown concealed within desert sands and veils, not only those worn by Middle Eastern women but also the veils, costumes, embroideries on fabrics, and architectural marvels found throughout. Later, my studies of the Middle East led me to fall in love with a cosmopolitan city that resonates deeply with my artistic sensibilities-Istanbul, the ancient Byzantium. I cyclically and abstractly represent this city in my artworks, bridging the gap between the ancient and the modern, the East and the West.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES YOUR ART CLOSE TO ITALIAN CERAMICS, AND MAJOLICA IN PARTICULAR, SO DISTINCTIVE AND INFLUENTIAL IN THE ART WORLD?

In order to meet the logistical demands of my frequent international exhibitions, I often create artworks in the form of 30 by 30-centimeter squares, reminiscent of tiles commonly produced in ceramic or porcelain in various parts of the world. Additionally, the use of enamels in my work often imparts a shiny and uniform quality to the canvas, further evoking the aesthetic of ceramic tiles. However, it is important to note that the influence of Italian ceramics, and specifically majolica, extends far beyond mere resemblance in my art. In Italy, the Renaissance master Raphael played a pivotal role in the study and advancement of ceramics. While primarily renowned as a painter, it may not be widely known that Raphael’s works, characterized by their beauty and grace, served as a significant source of inspiration for ceramic art. This influence can be observed not only in Raphael’s own creations but also in the works of his esteemed mentor, Perugino. The region of Umbria, in particular, has emerged as a significant hub for ceramic art, showcasing a rich tradition that continues to thrive.

Renowned artist Luigi Ballarin seamlessly blends ancient decorative forms with contemporary reinterpretations, incorporating Eastern and Western influences, bridging between cultures, and promoting unity and mutual understanding.
01, 05 One Way series 02
02
Artist Luigi Ballarin

WHAT DO YOU HOPE VIEWERS TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK? DO YOU HAVE A THEME, A PARTICULAR MESSAGE THAT YOU INTEND TO CONVEY?

Through my artwork, I aspire for viewers to embrace a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Islamic world, prayer, and Ottoman decorations. I explore these themes with a distinct interpretation, incorporating the two-dimensional rhythms reminiscent of Byzantine painting. My works feature textured backgrounds in relief, evoking the imagery of mosaics, enamels, ceramic decorations, and carpets. In essence, my art serves as a symbolic and timeless testament to the potential harmony that can emerge from the fusion of diverse cultures and traditions. It conveys a message of peace and unity, acting as a small artistic ambassador that endeavors to construct bridges between the East and West. I hope to inspire a sense of connection and mutual understanding among people and cultures, fostering a shared appreciation for our collective heritage.

WHO ARE SOME ARTISTS OR CREATIVES THAT YOU ADMIRE OR DRAW INSPIRATION FROM? HOW HAVE THEY INFLUENCED YOUR WORK?

There are several artists and creatives whom I admire and draw inspiration from in my artistic journey. Initially, I was captivated by the masterpieces of the Orientalist painters, who skillfully depicted scenes and landscapes from the East. Their works ignited my fascination for the rich cultural tapestry of the Orient and its visual expressions. In addition, the Italian artist Aldo Mondino played a significant role in influencing my artistic development. His works dedicated to North Africa and the ceremonial aspects of the Sufis resonated deeply with me.

June 2023 098 MASTERPIECE
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03 04 05
03 An exhibition by
Luigi Ballarin
04, 07 Magnecific Culture series
Magnecific Architecture series

FINALLY, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS OR EXHIBITIONS THAT YOU ARE PARTICULARLY EXCITED ABOUT?

These next few years are proving to be quite promising for my artistic career. Firstly, I am thrilled to announce that I will soon be showcasing my exhibition “The Horse’s Move” in Sarajevo. This exhibition was previously presented in Siena last July at the Santa Maria della Scala Museum and will now be hosted at the National Gallery. The event is organized by the Italian Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it is curated by Beste Gursu. Additionally, in July, I have another exhibition scheduled in Nigeria. This exhibition, also organized by the Italian Embassy and curated by Beste Gursu, will be centered around equines with riders and is titled “The Colors of Noble Cultures.” I also have upcoming exhibitions in Trento, Italy, Rovereto, Romania, Izmir, Ankara, and many more exciting locations.

luigiballarin.com

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Redefining Fashion

Alexander McQueen’s Pre-Fall Winter 2023 Collection draws inspiration from deconstructed tailoring and minimalistic utility.

The collection features a range of spliced wardrobe staples with trompe l’oeil detailing. The designs feature solarized flower prints, crystal highlights, and collage embroideries. The collection was captured by fashion photographer Jet Swan, with video direction by Ebba Hult.

Some of the most noteworthy looks from the collection include a tailored jacket and cigarette trousers in black wool barathea with slashes, a double-breasted tailored jacket in solarized flower print viscose cady with crystal dew embroidery, a shirt in solarized flower print silk

poplin with crystal dew embroidery, and cigarette trousers in solarized flower print viscose cady. The collection also includes a tailored jacket in black wool with biker lapels in black leather and matching black wool cigarette trousers, a bold blue punched leather bomber jacket with matching grain de poudre cigarette trousers, a tailored jacket with a draped lapel and ivory grain de poudre cigarette trousers, as well as a classic white cotton poplin shirt.

alexandermcqueen.com

June 2023 100 FASHION - MEN

A Basketful of Summer

Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2023 Men’s Collection defines summer by its lightness in attitude and spirit.

This collection by Emporio, the brand that Giorgio Armani has always seen as a container of possibilities, resembles a wicker basket, full of surprises that will bring the holiday spirit to the city and give any holiday the appropriate fresh and composed feel. Shirts take center stage, combined with soft trousers cut from the same fabric. jackets and tunics with a hint of uniform about them are as light as shirts too. the shapes barely touch the body, allowing it to breathe vital energy. bold details - slits, vertical openings, cuts – reveal the skin, adding a note of vibrant sensuality that continues in shortened shorts and overalls that almost entirely reveal the

legs. pleated trousers caress the figure, while deconstructed blazers reaffirm a cornerstone of Armani style, here in new jacquard models that bring carefree summer scenes to the tailoring, somewhere between Gauguin and reggae parties in the shade of lush palm trees. colors are lively and natural: the hues of a clear sky that fades from dazzling white light into sky blue, sea blue and natural tones, before slinking into the black of the night. woven hats with ironically exaggerated brims, and undulating rubber sabots seal the spirit of a summer in the city.

armani.com

June 2023 102 FASHION - MEN
June 2023 104 FASHION - WOMEN

Sartorial EXCELLENCE

Dolce&Gabbana’s exclusive UAE collection is a tribute that brims with elegance and character.

Soft shirts with matching pants, elongated tunics, elegant capes, and sophisticated dresses are the stars of this collection, complimented with headpieces. The twill, charmeuse, stretch satin, light cady, crêpe de chine, lace and fabrics entirely embroidered with sequins are embellished by jewel buttons, floral appliques and precious details that embody the care Dolce&Gabbana puts in excellent materials and the artisanal spirit that fuels the DNA of the brand.

The color shades are lively, as is the case with pink and emerald green, or sober, when exploring darker or sand tones; the prints, like the leopard and florals, spur from the heritage of Dolce&Gabbana.

The new Special Collection will be available exclusively at the Dolce&Gabbana boutiques in Dubai Mall and The Galleria Mall Abu Dhabi from April.

dolcegabbana.com

IN TRANSIT

Travel is a vital aspect of the Emporio Armani identity, where even the name infers eclecticism and the ability to combine opposites with ease.

The collection is renewed affirmation of this inherent nature, established with lightness and linearity. the soft precision of jackets, pea coats, and duster jackets conceived for city life meets the liquid languor, rhythmic patterns, and elongated volumes of a hypothetical and unspecified destination somewhere to the east. The collection feels put together in the same way that a trip ends: pulling objects picked up and fallen in love with along the way from the suitcase to mix with existing treasures. this is

how blazers end up over sarongs, while shirts lengthen into outerwear; everything fluctuates, moving lightly around the body, outlining a soft, vertical silhouette that is emphasized, at all times, by flat shoes.

There is movement in the color palette too, with urban neutrals and black and white shifting into pastel tones of mauve and green and then igniting with sparkling nocturnal shimmers over long dresses and weightless jumpsuits. A recurring detail, the black of small accessories, recalls the faint underlining of a story written freehand.

armani.com

June 2023 106 FASHION - WOMEN
Emporio Armani’s Spring Summer 2023 Women’s Collection infers the highlights the inherent nature of travel and open-mindedness within the brand’s identity.

Comfort and CLASS

Comfort and Class

With summer destination weddings continuing to rise in popularity, so does the desire for a bridal sandal, a comfortable shoe that perfectly combines the spirit of holiday, while having the kind of quality and details worthy of a wedding dress. Not just for wedding ceremonies, the Ancient Greek Sandals Bridal Collection is perfect for bridesmaids, for changing into for late night dancing; and of course, honeymoon get-aways.

The debut collection comprises of 15 styles, in a range of wedding-ready hues from pearly white to silver sparkles. All styles in the collection are available with a pale blue sole - as a nod to the ‘something blue’ tradition. Bridal Sandals come complete with a white silky pouch and personalized limited edition blue box, both with silver detailing.

The Bridal Collection is available exclusively on ancientgreeksandals.com and at the Ancient Greek Sandals flagship store in Athens.

ancientgreeksandals.com

June 2023 108 FASHION - BRIDAL
Ancient Greek Sandals’ first ever Bridal collection is inspired by those who wore AGS sandals on their wedding day over the years.

EXQUISITE STYLE

Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 25

The Speedy Bandoulière 25 handbag gets a summery makeover in Damier Azur canvas decorated with a bold nautical print. The 5-color serigraphy of chains and ropes with golden highlights brings a distinct resort feel to the bag. Two rolledleather top handles and a removable and adjustable strap give carry options.

louisvuitton.com

Giorgio Armani Small PalmellatoLeather La Prima Bag

This item features rounded lines and smooth, darted edges. The shoulder strap can be adjusted to three different lengths, enabling this multifunctional bag to be worn over the shoulder or cross body. Faux-suede microfiber lining and light gold-colored plating. A branded side loop adds a glimmer of light.

armani.com

Dolce&Gabbana

Patent Leather DG Logo Bag Crossbody Bag

Iconic style is being given some contemporary edge, creating a new vision of the brand’s signature aesthetic. Defined by its refined geometric lines, this new crossbody bag pays tribute to our Logo, the undisputed star of the new collection. Coming in 100% patent leather, it features the quilted 3D-effect DG logo and an adjustable and detachable crossbody strap.

dolcegabbana.com

BAGS
June 2023 110

Gucci Aphrodite Small Shoulder Bag

This new small crescent-shaped shoulder bag was inspired by the House’s archives, it is crafted in soft leather and features the Double G emblem, a code originally introduced in the 1970s. Embodying the notion of the versatility, the bag is enriched with two shoulder straps, one is crafted in leather and the other is in Gucci’s recognizable gold-toned chain design.

gucci.com

Jacquemus Le Grand Chiquito

Each leather is unique and has been carefully selected. Irregularities and variations in shade are natural. To maintain the original condition of this item, avoid direct and over-exposure to light and contact with cosmetics, water, or heat. It is advisable to store this item in the dust bag in a dry place.

jacquemus.com

Prada Small Prada Galleria Saffiano Special Edition bag

Speaking to the narrative of evolution and reinvention that runs through Gucci’s designs, the Gucci Diana reimagines a bamboo tote from the ‘90s archives. The style is enhanced by removable leather belts -a nod to the functional bands that once came with the original bag to maintain the shape of the handles.

prada.com

Versace Allover Large Tote Bag

This tote bag is crafted from a canvas Versace Allover jacquard pattern and leather trims. The design is adorned by a La Medusa hardware and an embroidered Versace logo. The spacious interior is organized with two zipped pockets and a snap button fastening.

versace.com

Tiffany Return to Tiffany® Mini Crossbody Bag in Crystal Pink Leather

Inspired by one of the House’s most distinctive designs, the heart-shaped Return to Tiffany® handbags are crafted in supple leather and embellished with charm and chain link accents that nod to our iconic jewelry. Add a playful touch to every day with this crossbody bag.

tiffany.com

Letrange Empreinte PM

Made from smooth calfskin, it features plunged lambskin lining, gold hardware, one main compartment, one inner flat pocket, 24-carat gold-plated handle, signature clasp hidden below the flap, and a removable and adjustable shoulder strap. It can be carried in hand, around the shoulder or across the body.

letrange.paris

June 2023 112
BAGS

Loewe Small Loewe Font Tote in Raffia

The Loewe Font Tote is a cuboid bag woven entirely in raffia with a contrasting Loewe signature. This is a small version. It can be carried by hand or over the shoulder. It features a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap.

loewe.com

Valentino Garavani Shoulder Letter Bag in Two-Tone Smooth Calfskin

Valentino Garavani shoulder Letter Bag in two-tone smooth calfskin with VLogo Signature closure. The bag can be worn on the shoulder or crossbody thanks to the adjustable shoulder strap. It features a platinum-finish closure and hardware, metal snap closure, and Nappa leather lining.

valentino.com

Maison Margiela 5ac Classique Baby

The 5AC classique baby, created in a glitter finish, features mini top handles and a chain neck strap. It is accented with the logo label at the front. The iconic 5AC line takes its name from the French word ‘sac’ (bag). It explores the Maison’s Anonymity of the lining concept.

maisonmargiela.com

Quality and Class

Complete your distinguished look with the latest in high-end men’s shoes.

Alexander McQueen Punk Chelsea Boot in Black

The rebellious charm of these Punk Chelsea boots is elevated by their sleek black leather and striking silver-tone metal toe cap. With a pointed toe silhouette and added convenience of elasticated side panels, these boots perfectly fuse style with comfort.

alexandermcqueen.com

Berluti Shadow Knit and Leather Sneaker

These Low-Cut sneakers boast decorative lacing and Scritto embroidery, accentuated by Venezia leather details. Designed with a neoprene lining and padded insole, they offer both style and comfort in every step.

berluti.com

Dolce&Gabbana Mixed-Material Airmaster Mule Sneakers

These Airmaster sneakers exude bold, contemporary allure in their new mules version. Crafted from technical fabric, they showcase calfskin and suede details alongside a rubber label embellished with a micro-injection logo.

dolcegabbana.com

June 2023 114 SHOES - MEN

Gucci Men’s Horsebit loafer

Gucci’s Pre-Fall 2023 collection blends archival influence with functionality. The result is a contemporary narrative interspersed with traditional elements and symbols of the House. These structured loafers are presented in natural crochet leather and defined by a gold-toned Horsebit detail.

gucci.com

LØCI SEVEN

Introducing LØCI SEVENs, adding a bit of detail to an absolute classic. Made with recycled materials that give you a superior waterresistant upper, with a custom-made cork insole for a soft re-bounce to keep you charging ahead. The sole is made with lightweight recycled rubber for extra durability.

lociwear.com

Finnion Monkstrap Black Brush Off Leather Monk Strap Shoes

Classic yet contemporary, the Finnion double monk strap shoes are Italian-crafted in black brush off leather. They feature two gunmetaltone buckles, a round toe and a leather sole. Wear with fine tailoring to finish your formal looks to perfection.

jimmychoo.com

Manolo Blahnik Black Suede Jewel Buckled Loafers

Elevate your style with these exquisite black suede loafers adorned with a grosgrain ribbon and a square crystal buckle. Made in Italy, the upper combines velvet and fabric, while the sole is crafted from luxurious calf leather. The 10 mm heel adds a touch of sophistication.

manoloblahnik.com

Christian Louboutin Fun Louis JuniorSneakers - Fabric Melancholia printMulticolor

The timeless Fun Louis Junior low-top sneaker has attractive bold lines. Set on a rubber sole, this emblematic Maison Christian Louboutin model is crafted in graphic Melancholia printed nylon. It is enhanced with a black grosgrain ribbon trim and a heel tab, and adorned with its creator’s signature.

christianlouboutin.com

Santoni

Men’s White and Orange Leather Double Buckle

The Double Buckle Sneaker is a fusion of iconic Santoni codes. This style flaunts a sporty, supportive silhouette with a rubber cupsole that offers comfort and freedom of movement. Its premium-quality leather upper is enhanced with a double-buckle-shaped accent on the sides in handpolished leather.

santonishoes.com

June 2023 116 SHOES - MEN

Stepping in Style

Alexander McQueen

Harness Punk Pump in Acid Green/silver

Acid green patent leather pump featuring a pointed toe silhouette detailed with a silver-finish punk metal toe cap. Finished with a harness-shaped ankle cuff with zip fastening, a tonal sole and a stiletto heel. Made from 100% calf leather.

alexandermcqueen.com

Christian Louboutin

Iriza85 mm Pumps - Crepe

satin Melancholia printMulticolor

The Iriza asymmetrical pump showcases Maison Christian Louboutin’s expertise with its enchanting sleek lines and timeless elegance. Set atop an 85 mm heel, this model is crafted in multicolored printed Melancholia crêpe satin and has a pointed toe. An audacious cut-out design and exquisite finishing details complete the look.

christianlouboutin.com

Andrea Wazen Franca Glitz

ANDREA WAZEN’s signature Franca tulle style is embedded with Crystals. The style features pleated tulle, a silky mesh surface and Crystals gracefully wrapping the anklet strap to give your look an elegant touch. Features leather insole with “Andrea Wazen” stamped in gold.

andreawazen.com

SHOES - WOMEN
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.
June 2023 118

Gucci Women’s Python Print Pump

Combining timeless elegance with modern flair, these women’s black python print leather shoes feature contrasting details. The GG mesh insert detail adds a unique touch to the pointed toe design. With a leather sole and a high heel measuring 4.1 inches, they are crafted in Italy to perfection.

gucci.com

Dolce&Gabbana Kim Dolce&Gabbana Stretch Tulle Ankle Boots

The fusion and alchemy between the history and creativity of D&G’s designers and the contemporary vision of Kim Kardashian, style, and beauty icon, lie at the heart of the new Runway collection. The brand’s origins and invaluable archives have been reworked and reinterpreted to imbue Dolce&Gabbana’s signature style with new life.

dolcegabbana.com

Jimmy Choo

Indiya 100 Latte Nappa Leather Sandals with Crystal Hearts

Look to Indiyah for modern glamour. These sleek sandals are crafted in Nappa leather and feature slim knotted straps complemented by hearts in crystal embellishment. They’re fastened with a buckle strap on the ankle and sit on a curved 100mm heel.

jimmychoo.com

Valentino Rockstud Ankle Strap Pump with Tonal Studs 100 Mm

Elevate your style with the Valentino Garavani Rockstud ankle strap pumps. Crafted from calfskin leather, they feature tone-ontone lacquered studs and matching straps and trims. The adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit, while the 100 mm/4’’ heel adds height. Made in Italy with impeccable craftsmanship.

valentino.com

Malone Souliers

MAUREEN 100 Pink PVC Stiletto Mules

In keeping with the season’s themes of fealress style, this signature silhouette appears in rose pink PVC, embellished with glistening crystals. Sat atop a towering 100mm stiletto heel, this elegant mule is finished with twin straps in shimmering mirror leather.

malonesouliers.com

Louis Vuitton Sparkle Slingback Pump

The Sparkle slingback pump is a sophisticated style crafted from Epi satin, which evokes the distinctive grain of the House’s emblematic Epi leather. It is distinguished by its feminine pointed toe and flared heel with an LV Circle-engraved insert. The elasticized back strap is embellished with an angular, Monogram-engraved chain inspired by the Coussin bag.

louisvuitton.com

June 2023 120
SHOES - WOMEN
ELECTRIC LUXURY STARTS NOW For more info, call or WhatsApp us on 17 121 121 Genesis_Bahrain GenesisBahrain genesis_bahrain
June 2023 122 SPECIAL FEATURE
One of the remarkable features of Majolica pottery is its durability. ”

Exquisite SPLENDOR

Majolica fine pottery is renowned in the world of luxury home décor, captivating enthusiasts with its unparalleled beauty. This exquisite pottery exudes an aura of grandeur, offering a unique touch that elevates your home décor to extraordinary heights. Through its vibrant hues and intricate patterns, Majolica pottery transcends mere artwork and becomes a captivating statement that speaks volumes about your discerning taste and distinctive style.

The origins of Majolica pottery trace back to the 9th century in Mesopotamia. However, it wasn’t until the 14th century that this pottery gained immense popularity and graced the royal courts of Italy and Spain. The term “Majolica” derives from the Spanish word “Maiolica,” which translates to ‘decorated tile.’ This exceptional pottery is renowned for its vivid colors, including cobalt blue, emerald green, burnt orange, and yellow, accompanied by intricate designs.

In recent years, there has been a remarkable resurgence of interest in Majolica pottery due to its captivating appeal. It has established itself as a coveted luxury item, captivating collectors and enthusiasts across the globe. Majolica’s iconic designs feature playful and bold representations of fruits, vegetables, animals, and insects, further adding to its allure.

One of the remarkable features of Majolica pottery is its durability. These ceramics are crafted to withstand the test of time when treated with care and maintenance. Moreover, Majolica pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe, making it ideal for everyday use. Its presence can truly enhance the aesthetic appeal of any table setting, whether it’s a simple family brunch or an elaborate dinner party with friends.

For those passionate about Majolica pottery, the distinguished brand Minton stands unparalleled. Minton, a British luxury brand, has specialized in the fine pottery industry since 1793. The company’s Majolica collections are renowned for their vibrant colors, intricate details, and exceptional craftsmanship. Minton offers a wide range of Majolica pottery, including tableware, vases, and decorative pieces.

Majolica pottery is not merely a statement piece for your home décor; it is also a valuable investment. These exquisite ceramics hold significant value in the art world and can fetch high prices at auctions and galleries. Over time, Majolica ceramics have been known to appreciate in value, making them an astute choice for those seeking to invest in luxury goods. The addition of Majolica fine pottery is a remarkable choice for enhancing any home décor. Whether it graces a living room, bedroom, or dining table, this pottery exudes perfection and elegance. Meticulously crafted and designed, each Majolica pottery piece allows you to express your individuality while infusing an element of sophistication into your surroundings. Whether you are embarking on a collection or seeking to expand your existing one, Majolica pottery is an essential acquisition for any enthusiast of luxury home décor.

01 June 2023 124 ARCHITECTURE

The Next Chapter In Automotive

Stemming from its solid commitment to stay closer to its valued clients, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, the exclusive distributor of Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has recently opened its comprehensive Lexus showroom in Arad, where it encompasses a display area of the latest models from Lexus and an inclusive service center, all under one roof.

The new facility is strategically located in the vibrant heart of Arad, in close proximity to the Kingdom’s vital ports and landmarks, where it covers an area of 20,000 ft2 and reflects the brand’s ‘Next Chapter’ essence, which is centred around four pillars; Design, Advanced Technology, Customer Experience and Electrification.

The new landmark facility was created with ‘Omotenashi’; the Art of Japanese Hospitality, keeping Lexus customers and their needs at the heart of every design aspect and service requirement. Moreover, the showroom is designed to provide customers with a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the brand’s latest offerings and innovations.

The new showroom embodies the corporate identity of Lexus, and this is adopted in all new Lexus showrooms worldwide, where it features a mix of traditional and modern elements, such as natural wood and stone, alongside modern

technology and sleek lines. Additionally, the highly-trained staff members in the showroom and service center are dedicated to ensure that each client enjoys an unparalleled experience with the utmost care, privacy and reliability, by paying attention to the smallest details, with the aim to sustain a long-term satisfactory relation.

The design of the showroom is inspired by the new design philosophy introduced by Lexus, combining seemingly contrasting elements to create something unique, while adopting a sustainable and eco-friendly approach in each corner of the facility. Advanced technology is also a key pillar of the showroom’s design, which is equipped with the latest innovations, including interactive spec stands and a state-of-the-art service center.

Customer experience is at the heart of everything that Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo does, and the new showroom is no exception, where it is

designed to provide customers with a relaxed and comfortable environment, offering a plethora of dignitary services and amenities. This includes a pioneering new vehicles home delivery service, an unmatched concierge service, which provides assistance with everything from booking a test drive to arranging a service appointment, a cozy lounge dedicated for car delivery and private discussions with sales executives, as well as a display corner for Lexus lifestyle merchandise and a library, emphasizing the authenticity sensation that is exclusively offered by Lexus to its clients.

The new showroom in Arad is open from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, while the service center is opened from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

ekkanoo.com 01
The new showroom showcases the brand’s latest offerings and innovations
02 03 June 2023 126 ARCHITECTURE
04 05 06 02 The new
is strategically
in the vibrant heart
Arad 03 The new
of
04, 05, 06 The design features a mix of traditional and modern elements
facility
located
of
showroom was created with ‘Omotenashi’, the Art
Japanese Hospitality

Asia JEWELLERS

Asia Jewellers, a well-known retailer in the world of luxury jewellery and watches, has opened a new boutique in Bahrain. Located on the ground floor in Aali Mall, the boutique offers a wide selection of high-end brands such as Palmiero, Pasquale Bruni,

The shop’s design is nothing short of impressive, with a prestigious and modern look that features high technology electronic displays and lighting. The 145 square meter space is made with natural wood, marble, and brass, creating a luxurious atmosphere for customers to enjoy. The VIP private lounge, located on the premises, offers a lavish and secluded experience for guests.

The boutique’s sales associates are experts and ready to assist customers in finding the perfect piece of jewellery or watch. They are knowledgeable about the brands and products available in the boutique and are always available to answer any questions or concerns.

One of the main attractions of the boutique is its selection of diamonds. Asia Jewellers offers an exclusive diamonds jewellery sets collection, making it an ideal destination for customers looking for the best.

June 2023 128 ARCHITECTURE
Pomellato, Raymond Weil, Dior, Raymond Weil, Gucci and more.
With a luxurious and impressive design, the boutique provides a unique shopping experience for customers.
02 01

The new branch of Asia Jewellers is an excellent addition to the already thriving luxury shopping scene in the Kingdom. The brand’s reputation for excellence and quality is sure to attract a large number of customers looking for the best in watches and jewellery.

The boutique offers a unique and luxurious shopping experience with the best brands and the highest quality products. Visit this impressive new boutique and see for yourself what makes Asia Jewellers stand out from the rest.

Asia Jeweller’s other luxurious standalone boutiques include Cartier in Manama, IWC Schaffhausen, Officine Panerai, Audemars Piguet, Van Cleef & Arpels, Messika, Versace, and Bottega Veneta in Bahrain.

Asia Jewellers remains a family run company with core values of trust, excellence, integrity and inclusiveness at its heart. Today, the second generation of the Jaffar family are at its helm and are keeping the late Mahmood Jaffar’s principles of honor, quality, care and passion at the forefront of the business.

asiajewellers.com

03 04 05 01 Exquisite collection from Pasquale Bruni 02, 03 Asia Jewellers in A’ali Mall 04 Radiant jewellery collection from Palmiero 05 The VIP lounge

BOUTIQUE Experience

TOD’S MILAN, ITALY

Tod’s opens a new space in key luxury shopping thoroughfare, galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, in the main passage linking the cathedral to the Teatro Alla Scala.

Present for more than 20 years in Milan’s salon par excellence, the new Tod’s boutique reflects the synthesis of the brand’s DNA, the elegance of Italian style and the values of traditional craftsmanship.

Distributed over two floors, the boutique is characterized by two shop windows overlooking the gallery itself and by a wide staircase which is visible from the entrance and made entirely of travertine, which serves as an elegant link between the two floors.

The new Tod’s boutique in galleria Vittorio Emanuele houses the Tod’s women’s and men’s collections, including the iconic Di bag, which is also available to customize, together with the ballerina and the bubble gommino.

Tod’s latest branch marks a new point of reference for international shopping, in continuity with the tradition of the Milan salon.

An icon of Made-in-Italy, Tod’s represents a lifestyle that marries timeless elegance with supreme quality. A lifestyle closely tied to the concept of Italian flair, good taste, and savoir vivre.

Synonymous around the globe for unmistakable elegance, understated, and refined style, over the

years, Tod’s has created true style icons of the Italian lifestyle through its footwear, ready-to-wear and leather goods collections. First and foremost, the Gommino shoe in its many guises, followed by the Di Bag and many others.

Every object is made following the meticulous techniques of fine Italian craftsmanship with a series of processes and controls that, every day, give life to exclusive products in a unique reinterpretation of contemporary elegance.

Since October 2019, Walter Chiapponi has been the Creative Director of the Tod’s Women’s and Men’s collections, bringing the excellence of Tod’s across an international panorama of Italian quality and style.

The brand’s most iconic bag, the Di Bag, introduced in 1997, was an immediate success thanks to its famous clientele. Princess Diana, Naomi Campbell, Nicole Kidman, and Princess Caroline of Monaco are only some of the celebrities who have worn this bag over the last few decades. Boldly reinterpreted today by Creative Director Walter Chiapponi and entirely handcrafted by our artisans, the Di Bag represents the perfect balance between traditional fine craftsmanship, experimentation, and creativity. tods.com

June 2023 130 ARCHITECTURE
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
June 2023 132 ARCHITECTURE

ROBERTO COIN MANAMA, BAHRAIN

With its local partner, Bahrain Jewellery Center, Roberto Coin’s new branch is now open in Moda Mall. The new space was designed by Roberto Coin with his long-lasting collaborator Giulio Miliotti Sclavi (Studio Sclavi) , who works to bring the brand store ID concepts all over the world. The design of this new boutique recreates the renowned warm atmosphere of the Italian living room with the brand’s green shade as main color. The hazel color of the walls was created using Gritti Wall wallpaper, reconfirming the brand’s collaboration with also the house of Rubelli, the famous Venetian fabric designer. The inedited shade of pink named “crystal grey” is the color of the armchairs and sofas in the VIP room that welcome the guests in a feminine atmosphere enhanced by a multitude of soft pillows. Majestic materials like gold, marble, carpeting and the chandeliers by Vistosi, the famous brand from Murano add prestige to the selection of one-of-a-kind pieces and limited editions chosen by Roberto Coin as ambassadors of his creativity in Bahrain.

bjc.com.bh

AESOP DUBAI, UAE

Located on the ground floor, Aesop’s second incarnation within Mall of the Emirates carries customers out of their day-to-day lives and into a sanctuary of enveloping quietude. The in-house design team found inspiration in various kinds of underground architecture and unseen or invisible spaces that simultaneously protect and transport: the mood board for the store was filled with arched forms, low-lit rooms, cool blues, and a certain feeling of other-worldly isolation.

Accordingly, the rectangular shell has been transfigured into an ovular room with a vaulted ceiling-shrouding visitors in silver fir blue and conjuring vintage submarine interiors.

Streamlined shelving wraps the perimeter, providing an uninterrupted platform for the exploration of a range of formulations for the skin, hair, body and home-trained consultants are on hand to help navigate it, with advice about products best suited to individual needs.

In the depths of the store, tucked behind the primary chamber, a moody Sensorium reveals a world of unconventional fragrances.

aesop.com

June 2023 136 ARCHITECTURE

MAS AND ROLEX BOUTIQUE MANAMA, BAHRAIN

At the sophisticated Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique, guests with a discerning eye can indulge in a one-of-a-kind experience featuring a collection of over 800 watches on display.

Located in City Centre Bahrain, every detail of the boutique has been meticulously crafted using the finest materials to reflect Arabian culture. The impressive Rolex collection is displayed in stunning walnut showcases, with the interior design developed in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists to showcase their perfectionist approach.

From the Swiss-manufactured wall panels to the Italian-made Murano chandelier, the boutique exudes a level of luxury that embodies the exclusivity that Rolex offers, especially in the VIP suite dedicated to private viewings. The professional staff, some of whom have been with Modern Art Studio for over three decades, are always on hand to offer valuable advice.

Founded in 1936 by Naji Murad, Modern Art Studio’s original shop was located in Government Avenue, Manama, Bahrain. In 1940 Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex Geneva, officially appointed Modern Art Studio as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf. Naji Murad promoted and sold watches from his store in Bahrain and also to his sub agents in the Gulf. He later recommended them to Rolex to become official agents, many of whom are still distributors of Rolex today.

Modern Art Studio’s new Rolex showroom was opened in 1978. The shop featured exclusive showcases which not only displayed the watches but were also cleverly designed into individual letters spelling the name ROLEX.

Richard and David Murad, the sons of Naji Murad, have taken the reins of Modern Art Studio, which continues to trade as a well-established family business. Hans Wilsdorf founded Tudor watches in 1946 and the first Tudor Boutique in the Gulf was opened by Modern Art Studio in Manama Bahrain in December 2014.

Today, Modern Art Studio remains at the forefront of promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the Gulf.

masbahrain.com

June 2023 138 DESTINATION
“ The European villages of The Bicester Collection have, without a doubt, the winning equation to live an unrepeatable summer. ”

THE BEST of Summer

An endless summer illuminated by the most desired fashion and beauty brands, culinary proposals created to seduce palates and a cultural dialogue between fashion, art and music is what The Bicester Collection villages have in store for their visitors, strategically located nearby of the key capitals of Europe including Madrid (Las Rozas village), Barcelona (La Roca village), London (Bicester village), Dublin (Kildare village), Frankfurt (Wertheim village), Munich (Ingolstadt village), Brussels (Maasmechelen village), Paris (La Vallée village), and Milan (Fidenza village).

Evolutive, sophisticated and surprising: this is the lifestyle that can be enjoyed in the open-air spaces of the villages. The good weather is best enjoyed –and with an additional dose of style, of course– when walking the boulevards of these unique destinations that celebrate summer with fashion proposals to enjoy the warmer season, in the city, on the beach, in the field or at a secret destination; with terraces surrounded by exuberant vegetation that make an afternoon a statement; with a gastronomy of height and live music, in addition to other artistic proposals. It is an ode to life in the open air, to sharing unforgettable moments with our loved ones and shopping in a relaxed and calm environment, an oasis to escape from the city.

Very close to Paris, La Vallée village, celebrates summer with F.A.M.E., a festival dedicated to the art of living to celebrate the world of gastronomy, art, fashion and entertainment.

From June 1 to September 10, La Vallée village will host for the first time an unprecedented 15week program of artistic and cultural events. La Vallee village invites its visitors to enjoy unique immersive experiences through augmented reality, master classes, workshops, meetings, happenings, performances and exhibitions, with stars, enthusiasts and experts from the fields of gastronomy (F for Food), art (A), fashion (M de Mode) and entertainment (E). Throughout the summer, unforgettable experiences will be lived in which everyone will be able to taste delicacies

prepared by some of the best chefs in the world of haute cuisine, relive some of the best moments of cinematographic fashion through augmented reality or find an exclusive it bag made in France.

And for those looking for a sweet gourmet indulgence, find it at an espace éphémère de Madeleine by Ferrières, by celebrity chef Desty Brami, Executive Pastry Chef at renowned restaurants like Le Chai and Le Baron at Château de Ferrières, where you can sample exquisite creations that include viral TikTok culinary delights like the New York Roll.

The Spanish villages are also preparing for an unforgettable summer. La Roca village, in Barcelona, the best destination to enjoy the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, celebrates its 25th

anniversary with a very special collaboration with the artist TV Boy, who will transform the village into an open-air art gallery to reflect on the values that make us all more human. In addition, music and fashion will liven up the bright Mediterranean summer afternoons.

Las Rozas village, a few minutes from the Salamanca district in Madrid, will once again become the place to be for all those who seek to enjoy the Madrid style. The boutiques of the best brands, art on the facades as part of the UVNT ART FAIR X LAS ROZAS VILLAGE project to support new contemporary art, and its famous Summer Terrace, where you can enjoy the best sunset in all of Madrid, with music live music and a very fresh cocktail in hand will be the keys to enjoying the long summer days.

Fidenza village near Milan, in its 20th anniversary year, continues to position itself as the perfect Italian summer shopping destination, thanks to late-night shopping every Thursday, an attractive mix of brands and products, an extensive entertainment program with live performances and DJ sessions, new and exquisite

menus for its restaurants and artistic experiences under the unique Italian summer sky.

In addition, Fidenza village has launched the Third Edition of Fidenza village’s StreetArt Festival dedicated to StreetArt. Curated by one of the most well-known names on the Italian Street Art Scene, Luca Vollono – also known as Lucamaleonte. This year the event sees the participation of a number of new artists, whose work will enrich the village’s art collection as part of a gallery-style itinerary, brought to life by specially created audio guides. The audio guides, which are full of anecdotes about the artists and how they created their artworks, will be available on Spotify in Italian, English, Chinese and Korea.

Proposals, with a cause and with the most select fashion, beauty, gastronomy, design and art – without forgetting the savings of up to 60%, or even more, on the original price – the European villages of The Bicester Collection have, without a doubt, the winning equation to live an unrepeatable summer and enjoy it to the fullest.

thebicestercollection.com

June 2023 140 DESTINATION
June 2023 142 D-EXPERIENCE 01 01
The breathtaking Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
The resort itself is perched on a hilltop, designed in royal Thai Lanna style. ”

ICONIC Experiences

Upon arriving at Chiang Rai Airport, we were treated to a scenic one-hour drive to the resort, with return transfers by luxury limousine included as part of the Discovery Experience package. Alternatively, guests can opt for the VIP Regal Elephant Arrival, where they are collected from the airport and embark on a traditional longtail boat journey along the Mekong River, followed by an elephant trek through jungle paths leading to the hotel lobby. This unique arrival experience sets the tone for the magical stay that awaits.

The resort itself is perched on a hilltop, designed in royal Thai Lanna style. The 63 rooms and suites offer a spacious and comfortable retreat, with stunning views of the misty hills of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos from the private balconies. The interiors beautifully showcase Thai culture, featuring silks, textiles, and teakwood furniture, while also providing modern amenities such as terrazzo bathtubs for a relaxing soak with a view.

During our stay, we had the privilege of participating in various activities offered by the resort. One of the highlights was the “Walking with Giants” experience at the Elephant Camp. We joined the elephants on their free-roaming stroll, accompanied by mahouts (elephant caretakers) and the resident vet or biologist. We also had the

opportunity to witness the elephants’ shower time, a splashing and joyful affair.

Another memorable activity was the luxury pampering at Anantara Spa. With a choice of indulgent treatments, including scrubs, wraps, massages, facials, and more, we were able to tailor our spa experience to our preferences and unwind in the tranquil surroundings.

For those interested in culinary experiences, the resort’s Spice Spoons Thai cooking school offered an immersive and interactive opportunity to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine. From a market tour and temple offering to a step-by-step cooking class with a master chef, we delved into the unique flavors and techniques of Thai cooking. Exploring the surrounding area was also a delight. We embarked on a bike ride around the city, visiting temples and farms, immersing ourselves in the local culture and taking in the picturesque landscapes. Additionally, the resort’s proximity to attractions like tea plantations, hill tribe villages, palaces, flower gardens, and the famous White Temple provided ample opportunities for further exploration.

The exceptional hospitality provided by the resort’s staff added another layer of charm to our experience. Their warmth and attentiveness made

We recently had the opportunity to experience the enchanting Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, nestled amidst the lush jungle and hill tribe culture of northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle. Our journey began with a remarkable flight on Etihad Airways’ business class to Thailand, setting the tone for an extraordinary adventure.

us feel welcome and well taken care of throughout our stay. From the gourmet all-day dining options to the stunning facilities and activities available, every aspect of the resort contributed to a truly unforgettable experience.

Our time at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort was nothing short of magical. The combination of Etihad Airways’ business class, the resort’s beautiful location, spacious and comfortable rooms, exceptional hospitality, and the diverse range of activities made it an adventure to remember. Whether it was walking with elephants, indulging in delicious northern Thai cuisine, exploring the local area, or simply relaxing in the stunning surroundings, every moment was filled with joy and wonder. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort truly offers a unique and unforgettable escape into the heart of the Golden Triangle.

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One of the highlights was the “Walking with Giants” experience at the Elephant Camp

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The interiors beautifully showcase Thai culture, featuring silks, textiles, and teakwood furniture

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Thai jungle meets Tuscan countryside in the resort’s signature Italian Chiang Rai restaurant

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The entrance to the lobby is nothing short of majestic

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“ Etihad is the first airline in the world to introduce the Elements seat on the Boeing 787. ”
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The resort is nestled amidst the lush jungle and hill tribe culture of northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle

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Flying with Etihad Airways was a luxurious experience in itself. The comfortable seating, attentive service, and delectable food provided an excellent start to our trip. The airline’s business class ensured that we arrived in Thailand feeling refreshed and ready for our stay at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort.

Since March 2023, Etihad Airways has boosted its flights to Bangkok, Thailand by doubling its frequency. The airline now flies twice a day on the Abu Dhabi – Bangkok route, providing a total of 14 weekly nonstop services to Bangkok Airport (BKK).

Etihad Airways recently announced a partnership with Armani/Casa, a new collaboration to deliver an unparalleled premium travel experience, setting an elevated new benchmark for the aviation industry.

Launched onboard in December 2022, the partnership creates a unique vision for Etihad’s premium offering, exclusively designed with celebrated designer Giorgio Armani.

The Etihad and Armani/Casa collaboration introduces ‘The Constellation Collection’, inspired by the stars. Offering an ‘Elevated Style’ experience for Etihad’s guests, the range is embellished with a unique geometric pattern that subtly adorns the collection.

The collection includes a new dining service

featuring ceramics, glassware, cutlery and serving ware, as well as premium textiles for a completely luxurious inflight experience.

The airline also recently revealed the new interior for its Boeing 787 Dreamliners that will join the fleet in the third quarter of this year, adding to the 39 Dreamliners Etihad already operates.

The Business cabin features Etihad’s unique, stylish interior, with a customized version of the Elements seat manufactured by Collins. Etihad is the first airline in the world to introduce the Elements seat on the Boeing 787.

The new seats will provide guests with a comfortable and spacious environment with added privacy provided by a suite door. The height of the suite has been further increased from the A350’s debut model, offering even greater privacy for guests.

Each of the 32 Business seats has direct aisle access with the cabin designed in a 1-2-1 configuration offering comfort, convenience and privacy whether travelling individually or with companions. The seats recline to a fully lie-flat-bed 78” in length and feature a 17.3” 4K TV screen, Bluetooth headphone pairing, multiple charging ports and wireless charging, as well as plenty of storage.

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Etihad Airways provided the ultimate experience in flight comfort, luxury, and convenience
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HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL LONDON, UK

Ideally situated where St. James’, Mayfair and Soho converge, this luxury hotel on Regent Street has an unparalleled setting. For over 150 years, the Café Royal has welcomed those who make a difference, from Oscar Wilde and Winston Churchill to Princess Diana and David Bowie. The only place in London to convene, converse, and celebrate.

One of the leading design hotels in London, Café Royal has been both sympathetically restored and lovingly modernized. In an attempt to retain the grand, historic public rooms of the 1860s and 1920s - of which the Café Royal was famed forthese Grade II listed spaces have been painstakingly restored with careful attention to detail and the utmost respect. Meanwhile, our serene rooms and suites have been curated in a modern, sophisticated manner, characterized by refined simplicity and contemporary features. Calm, assured and distinctive, each room and suite represents the Café Royal’s glory, both past and present.

The rich history of this legendary destination in London is reflected in its guestrooms and suites. Each room and suite features thoughtful, exquisite details to make your stay more comfortable and exceptional, combining the latest technology with remarkable comfort for a luxury hotel experience like no other.

The hotel’s legendary Regent Street address has long been the capital’s hub for fine food, wine and conversation. Oscar Wilde chose the Café Royal – and its unmatched wine selection – for his salon, while Winston Churchill favored the hotel’s steaks, stilton and Champagne. Even those who differed on most things, came together here to enjoy an atmosphere and range of gourmet pleasures found nowhere else. The story continues today, as Albert Adrià and Alex Dilling add to the culinary excitement. This, it seems, is a tradition everyone can agree upon.

Before earth, water, fire and air, the legends say, there was Akasha, the source of all creation.

At Hotel Café Royal, you’re invited to return to that source – Akasha Holistic Wellbeing. The hotel’s exclusive wellness club, spacious facilities for exercise and massages are just the beginning. From nutrition to meditation, yoga to Watsu, you can enjoy expert treatments, therapies and personal training offered at no other London hotel. The only place to start – or even end – the perfect day.

For more than a century Café Royal has played host to some of the most spectacular, historic events. And the best part of being the venue to host these events? Creating new ones to surpass them. From annual meetings to private auctions, celebrations to intimate private dining, the hotel offers an unsurpassed range of venue options, and each one tells a story. To make your own story, call the hotel’s events team in good time –reservations go fast.

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Luxury Getaways

the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.
Discover

THE MARK NYC NEW YORK, US

Imagine a hotel conjured up by a dream team of talents. From chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten to designer Jacques Grange and perfumer Frédéric Malle: welcome to The Mark.

Everything about this classic Upper East Side grande dame is designed around experiences exclusive enough to have the likes of Michael Kors, Anna Wintour and the Oprah Winfrey’s of the world checking in whenever they have the chance. Step into the lobby, and you’ll know it’s a hotel with a difference thanks to Jacques Grange’s dramatic black-and-white flooring, the curated collection of contemporary artworks and those sleek Paul Mathieu sofas. Additional perks include a shoeshine kiosk by John Lobb, an inhouse hair salon by Frédérick Fekkai and, upon request, 24-hour access to the Bergdorf Goodman store on Fifth Avenue (which you can get chauffeured to in a Mark Pedicab). Celebrities, uptown regulars, senior partners from white-shoe firms. Everyone finds a home at the Mark.

The Mark NYC is an exquisite luxury hotel located in the heart of Manhattan, offering a unique and unparalleled experience for its discerning guests.

With a rich history dating back to 1927, this iconic hotel has been tastefully transformed to combine classic elegance with modern sophistication.

As guests step into the grand lobby, they are greeted by an atmosphere of refined luxury and timeless style. The hotel’s interiors, designed by legendary French designer Jacques Grange, showcase a seamless blend of contemporary artistry and classic detailing. Each space exudes an air of sophistication, with exquisite furnishings, carefully curated artwork, and bespoke touches that create an ambiance of understated opulence.

The Mark NYC offers a variety of accommodations to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its guests. From spacious guest rooms to luxurious suites, every detail has been meticulously considered to ensure a comfortable and indulgent stay. The rooms feature sumptuous bedding, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, state-of-the-art technology, and stunning views of the city skyline or Central Park, depending on the room’s location.

Guests can embark on a culinary journey

at The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges, the hotel’s acclaimed dining establishment. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the restaurant offers a sophisticated menu that combines French and American influences, utilizing seasonal ingredients sourced from local purveyors. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, The Mark NYC features a world-class wellness and fitness center. The Mark Fitness Center is equipped with cutting-edge equipment, while The Mark Salon offers a range of beauty and grooming services to pamper guests. Additionally, the hotel provides exclusive access to The Mark Sailboat, allowing guests to experience the tranquility of sailing in New York City’s waters.

The Mark NYC takes pride in its dedication to personalized service, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met with the utmost care and attention. The hotel’s attentive staff is available around the clock, ready to assist with any request, from arranging theater tickets to securing reservations at the city’s finest restaurants. lartisien.com

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THE PENINSULA NEW YORK, US

Ideally located on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street in Midtown Manhattan, The Peninsula New York is in the heart of the city’s most prestigious shopping, entertainment and cultural district. The hotel is within walking distance of Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping, excellent restaurants, historic museums, and exciting Broadway theatres.

The Peninsula New York the recipient of some of the most prestigious accolades in the hospitality industry, including the Forbes Five Star rating and the AAA Five Diamond awards. Recently announced by Forbes Travel Guide, The Peninsula Hotels are the only hotel brand to achieve the highest possible FiveStar status across all ten of its properties.

An oasis in the heart of Manhattan with luxurious apartment-styled rooms and suites offers guests a quintessentially New York experience and a perfect respite from the city that never sleeps.

The hotel offers a range of meticulously appointed guest rooms and suites, each exuding an air of opulence and providing the utmost comfort for a truly memorable stay. From the Deluxe Room to the expansive Peninsula Suite, every accommodation reflects the hotel’s commitment to luxury and

attention to detail.

The Peninsula NYC is renowned for its exceptional dining options, which showcase a fusion of international flavors and culinary expertise. Clement, the hotel’s signature restaurant, tantalizes guests with a menu inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of New York City. The Gotham Lounge offers a relaxed setting for afternoon tea, while the Bar at Clement serves up crafted cocktails in a stylish ambiance.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, The Peninsula Spa provides an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. With a comprehensive menu of treatments and therapies, guests can indulge in personalized wellness experiences that cater to their individual needs. The state-of-the-art fitness center is also available for those looking to maintain their exercise routines while away from home.

The Peninsula NYC is not only a destination for leisure travelers but also an ideal choice for business events and meetings. The hotel features a range of versatile venues, including the grand ballroom, intimate boardrooms, and private dining spaces. With cutting-edge technology and impeccable service, the

hotel’s dedicated events team ensures that every occasion is flawlessly executed.

The Peninsula NYC prides itself on its commitment to providing unparalleled service and personalized experiences. The hotel’s team of skilled staff members, known as the Peninsula Pages, are dedicated to anticipating guests’ needs and exceeding their expectations. From arranging transportation and tickets to local attractions, to offering insider recommendations for the best dining and shopping experiences, the Peninsula Pages are always ready to assist, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay.

As part of The Peninsula Hotels group, The Peninsula NYC upholds the brand’s legacy of exceptional hospitality and attention to detail. With a rich history spanning over a century, this iconic hotel continues to set the standard for luxury accommodations in the heart of New York City. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests can expect nothing less than an extraordinary experience at The Peninsula NYC.

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THE PENINSULA ISTANBUL, TURKEY

The waterfront property encompasses four exquisite buildings, three of which are protected historical landmarks dating to the early 1900s, each carefully renovated, set amid a quarter kilometer expanse of blooming gardens along the Bosphorus Strait – the convergence point of East and West in Türkiye’s most cosmopolitan city. Guests wishing to plan a stay or an event at the stunning new hotel can now do so through their preferred travel advisor, or via The Peninsula Istanbul’s website. The site showcases the property’s diverse array of magnificently appointed rooms, suites, and gathering venues; its compound of graceful buildings, outdoor spaces, and its location within Galataport, a new waterfront revitalization project featuring museums, restaurants, and boutiques in the harbor district of Karaköy is in walking distance to Galata Tower, Galata Bridge, The Hagia Sophia Mosque, The Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

With 177 gorgeously appointed rooms starting at 40-49-sq-m/430-527-sq-ft to generous suites spread among its four waterfront buildings, The Peninsula Istanbul will offer guests a wide range of accommodation choices. Many will provide sweeping Bosphorus views from large windows, balconies, or private terraces; others will include direct access to the property’s magnificent gardens, outdoor swimming pool, private boat dock, and stylish luxury boutiques. All will be decorated with bespoke furnishings, original art, modern Turkish design elements like wood-and-mother-of-pearl inlay, kilim-style carpets, and sumptuous bathrooms clad in Marmara marble. The 510-sq-m/5,490-sq-ft Peninsula Suite, with its own hammam, gym, and rooftop swimming pool, will be one of the most opulent and spacious suites available in the city.

The hotel’s collection of special-event venues is similarly splendid. Lavish options include a grand ballroom that, when combined with its Terrace can accommodate 820 guests for a seated banquet and 1,300 for standing cocktails. In addition, the hotel offers two intimate conference rooms, VIP private dining and wine-tasting areas, and numerous alfresco spaces amid blossoming gardens overlooking the Bosphorus – all paired with stateof-the-art technology to ensure that both festive and business occasions make a stunning impression. Every venue reservation will include the impeccably attentive service of The Peninsula Istanbul’s special event planners and staff.

The Peninsula Istanbul will provide diners a myriad of opportunities to enjoy sublime gastronomic journeys. The hotel’s featured rooftop restaurant and bar will offer sophisticated TurkAsian cuisine and libations in several memorable dining areas for up to 350 people – including an expansive rooftop terrace with unparalleled views over the Bosphorus and hotel gardens; as well as a main dining room where the décor reflects the confluence of Asian and Turkish cultures.

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SONEVA FUSHI EYDHAFUSHI, MALDIVES

Make it a summer to remember with Soneva’s funfilled programmes at Soneva Fushi. Throughout July and August, one-of-a-kind experiences, exceptional cuisine, rejuvenating wellness sessions at Soneva Soul and an inspiring Summer Camp programme set the scene for tropical adventures with loved ones. For the ultimate island escape, a curated calendar of visiting Soneva Stars boasts one-of-a-kind workshops and experiences with Michelin-starred chefs, professional athletes and revered wellness specialists from around the world.

With views of the ocean and surrounding tropical forests, expansive decks, idyllic walkways, shaded plunge pools, and even a spa, gym and sauna in some of the villas, no luxury is spared in Soneva’s vast private hideaways. At Soneva Fushi, one- to nine-bedroom island and overwater villas fringed by lush tropical vegetation capture the essence of castaway chic.

Every Soneva stay is entirely bespoke, with exclusive summer offers complemented by signature 24/7 Barefoot Guardian butler service, complimentary access to the resorts’ ice cream, chocolate and cheese and charcuterie parlors, and more.

Guests at Soneva Fushi this summer can dine with not one, but four exceptional visiting chefs from around the world as part of the Soneva

Stars calendar. Latin America’s Best Female Chef Manu Buffara will be making a welcome return to the Maldives, while Executive Chef at Restaurant Merlet in the Netherlands, Jonathan Zandbergen, will be showcasing his distinctive style of Dutch cuisine. Named Austria’s Most Creative Chef, two-Michelin-starred Konstantin Filippou’s signature cooking style blends his Greek and Austrian heritage. And Wassim Hallal, the chef behind Denmark’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Frederikshøj, will be taking guests on a sensory journey in refinement and rendition without a horizon.

Helping guests stay active this summer, former Real Madrid defender Rafael Márquez will be hosting a series of exciting football camps. Guests can also take a fascinating voyage of the galaxy with planetary astronomer Dr James O’Donoghue and astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy at Soneva Fushi’s island observatory. Both passionate advocates for science education, they will be hosting after-dinner stargazing sessions along with fascinating talks throughout the day.

Families and younger guests have so much to see and do at Soneva Fushi. The Den, one the region’s largest children’s zones, has a fun-packed programme of activities that include sustainable

arts & crafts, summer-time journaling, island-wide treasure hunts and camp nights under the stars. Children aged 9 to 13 can also join the Soneva Academy’s bespoke Summer Camp programmes. From yoga and meditation on the beach and cooking classes using organic ingredients to workshops on digital storytelling, dolphin cruises, astronomy sessions and more, it’s the ultimate invitation to discovery.

A partnership between award-winning hospitality brand Soneva and Teamwork Arts, producer of the iconic Jaipur Literature Festival, JLF Soneva Fushi hosts a one-of-a-kind celebration of the arts, culture and performance on the sands of Soneva Fushi in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll.

Held across ten days and two weekends, JLF Soneva Fushi’s festival programme illuminates South Asia’s vibrant literary legacy and invites guests to take part in stimulating panels and workshops, book and poetry readings, and so much more. Each weekend is dedicated to keynote addresses, gala dinners on the sand, live music performances and film screenings at the outdoor Cinema Paradiso, with specially curated menus prepared by Soneva Fushi’s award-winning chefs.

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Five-Star Excellence

Durrah recently had the

In 2023, Mandarin Oriental, Doha proudly achieved the esteemed Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award for the fourth consecutive year, and for the second year running, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha also received the prestigious Five-Star award. This remarkable accomplishment sets Mandarin Oriental, Doha apart as the only hotel in Qatar to receive two such accolades, showcasing their commitment to providing exceptional service and experiences.

Overlooking the captivating Barahat Msheireb, an ingeniously designed climate-controlled town square, Mandarin Oriental, Doha enjoys a truly unique location in one of Doha’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The surrounding Msheireb Downtown Doha offers a wealth of enticing retail, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions, breathing new life into the city while preserving its historical core. With its central position, the hotel is within walking distance of renowned landmarks such as Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art. Additionally, it’s just a short distance away from the dynamic business district of West Bay and other popular attractions.

Designed by the world-renowned David Collins Studio, the hotel’s 117 rooms, 41 suites, and 91 serviced apartments boast a perfect blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Qatari influences. Impeccably appointed with meticulous attention to detail, each space exudes understated luxury, offering generous layouts and lavish furnishings that create a truly indulgent experience.

When it comes to dining, Mandarin Oriental, Doha surpasses expectations with its ten exceptional

outlets. These culinary gems bring together flavors from around the world, including delightful renditions of local dishes and delicacies. Inspired by the culinary adventures of Chef Izu, IZU tantalizes the taste buds with Mediterranean cuisine bursting with vibrant layers of flavor. With its indoor ground level, outdoor terrace with cooling features, and mezzanine level, the restaurant provides three distinct seating areas to cater to every preference.

For an immersive journey into the realm of Chinese gastronomy, guests can delight in the distinctive and authentic flavors at Liang. The restaurant weaves together captivating tales and exquisite craftsmanship, culminating in a memorable culinary experience. Featuring indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a mezzanine level with private dining options, Liang offers a setting for every occasion.

One of the hotel’s signature dining venues, Mosaic, transports guests on a culinary expedition along the Silk Route, showcasing tantalizing flavors from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. With nine live cooking stations reminiscent of bustling street markets, talented chefs prepare a dazzling array of dishes designed for sharing among friends and family. Adjacent to Mosaic, Aqua provides a relaxed rooftop dining experience, where guests can savor their meal in a serene atmosphere. Its semi-private seating makes it a perfect spot for joyous celebrations and gatherings.

For those seeking delectable sweet treats, The Mandarin Cake Shop is a haven of indulgence. With its selection of exquisite celebration cakes, artisan chocolates, and delicate pastries, it is a paradise for

discerning palates. Meanwhile, Mandarin Lounge and Baraha Lounge invite guests to revel in the elegant pleasure of Afternoon Tea. These stylish venues are ideal for both casual get-togethers and productive business meetings, offering the finest selection of bespoke tea blends, as well as delectable coffee, small bites, and delicacies. Nestled within Barahat Msheireb town square, Gelato delights visitors with its vibrant ambiance and surprising flavors of gelato and sorbet.

For an elevated and exclusive stay, MO Club offers discerning guests in Club Deluxe Rooms and Club Studio Suites an unparalleled level of luxury and personalized service. This exclusive offering includes bespoke amenities, privileged dining options, and dedicated assistance to ensure an unforgettable stay.

In addition to its exquisite dining and accommodations, Mandarin Oriental, Doha boasts an array of event venues and facilities. These spaces provide an intimate ambiance and feature an exclusive entrance lobby. The hotel’s expansive ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests or 250 guests with additional arrangements for banquets. Furthermore, seven additional function rooms, including an exclusive Bridal Room, are available to host various events, including enchanting wedding celebrations.

We found ourselves captivated by the sophisticated charm and impeccable service provided by Mandarin Oriental, Doha. From the hotel’s chic design and diverse room categories to the warm and welcoming staff, every aspect of our stay exceeded expectations.

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pleasure of experiencing the unparalleled luxury and enchanting ambiance of Mandarin Oriental, Doha. Situated at the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the hotel effortlessly combines contemporary design with subtle nods to Qatari heritage, creating a haven of elegance and sophistication.

SERENE TREATMENTS

Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.

AMAN SPA NEW YORK, US

Bringing to life the fullest expression of the Aman Health & Wellbeing concept yet, Aman Spa New York is the brand’s new flagship wellness center in the western hemisphere, offering transformative wellness experiences through specialist therapies and cutting-edge wellness and performance science. Claiming 2,323 sqm over three floors of the iconic Crown Building, Aman Spa New York offers three holistic clinical rooms, assessment studio, spacious fitness center, cryotherapy chamber studio, yoga and Pilates studio, two private spa houses with outdoor jacuzzi and cold plunge, seven spa treatment rooms and more.

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ANOTHER MARS DUBAI, UAE

Let the stresses ebb away with Another Mars’ spa and massage treatments – inspired by Himalayan healing therapy fused with multi-Asian massage techniques, applied with 100% natural handmade products. Join the Meditation Group and enjoy a series of non-religious immersive experiences combined with different types of sound and natural healing methods, led by an experienced sound therapist at Another Mars. Try the Authentic Himalayan Singing Bowl Therapy, one of the most effective ancient healing practices in the world, which helps with deep relaxation, stress reduction, balancing entire chakras system and more.

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THE PENINSULA SPA NEW YORK, US

High above the bustle of Midtown Manhattan, discover the serenity, luxury, and refinement of the award-winning Peninsula Spa. Experience spa treatments that are therapeutic, timeless and which offer an ideal retreat from the demands of the city. The bright and spacious Fitness Centre provides the ultimate urban workout location by combining stunning city views with cutting-edge training equipment and group fitness. Take a relaxing dip in The Peninsula New York’s glass-enclosed swimming pool, the perfect antidote to a busy day in the city.

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WELLNESS BY ME DUBAI, UAE

ME Dubai, the iconic hotel exclusively designed by Zaha Hadid, is inviting visitors and those seeking a luxurious summer refuge to indulge in a thoughtfully crafted wellness package, ensuring a serene escape amidst the summer heat. This summer, ME Dubai is offering an exquisite spa day as temperatures rise in the city and more people begin to seek solace indoors. Wellness by Me, their lavish spa, is the perfect oasis to retreat and treat yourself to an indulgent 90-minute package boasting a range of rejuvenating and soothing treatments. Each package will be accompanied by complimentary access to the pristine pool, sauna and gym.

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THE PENINSULA SPA ISTANBUL, TURKEY

A robust line-up of relaxation, and well-being choices greet guests at the Peninsula Istanbul hotel. At the 1,675-sq-m/18,030-sq-ft Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre, indulgent offerings include opulent hammams – traditional Turkish steam rooms – along with a dramatically lit, 25-m indoor swimming pool, and an extensive menu of treatments to enhance well-being, beauty, and relaxation that can be enjoyed in eight private treatment rooms. Physical fitness and mindfulness classes and workshops are offered at the facility’s state-of-the-art Fitness Centre; and a dedicated Wellness Portal provides in-room, round-the-clock access to wellness programs like guided exercise routines, aromatherapy self-care rituals, and audio meditations. In addition, The Peninsula Istanbul features a 25-m outdoor swimming pool, set amongst the lush gardens along the Bosphorus offering guests an outdoor dining option as well as private cabanas.

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Tailored TRANQUILITY

Nestled within this haven of tranquility, visitors embark on a seamless journey towards self-discovery and serenity. Drawing inspiration from the ancient wisdom and philosophy of the Orient, The Spa offers a range of holistic therapies that cater to every individual’s lifestyle and needs, ensuring a truly bespoke experience.

Occupying an impressive 3,030 square meters, The Spa boasts nine spacious treatment rooms, including two VIP suites and an exclusive couples’ suite. These luxurious spaces are complemented by extensive heat and water facilities, allowing guests to unwind and relax before and after their pampering sessions. Within the separate male and female areas, indoor pools, heated loungers, steam rooms, dry saunas, and experience showers await, creating a perfect environment for complete relaxation. The experience showers, adorned with colored lights and refreshing scents, offer a unique sensation as cold and warm body jets gently massage the body, further enhancing the overall spa experience.

A testament to The Spa’s dedication to embracing local traditions, two experiences stand out as a homage to the heritage of Qatar: “Singing Sand Dunes” and “Harmony of Pearls.” Among them, the “Singing Sand Dunes” treatment stands as a truly exceptional and transformative experience. Utilizing the gold quartz

sand treatment table by Gharieni, this unique therapy uplifts the mind and spirit, attuning the body’s rhythm to a tranquil state. Through its healing properties, it promotes regeneration and improves circulation, leaving guests feeling rejuvenated and balanced.

Beyond the spa, Mandarin Oriental, Doha also offers an exceptional Fitness & Wellness Centre. This state-of-the-art facility houses Technogym equipment and provides private and personalized areas, including female-only spaces. Additionally, three multi-purpose studios have been thoughtfully designed to cater to specific fitness disciplines such as Pilates Reformer, Yoga, TRX, and FunXtion digital training experience. Pilates Reformer training, known for its numerous benefits, including strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance, is available for guests seeking a comprehensive workout. Moreover, the FunXtion station offers an immersive digital fitness platform, providing a unique and engaging training experience.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, has truly mastered the art of welcoming guests and providing exceptional spa treatments. With its holistic approach, personalized service, and dedication to promoting well-being, this oasis of calm and tranquility deserves every accolade it receives.

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We had the pleasure of experiencing The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, a sanctuary that embraces a holistic approach to rejuvenation and provides an unparalleled welcome to all its guests.

Cultural FLAVORS

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT YOUR MOTHER’S COOKING THAT INSTILLED IN YOU A PASSION FOR COOKING AND IS THE INFLUENCE OF HER DISHES STILL PREVALENT IN YOUR DISHES TODAY?

My mother’s cooking was always about the warmth and love she put into each dish. She taught me how to appreciate and respect the ingredients, and how to balance flavors to create a harmonious dish. Her influence is still very much present in my dishes today, as I always try to create a soulful and comforting experience for my guests.

YOU HAVE TRAVELLED AND WORKED ALL OVER THE WORLD. HOW HAS THIS IMPACTED ON THE WAY YOU COOK TODAY? DO YOU TAKE INSPIRATION FROM THE CUISINE OF OTHER CULTURES?

Traveling and working all over the world has definitely broadened my culinary perspective and allowed me to take inspiration from different cultures. I have learned to appreciate the unique flavors and techniques from each place I have visited and try to incorporate them into my cooking. I also believe that traveling has taught me to be more adaptable and open-minded as a chef.

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT ASIA THAT LED YOU TO SPEND SO MANY YEARS OF YOUR LIFE THERE?

Asia has always fascinated me with its diverse cuisine, unique ingredients, and rich culinary

history. Working in Japan, Singapore, and Thailand allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Asian flavors and techniques. I find it particularly fascinating how Asian cuisine is steeped in tradition yet continues to evolve and innovate.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHTS? ANY SPECIAL DISHES?

My career highlights include working with some of the world’s most talented chefs, including Seijii Yamamoto, Paul Pairet, and Rene Redzepi. It was also an honor to receive two Michelin stars for my restaurant Turk Fatih Tutak, making me the first Turkish chef to achieve this. As for special dishes, I would have to say that “Annemin Mantısı” (My Mother’s Mantı) holds a special place in my heart and is a dish that my diners have come to love.

DO YOU THINK THAT TURKISH FOOD GETS ENOUGH RESPECT WORLDWIDE? OR DOES IT TEND TO GET GROUPED TOGETHER WITH OTHER MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE?

Turkish cuisine is often underrated and misunderstood. It is a diverse and rich cuisine that draws influences from many cultures, including the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Central Asia. I believe that it is important to showcase the beauty and the regional diversity of Turkish cuisine on full spectrum and to highlight its unique flavors and ingredients.

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The first Turkish chef to achieve two Michelin stars, Chef Fatih Tutak’s dishes reflect true warmth and love, shaped by years of his global travels and incorporating flavors and techniques from diverse cultures.
01 Turk Fatih Tutak offers exquisite Turkish cuisine 02 Chef Fatih Tutak
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HOW BIG AN ACCOMPLISHMENT IS YOUR 2-STAR MICHELIN CHEF STATUS FOR YOU, ESPECIALLY SINCE YOU ARE THE FIRST TURKISH CHEF TO ACHIEVE THIS? CAREERWISE AND ON A PERSONAL LEVEL?

Receiving two Michelin stars is an invaluable accomplishment for me both on a personal and career level. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication that my team and I put into creating memorable dining experiences for our guests. Being the first Turkish chef to achieve this is an added honor, and I hope that it inspires other Turkish chefs to continue pushing the boundaries of Turkish cuisine. My collaboration with The Peninsula İstanbul is also a great honor for me, as I am the first chef director to work with the prestigious hotel group in its history. It is a privilege to be able to bring my culinary vision to the table and to work with such a respected brand. I am excited to see where this collaboration will take us and look forward to continuing to innovate and push boundaries in the hospitality and culinary world.

OTHER THAN YOUR MOTHER, WHICH CHEFS ARE YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATIONS?

My biggest inspirations are who are producing their craft, also individuals who are passionate about their work and are constantly pushing themselves to grow and learn. I draw inspiration from artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs who have a creative vision and are not afraid to take risks. I believe that creativity and innovation can come from many different sources, and I try to stay open-minded and curious about the world around me. At the end of the day, my goal is to create a unique and unforgettable experience for my guests and my team, I am inspired by anyone who shares that same passion for excellence.

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Some of the delectable creations featuring Chef Tutak’s signature techniques

06 Chef Tutak’s dishes incorporate various ingredients from diverse flavors

07 Interiors that create an unmatched ambiance for patrons

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Opening my first restaurant was definitely a dream come true for me. ”
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WAS OPENING YOUR FIRST RESTAURANT A DREAM COME TRUE FOR YOU? WAS THIS ALWAYS ONE OF YOUR GOALS?

Opening my first restaurant was definitely a dream come true for me. It was always one of my goals to have my own restaurant where I could showcase my culinary vision and create memorable dining experiences for my guests. It was a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with others.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE IN HELPING TO FEED THE VICTIMS OF THE RECENT EARTHQUAKE IN TURKEY.

As a chef, I believe it is my duty to use my

skills and resources to give back to the community. When the earthquake hit Turkey, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to help my people in need. It was a deeply emotional experience to see firsthand the devastation and the suffering our people were going through. But it was also an honor to be able to provide some comfort and nourishment to our people who affected by the earthquake, even though we weren’t able to help all of the victims across 11 cities being able to contribute in some way was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and to provide a sense of hope and resilience in difficult times. I hope to continue to do my part to help people in need, and to inspire others in my industry to do the same.

turkft.com

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REFINED TASTE

CAVIAR KASPIA NYC, USA

Caviar Kaspia, the storied Parisian institution, has come to the Big Apple and is opening its first New York location at The Mark, the Upper East Side’s most boldly lavish hotel. The restaurant and caviar boutique, designed by celebrated interior designer Jacques Grange, embodies the DNA of the famously chic Parisian restaurant, a celebrity favorite since it first opened in 1927, with the same inviting atmosphere. In harmony with The Mark Hotel itself, Caviar Kaspia evokes old world elegance and comfort with Parisian flavor, yet is tailored to New York, featuring the iconic Caviar Kaspia blue tablecloths, emerald green mohair banquettes, wood paneled walls, a sculptural Belgian Black marble bar, with warm ambient lighting by L’Observatoire International.

Caviar Kaspia at The Mark celebrates the “Art of Caviar” by offering an extensive menu that includes the house’s cult favorite twice-baked potato topped

with caviar, blinis with smoked salmon, bottarga, vegetarian caviar made from liquified and spherized truffle, eggs with caviar, pasta with caviar, and more. Perfectly paired with a glass of champagne or shot of vodka, Caviar Kaspia offers eight different types of farm raised caviar, spanning multiple regions around the world and expanding various taste profiles and access. The landmark caviar boutique will offer the delights and delicacies of Caviar Kaspia for the ultimate at home indulgence or the perfect gourmet gift.

Occupying the corner of 77th Street and Madison Avenue in the heart of the Upper East Side, the arrival of cult eatery Caviar Kaspia adds a new and distinctively exquisite experience to The Mark, a beacon of French style with a repertoire of unparalleled luxury offerings for guests.

kaviarcaspiany.com

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Experience a culinary journey with awardwinning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.

GO BISTRO BY LA TABLE KRUG SEEF, BAHRAIN

La Table Krug, located at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, is moving to the beach for an exclusive popup. Think white sand between your toes, gentle ocean breezes, and an incredible sensory culinary experience that draws inspiration from artistic expression as this exquisite restaurant, relocates for a limited time. Diners will find themselves gripped by a sense of total euphoria as the tantalizing dishes, tastefully sculpted to create culinary masterpieces, are served in the most enlivening and awe-inspiring location.

During its tenure at this beachside utopia, the restaurant will serve up “Cuisine de Maison”, otherwise known as “Comfort Home Cooking”, in a refined contemporary bistro style where gold and burgundy are the main color, while still leaving space for white touches and driftwood. The food creations on show will encapsulate a delicate balance between sophistication and simplicity, where ordinary food becomes extraordinary, and the simple things are done right. Each ingredient used will be elevated to a point of brilliance and extreme taste, with fusion combinations designed to create symphonies and explosions of flavor.

instagram.com/ltkbah

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IL CARRACHI BOLOGNA, ITALY

The Majestic Grand Hotel – formerly known as the “Baglioni” hotel – is located in the very heart of Bologna, home to the oldest university of the West and famous for its longstanding food and motors tradition. It is the only five-star hotel in the city, and a member of “The Leading Hotels of the World” association. In its one hundred years of excellence, the Majestic has welcomed as its guests, artists, kings, politicians, Nobel Prize winners and movie stars.

Inside the hotel’s “Carracci Restaurant”, the enthralling atmosphere that can be found in all the beautiful halls of the Majestic hotel is merged with the passion for Italian art, history and haute cuisine. It is considered one of the best restaurants in the city and is open to everyone, not just to the hotel guests. Surrounded by Agostino and Annibale Carracci’s XVI century frescoes, you will enjoy the best dishes of Emilia-Romagna regional cuisine, such as tortellini, tagliatelle, lasagne and bologna, with some ‘surprise’ recipes from national and international cuisines. All of them served with a rich wine list. At the beginning of 1900s, the XV century hall was added to the hotel and has now a maximum capacity of 70 people. It is open every day.

duetorrihotels.com

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ANDREA APREA MILAN, ITALY

The Michelin star chef Andrea Aprea, after his adventure as Executive Chef at the Vun Andrea Aprea restaurant, the first hotel restaurant in the history of Milan to receive a Michelin star, presents his first project as Chef Patron. The new Andrea Aprea Restaurant, takes place on the top floor of the new Art Museum of the Luigi Rovati Foundation in the heart of Milan at Corso Venezia 52. It presents a valuable collection of Etruscan objects and artefacts that engage in a dialogue with works of art from various eras and civilizations. The restaurant brings together, in an aesthetic setting of pure proportions, all the values of the gastronomic experience that Aprea has defined in his twenty years of research.

The environment, designed by architect Flaviano Capriotti, is characterized by a space with great scenic impact, where a surprising window opens up to reveal a panoramic view of the Porta Venezia park and the city skyline. The interiors develop the relationship between waiting and delivery of the gastronomic experience in a contemporary key, creating subtle sensory relationships with the new vocation of the Palazzo, the context of signs, the noble materials and the continuous dialogue with the site-specific artworks created by artists Andrea Sala and Mauro Ceolin.

andreaaprea.com

LITTLE MISS INDIA DUBAI, UAE

A Michelin Guide Dubai 2022 and 2023 Star Selected restaurant, Little Miss India offers a full entertainment experience, transporting you back to India through the eyes of the ‘Mistress’ of the mansion, known as Mohini Singh. She’ll guide you through her worldly travels and demonstrate her eccentric menu, in her home. Guests can explore the history and diversity of Indian Cuisine at Little Miss India.

Located in Fairmont The Palm, diners are taken on a gastronomic journey by Restaurant Executive Chef Arif Mohammad, an Indian native with over a decade’s experience in curating menus that showoff traditional Indian cuisine. Classic Indian kebabs are found on the menu with a variety of chargrilled meats and vegetables available to guests. Lamb is paired with mint and Indian spices, while chicken is marinated in Kashmiri chillies, yoghurt, cumin and kasoori methi. Vegetarians have a variety of kebab options, with one vegan dish of potaties stuffed with cashews, raisins and spices.

The traditional Indian curry takes center stage on the menu with sections for chicken, lamb, vegetarian, seafood and lentil curries, meaning diners are certainly spoilt for choice.

fairmont.com/palm

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The Ultimate Jazz Experience

On the very pulse of Manhattan, representing the dynamism of this forward-looking city and the role music has always played in its cultural evolution, The Jazz Club claims its own secret entrance on West 56th Street, off Fifth Avenue. Inspired by the illicit energy and rebellion of Prohibition Era speakeasies without a trace of nostalgia, the 3,000-square-foot (280 sqm) venue is cutting edge in every way, providing the 21st century equivalent a century later.

With legendary musician and six-time Grammy Award nominee Brian Newman as Creative Director, up to the minute contemporary sounds merge with jazz influences and American Songbook strains to inform a diverse calendar of live performances. Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm to 2am, scheduling includes live music performances every evening from 7pm to 10pm and DJs from 10pm to 2am. Featuring both musical icons and the brightest new stars, each night’s programming features a diverse range of acts, bringing the buzz of downtown Manhattan to the heart of Midtown.

Helmed by Arthur Backal, the management

team includes Sebastien Lefavre as Managing Director and Briana Swan, a singer songwriter herself, as General Manager. Sebastien has been at the forefront of New York City nighttime hospitality for the past 17 years, having experienced the full scope of the business in some of the city’s bestknown and respected establishments including Gold Bar, Rose Bar and “et al”. A 1962 Steinway baby grand piano takes center stage with the venue’s innovative layout ensuring clear sight lines from every angle. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, moody tones reflect New York’s underground glamour and the highest quality finishes offer an exquisite materiality of every design feature, precluding anything but the most elegant dress code.

The Jazz Club is one of the most technologically advanced music venues in the city, comparable only to the Rose Theatre at Lincoln Centre and the Jimmy Fallon Show in terms of sound technology. The sonic experience is the result of a completely bespoke design and integration, utilizing three of the most advanced acoustics technologies in the world from Meyer Sound Laboratories of Berkeley

California. Constellation© is a revolutionary system enabling The Jazz Club to change the acoustic properties of the space to provide the proper sonic environments for different performance types.

In conjunction with over 150 loudspeakers and microphones, Meyer’s advanced digital signal processors actively adjust the sound signature of the room to elevate guest and performer experience. Conversation between guests at the same table remains clear and distinct, while surrounding voices and ambient noises are softly blurred to reduce impact. With floor to ceiling sound dampening treatment in the walls and microperforated mirrors, The Jazz Club has been designed for use as a studio recording environment or for performances that are to be recorded for television or broadcast. The Jazz Club has also been outfitted with network, audio and fiber optic patch bays to accommodate a variety of special technical setupsperfect for the most exclusive private parties, from album launches to post-award events. thejazzclub.com

SPECIAL FEATURE
Built as the Roaring 1920s ushered in the revolutionary Jazz Age, Manhattan’s iconic Crown Building is now home to Aman New York - Aman’s second urban destination. The hotel’s exclusive gathering space, The Jazz Club invites both hotel guests and non-residents alike to enjoy a classic New York experience reimagined by Aman.
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The Jazz Club has been designed for use as a studio recording environment or for performances that are to be recorded for television or broadcast. ”

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From Dream to Reality

Founded in 1963, CRN is a renowned shipyard and Ferretti Group brand specializing in fully custom yachts up to 95 meters. The Ancona yard, spanning over 80,000 sqm, is one of Europe’s largest and most advanced shipbuilding facilities. CRN’s team of dedicated professionals collaborates with clients, architects, and designers to transform their vision into a harmonious blend of creativity, expertise, and technical mastery.

The journey begins with capturing the client’s vision through careful listening and in-depth discussions. Collaborating with renowned architects and designers, CRN develops concept proposals and a general arrangements plan that shapes the yacht’s layout, hull, performance, and deck features. Every detail is meticulously refined to ensure perfect harmony and fulfill the owner’s desires, resulting in state-of-the-art design solutions and aesthetic innovations.

The project progresses with detailed design stages, where the Technical Office engineers handle structural and engineering aspects, while project architects focus on interior design. The combined expertise of the CRN team, including the Project Manager, ensures agile progress, supreme quality, and timely delivery. Volumes in each setting are individually mapped out, allowing for personalization and integration of design with technical requirements. Renderings and mood boards showcase customized materials and

textures, creating an immersive experience for the client.

Architectural designs are developed at a finer level of detail, accompanied by 1:20 scale drawings and materials selection. The Owner’s wife plays a pivotal role in choosing the mood and style, collaborating with the Project Architect to find aesthetically fitting solutions and select the best suppliers. Italian master artisans oversee the creation of tailor-made products and solutions, ensuring a high level of craftsmanship from concept to completion.

As the design is perfected, production work begins with the construction of the hull and subsequent fitting-out processes. CRN’s experienced carpenters, with over a century of history and shipbuilding know-how, contribute their expertise in creating meticulously customized spaces. Various production stages proceed in parallel, resulting in a symphony of craftsmanship. The Owner actively participates in

June 2023 190 YACHTS

the project’s progress through visits to the yard and onboard inspections.

Before the yacht’s delivery, a series of tests are conducted to verify and certify the installations and details. External technicians join the yard in ensuring CRN’s hallmark of excellence is met. Simultaneously, free-standing furnishings are added, enhancing each space’s personality and warmth.

The voyage concludes with the yacht’s launch and the Owner’s fulfillment. After christening, the yacht undergoes thorough testing to ensure exceptional quality. The client’s idea, starting from a blank sheet, is transformed into a unique, exclusive masterpiece of unmistakable style. The client becomes the true author, witnessing their vision come to fruition in a remarkable achievement.

crn-yacht.com

Before the yacht’s delivery, a series of tests are conducted to verify and certify the installations and details. ”

Cutting-edge Capabilities

The modern luxury performance champion takes its place at the pinnacle of a refreshed Range Rover Sport line-up, driving sporting attitude, dynamic ability and assertive presence to the next level.

Inherent to the high-performance credentials of the new Range Rover Sport SV, an exclusive airflow-enhanced design delivers a more assertive and grounded aesthetic, with functional lightweight and technical material choices throughout reinforcing its high-performance capabilities.

Powered exclusively by a new 635PS, 750Nm2 4.4-litre Twin-Turbo MHEV V8 petrol engine – 60PS and 50Nm more than the previous generation Range Rover Sport SVR’s Supercharged 5.0-litre V8 – the Range Rover Sport SV is capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in as little as 3.6 seconds1 and a top speed of 180mph. CO2 emissions are also 15 per cent lower than the previous model’s 575PS V8.

This outstanding performance is enabled by a combination of features that deliver a weight saving of up to 76kg1, including the world’s first 23-inch Carbon Fiber Wheel option on a production car, Carbon Ceramic Brakes (option available for the first time on a Range Rover), and standard-fit aerodynamic enhancements including a carbon fiber bonnet.

For the first time on a Range Rover, 305-section rear tires are fitted, which are 20mm wider than the 285-section front tires. This arrangement, with standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires, enables a rear-biased dynamic setup enhancing grip, stability, and traction. Increased rear roll stiffness also helps deliver immediate steering responses. Enhancing its on-road dynamic capability, every new Range Rover Sport SV benefits from a specially developed high-performance braking system, with clients able to choose between standard mixed-metal Dual-Cast and optional Carbon Ceramic braking technologies. Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB), available for the first time on a Range Rover, deliver ultimate braking performance with improved resistance to high temperatures, a longer lifespan and 34kg total un-sprung weight reduction versus the uprated Dual-Cast iron brake discs fitted as standard to the Range Rover Sport SV. This reduction in mass at each corner of the car results in even more responsive handling, faster acceleration, and improved ride quality.

The new Range Rover Sport SV’s highperformance-honed exterior design includes an exclusive airflow-enhanced front-end, reprofiled lower body sides and functional carbon fibertipped quad tailpipes for the active exhaust system

as focal points of the rear aspect. Carbon fiber detailing on the Range Rover script, front bumper blades, grille surround, bonnet vents and side vents can be supplemented with an exposed finish for the center section of the carbon fiber bonnet3.

Range Rover Sport’s beautifully crafted and reductive interior has also been enriched with intuitive new technologies. Combining effortless connectivity and the latest touchscreen, the Pivi Pro4 infotainment provides intuitive control of all vehicle functions through the elegant 13.1-inch floating glass display.

New sidebars with easy-to-use sliders for the volume and climate control provide immediate and precise operation for key functions directly, whatever menu screen is displayed, and approximately 80% of tasks can be performed within two taps of the home screen. Haptic feedback provides an added level of tactility and communication with the user.

Integrated Amazon Alexa voice AI6 and Land Rover voice control systems help drivers to keep their eyes on the road while making changes to the cabin environment. Advanced Software Over The Air capability keeps Range Rover Sport up to date with the latest software.

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The new Range Rover Sport SV is the most powerful and dynamic Range Rover Sport ever, blending supreme performance and dynamism with peerless Range Rover capability, refinement, and reductive design. Its array of performanceenhancing technologies includes the most advanced suspension system in its class7 and a sensory audio system with wellness benefits.
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The beautifully crafted and reductive interior has been enriched with intuitive new technologie The new Range Rover Sport SV is the most powerful and dynamic Range Rover Sport yet

ELECTRIFYING Experience

The opulent launch, aptly hosted in AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, showcased all three EV models, creating a new standard for luxury electric models in the region. The reveal included the Electrified G80, the Electrified GV70, and the GV60.

Presenting a bold direction for luxury electric sedans with its high levels of performance and technology, the Electrified G80 is built on the heritage of its predecessor G80, embodying the perfect balance of Athletic Elegance. The exterior sports an aerodynamic crest grille that fits in the signature G-Matrix pattern and a hidden charging door at the front Focusing on sustainable luxury, the seats are fitted with Nappa leather and tinted with natural dyes, with additional fittings in an ecofriendly Forged Wood trim.

The Electrified G80 features a 400V/800V multi-rapid charging system that can be used with various charging infrastructures, and it also has a V2L feature, enabling customers to use electric power of 3.6kW outside of the vehicle.

The Electrified GV70 is built on the heritage of the GV70, inheriting its predecessor’s spacious interior and adding outstanding performance and a host of new technologies designed exclusively for electric vehicles. On the exterior, the front fascia

displays careful consideration for aerodynamic efficiency and function. Same as the Electrified G80, Genesis’ signature Crest Grille has evolved into an aerodynamic crest, featuring an inverted G-Matrix Pattern, and incorporates a hidden EV charging port, creating a minimalist yet sophisticated look.

The interior boasts driver-focused design, offering an intuitive and dynamic driving experience. Inspired by the ‘Beauty of White Space’ interior design concept, the Electrified GV70 offers customers the opportunity to write their own story, with an interior that reflects the sustainable ambitions of the electric vehicle and Genesis’ commitment to future sustainability. This highperformance model boasts impressive acceleration, capable of going from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds in Boost Mode. Additionally, the Electrified GV70 is the first Genesis model to feature the SUVspecific e-Terrain Mode, which ensures a stable driving experience in various environments.

With a sleek and athletic coupe crossover utility vehicle (CUV) design, the GV60 built on the dedicated EV platform known as Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), marking the brand’s move toward electrification. The GV60 features a Clamshell Hood, a single panel which combines the hood and

fenders, creating a sleek impression. It also comes with a new wing emblem on the hood decorated with the Guilloché pattern often seen in luxury watches.

The interior takes on Genesis’ design ethos of the ‘Beauty of White Space’, while seeking to create a spacious and comfortable interior. The Crystal Sphere is one of the most compelling design elements of the GV60. It is not only an aesthetic element of the interior design, but it is also built to create an emotional connection between the driver and the vehicle. Together with such elaborate design elements, GV60 is equipped with innovative technologies to provide a unique EV experience that connects the car to its driver.

Face Connect is a feature that allows the car to recognize the driver’s face to lock or unlock its doors without a key. Drivers only need to touch the door handle and register their faces to the camera on the B-pillar. Face Connect adjusts settings based on the driver’s customized settings, as if the car recognizes the driver.

Furthermore, the GV60’s Fingerprint Authentication System allows drivers to start and drive the car without a key. The combination of both technologies will allow drivers to enjoy a brand-new experience of using only biometric information to drive their car.

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Genesis Middle East & Africa officially unveiled its lineup of EV models for the very first time in the Middle East. Continuing their successful journey, the launch marks the brand’s debut towards electrification in the region.

The three models aim to create a new standard for luxury electric models in the region

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“ Together with such elaborate design elements, GV60 is equipped with innovative technologies to provide a unique EV experience that connects the car to its driver. ”

For drivers who are looking for a more dynamic experience, the GV60 also features a Drift Mode. It provides athletic driving by optimizing the distribution of driving power and braking system. The GV60 also comes with a Boost Mode to give it a more dynamic and luxurious element. The mode immediately increases the performance of the vehicle’s maximum output, making the driving experience more dynamic.

Moreover, the Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) is a function that adjusts the torque of the motors and simultaneously generates a virtual engine sound, allowing the drivers to feel as if they are driving an ICE model. The cluster also expresses the virtual shift stage and RPM for an immersive driving experience.

The model further accentuates its cutting-edge look with digital side mirrors and electric door handles. The handles automatically pop up when the driver approaches the car with their smart key.

It features Road Active Noise Control (ANC-R), Preview Electronic Control Suspension (Preview ECS), Disconnector Actuator System (DAS), 400/800V multi rapid charging system, and a V2L (Vehicle to Load) function.

As for safety features, a total of eight airbags, including the center side airbags in front seats, have been provided as standard options to ensure the safety of passengers in the event of an accident.

With the importance of the future of the EV era, the subtlety of the powertrain along with innovative technology will set the stage for drivers and passengers alike to interact with their environment in exciting new ways.

genesis.com

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The reveal included the Electrified G80, the Electrified GV70, and the GV60

DISCOVER REAL ITALIAN COFFEE IN ALL ITS FORMS

6 Decades of Excellence

Lamborghini Bahrain hosted a lunch gathering at the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Hotel and Spa to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini.

The event was a success, with Lamborghini Club members and other Lamborghini owners gathered to celebrate the iconic sports car brand.

Guests were treated to a delicious lunch and enjoyed the opportunity to meet and mingle with other Lamborghini enthusiasts. Following lunch, the group embarked on a Lamborghini parade around Bahrain, showcasing the incredible power and beauty of these iconic cars.

The event also saw a display of 5 classic Lamborghinis including the Diablo, Countach, Murselago, and Spada sent by Lamborghini enthusiasts and owners from their special collection. The display was a tribute to the rich history of the Lamborghini brand and fueled excitement among attendees for the future of the company. Lamborghini Bahrain extends its thanks to all who attended the event and looks forward to continuing to support the Lamborghini community in Bahrain and beyond.

Sixty years ago on 7th of May 1963, “Automobili Ferrucio Lamborghini S.a.s.” was founded. It was the initial name of an industrial venture that, starting from scratch, has revolutionized the automotive industry: it has created style icons, evolving to become today’s world-famous company “Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.” with over 2000 employees and delivering 9233 cars in 2022.

Lamborghini Bahrain, under the umbrella of Behbehani Brothers W.L.L is the official dealer of Lamborghini super sports cars in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The dealership strives to offer an exceptional ownership experience to its customers and is committed to providing the highest quality of service and expertise to Lamborghini enthusiasts across Bahrain.

lamborghini.com

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01 Lamborghini owners at the Jumeirah Gulf ofBahrain Hotel and Spa 01 Lamborghini owners at the Jumeirah Gulf ofBahrain Hotel and Spa 02, 03, 04, 05
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Classic Lamborghinis were on display, including the Diablo, Countach, Murselago, and Spada

Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II

Durrah had the chance to experience driving the Rolls-Royce Phantom in Dubai, and it was an unforgettable experience. The Phantom is a car that is associated with timeless elegance, good taste, and luxurious perfection, and it lives up to its reputation. The Phantom is the pinnacle of the Rolls-Royce lineup. Series II, its last generation, was introduced in 2022. This new iteration was designed with the requests of clients in mind, who implored the company not to make any major changes to an already iconic motor car.

One of the most striking things about the Phantom is its commanding presence on the road. The new polished horizontal line between the daytime running lights above the Pantheon Grille gives the car a new and assertive modernity. The grille itself is now illuminated, and the headlights are graced with intricate laser-cut bezel starlights, creating a visual connection with the Starlight Headliner inside. The design touches and adaptations are subtle, preserving the features that have made it an icon.

The interior of the Phantom remains almost unaltered, but the steering wheel has been made slightly thicker, providing a more connected and immediate point of contact for the owner-driver. This is important because being a chauffeur-driven car doesn’t mean that you can’t drive it yourself. The Phantom provides an unparalleled luxury and comfort experience for drivers, with every feature and detail designed with the utmost care.

The Phantom and Phantom Extended have distinct characters, representing two different seats of power. The Phantom Extended offers the ultimate super-luxurious chauffeur-driven experience. The Rolls-Royce Connected feature enables the owner to send an address directly to the motor car from Whispers, the Rolls-Royce privatemembers’ application, providing seamless navigation to an event, restaurant, dealership, or even the Home of Rolls-Royce itself. The Rolls-Royce Connected also displays the motor car’s location, security status, and current health condition on Whispers. At the touch of a button, the owner

can contact a preferred dealership for any servicing requirements or information about the car.

The Phantom attracts an elite stratum of Rolls-Royce clients, who are often established and successful and at the top of their field. These clients have diverse interests and influences, and the challenge of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective is to accommodate their vast expanse of characteristics and desires in one pinnacle product. The eighth-generation Phantom has been designed to offer a blank canvas for Bespoke personalization, capable of becoming whatever the client wishes it to be, and a true reflection of their individual style and character.

Driving the Phantom is an experience like no other. The Phantom is the ultimate expression of luxury and elegance, and it’s clear that the RollsRoyce Bespoke Collective has succeeded in creating a car that accommodates the vast expanse of characteristics and desires of its elite clientele.

rolls-royce.com

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The Phantom is a car that is associated with timeless elegance, good taste, and luxurious perfection

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The new polished horizontal line between the daytime running lights above the Pantheon Grille gives the car a new and assertive modernity

Every feature and detail are designed with the utmost care

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The design touches and adaptations are subtle, preserving the features that have made it an icon

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June 2023 202 AUTOMOTIVE 05 06 05
06 Seamless blend of style,
and unparalleled comfort 07, 08 The
The Bentayga EWB exemplifies the harmonious fusion of technology and
presence,
Bentayga Extended Wheelbase is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and craftsmanship

Bentley EWB

We recently had the opportunity to take the remarkable Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) for a drive on the roads of Bahrain. This upgraded version builds upon the latest second-generation Bentayga, enhancing the wheelbase and rear cabin space by an impressive 180 mm. As we explored the streets of Bahrain, visiting iconic locations such as the bustling Manama Souq and the picturesque Al-Fateh Mosque, we were captivated by the seamless blend of style, presence, and unparalleled comfort offered by the Bentayga EWB.

Bentley’s design team has meticulously refined the car’s Body-in-White, incorporating changes to the underfloor, side panels, door, and roof. These enhancements ensure that the distinctive lines and proportions continue to exude elegance and sophistication. The extended wheelbase stretches the car’s overall length to 5322 mm, with the wheelbase itself expanding from 2995 mm to an impressive 3175 mm. This extension is predominantly seen in the rear door, resulting in an exceptionally luxurious rear cabin area that surpasses any other luxury competitor.

Step inside the Bentayga EWB, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin space that prioritizes wellness and indulgence. The introduction of Bentley’s Airline Seat specification takes automotive seating

to new heights. With an astounding 22-ways of adjustment, including world-first features such as an auto climate sensing system and postural adjustment technology, this is the most advanced seat ever fitted in a car. In Relax mode, the seat can recline to an angle of 40 degrees, while the passenger seat moves forward, accompanied by a beautifully leather-trimmed footrest that gracefully deploys from the back of the front passenger seat. On the other hand, Business Mode allows for an upright position, ensuring optimal comfort during productive journeys.

The groundbreaking auto climate seat technology in the Bentayga EWB monitors occupant temperature and surface humidity, adapting heat, ventilation, or both simultaneously to maintain optimum thermal wellbeing. Additionally, the postural adjustment system automatically makes micro adjustments to the occupant’s seating position and pressure points by analyzing pressure across the seat surface. Over a three-hour period, this system can apply 177 individual pressure changes across six fully independent pressure zones, enhancing comfort and minimizing fatigue throughout the entire journey.

The interior of the Bentayga EWB features an exquisite stitching design crafted with digital

precision. Symmetrical diamond patterns elegantly elongate from the center of the seatbacks’ shoulder panels and extend along the length of the door, mirroring the car’s elongated silhouette. The rear door showcases a unique design element known as the ‘Metal Overlay in Veneer.’ Using an incredibly thin metal strip, measuring just 0.07 mm in thickness, an intricate design is meticulously bonded by hand onto the surface of the veneer, before being lacquered and polished to perfection.

With cutting-edge features like Bentley Diamond Illumination, where light gracefully emits through small perforations in the soft feel door trim, the Bentayga EWB exemplifies the harmonious fusion of technology and contemporary craftsmanship. The cabin offers an astonishing 24 billion trim combinations, allowing for a truly personalized and individualized Bentayga experience.

The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and craftsmanship. Through its extended wheelbase, enhanced cabin space, advanced seating technology, and cutting-edge features, it sets a new standard for luxurious travel.

bentleymotors.com

07 08
June 2023 204 AUTOMOTIVE 09 Mercedes-Benz’ highly anticipated electric SUV, the EQB 10 Powered by an electric motor, this SUV offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride 11 The EQB showcases an array of advanced features 12 This remarkable vehicle can travel up to 400 kilometers on a single charge 13 The vehicle is manufactured using recycled materials, reducing the demand for virgin resources and minimizing waste 09 10 11

Mercedes-Benz EQB

Mercedes-Benz, a renowned leader in the automotive industry, has finally unveiled its highly anticipated electric SUV, the EQB in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This revolutionary vehicle represents a remarkable fusion of cutting-edge technology, luxurious comfort, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. We decided to give it the Durrah treatment by taking it for a spin on the streets of Bahrain.

Wherever we went in the EQB, its elegant contours and captivating presence turned heads. However, the EQB’s appeal goes far beyond its visual appeal. Powered by an electric motor, this SUV offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, delivering an experience that surpasses conventional combustion engines. Moreover, the EQB showcases an array of advanced features, including a state-of-the-art digital cockpit and an intuitive infotainment system that seamlessly connects drivers to their digital world.

Mercedes-Benz has always been synonymous with innovation, and the EQB exemplifies this tradition. Equipped with a cutting-edge battery system, this remarkable vehicle can travel up to 400 kilometers on a single charge, providing an impressive range for both city and long-distance driving. Furthermore, the EQB boasts fast-charging capabilities, allowing drivers to charge the battery up to 80% in just 30 minutes, providing unparalleled

convenience and reducing downtime on the road.

While performance and technology are crucial, the EQB’s commitment to sustainability sets it apart. Mercedes-Benz understands the importance of minimizing the environmental impact of automobiles, and the EQB reflects this ethos. The vehicle is manufactured using recycled materials, reducing the demand for virgin resources and minimizing waste. Additionally, the EQB is carbon neutral, contributing to a greener future and allowing conscientious drivers to reduce their carbon footprint.

The launch of the EQB serves as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering dedication to innovation and sustainability. As a company, Mercedes-Benz is committed to shaping a better future for all, and the EQB is a shining example of this vision. By combining state-of-the-art technology, exquisite craftsmanship, and a strong environmental focus, the EQB showcases the brand’s commitment to creating a sustainable and luxurious driving experience.

For those seeking a luxury SUV that seamlessly combines style and sustainability, the MercedesBenz EQB is the perfect choice. To witness the future of electric vehicles firsthand, visit your nearest Mercedes-Benz dealership in Bahrain today.

mercedes-benz.com

12 13

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

Durrah takes to the streets of Dubai to review the sensational new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, a car born in Flacht with the genes of a race car.

With a naturally aspirated heart inherited from the iconic 911 GT3, the GT4 RS delivers the most thrilling and focused driving experience yet from the 718 series. At the core of this uncompromising driver’s car lies a naturally aspirated flat-six engine, shared with the 911 GT3. Revving up to an exhilarating 9,000 rpm, the engine packs an impressive 493 horsepower, an increase of 79 horsepower compared to the 718 Cayman GT4. This power boost results in a remarkable weightto-power ratio of 6.55 lbs. per hp. The maximum torque also sees a bump from 317 lb.-ft. to 331 lb.ft., further enhancing the car’s performance.

The design of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS has been meticulously crafted to match its enhanced capabilities. The addition of air intakes behind the side windows on the driver and passenger side, replacing the small windows of other 718 Cayman models, optimizes the flow of intake air. This design choice not only improves performance but also allows drivers and passengers to experience the

captivating engine sound up close. The side intakes in the rear quarter panels have also been revised to meet the cooling demands of the powerful engine.

The GT4 RS sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, half a second quicker than the 718 Cayman GT4 with PDK. It reaches a top track speed of 196 mph, a significant improvement over the GT4’s 187 mph, all achieved in seventh gear.

As with previous RS models, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS prioritizes lightweight construction. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used for the front fenders and hood, while the rear window is made of lightweight glass. The focus on reducing weight extends to the door panels, which feature fabric door opening loops and storage nets. These weight-saving measures contribute to the GT4 RS’s overall agility and performance.

A striking addition to the GT4 RS’s design is the fixed rear wing with a swan neck mount and aluminum supports, inspired by the Porsche 911 RSR race car. Alongside a lowered ride height, front wheel well ventilation, and aerodynamically optimized underbody with a rear diffuser, the GT4 RS generates up to 25 percent more downforce in

Performance mode compared to the 718 Cayman GT4. The suspension has also been enhanced, featuring ball joints for improved precision and responsiveness. The RS-specific damper setup, revised spring and anti-roll bar rates, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels further elevate the car’s track-focused performance.

The GT4 RS’s exceptional performance is further highlighted by its record-setting lap times on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Porsche brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister completed a lap of the track in just 7:09.300 minutes, showcasing the car’s prowess. On a shorter track variant, the GT4 RS achieved an impressive time of 7:04.511 minutes, 23.6 seconds faster than the 718 Cayman GT4.

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sets a new benchmark for uncompromised performance and captivating design. With its powerful engine, aerodynamic enhancements, lightweight construction, and track-focused suspension, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is sure to impress discerning car enthusiasts.

porsche.com

June 2023 206 AUTOMOTIVE
14

16

14 The GT4 RS delivers the most thrilling and focused driving experience yet from the 718 series

15 Revving up to an exhilarating 9,000 rpm, the engine packs an impressive 493 horsepower

The design of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS has been meticulously crafted to match its enhanced capabilities

17 The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sets a new benchmark for uncompromised performance and captivating design

15 16 17

BMW M2

The BMW M2 has always been a favorite among car enthusiasts due to its compact size and exceptional performance. Now, with the release of its second generation, BMW has upped the ante and created a highly concentrated form of its signature M performance. To experience the full capabilities of this vehicle, we took it on a drive through the scenic roads of Arizona, where its global launch took place.

The BMW M2’s 338 kW/460 hp six-cylinder in-line engine promises unadulterated driving pleasure. The powertrain and chassis technology adapted from the BMW M3/BMW M4 gives this compact high-performance sports car beguiling agility and handling that remains easily controllable even as the driver explores the car’s limits. The expressive exterior design with its athletic coupé proportions also adds to the distinct character profile of this vehicle.

The car’s performance was exceptional, and it handled the winding roads with ease. The sophisticated control/operating concept for customizing the vehicle setup also helped produce a performance experience of remarkable intensity. We could feel the power of the car as we drove through the Grand Canyon, and it was truly exhilarating.

Another place we visited was the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. This location allowed us to test the BMW M2’s rear-wheel drive, M Traction Control, and Active M Differential. These features provide agility, precision, and driving pleasure as the occasion demands. The linear build-up of lateral acceleration forces characteristic of M models helped us guide the car through corners with controlled drifts, for example. The standard M Traction Control function also allowed us to carefully probe the vehicle’s performance limits by setting individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation, with a choice of ten stages.

Throughout our drive, we were impressed with the stability of the car on the roads. It was responsive and provided a smooth driving experience. The version of the straight-six engine developed for the compact high-performance model with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving design stood out with its M-typical performance characteristics. Differing only in a small number of details from the engine employed in the BMW M3 and BMW M4 models, the 3.0-litre unit thrilled with its urgent response, healthy appetite for revs, and linear power delivery into the highest reaches of the engine speed range. The engine’s power was relayed to the rear wheels

via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. It’s extremely sporty gear shifts, direct connection to the engine, and ability to execute multiple downshifts to the lowest available gear formed the ideal basis for beguiling, instantaneous acceleration.

The new BMW M2 also boasts a cockpit with a driver-centric design featuring M-specific readouts, controls, and setup options, as well as the advanced BMW Curved Display. Driving-related information including Shift Lights appears in a new graphical layout on the 12.3-inch information display. M-specific widgets for vehicle setup and tire condition are just two of the items that can be called up in the 14.9-inch control display. The cockpit was easy to use and allowed us to customize the car’s performance to our liking.

The new BMW M2 is a highly concentrated form of BMW’s signature M performance. Its compact dimensions, extremely powerful proportions, and hallmark M design features make it stand out in a crowd. The car’s stability on the roads and strong performance make it an excellent choice for car enthusiasts who enjoy a thrilling driving experience.

alhaddadmotor.com

18
June 2023 208 AUTOMOTIVE

18

19,

19 21
The BMW M2’s 338 kW/460 hp six-cylinder in-line engine promises unadulterated driving pleasure 20 The car’s performance was exceptional, and it handled the winding roads with ease 20 21 The new BMW M2 boasts a cockpit with a driver-centric design featuring M-specific readouts, controls, and setup options.
22 14 23 24
22 The Next-Gen Ranger Wildtrak’s unique mesh grille and signature C-clamp LED daytime running lights give the vehicle a truly distinctive look 23, 24 Inside, the Wildtrak offers a comfortable and stylish cabin with ebony seats 25
June 2023 210 AUTOMOTIVE
The powerful 2.3-litre V6 EcoBoost engine can produce up to 298HP at 5,900rpm and 452Nm of torque at 3,350rpm

Ford Ranger Wildtrak

We were given the opportunity to try out the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak at its regional launch in Jeddah. This pick-up truck proved to be more than just a rugged and reliable off-roader. It also offers cutting-edge technology and modern design, making it an ideal partner for work, family, and play.

One of the most impressive features of the Next-Gen Wildtrak is its powerful 2.3-litre V6 EcoBoost engine, which can produce up to 298HP at 5,900rpm and 452Nm of torque at 3,350rpm. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that allows for smooth and effortless shifting, making it easy to explore even the toughest terrains.

The Wildtrak also boasts a widened stance, which contributes to its exceptional off-road performance. It can switch between drive modes to optimize its performance for different surfaces, including sand, gravel, and dirt. Additionally, the Wildtrak can tow up to 3.5 tonnes, making it an ideal vehicle for

carrying trailers or dirt bike carriages to the most remote parts of the region.

To ensure that the Wildtrak can handle the harsh Middle East climate, it underwent around 10,000km of desert driving in temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees centigrade. This testing proved that this pick-up is built Ford Tough and can withstand the most extreme conditions thrown at it.

The Next-Gen Ranger Wildtrak’s unique mesh grille and signature C-clamp LED daytime running lights give the vehicle a truly distinctive look, on the road and off. It also features 18-inch grey alloy wheels and a new RANGER-stamped tailgate that complete the Wildtrak’s athletic appearance. Inside, the Wildtrak offers a comfortable and stylish cabin with ebony seats that contrast with the signature Cyber Orange Wildtrak logo. The seats are 8-way adjustable power seats, ensuring that you can find the perfect driving position, even on bumpy rides. The center-stack features a 12-inch touchscreen that gives drivers easy access to the vehicle’s

functions, while an 8-inch cluster productivity screen offers an overview of the Wildtrak’s essential stats without distracting from the road.

The Next-Gen Wildtrak also comes equipped with advanced driver-assist features, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, which makes driving this pick-up a breeze. When traffic slows down, so does the vehicle, and once it picks up again, the Wildtrak will return to the set cruise speed. It also features SYNC 4® Enhanced Voice Recognition as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility.

Overall, the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak proved to be a capable and versatile pick-up truck that can handle the toughest off-road Middle East conditions while also offering cutting-edge technology and modern design. It is an excellent choice for those who want a vehicle that can keep up with their active lifestyle, whether it’s for work or play.

ford.com

25

My Wish List

The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

YSL Girard-Perregaux x Saint Laurent Casquette 2.0

The 42mm case of the Casquette 2.0 is built with a mix of black ceramic and black PVD-treated grade 5 titanium. Inside is a red LED display and a quartz movement expanded to support chronograph and second time zone functions. Limited to 100 individually numbered examples.

ysl.com

Louis Vuitton Malle Golf Trunk

On one side of the trunk are 14 slots to hold a set of clubs. On the other, multiple drawers to hold clothing and essentials, two translucent perspex drawers, one with dedicated compartments to store golf balls, and the highlight of the trunk, a hidden fold-down, roll-out putting mat with a built-in cup.

louisvuitton.com

June 2023 212 MUST HAVE - MEN

Leica M11 Monochrom

Like the color model, it has a 60-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor with up to 15 stops of dynamic range and the ability to 36MP & 18MP stills via pixelbinning. However, it has a few notable upgrades over the standard model, with internal storage expanded from 64GB to 256GB, a scratch-resistant black finish, and a sapphire crystal cover for the rear LCD.

leicacamerausa.com

Armani Casa SIR Backgammon

The iconic GA blue printed leather characterizes the outside of the Sir backgammon set, while the inside is made of blue smooth leather. Chips and inner elements are in a marble-effect blue and sage green bioresin. The set also includes blue smooth leather dice and dice shaker. GA logo in metal.

armani.com

Brunello Cucinelli

Walnut wood and Krion® Mahjong Set

The decorative set reinterprets the centuries-old game of Mahjong with an elegant, modern design. The 144 tiles that make up this accessory are housed in four trays to be placed on top of each other. Each piece is crafted in Walnut wood and Krion®, a smooth, solid material delivered in a version inspired by the classic surface of marble.

brunellocucinelli.com

Henry

Jacques

Clic-Clac Rafael Nadal Edition

The Clic-Clac Rafael Nadal Edition, limited to 120 pieces, is made from grade 5 Titanium, with a vibrant yet discrete nod to tennis thanks to a sweeping neon yellow abstract line, reminiscent of a ball. The minimalistic design of the Clic-Clac is contemporary and avantgarde, an extraordinary cult object that seamlessly merges technical excellence with almost 50 years of olfactory savoir-faire.

parfumshenryjacques.com

Gucci Decorative Poker Set with Crocodile Case

The ‘50s and ‘60s archives reveal a selection of intricately designed pieces from the world of sports and leisure. Inspired by these items’ playful spirit and curated details, this decorative game set is presented in a black crocodile case. The Grotesque Garden print decorates the inside and coordinates with the set of cards.

gucci.com

Apple Beats Studio Buds+

Beats Studio Buds+ enhance audio precision, comfort, and bass with redesigned architecture, three vents, and a proprietary transducer. They feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, secure fit options, automatic spatial audio, Class 1 Bluetooth, and up to 9 hours of battery life. Available in multiple styles.

apple.com

June 2023 214 MUST HAVE - MEN

Bang & Olufsen Beosystem 72-23

The Nordic Dawn colorway of the iconic Beogram 4000c turntable combines warm Honey, Ginger, and Amber Tone finishes with a Birch Wood panel, evoking the beauty of a Scandinavian sunrise. Handcrafted and customized, it captures the essence of soft mornings in Nordic meadows.

bang-olufsen.com

Wayne Enterprises x Uncrate x Fysik Nak Dumbells

Purpose-built for those looking for gym equipment that is refined as fine art, Fysik has developed a custom version of their NAK dumbbells exclusively for Wayne Enterprises and Uncrate. Using bronze PVD-coated stainless steel end pieces, a carbon kevlar resin wrap on the weights, and a black-stained ash wood grip, each dumbbell mimics the interior of a custom-trimmed high-end sports car.

uncrate.com

Solo Stove Mesa

Portable and smokeless, the Solo Stove Mesa brings the cozy atmosphere of a campfire to more intimate outdoor gatherings. The compact fireplace is lightweight and easy to transport to tabletops, allowing you to take the ambiance with you.

solostove.com

Gentle Monster x Kun

GENTLE MONSTER teams up with CAI XU KUN for a futuristic secret agent collaboration. The project includes a campaign, mobile app, and co-designed eyewear collection. The Crystal Clear app allows players to become secret agents and win prizes.

gentlemonster.com

Stilride

Stilride 1 is a fully electric and highly technological bike equipped with smart connectivity and advanced safety measures. The Electric Vehicle Control Unit (eVCU) offers advanced connectivity features and interfaces through an official app, with updates on battery life and performance optimization.

stilride.com

Chanel Lion Astroclock

An exceptional new Chanel Haute Horlogerie piece. A remarkable clock where the House’s symbols meet: a faceted black lion, a constellation hand, and a comet in white gold set with diamonds.

chanel.com

June 2023 216 MUST HAVE - MEN
1

My Wish List

The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Cellreturn Platinum LED Mask

To achieve your best summer skin, the Cellreturn Platinum LED Mask is your best bet. This revolutionary device uses the power of LED light therapy to deliver multiple skin benefits. It has four different modes of operation that can be customised to suit every skin need.

cellreturn.com

Dior & Cheval Blanc Grand Bal

In 2023, this exceptional line is enriched by a new model, developed in collaboration with Cheval Blanc Randheli. Ode to the art of travel and beauty of venturing away, this exclusive watch is decorated in a bewitching camaieu of Maldives atolls, and reveals a dial set with 131 blue sapphires, adorned with delicate feathers.

dior.com

June 2023 218 MUST HAVE - WOMEN

Armani Casa

Pegaso Set of 4 Mini Scented Candles

Pegaso offers scented candles with elegant fragrances in different styles: Black Lacquer evokes Armani’s minimalism with an amber scent, Red Velvet combines luxury and passion with rose and oriental notes, Green Marble celebrates nature with jasmine and herbal undertones, and Gold Leaf blends spices, white rose, and vanilla for a balanced contrast.

armani.com

Bang & Olufsen

Portable Beosound A5 Speaker

The new portable Beosound A5 speaker from Bang & Olufsen is designed in collaboration with the Danish-Italian design duo GamFratesi. Beosound A5 poetically bridges northern and southern design cultures with the immersive sound, meticulous craftsmanship and product longevity that Bang & Olufsen is renowned for.

bang-olufsen.com

Globe-Trotter

Golf Le Fleur Carry-On 4-Wheels

Tyler’s interpretation of Globe-Trotter luggage selects the brand’s most traditional model – the humble suitcase. Giving it a radical makeover, this collection counts as one of the most unique collaborations Globe-Trotter has launched. The ideal companion for one, two, three nights away.

globe-trotter.com

Louis Vuitton Aquarelle Box

The Aquarelle box makes a luxurious collector’s item, as well as a thoughtful gift for art enthusiasts. The set is comprised of ten tubes of watercolor paint and a wooden paintbrush, all beautifully presented in a see-through box. House devotees will appreciate the various signature touches including an allover Monogram pattern and a natural cowhide clasp.

louisvuitton.com

Gucci

Decorative Star Eye Cushion

Cushions continue to enrich the Gucci decor offering, rich with intricate details and references to the ready-to-wear collection. The patch and 3-dimensional seam details take hours of work using a specific stitch, resulting in a truly unique final piece.

gucci.com

June 2023 220 MUST HAVE - WOMEN

LV x YK Pumpkin Jigsaw Puzzle

The LV x YK Pumpkin jigsaw puzzle is an exclusive edition for the Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama collection, the House’s second major collaboration with the renowned Japanese artist. An ideal gift, this fun, colorful puzzle features the artist’s iconic pumpkin motif on a background of Monogram Eclipse Reverse canvas, while the signature of the collaboration appears in the corner.

louisvuitton.com

Hermès Souffle D’hermès Lamp

The Souffle d’Hermès lamps by Finnish designer Harri Koskinen are objects for contemplation. Exploring the material nature of glass, they are equally fascinating whether switched on or off. They fulfil a function, assert their familiarity and transparency, and embody simplicity and strength. In blackcurrant, fern or burnt orange, these lamps express the magic of the glass blower’s art.

hermes.com

The Unnamed Society x S

The Unnamed Society and S by Salanitro together have unveiled TALISMAN, a unique pendant, a piece of exquisite jewellery that is an extraordinary alignment of inspired aesthetics, precious materials, and exceptional gem-setting artistry.

theunnamedsociety.com

Fornasetti

Night Stand Polyhedric Musciarabia Con Rose

The new Fornasetti furniture and accessories for Milan Design Week 2023 have polyhedric and lighter, more versatile designs that adapt and give character to even the most intimate rooms. In the Musciarabia con rose décor, intricate black and white geometric labyrinths are enhanced by hand-painted roses in bloom.

fornasetti.com

Van Cleef & Arpels Floraison du Nénuphar Automaton

Nature, one of the Maison’s beloved themes, comes to life with the Floraison du Nénuphar automaton, which presents a creative dreamlike interpretation of the passage of time. While the hours tick past on a rotating ring at the base of the object, an enchanting spectacle captivates the gaze to the sound of a sweet melody.

vancleefarpels.com

June 2023 222 MUST HAVE - WOMEN

49th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

The 49th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, held at The National Theater, is a highly anticipated event that marks an important annual gathering in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The exhibition serves as a platform to bring together pioneers of the fine arts field in the Kingdom with local young talents, showcasing an important aspect of the diverse local cultural and arts scenes.

Running from 11th May to 10th July, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity for artists and art enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the vibrant artistic expressions of Bahrain. With its daily opening hours from 8 AM to 8 PM (excluding Tuesdays), the exhibition ensures ample time for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich world of fine arts.

The 49th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition celebrates the Kingdom’s thriving artistic community and showcases a wide range of artistic disciplines and styles. From traditional to contemporary, the exhibition features paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works, offering a comprehensive snapshot of Bahrain’s diverse artistic landscape.

This prestigious event not only serves as a platform for established artists to display their latest creations but also provides emerging artists with a valuable opportunity to gain exposure and recognition. It fosters a spirit of collaboration and mentorship between established and emerging talents, contributing to the growth and development of the arts community in Bahrain.

culture.gov.bh

June 2023 224 FINAL PEARL
01, 02, 03
01 02 03
HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa inaugurating the 49th edition of the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

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49th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

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pages 236-237

My Wish List

2min
pages 230-234

Clic-Clac Rafael Nadal Edition

1min
pages 226-229

My Wish List

1min
pages 224-225

Ford Ranger Wildtrak

1min
page 223

BMW M2

2min
pages 220-222

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

2min
pages 218-219

Mercedes-Benz EQB

1min
page 217

Bentley EWB

2min
pages 215-216

Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II

2min
pages 212-214

6 Decades of Excellence

1min
pages 210-211

ELECTRIFYING Experience

3min
pages 206-208

Cutting-edge Capabilities

2min
pages 204-205

From Dream to Reality

1min
pages 201-203

The Ultimate Jazz Experience

2min
pages 198-200

IL CARRACHI BOLOGNA, ITALY

2min
pages 193-197

REFINED TASTE

1min
pages 188-192

Cultural FLAVORS

4min
pages 184-187

Tailored TRANQUILITY

1min
page 183

SERENE TREATMENTS

2min
pages 172-182

SERENE TREATMENTS

1min
pages 164-171

Five-Star Excellence

2min
pages 162-163

THE PENINSULA ISTANBUL, TURKEY

4min
pages 159-161

THE PENINSULA NEW YORK, US

2min
pages 157-158

Luxury Getaways

2min
pages 153-156

ICONIC Experiences

5min
pages 147-152

THE BEST of Summer

3min
pages 143-146

BOUTIQUE Experience

4min
pages 134-142

Asia JEWELLERS

1min
pages 132-133

The Next Chapter In Automotive

1min
pages 129-131

Exquisite SPLENDOR

1min
pages 127-128

Stepping in Style

2min
pages 122-126

Quality and Class

1min
pages 118-121

Loewe Small Loewe Font Tote in Raffia

0
page 117

EXQUISITE STYLE

2min
pages 114-116

Comfort and CLASS

0
pages 112-113

IN TRANSIT

0
pages 110-111

Sartorial EXCELLENCE

0
page 109

Redefining Fashion

0
pages 104-105

AN ARTISTIC FUSION

4min
pages 101-103

Filorga Oxygen-Glow CC Cream

2min
pages 97-100

BEAUTY TRENDS

0
page 96

Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Summer Vibes Eau de Toilette

2min
pages 93-95

Alluring Fragrances

0
page 92

Givenchy Gentleman Society Eau de Parfum

0
pages 90-91

FRESH and Bold

2min
pages 88-90

Innovative REVAMP

2min
pages 84-87

Breitling The Super Chronomat Automatic 38 Origins

1min
pages 81-83

ELEGANT Timekeeping

0
page 80

Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech - PAM01026

0
page 78

HAUTE Horlogerie

1min
pages 76-77

Braver, Bolder, and Brighter

2min
pages 74-75

TIME STAMPED with Emotion

2min
pages 72-73

The Royal Stay

0
page 71

Stellar SUCCESS

2min
pages 69-70

Tribute to an Icon

1min
pages 64-68

The Ultimate Art of Haute Joaillerie

2min
pages 61-63

Sculpting Identities

6min
pages 56-60

The Eye of Istanbul

2min
pages 53-55

Durrah Celebrates 15 Years with 60th Milestone Issue

2min
pages 48-52

the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the

0
page 47

Dubai’s Hospitality Gem

4min
pages 44-46

Making History Tick

3min
pages 40-43

ENDLESS CREATIVITY

2min
pages 38-39

Innovating Islamic Finance

3min
pages 36-37

EXCELLENCE IN Customer Experience

3min
pages 34-35

Unlocking Extraordinary Experiences

3min
pages 32-33

A TASTE OF JW MARRIOTT CANCUN RESORT & SPA

1min
page 31

Legacy of Excellence

3min
pages 29-30

Powering the Next Generation

1min
pages 25-28

A HISTORIC Celebration

1min
pages 20-24

First Impression A word from the Editor-In-Chief

2min
pages 14-19
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