Durrah issue 35

VOLUME 09 ISSUE 03

SPRING 2017

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Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

W

e are still in the beginning, yet 2017 is shaping up to be quite an interesting year.

Whatever happens around the world, our readers can be certain that Durrah will always remain committed to being the best source of information for everything luxury, bringing you yet another Issue packed with articles, interviews, and the latest news from the world’s most coveted brands.

In this issue, we talk to Bahrain Basketball Association President, Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa on the heels of Bahrain’s national basketball team’s recent win of the Bronze medal at the Arab Basketball Championship, and to get an insider’s perspective of the basketball scene in the Kingdom, which many believe is the highest quality among GCC countries today, based on its high numbers of spectators and passionate followers.

We also explore the preservation of history with Sheikha Hussah Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, the co-owner of the al-Sabah Collection and the Director General of Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah, which was created to manage the loan of objects from the collection to the Kuwait National

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Museum. The al-Sabah Collection is a veritable treasure of historical artifacts, containing more than 35,000 objects dating from the early Bronze Age to the 19th century CE. Durrah’s passion for the arts remains unwavering and it perhaps shows the most in our interview with veteran French artist Aime Venel, who is highly regarded within the art circles as the heir to the legendary Symbolists of the late 19th century. His form is unique for its elegant figurative style and lyric compositions, and he’s been regaling art lovers in exhibitions for over four decades.

These are just some of the treats we have for you in this issue, which includes our usual round up of the world’s best and latest in hospitality and leisure, culinary arts, travel destinations, cherished timepieces, and much more.

We hope you enjoy your read!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

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Up Close and Personal

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Can you tell us a little bit about the BBA and what it does to promote basketball in the Kingdom?

The BBA was established in 1974 by my father, HH Sheikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, to be a governing body for the sport. As time progressed, the association became more involved in various aspects of the game, eventually playing a major role in transforming basketball into the most popular sport in the Kingdom.

Our objective is not just to encourage basketball players within Bahrain, but to also promote our basketball talents to the rest of the world.

How long have you been involved in the association, and what kind of responsibilities do you carry out as President of the BBA? This is my first term as BBA President, which is a position that I’m proud to have won following the recent elections. As any head of a professional sports body will tell you, the main aim is always to take the game forward and succeed in new areas. Basketball is a constantly evolving sport, so it will be a considerable challenge to achieve our goals. However, we feel optimistic that we can develop forward and establish a strong foundation for the new generation of basketball in our beloved Kingdom.

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What would you consider to be your greatest achievement in this role to date?

The most significant achievement we have accomplished was to name the BBA Cup after His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister. This move encouraged all players, managers, and fans to give more to the game of basketball as its name represents a true leader and a person that is loved by the whole nation. Within our first year, we successfully redesigned the tournament to have a new look and design that matches international standards and levels. We also broke new records of attendance, unmatched throughout the history of the game in Bahrain and the Gulf region. However, there is still a lot more to be achieved, so I am definitely not resting on these laurels.

Football is the most popular sport in Bahrain, both for players and spectators.

Are there any steps that the Association is taking to encourage more young Bahrainis to take part in basketball events?

We have several initiatives prepared that are specifically focused on age groups and the grassroots of basketball that will encourage the love of the game of basketball among our youth. We will be announcing

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them in due course. However, we believe that one of the most effective methods of encouraging young players to achieve their best is to make our existing or older players the focal point of our attention. The younger generations will see this and aspire to be in their place one day. They will consider them to be role models of the game.

Bahrain’s national basketball team recently won the Bronze medal at the Arab Basketball Championship. What do you believe was the winning factor that gave the team its edge?

We had an extremely short period of time to prepare for our participation in that championship and we ended up facing several technical and financial challenges. Still, we dedicated our efforts to following every step of the required preparation and our performance was an inspiring success. I believe that the capabilities of our players and coaching staff, in whom we have the highest respect and trust, is what gave us the edge. We look to build on this success and see it as a remarkable achievement for Bahraini basketball.

How would you compare Bahrain’s basketball scene to the ones in the GCC? Bahrain’s basketball is considered by many to be

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Up Close and Personal

Fast Track to Success

One of the most respected figures in Bahrain’s motoring scene, HE Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, in his role as Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit, has been instrumental in further cementing the Kingdom’s image as the home of motorsport in the region. Durrah spoke to HE Shaikh Salman to find out what BIC has in store for racing fans this year as the Formula 1 race approaches.

Interview with HE Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa You have been with the BIC for quite a while now. How has automotive sports changed in Bahrain during this time?

The motorsport culture in Bahrain has changed tremendously. There is now a greater understanding and acceptance for the different types of motorsport out there. In the past, when we were just starting out, people were only focused on Formula 1, drag racing or rallying. Now there is a deeper passion for all other types of motorsport such as circuit racing, endurance racing, GT racing, karting, drifting, autocross, motocross, burnout, and so on. In each of these disciplines, we also now have a strong base of regular participants, who form a strong foundation on which we can build on.

We never had that before and now we are in a great position to build on that success.

Tell us a little bit about BIC’s plans for this year’s Formula 1 race. How will it be the same or different from previous races?

Every year we always look at ways to improve the spectacle for fans and 2017 is no exception. This

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year, we are going with the theme “See It! Feel It! Live It!” which calls on fans to make the most of the Grand Prix experience.

Also, for the very first time, we have released an official song for the race, with the help of DJ Outlaw Productions and song performers Daffy and Flipperachi. The song has received superb feedback since its release last week, and it is being spread around the GCC very quickly.

We have also launched a new series of activities to be held during the month prior to the race weekend called “Race Fever”. This mirrors some of the other promotional events we have done in the past, but with a bigger and better line-up of activities. These include a concert by Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams on March 13, a King of Desert drifting championship on March 16 and 17, a Neon Run on March 24 and an interactive Game Zone at the BIC premises on each of these nights.

All those with tickets to the Grand Prix will be able to access these “Race Fever” events, although only those with tickets to the Main Grandstand and Turn

One Grandstand will be able to attend the Bryan Adams concert free of charge.

Tell us a little about the entertainment you have planned for the public during the F1 race?

For the Grand Prix weekend, we have put together an entertainment package that we can very confidently say is one of our best ever.

One of our concerts during the event, to be held on Friday night, will be superstar DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike. These two DJs are one of the most renowned acts in electronic dance music in the world, and last year they were ranked as the number two DJs by DJ Mag. Further international star performers will be announced soon.

There will also be loads of other attractions at the Formula 1 Village vending area for everybody to enjoy.

Among them, for the first time this year, is an exhibition tent featuring life-sized Dinosaurs and Ice Age creatures, as well as a Haunted House, a wide variety of roaming performers, stage shows and most importantly, a kids’ corner with entertainment for our youngest fans.

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With competition intensifying regionally, do you think that BIC can still keep its position as the home for motorsports in the Gulf?

We don’t see others in the region as competition, given the nature of our facility and the type of audience we attract. First of all, it’s important to note that we host many which are unique to the region such as the CIK world karting championship and indeed have established our own Bahrain - based series such as the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East. In other series which we share with our neighbors, we work more as a partnership with other race facilities in the region.

We were the first F1 race in the GCC back in 2004 and Abu Dhabi followed in 2009. We attract very different audiences and our races are at different ends of the calendar, so complement each other well. Outside of F1, having more venues across the GCC hosting diverse motorsport events can only be good for the growth of the sport and we support that. We still believe that, as the original hub of motorsport in the region, with facilities which continue to evolve as a first class venue, our position as the “home”, not just in the Gulf, but the whole of the Middle East. The FIA Institute Centre of Excellence award, which we were honoured with by the FIA Institute in 2007, reflects that position.

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Talk to us about the many economic benefits the F1 race and other events held at the BIC bring to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The Bahrain Grand Prix and all other events held at the circuit not only benefits us, but the country as a whole. Each year, the Formula 1 weekend generates around US$100 million in direct revenue for the local economy and many businesses rely on that income that we help generate. The indirect benefits that brings throughout the year add to that value significantly. Overall, the race has brought in more than $1 billion of direct revenue for the kingdom since our inaugural event in 2004.

The race benefits so many, from airlines, to hotels, restaurants and retail stores to car rentals, taxi services, street vendors, traditional merchants and tour guides.

Everyone gets involved one way or another during the race weekend, and everybody benefits.

Most importantly, it gives a grand occasion to look forward to every year, as the Bahrain Grand Prix has really grown to become a very special event for us all.

What do you think it is that makes people in the Gulf so passionate about cars, particularly sports and supercars?

Very few people know that our Bahrain Motor Federation was formed back in 1952 and so racing has always been a big part of our culture in the region, be it rallying, drag or track racing. As the interest has grown, as has the professionalism of the sport. For example, our Drag Racing Championship regularly achieves world record times and once you achieve that level of competitiveness it’s easy to see how the sport continues to grow.

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01 HE Shaikh Salman… passion for motorsport 02 Night-time celebrations at the BIC 03 Nico Rosberg, the winner of last year’s F1 race celebrates his victory 04 Drivers on the circuit 05 Action on the track

Have you yourself always loved cars, or is this something you picked up while on the job?

Yes, I have always loved cars and have always loved racing. That’s why I feel that I am very blessed to be in the position that I am – to be involved in an industry that I am very passionate about.

Tell us a little about your background and personal growth during your time at BIC. I began my career working within the Bahraini Government in the Civil Service Bureau, spending two years gaining valuable experience and knowledge in the business arena.

This work experience gave me the necessary skills to move to my next governmental posting at the General Organisation for Youth and Sport (GOYS), where I worked as the Marketing Manager.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) was still very much on the drawing board at this point, and I was invited to take on a new role at GOYS, related to the rapidly growing interest in motorsport in the Kingdom. At the same time, I also held the position of Vice President of the Bahrain Motor Federation (BMF) until 2004, where I worked to help grow awareness of the motorsports scene in the Kingdom ahead of the inaugural Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

When construction of BIC was completed in early 2004, I was asked to take on an advisory role for the Group covering governmental relations, community involvement and public interest. I then took on my first official position at the circuit as Director of PR and Governmental Affairs in July of 2004. I also held positions as Chief Operating Officer and acting Chief Executive, until September 2010, when I was formally announced as Chief Executive of BIC.

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What are some of your fondest memories during your time at BIC? How does it feel to be able to rub shoulders with some of the greatest drivers in the world and all the international celebrities that the F1 attracts?

Many people – quite understandably – see the BIC and F1 as a place of glamour and celebrities. For me, as a true racing fan, my fondest memories are not about rubbing shoulders with the great and the good of F1. For me, the best memories are those where you can see the elation of the fans in the stands during the hardest fought races we have hosted at the BIC. Of course, 2004 stands out as it was our first ever F1 race. What was especially impressive about that, was our award for the best organized race of the year – that made me so proud of the hard work of the whole BIC team. 2014, as our first night race, was also a highlight and happened to be the most exciting F1 race we have ever hosted.

Record crowds watched the most exciting cars and drivers around the world. You can’t really beat that.

What are the BIC’s plans for the rest of the year?

We hope to build on the success of the Bahrain Grand Prix from previous years and hope for an even better one this time around. Then, we will work hard to transfer that success to the national racing scene for the remainder of the current season and beyond. We still have many national events to run, and a handful of major international events, as well such as the World Endurance Championship in November, so we are still going to be very busy over the course of the next few months.

What many people fail to appreciate is how busy we are for the whole season – we hosted a total of 350 individual events last year, so that’s enough to keep us pretty busy! www.bahraingp.com

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Preserving History HH Sheikha Hussah Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah is the Director General of Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah (DAI) and co-owner of the al-Sabah Collection. Created in 1983, the DAI manages the loan of objects from the collection to the Kuwait National Museum. The organisation has grown over the years and now includes a cultural season featuring lectures, concerts, an international film series, and education programmes, travelling exhibitions, and the operation of two cultural centres with exhibition spaces. The al-Sabah Collection has also grown and now includes more than 35,000 objects dating from the early Bronze Age up to the 19th century AD.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and the early days of the collection?

I should start by pointing out that I am not the collector. That title belongs to my husband HH Shaikh Nasser Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah, who became enamoured with Islamic art while at school in Jerusalem before 1967. He bought the first object, a mid-14th century enamelled glass vase, in 1975. From that first piece, the al-Sabah Collection was born.

What do you consider to be your most prized possession?

I get asked this question so often that you’d think I’d have a standard answer, but I don’t. There is something admirable in every object. Some are beautiful, some are stellar examples of an artisan’s skill, and some are rich with history. Perhaps the most sentimental choices are the objects lost during the Iraqi invasion and occupation. We had a stunning 14th century door from Fez, carved with inscriptions from the Qu’ran, which my husband and I first saw

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on a derelict house while walking through the city.

That door is lost forever, destroyed when the Kuwait National Museum was burned as the Iraqi troops were leaving Kuwait. Also, among the 59 objects that were stolen and haven’t been recovered were three emeralds, all from Columbia, all from the Mughal court. Two are exquisitely carved and the third inscribed with the Throne verse from the Qur’an. It is my sincere hope that whoever has the emeralds values them as remarkable examples of Islamic art and that they haven’t been destroyed or cut to be sold by the carat.

What is the most ancient piece in your collection?

For many people who associate our collection with Islamic art, my answer may be a surprise. We have objects dating back to the early Bronze Age, more than 6,000 years ago. The inherent difficulty in establishing precise production dates on objects from the Bronze Age means that we have a host of objects

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01 Sheikha Hussah Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah 02 Markhor goat supporting an elaborate superstructure.

Body cast from speiss alloy; all other parts cast from arsenical copper; left eye retaining shell inlay; triangular forehead depression inlaid with shell and lapis lazuli (probably modern) Mesopotamia, Early Dynastic I 2900 – 2700 BCE 03 Silver pouring vessel in the form of two lions - Western Iran, Late 7th to early 6th centuries BCE 04 Turban ornament - fabricated from gold; with champlevé and overpainted enamels; worked in kundan technique and set with emeralds and diamonds - India, probably Deccan, probably 2nd half 17th century CE

from the same period – many of which are on display in the Splendors of the Ancient East: Antiquities at the al-Sabah Collection Exhibition at the Amricani Cultural Centre. Included in that exhibition are three animal sculptures that are favourites of our visitors. The Bronze Age Markhor goat from Mesopotamia has an iron alloy body, which is highly unusual for an object created 2900 – 2700 BCE. The “dancing lions”, similar to objects found in the Kalma Kare hoard discovered in Iran’s Zagros Mountains in 1990, always spark conversation about what such an object, with two powerful creatures shown as equals, represented when it was created in the late 7th to early 6th centuries BCE. Finally, one of the last objects in the exhibition, an ibex from South Arabia made in the second half of the first millennium BCE, appeals to visitors for its beauty and the inscription dedicating the sculpture to Hawkim, the patron god of Qataban.

Your art pieces come from all over the globe. Is there a particular country or era that has produced the highest number of pieces in your collection?

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In the early 1980s, when my husband and I made the decision to lend objects from our collection to the Kuwait National Museum, we agreed that the resulting exhibition had to be comprehensive in representing

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art from the Islamic world. At that point, the focus of collecting shifted from objects purchased because they appealed to his aesthetic, to objects that helped tell the complete story of Islamic art – from Spain to China; from the 7th century CE to the 18th century CE; in all materials, including ceramic, glass, wood, stone, textiles, manuscripts, metal, and so on. That said, the objects included in the Treasury of the World: Jewelled Arts of India in the Age of the Mughals, represent a significant portion of the total collection and one of our most successful traveling exhibitions. My husband has a special love for jewelled arts and Mughal jewellery became a particularly active branch of his collecting. The opulence of these objects make them showstoppers, but it’s the artful skill of the craftsmen that makes them truly spectacular.

You decided to focus more on promoting the cultural aspect instead of running the organisation as a business. Do you believe art and business don’t mix well?

I reject both premises of your question. The first because art and business have been entwined since they were both conceived. And the second, which is that by promoting culture we aren’t running a business. In virtually every way, we are running a business and like any business, we have a bottom line

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to reach and stakeholders to serve. The difference is that our bottom line does not include profit and our stakeholders aren’t shareholders, but visitors, schools, scholars, and the community. Instead of delivering profits, we focus on delivering the ‘3 Es’: education, entertainment, and enlightenment. So whether attending a lecture or visiting one of our exhibitions, we know we’ve been successful when participants leave having learned something that expands their understanding of the world around them and have a good time in the process.

What has been the biggest influence on your life?

Aside from the obvious answer, which is my family, it has to be my active involvement with the DAI and the al-Sabah Collection. As the co-owner of the collection and Director General of the DAI, I have had the opportunity to grow with the organisation.

I have also been forced out of my comfort zone many times! When we started, I thought about the objects primarily individually and from an aesthetic perspective. However, the more I learned about the objects, the more I was involved with them. My perspective changed. Instead of being individuals, they become representative groups; instead of seeing just their beauty, I began seeing their stories – which

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05 Katar dagger and scabbard with original locket and chape Blade steel; hilt, locket and chape carved from nephrite jade; inlaid with gold in kundan technique and set with rubies, emeralds and diamonds - India, Deccan or Mughal, mid-17ths century CE 06 Fragmentary large bronze standing ibex with dedicatory inscription cast in relief to Hawkim, a Qatabanian deity - South Arabia, probably 2nd half 1st millennium BCE

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are much more interesting! My mindset changed from using them to demonstrate what is universally shared, to celebrating what is uniquely different. My understanding of ‘connectivity’ is expanding and, with that, my world view.

I also had to change from someone comfortable in the background to someone moving onto an international stage – sometimes literally. Whether I was representing the DAI at an event in Kuwait or an opening abroad, I had to do my part to contribute to the success of the activity. Often that means speaking in public, something I still find difficult and never expected to be doing. That said, I’m learning. I am doing things now, like speaking at a TedX conference at the Vatican, that I would never have expected to do before 1983 and the opening of the Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah.

What should we expect from the DAI in the near future?

In a word: more! With the expansion of the collection to include ancient art as well as Islamic art, we have more subjects to cover, more exhibition ideas, more scholarly books to research and write, and more ideas to share. www.darmuseum.org.kw

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Unparalleled Luxury

With experience covering the full spectrum of the hospitality industry, including knowledge of its minutest details, hospitality has been Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay General Manager Richard Raab’s life’s calling. Having recently left a position as Acting General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, he looks forward to the next chapter of his career in the Kingdom and the brand new challenges it will bring.

Durrah spoke to Mr. Raab to find out more about the iconic brand and its landmark Bahrain property.

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Interview with Richard Raab, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, General Manager How are you finding Bahrain so far? And how does it compare to other countries you have worked in?

I absolutely love Bahrain. My predecessor, Greg Pirkle, told me that I will fall in love with it from day one and he was right. It has its own unique atmosphere and the people here are very friendly. I feel very welcomed here and my family feels the same way too.

Having worked in both places, what would you say is the big difference between Dubai and Bahrain?

Dubai is very glitzy and glamorous while Bahrain has a unique feeling to it. It gives you the sense that you can connect at a very personal level. Hopefully, I will be able to accomplish a lot for the Four Seasons and contribute to Bahrain as a whole during my time here.

What are the primary target markets for the Four Seasons? Is the focus more on business or leisure tourism?

It’s both but I think it also depends on the market we’re in. For example, if we’re in a hotel in the Seychelles or the Maldives, it will lean more towards leisure, but if we’re in Paris or New York, it will lean more towards business, with a little bit of leisure. It might even change throughout the year, depending on the season and the

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current events at that time. Right now, the most frequent guests at the hotel are of Saudi nationality, but as we mature the business, we will be attracting more diverse guests from different markets.

What kind of traveler stays the Four Seasons?

I think it’s the kind that wants to experience the utmost in luxury. All our hotels are unique in this aspect and luxury is a true defining characteristic for the brand. However, we also hope to convey a sense of localness to the guest so that when they wake up, they immediately know they’re waking up in Bahrain or they’re waking up London or they’re waking up in Paris.

Each one has its own feel.

Bahrain has many wonderful 5-star hotels. What does the Four Seasons bring to the market that it doesn’t already have?

The Four Seasons is the one hotel that you can see right upon arriving or landing in this country. It has unique architectural structure, which was designed by the same architect of Burj Khalifa in Dubai. It’s a landmark building, and you can see that even before you step inside. The finishing details and everything that has been put into this building is second to none in the

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Up Close and Personal

world. And once you do step inside, you receive the unparalleled level of personalised service that we have become famous for worldwide. Even the tiniest details have been attended to. For example, our pillow cushions were designed by a New York-based contemporary designer, each was custom made to match the carpet.

Luxury can mean different things to different people so it’s up to us to identify the individual tastes of people and make sure we provide exactly that.

Do you think hospitality is more of a challenge in Bahrain compared to other markets in the region?

No, not necessarily. I think each market has its own challenges, you just need to turn them into opportunities.

Every place has its ups and downs. We need to be aware of what they are and come up with solutions.

Tell us about the outlets you have at the Four Seasons. What makes them special?

Starting with the lobby, we have our Bay-View Lounge, which is our signature lobby experience and showcases the beautiful view of Bahrain Bay and Manama’s skyline. Here you can enjoy afternoon tea and listen to live piano music in the background. It won several design awards, not just for Bahrain but in the whole Middle East. We also have CUT by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. This American steak restaurant is undoubtedly our signature outlet. On the 50th floor, we have re/ Asian Cuisine, which is a Asian fusion restaurant also by Wolfgang Puck. Bahrain Bay Kitchen is located on the -1

02 The hotel’s beautifully designed lobby exudes luxury 03 Richard Raab, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, General Manager 04 A serene view of the Manama skyline from the ballroom terrace of the hotel 05 Guests arrive in true Four Seasons style

What attracted you to the hospitality industry?

It’s the people, without a doubt. I’m a people’s person. You really can’t be in this industry without being one. I studied economics as a young man and found that I can’t be in an office all day long. I need to be out and about and meeting people. In this business, you have a different day every day, dealing with budgets, PR, staff, and so on. It’s wonderful because there’s never a day that’s the same. I’m very proud to work here.

How do you cope with the long hours you often have to face working at the hotel?

I will be very honest: I have the best wife in the whole world! www.fourseasons.com/bahrain

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01 The iconic Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay structure

floor and it is our buffet restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, not to mention the popular Friday brunch and the ‘Arabic Favorites’ Saturday buffet lunch which is favored mainly by our Bahraini guests. It not only has a fresh bakery but it’s right next to our Kids For All Seasons Club, which means kids can have fun while the parents relax.

There’s also Vento, our authentic Italian restaurant, which we have recently made open even to outside guests.

Our shisha terrace has become really popular among the locals. They can sit in the evening at the lit-up Infinity Pool and take in the best view of Manama.

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Up Close and Personal

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Managing Hospitality Bringing over 18 years of international food and beverage operations experience, which includes operating in the casual dining division and the setting up fine dining restaurants, Sumeet Jhingan has developed sound knowledge of operations and hospitality trends across the world, making him uniquely qualified to meet the challenges that will arise in his current role as General Manager of Capital Club Bahrain.

Interview with Sumeet Jhingan, General Manager 01 Sumeet Jhingan, General Manager, Capital Club 02 Enjoy a spectacular view while dining at the Capital Club

How have you adapted to your position as General Manager of the Capital Club and to Bahrain in general? How does it compare to all the other countries where you have worked?

In recent years, I’ve been working with multiple concepts, cuisines, and outlets simultaneously. Being involved from the initial feasibility, construction, and outfitting, to hiring or training at all levels and the running of operations. Transitioning to Capital Club Bahrain has been smooth, as I have more time to focus on creating members’ events, leveraging my contacts in the international culinary and business sector, and developing unique benefits for our members. Additionally, I find Bahrain very open and interesting, with a lot of business opportunities not often available in other parts of the MENA region.

People here are very welcoming and approachable.

This is evident from the prominent leaders and local businessmen who have an open-door policy and are always keen to hear new ideas.

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How is your current role different than your previous one as Director of Operations for Ginza Restaurants (GFD group)?

Let me start by saying that business model was slightly different as it was unique start-up which motivated me to move from New York to the UAE. It was multi-site operation which kept me on my toes from signing joint venture or franchise agreement to managing the fit out, and eventually overseeing the operations of outlets successfully. We started a company and the goal was to get the top five chefs out of the Top 50 in the world, along with a few 3 star Michelin chefs, to the UAE. We were the only company in the MENA region with such initiative. We signed up with chef Jean Georges Vongerichten with whom I used to work with, a 3 star Michelin star chef in New York. We signed 3 star Michelin Chef Masayoshi Takayama (Chef Masa), 2 star Michelin Chef Bjorn Frantzen, from Sweden, Chef Jaime Pesaque from Peru and 2 star Michelin Chef Luis Andoni Aduriz, who is one of my favourite chefs, from San Sebastian, Spain.

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Up Close and Personal

At Capital Club, I am blessed to have heritage of seven years of amazing success and the support of our valuable members across the GCC, Board of Governors lead by our Chairman, HH Shaikh Mohammed Bin Essa Al Khalifa, who are always there to guide and advise when needed. In my current role, I can leverage my past hospitality and business relationships to add more value to the club and attract more job opportunities.

Can you describe a typical day for you?

There really is no such thing as a “typical day” in this business. We have plans and clear goals outlined for 2017 which are in line with the vision of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier. There’s always a multitude of tasks to juggle on any given day, such as training, event organisation, finance, sales or promotions, relationship building, members appreciation, market surveys on, and so on. I personally like to be involved in all aspects of the club and find time every day to spend with each department and meet members to gain insights into what more we can do.

What does the Capital Club have planned for its members in the coming year? How do you plan to develop its services?

We want to be a premier business club in the region and are working to increase not only awareness of Capital Club Bahrain throughout the region, and in particular in Saudi Arabia, but also working with different government entities to build strong relationships and opportunities for Bahrain.

For example, we will be offering Capital Club Bahrain as a platform for female entrepreneurs and young leaders in the region. Also, we continue to identify and forge new partnerships and tie-ups with big brands and businesses to add value for our members. Most notably, we have been supported by Tamkeen and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) for our celebrity chef series, which will run throughout 2017.

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What attracted you to a career in the hospitality industry?

It’s in my blood as my family has a hospitality background. Growing up in Melbourne and the US, I was always fascinated by hotels and fancy restaurants. The platform that this industry provides for someone like me is amazing. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a lot of hard work, sweat, and endless hours, but the end result usually pays off. The opportunity to meet all different types of people, flexibility to be creative and work out of the box, and travel and experience world cuisines and cultures, it feeds my soul. Initially, I wanted to be a dentist!

What do you find to be the most rewarding and challenging aspect of your career?

Being a people person, I guess the sense of satisfaction and pride I feel after seeing happy faces has always been rewarding. It creates lasting impressions and motivates the team to always go that extra mile. I’ve always aspired to be a role model for my team and focus on developing my colleagues and team members. I see huge opportunities to attract world class chefs and brands to Bahrain, and developing the local culinary scene by training Bahraini chefs. Having had the opportunity to travel around the world and the privilege to work for some of the best hotels and Michelin star chefs over the past 18 years, I’ve managed and operated awardwinning and 3-Michelin star businesses.

What is the experience of working with 2 and 3-Michelin star chefs like? What do they bring to the table, so to speak?

Food is an art which is expressed on a plate by various ingredients and it pleases your soul through the stomach. Working for a 3-Michelin star chef is total different level of experience and it helps you develop in every aspect of hospitality. Once you work with them, you live, breathe, and dream 3-Michelin stars and the pressure that comes along with maintaining it. It has been a tremendous experience.

I have had the opportunity to work very closely with the world’s top chefs, some of whom I consider to be my godfathers, and those moments have been very special and something to treasure forever. I have a lot of special moments working with Chefs Jean George Vongerichten, Laurent Touroundel, Shaun Hergatt, Atul Kochar, and Andoni Aduriz. We have chefs confirmed from across the world who will be visiting the club to present their regional cuisine to Bahrain. We want Bahrain to be on the world map with top chefs having their eateries in town and such a program plays a vital part in it. Last September, we had the world’s top 50 Chef, Jaime Pesaque from Peru, and we had an opportunity to invite 3-Michelin star Chef Jean Paul Bosteon from France. We now have Latin America’s top 37, Chef Gerardo Vazquez Lugo this week to present an authentic Mexican cuisine for our Members and their guests. We will also be participating in the upcoming food festival next week, so watch out for more news on this exciting project.

How does the GCC dining scene compare to what you have seen in New York and Australia?

People are traveling and experiencing top restaurants and hotels, which is great for developing the hospitality scene in the region. Big cities outside the GCC tend to offer more variety at every price level and for all types of cuisines. From Michelin star chefs offering vegan restaurants to a chain like TGIF offering certified USDA Prime steaks, you name it and you’ll find it. Here, there are limited options with limited menus but a lot can be done with limited resources and that’s what we want to do. Part of it is probably because of the fresh or local produce that is available in other countries being not so readily available here, such as top quality beef, fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, etc. There’s also a stigma associated with cooking or becoming a chef in this part of the world.

Many promising young chefs never make it to the top culinary institutes to hone their skills. Those who do, tend to stay abroad, so you don’t find many “top” or Michelin star chefs locally.

What do you feel the region is lacking in terms of dining choices?

To be honest, the region attracts a lot of top chefs, big names, and big brands. It caters greatly to certain types of people, the movers and shakers, tourists and others. But what I really miss, what I hear a lot of other expats miss too, is comfort food. Those awesome, hole-in-the-wall places, that satisfy your craving without breaking the bank. Local concepts are mostly copy-and-paste and influenced from well-off types. We need entrepreneurs or restauranteurs who take risk and strive for something new. Eating out shouldn’t always be so involved, nor require so much pomp and show. And for a place that I can go to on a weekly basis, it has to have a decent variety with a seasonal menu. I’m not looking for fast food chains, but a decent average with great quality. www.capitalclubbahrain.com

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Up Close and Personal

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Building Dreams 01 Niall McLoughlin, Senior Vice President, DAMAC Properties 02 The Clubhouse at the Trump International Golf Club Dubai, DAMAC Hills

One of the leading luxury real estate developers in the Middle East, DAMAC Properties has been the trusted partner behind some of the most famous projects in the world. Growing rapidly since its establishment in 2002 in Dubai, it has cemented its status as a premier luxury residential, leisure, and commercial developer, and today has a portfolio spanning the UAE, other Middle Eastern countries, and the United Kingdom. Durrah spoke to Damac Properties Senior Vice President Niall McLoughlin to find out more about the projects on hand and what the future has in store for this giant developer.

Interview with Damac Properties Senior Vice President Niall McLoughlin What are DAMAC’s key projects and recent launches?

DAMAC has a strong development pipeline of over 44,000 units at various stages of progress and planning. These includes 13,000 hotel rooms, serviced apartments, and hotel villas which will be managed by our hospitality arm, DAMAC Hotels & Resorts. The total value of our projects currently under development is approximately $20 billion.

In 2016 alone, we launched 21 projects with a total value of over $4 billion. We also awarded contracts worth nearly $2 billion in 2016. The 2016 project range comprised AYKON City hotel apartments and hotel rooms, AYKON City residential apartments, XV Villas at AKOYA by DAMAC, The Beach by Maison De Ville, Tower 108, AKOYA Cuatro Villas, AKOYA Imagine, AKOYA Imagine plots, AKOYA Imagine 2.0, AKOYA Fresh, AKOYA Selfie, Artesia, DAMAC Maison Prive, Tenora and Celestia at Dubai South, AKOYA Manarola, Majestine, AKOYA Park Villas, Trump PRVT, AKOYA MOD Townhouses, and AKOYA Play.

We continue to move ahead briskly with the development of two of the most highly anticipated

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golf course communities in the UAE – AKOYA and AKOYA Oxygen. Both of these master developments are home to a variety of incredible properties, including the Trump International Golf Club Dubai and the Trump World Golf Club.

What forms the unique identity of DAMAC? What makes it different from its competitors?

DAMAC has grown to become the Middle East’s largest private luxury developer, and we believe it is our commitment to constantly re-imagine luxury, along with maintainng our unbridled passion for putting Dubai on the global real estate map. It is this same desire and commitment that fuel our resolve to keep introducing newer, ever more luxurious and ambitious projects that position Dubai as an attractive luxury real estate market and a city of the future.

In your opinion, what makes DAMAC’s luxury properties so successful?

DAMAC has become synonymous with luxury, refinement, and quality. Our effort is always to introduce

high-end living spaces that cater to discerning customers who demand exclusivity and a true slice of the good life.

We pay a lot of attention to details when conceptualising, designing, and executing our projects. These details can turn a house into a home, but are often taken for granted by developers. We know it’s all in the little things. From the selection of development partners through to the handover of keys, we endeavour to keep our promise to make sure every detail is flawless.

DAMAC has partnered with a number of major international names for various projects throughout the years. Which particular brand or project collaboration does DAMAC consider to be its biggest success?

DAMAC’s enviable portfolio of luxury properties includes a series of limited edition branded residences developed in collaboration with global brands. Brands such as Versace, FENDI, Trump, Paramount Hotels & Resorts, and Bugatti, including hotel apartments and hotels which allow investors to capitalise on Dubai’s fast-growing tourism sector. These ultra-exclusive projects speak to

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Up Close and Personal

DAMAC’s enviable portfolio of luxury properties includes a series of limited edition branded residences developed in collaboration with global brands

How would you describe the current state of Dubai’s property market? Is this year an improvement from previous years?

Currently, the real estate sector in Dubai is passing through a period of stability and investors seek better value. Nonetheless, we believe that the market is wellpositioned for continued growth in the medium to long term, driven by sustained infrastructure investments and a stringent regulatory framework. That being said, we expect the market to rebound strongly as we move closer to the Expo 2020.

As the real estate market in Dubai keeps evolving to achieve the desired level of stability, it is the responsibility of developers to create projects that hold value for each customer segment across the market. At DAMAC, we are committed to continue offering a unique product mix to address the diverse needs of our target customers, and we strongly believe that our business model and financial strength will help further distinguish ourselves and allow our company to become stronger in 2017 and beyond.

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the truly discerning and aspirational buyer, and have been designed, developed, and delivered to the most exacting standards in line with customer expectations.

Investor reaction to these high-end collaborative offerings has been terrific across the board. Moreover, we have seen that truly prestigious brand associations, such as the ones DAMAC has stitched together, can drive an increase of up to 30% in the value of the property. This is good news for investors and for our shareholders, as we are able to achieve impressive margins on these collections.

Is DAMAC planning on venturing into new segments in the future?

Although we pride ourselves as specialists and innovators in residential, commercial, and hospitality real estate developments, we are also tapping into other segments such as real estate investment and hospitality real estate management, which we believe have significant potential for future growth.

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An illustration of our quest to diversify into more highgrowth segments within the property market is the launch of Ghalia, the first certified Shariah-compliant serviced hotel apartments, which seek to tap into the rising demand for halal tourism in Dubai. Construction on the project is already underway, and having sold out all units in the first round of sales, we released a limited number of units during the second phase in June 2016.

What would you say has been the most challenging aspect for DAMAC to overcome?

Over the course of its 15-year existence, DAMAC has encountered and overcome several difficulties and market-induced challenges, not least the debilitating effects of the 2008 global financial crisis. Each time, however, we emerged stronger than ever, and this has been possible only due to the soundness of our business model, the clarity of our long-term vision, and the support and confidence our customers and shareholders have placed in us.

Dubai’s property market has held a significant advantage compared to those in other GCC countries in recent years, even in the face of sliding property values and lower oil prices. What would you say are the unique attributes that give Dubai’s market that advantage?

There are a number of factors that contribute to the competitive advantage that Dubai enjoys as a real estate investment destination, such as relatively low acquisition cost, excellent capital appreciation, and above all, no property tax. Residential rental yields in Dubai are among the highest in the world, and the city continues to offer higher returns on investment compared to other mature markets. Add into the mix the emirate’s growing economy, and it’s easy to see why investors find the value proposition offered by Dubai’s property market to be so compelling.

Can you tell us a bit about the projects still to come?

We have recently opened one of our most exciting projects, the Trump International Golf Club Dubai, which will be the focal point of the AKOYA master development. www.damacproperties.com

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Up Close and Personal

Drawn from one of the purest sources of spring water in the United Kingdom, Elixium is a luxury water brand that aims to elevate the way we perceive refreshment by incorporating scientific findings about health benefits associated with the ingestion of pure and edible gold. Durrah spoke to Jesse Jarvis, CEO and Chairman of Elixium Ltd. to find out more about the elite brand that has been dubbed ‘water in its highest form’.

Gold Standard Interview with Jesse Jarvis, CEO and Chairman of Elixium Ltd Where did you get the idea for such an exclusive product?

We wanted to revolutionise the way in which people perceive refreshment while also showing the validity of the innovative and cutting edge research that is currently being conducted within the nano-technology industry. With my background as a professional athlete and personal trainer, I was struck with the idea when I was running a supplements company. We decided to think outside the box and come up with ways in which we can innovate refreshment and add a unique touch of sophistication to the luxury beverage market. Then, we relentlessly and emphatically laboured with love over the concepts that later became Elixium.

At £150 a bottle, who is your target client for Elixium water?

The Price of £150 is for limited edition couture bottles for individual clients of notoriety. So far, we’ve had the opportunity of gifting our product to royalty, celebrities, and Hollywood actors, as well as some very notable members of the business and banking community. For the sake of our clients’ anonymity, I won’t be able to give any direct names. There are also certain versions of Elixium that are available at a much lower rate, and there is the option of signing up to

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our exclusive subscription service so the product gets delivered directly to your door.

What do customers most commonly choose as the inscription on their bottles?

Most of our individual clients would choose to have either their family crest, presidential seal, or official royal seal engraved into the glass of each bottle. Although, our corporate partners mostly use Elixium as a means for displaying their appreciation to their customers. In that scenario, we would develop a custom bottle of Elixium with the branding of the company that has commissioned the product’s creation alongside the name and message of choice for the recipient, which means our customisation is only limited by the imagination of the client. Each bottle is painstakingly designed and handcrafted each and every time we go to production.

What have you found to be the most effective form of marketing for Elixium?

Communication, networking, and partnerships.

Nothing could be more important than the people that you surround yourself with. Creating successful businesses and partnerships are one and the same. It’s paramount for anyone looking to achieve their goals that they master the

art of networking and have the ethos that one can only attain success through the application of excellent service to others. It’s a word-of-mouth industry and reputations can be made and torn down in a minute. Simply by listening to our clients, as opposed to trying to force our message upon them, we create meaningful relationships instead of advertorial campaigns.

What would you say to people who claim Elixium to be an unnecessary extravagance?

I can understand why they would have reservations but they need to know that this is the pinnacle of our artisanal springs offerings, the finest blends of the UK’s purest water aquifers, Nano-gold, and 24-carat gold flake. It’s a statement art piece that captures the connection between wealth, health, and beauty. We aim to offer more easily available product iterations in the very near future that will be accessible by a wider audience, but for the discretion and reputation of our current clients, we must uphold a certain level of craftsmanship and materials, and that, unfortunately, increases the cost. However, we do aim to donate a large sum of all generated profits to our charity partner, WaterAid, which is co-founded by Hollywood A-lister, Matt Damon.

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Was there ever a time when you doubted your product?

There have been times where the viability of the product’s launch has been put under question and, of course, I’m sure all entrepreneurs bringing a product that has never been attempted before to market will have the inevitable pre-market anxiety, but it’s manageable.

I have absolute faith in the capability of my executive team and the potential of Elixium Nano Gold Water and the other products that will soon be available.

Elixium claims numerous health benefits.

Have you ever received any positive feedback from clients with respect to their health?

Most certainly, yes. Some of our samplers have said they have felt a heightened increase in mental acuity, concentration, energy, and happiness throughout the day. We will be pursuing even more scientific analysis in the new year, as the industry is always finding new applications and benefits from medicinal nanocomposites.

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Up Close and Personal

We don’t simply sell products or services, we sell a story or a history, sometimes a fantasy or a lifestyle

01 Elexium… the pinnacle in artisanal springs offerings 02 Jesse Jarvis, CEO and Chairman of Elixium Ltd

Is starting a business in this industry very different from other industries?

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What are the other two startup companies of which you are a majority shareholder?

I currently serve in an advisory position on the Board of an independent record label called Immortal Musikk, and I’m the Co-founder of a luxury lifestyle and fashion brand by the name of Legacy Couture, which we will be launching later this year.

What sparked your interested in the luxury industry?

The luxury industry has mesmerised me since childhood. It is a marketplace where creativity, elegance, and individuality all reign supreme. This devotion to quality is what drew me towards it. I have dedicated the past five years of my life to perfecting my skills as a young creative design professional and as a board level executive to make sure that the presence of Elixium as a brand holds weight to those who have a passion for the unique and refined.

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In the luxury industry, developing a reputation of respect and credibility has utmost importance and can only be done by keeping an unwavering focus on creating an experience that cannot be recreated by any other competitor. Judging by the feedback we have received, I think we are doing that incredibly well for our clients. Each individual bottle of Elixium is inspected by my eye before it leaves the production facility. We try to make sure that quality is key within our brand, and it’s for this reason that we still hand-fill and seal each bottle individually.

It’s very important when operating within the luxury industry to give your customers the ability to see your heritage and history, and what it is that defines your identity, but in today’s fast-adapting world, it’s even more than that. You must be able to show your audience where you’re planning to go. Customers want to know how you’re redefining and re-imagining the user experience. A heritage will show your audience credibility, but an innovative nature and a user experience that can’t be replicated will demand attention and show your audience what it is that makes your product or company an industry leader.

What would you say are the challenges and opportunities unique to the luxury industry?

When catering to a highly affluent and exacting clientele, your user experience must be consistently seen as engaging and emotionally captivating for it to thrive. We don’t simply sell products or services, we sell a story or a history, sometimes a fantasy or a lifestyle. It’s not the product itself that holds as much relevance as it is the brand. Every interaction with your brand must be responsive, innovative, and within the next five years I would also say interactive in multiple mediums such as VR and Augmented Reality. There needs to be a seamless flow from both physical and

digital mediums in today’s luxury landscape. The inclusion of holographic display technologies is just one way in which our brand tries to blend the two formats.

Another is our utilisation of nano-compounds within our products, which is something that is currently revolutionising the healthcare sector. Expect to see a big uptake in the use of nano-medicines. You heard it here first!

You have a broad educational background. Has this helped you in your entrepreneurial journey?

I chose academic endeavours that would specifically give me the skills required to operate at an executive level in a young and unforgiving fastpaced industry. I took most of the academic courses upon myself, utilising online training programmes from Harvard, Yale, Osaka, and the Michigan Institute of Technology. It enabled me to keep a highly futurecentered perspective when I look at the growth of the company. I am also still currently studying fulltime for a degree at London South Bank University, which is part of a long journey towards a Doctorate in Engineering and Design.

You donate 5% of your profits to water. org. How important is it for a company to be involved in charitable causes?

We hope that by being able to help, even in a small way, we can create relevance for the company.

Personally, I feel it’s the ethical and moral duty of a company to be able to help in any way it can. If we are to truly progress as a race and sustainably move forward, we need to adopt some key philanthropic operating principles into the business model itself.

It’s never too late to rethink what it means to be a company and the social responsibility that may come with that. www.elixiumwater.com

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Special Feature

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Elected to the French Academy in March 2016, the Franco-Russian novelist Andreï Makine, originally from Siberia, was officially presented with his ceremonial sword as a future “Immortel”. Chopard was entrusted with the honour of creating the unique iteration of this symbol that will accompany this fervent admirer of France and of the French language. A token of belonging to the Institut, the sword carries all the weight of an authentic work of art. The motifs adorning the metal and born from the talent of the high jewellery artisans of the Maison Chopard convey the spirit of its owner and illustrate a life journey.

Exceptional Human Adventure

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n accordance with tradition, one week prior to taking his seat beneath the venerable Dome, Andreï Makine will officially receive his sword from the hands of Danièle Sallenave. Wearing the Sword, a custom that became more widespread during the Napoleonic era, has now been enriched with a symbolic and even emotional dimension. The choice of the artist or goldsmith responsible for crafting it is thus of the utmost importance and this task is exclusively reserved for the most prestigious jewellery Maisons. Chopard is delighted and proud to have been selected to dedicate its expertise to serving this important and technically complex mission.

Above and beyond mere expertise, the human adventure represented by the creation of such an object is firmly based on sharing and exchanges.

Chopard first needed to grasp the rich personality of a man whose nature was to be reflected in the sword.

Andreï Makine devoted an exceptional amount of energy to this task, including by providing hand-drawn sketches and inscriptions. His Arctic sword belongs to winter, his favourite season. The silver pommel shaped like a woven rope welcomes the adorable frog, transfigured Princess, a famous figure in Russia folk tales. Set with 500 tiny emeralds and 11 white diamonds, it pivots in its sapphire surroundings in a

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Special Feature

manner echoing Chopard’s famous “Happy Diamonds” principle. The hilt embodies a feat achieved by master lapidaries and depicts a broken rutilated quartz hourglass formed by two bulbs from which tiny Fairmined yellow gold balls spill out, representing the elusive flight of time.

The letter “F”, spelt in Cyrillic and in the French alphabet, is a reminder of the writer’s Franco-Russian nationality; the quill and parchment are part of the narrative, while the scabbard imprisons the sword in an icy grip, just as the novelist’s heart is held fast by nostalgia.

Although the name of Chopard is frequently associated with renowned organisations and events, this is the jeweller’s first involvement with the legendary institution. Their respective worlds

may seem far apart, yet the Academy’s function is to perfect and enrich the French language. It is responsible for sculpting this language much as an artisan would do with matter, in order to draw from it the very essence of clarity and elegance.

Building on its heritage and guided by the quest for excellence, Chopard strives to accomplish the same task by exercising its unique blend of independence, creativity and boldness, while demonstrating consistent respect for its enduring values. It therefore chose a team of 11 of its finest artisans to magnify the symbol represented by this Academician’s sword.

01 Beads of Fairmined gold on the handle 02 The ceremonial sword crafted by Chopard 03 A bejeweled frog within the handle of the sword

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The silver pommel shaped like a woven rope welcomes the adorable frog, transfigured Princess, a famous figure in Russia folk tales

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The Speedmaster Returns 056

Watches

Our pick this issue is a true classic which comes from the most beloved watchmakers in the world. The heritage of the Speedmaster is undisputed and the latest version carries all the traditional values of the Omega brand, but with an undoubtedly modern flair.

The Speedmaster Automatic True to OMEGA tradition, every new Speedmaster carries the spirit and design inspiration of the models that came before. In the new Speedmaster Automatic, this is immediately clear when you view the dial.

The distinctive minute-track style on this stainlesssteel watch first appeared on a 1968 Speedmaster model.

Linked to the Speedmaster’s motor racing heritage, it returns again, this time on a matt-black dial. Other notable features on the dial include the orange markings and bevelled 18K white gold arrowhead indexes that are filled with white Super-LumiNova.

For this new model, the subdials have also been slightly expanded for improved readability and the 44.25 mm case is thinner than previous versions, thanks to the work done on the sapphire crystal in particular.

The polished ceramic bezel features a brushed

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Liquidmetal® tachymeter scale as well as distinctive orange wording that matches the colour of the varnished hands and tip of the seconds hand.

Around the wrist, there is a black leather strap that contains a section of orange rubber through the middle.

A milling tool has then been used to create micro perforations through the constructed strap that reveal the orange rubber inside. This perforated design provides the perfect sporty look and also has the benefit of aerating the wearer’s skin.

The Speedmaster Automatic represents the next Speedmaster model with Master Chronometer certification. Driven by the calibre 9900, the watch and its movement have reached the Swiss industry’s highest standard of precision, performance and magnetic resistance, as approved by the Swiss Federal Institute of Meteorology (METAS).

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The Speedmaster 38 mm The OMEGA Speedmaster is one of the most recognised chronographs in the world. Now, OMEGA introduces this refined 38 mm collection. The famous look and heritage is still at the heart of the creation, but this time, the enduring design has been given a pure and new aesthetic touch.

This model, nicknamed “Cappuccino”, is just one piece in the complete collection for both men and women. Its case is made from stainless steel and 18K Sedna gold, while the strap has been made from taupe-brown leather.

One of the watch’s most interesting features is the diamond-paved bezel that also includes a tachymeter scale on a brown aluminium ring. This dual design has enabled OMEGA to add the elegance of diamonds and also retain the sporty DNA of the original Speedmaster models.

The watch features a bi-colour dial with unique oval

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subdials in brown. At a closer look, these oval subdials closely resemble OMEGA’s own brand logo. Continuing on the dial, an oval date window has been positioned at 6 o’clock and the “baton” hands and the indexes have been created from 18K Sedna gold.

The caseback has been stamped with the Speedmaster’s iconic Seahorse medallion, and on the inside, the watch is driven by the OMEGA Calibre 3330, complete with Co-Axial technology and a silicon balance spring. This superb craftsmanship gives the watch a 4-year warranty.

60 years after the launch of the very first Speedmaster, the chronograph is still a great source of inspiration. Although its spirit remains the same, this new 38 mm collection has been created with simplicity, size, and colour in mind. omegawatches.com

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Watches

Timeless Innovation Watches are more than mere time instruments.

They’re statements capable of transforming image and elevating social status. Durrah takes a look at the best and latest in the world of watchmaking for the man of today.

Original Sixties Iconic Square Collection Glashütte It’s hip to be square: Following the inaugural presentation of the Sixties Iconic Collection in 2015, Glashütte Original takes its tribute to iconic ‘60s design to a new level. In parallel with the 67th Berlinale, the German watchmaker introduces a special collection of five square chronographs featuring distinctive dials made by the Saxon manufactory’s own dialmakers in Pforzheim, Germany. The stunning colours and fascinating dial visuals take up iconic design elements first presented in a range of “Spezimatic” models produced in the 1960s. 25 sets of the distinct Sixties Iconic Square Collection will be available in Glashütte Original Boutiques and selected retailers worldwide. www.glasshuete-original.com

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Drive de Cartier The Drive de Cartier collection, created in 2016, is designed for the man who flaunts an independent mind and a keen sense for fashion. Looking effortlessly stylish as he saunters through life, whether dressed down in casual chic or spruced up in black tie, the Drive de Cartier man is dapper on every occasion.And his watch boasts just as many sides to its personality. All models in this collection feature exquisite watchmaking movements.

The Drive de Cartier hours, minutes and seconds watch, the second time zone model and the flying tourbillon model have now been joined by two new models. The two newest faces in the collection have the same highly personal codes and exude the Drive de Cartier man’s love of authenticity, free spirit and imagination. Here is all the stunning art de vivre that was showcased by Cartier at this year’s Pitti Uomo trade fair in Florence’s Palazzo Gondi. This watch is fitted with the new Manufacture movement 1904-LU MC. A distinctive moonphase complication displayed at 6 o’clock tracks the cycle of new moons, half-moons and full moons. This extraordinarily precise complication is known as “astronomic”, needing to be corrected by one day every 125 years. The Drive de Cartier Moon Phases watch stays true to the signature aesthetic of the Drive de Cartier collection: wearability. With a convex curved glass case and uncluttered white guilloché dial, it is available in pink gold or steel. This timepiece lends an unaffected touch of sophistication to everyday mechanics. www.en.cartier.com

BIG BANG UNICO GMT, HUBLOT With its trademark ingenuity, Hublot has simplified the use of a complex complication: GMT. The Hublot Unico manufacture movement is equipped with a new patented proprietary module which enables the second time zone to be updated instantly by a push-button, allowing the local time to be read easily via the conventional main hand of the watch. The time at home is indicated using a second arrow-shaped hour hand, which integrates a day/night indicator and is set using the crown. In a 45 mm case, the Big Bang Unico GMT is available in a titanium or carbon fibre version, on a structured, ribbed black and blue natural rubber strap. Both versions are equipped with the ingenious “One Click” interchangeable strap system. The UNICO movement has been redesigned to transform it into a calibre with an integrated GMT function. The HUB1251 movement is driven by 358 components, and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, boasting a 72hour power reserve. www.hublot.com

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Watches

Récital 20 Astérium® R20N002 BOVET In 2016, BOVET 1822 presented the Récital 18 Shooting Star, which made headlines for its innovative time display. The many accolades attributed to this timepiece attest to its peerless identity and accomplishments. The RÉCITAL 20 ASTÉRIUM seamlessly continues the tradition set by its illustrious predecessor, reprising the characteristic shaped case to present an unprecedented mechanical display that showcases the volumes and decoration of the timepiece.

What is more, the diptych now formed by these two timepieces takes us on a genuine philosophical journey to the edges of time and space. For with these timepieces, Pascal Raffy and the BOVET 1822 watchmakers invite us to explore the universe and the origins of time itself. While the watchmakers chose to soar above and offer a celestial view of our planet, with its 24 time zones visible at a glance for the Shooting Star, they have returned to Earth for this masterpiece and lifted their eyes to the skies. bovet.com

PATRAVI TRAVELTEC Carl F Bucherer The Carl F Bucherer Patravi Traveltec is a time machine, developed with all the passion of the watchmaker’s art: strong character and imposing, yet harmonious.

It is powered by the specially developed CFB 1901.1 calibre A chronograph that not only satisfies the highest requirements in terms of precision, thanks to the chronometer certification, but which also displays three different time zones simultaneously. Created with 18 K rose gold, its features include a screw-down crown Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. It is water-resistant to 50 m (5 atm). Its diameter is 46.6 mm and height 15.5 mm. www.carl-f-bucherer.com

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Three-hand 38 mm Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe blancpain

The vintage-inspired Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe, first presented in 2013, is extending its range by introducing a 38 mm timepiece attired in abyss blue.

The new three-hand 38 mm Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe model appears in a blue shade particularly cherished by Blancpain in that it recalls the depths of the ocean. Various key characteristics of this timepiece are nods to the historical Fifty Fathoms editions. Setting the perfect finishing touch, the steel bezel features a blue ceramic insert and hour-markers in Liquidmetal, an alloy known for its deformation resistance and its long-term stability. Like any self-respecting diving watch, each model is equipped with a unidirectional bezel rotating counter-clockwise by small notches. Loyal to the original Bathyscaphe version, the luminescent dot on the bezel serves as an index for divers, enabling accurate alignment with the minutes hand and thereby defining the start of a given dive time. During the immersion, the seconds hand serves as an operating indicator. Water-resistant to 30 bar (approximately 300 meters), the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe is powered by Caliber 1150. This movement, distinguished by its robustness and its chronometric performance, is equipped with two series-coupled barrels ensuring a 100-hour power reserve while guaranteeing constant energy, a significant technological feat. www.blancpain.com

Inno-Vision 2, Ulysse Nardin There is no doubt the current essence of the Ulysse Nardin Research and Development team’s comprehensive expertise is captured by the InnoVision 2. On one hand, this can be seen in the fundamental design features, such as the self-winding mechanism, the oscillator, the escapement and the time display.

On the other hand, there is the use of groundbreaking materials and state-of-the-art production technologies.

In all, this exceptional watch boasts ten innovations which are being presented at the Geneva Watch Exhibition SIHH 2017 – Ulysse Nardin’s first time attending the exhibition in the company’s history. www.ulysse-nardin.com

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Watches

The latest iconic feminine timepieces for the elegant and refined woman of today.

Elegant Femininity Big Bang ‘One-Click’ 39 mm , HUBLOT In 2016, Hublot presented its new women’s Big Bang.

A 39-mm case in King Gold or steel, with bezel and/or case paved with diamonds, black or white dial, and the patented ‘One-Click’ attachment system—allowing the strap to be changed quickly and more easily. As many visions as there are infinite possibilities of variations.

Over time, over the seasons, trends and desires, the Big Bang ‘One-Click’ 39 mm is the new “It watch”, with Cuddly Cuff straps which, like jewellery, are just asking to be worn on the wrist. www.hublot.com

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DIAMOND OUTRAGE , Audemars Piguet For 2017, boasting the power of her predecessors and hundreds of brilliant-cut diamonds, Audemars Piguet presents Diamond Outrage – the third and final design in the trilogy of one-of-a-kind Haute Joaillerie timepieces. After 2015’s Diamond Punk and 2016’s Diamond Fury, Diamond Outrage is a cuff watch of rare, explosive style that marks a shift in artistic Haute Joaillerie watch design. It is presented in two unique 18-carat white gold pieces, fully set either with diamonds or with blue sapphires. Glinting with the icy fascination of the Vallée de Joux in winter, Diamond Outrage’s structure is set with precious stones in a brilliant array of cuts. On the full diamond version, the inclusion of three baguetteset spikes shines a vibrant light on the outrageous character of this futuristic design www.audemarspiguet.com

Excalibur 36, Roger Dubuis The Excalibur 36 Jewellery collection is distinguished by a row of 48 diamonds set on the bezel. The precious radiance of the diamonds accentuates the strength of a pink gold case. These self-winding mechanical time pieces boast a power reserve of 48 hours. www.rogerdubuis.com

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Watches

Récital 19 Miss Dimier, BOVET The Récital 19 Miss Dimier features the elliptical case that has been hugely popular since 2013 on the Récital 9 and Récital 11 models. Yet its dimensions have been reduced by around 20%, resulting in a length of 35.4 mm and a width of 30.7 mm: perfect proportions for ensuring the timepiece is a comfortable fit on every wrist it graces. This new distinctly feminine timepiece sets out to combine the traditional artisanal high watchmaking typical of BOVET 1822 with the practical requirements of daily use. The Récital 19 Miss Dimier features a steel case coupled with a bezel set delicately with 52 round cut diamonds for enhanced femininity. The automatic movement powering this new model guarantees a 3-day power reserve, so that even if the timepiece is forgotten one weekend, it can easily be worn again on the following Sunday without having to reset the time. www.Bovet.com

The Garden of Kalahari Secret Watch, CHOPARD The Garden of Kalahari Secret Watch is 18ct white ‘Fairmined’ gold set with two exceptional D-flawless pear-shaped and brilliant-cut diamonds and fully set with brilliant-cut and pear-shaped diamonds. It is equipped with a Haute Horlogerie L.U.C 96.17-L calibre and comes with a micro-rotor in platinum set with diamonds. www.chopard.com

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Lady Arpels Jour Nuit Fée Ondine watch Van Cleef & Arpels The Lady Arpels Jour Nuit Fée Ondine watch combines the technical mastery of Poetic Complications creations with an extraordinary palette of craft skills. The 24-hour movement – fitted with a module developed exclusively for Van Cleef & Arpels – animates an enchanting scene inspired by the high jewelry clip Fée Ondine, created in 2005 (A Midsummer Night’s Dream collection). www.vancleefarpels.com

Middle East exclusive traditional oval-shaped watch in natural malachite and pink gold, PIAGET Worn by Nathalie Portman in the film Jackie, which is screening in theatres across the Middle East now.

Piaget’s exclusive timepieces are available at all Piaget boutiques across the Middle East too. Also, discover Piaget’s new Altiplano collection showcased during SIHH 2017. www.piaget.com

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Special Feature

Diyar Al Muharraq is one of the most visionary and progressive urban developments in the Kingdom of Bahrain; an all comprehensive, fully integrated modern city. Incorporating a strong line-up of projects, including a vast variety of residential and commercial properties, it is ideal for both personal and investment purposes.

Visionary Plan

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ell on its way to creating a long term and sustainable township, Diyar Al Muharraq is located on the northern shores of Muharraq and comprises of seven islands with a total of 10 square kilometers of reclaimed land. Upon completion, Diyar Al Muharraq will encompass over 40 kilometers of waterfront with sandy beaches, and all the elements of a vibrant community ranging extensively from fully equipped educational facilities and schools, medical centres, recreation facilities and shopping malls to expansive parklands, hotels and marinas. Diyar Al Muharraq is to be a first of its kind development, one that aims to offer its occupants a safe haven for the ideal life.

In terms of the diversity in the offerings that its master plan encompasses, Diyar Al Muharraq boasts a highly impressive mix of residential projects. Taking pride in that it embraces the most varied living and lifestyle opportunities of any development in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Diyar Al Muharraq’s complete residential portfolio ranges from units that can be privately owned on a freehold basis and plots that can be purchased for various purposes, to entry level villas

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01 Commercial showroom plots 02 Al Qamra freehold residential plots 03 Light industries, logistics and warehousing plots

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and high end luxury products, catering to investors and potential residents.

The Diyar Homes neighbourhood is a privately developed residential estate project designed to meet the need for high quality housing standards at affordable prices with a developed infrastructure. It provides the ideal setting for traditional Bahraini family living. Phase one of Diyar Homes is currently being populated with many families, with the second phase due for completion in 2017.

The Deerat Al Oyoun community will comprise 3,043 homes built on a land area of 1.2 million square meters on the South side of Diyar Al Muharraq. The cornerstones have been set mid-2016 and construction work is taking place, with an aim of delivering the first phase of the project in 2018, while the second phase is also in progress.

Sarat District offers land owners an opportunity to build their own homes and integrate it with an ideal cohesive residential community within Diyar Al Muharraq that includes all the living amenities of a modern lifestyle for its residents. Overlooking a beautiful landscape, the Sarat site is at a prime location within Diyar Al 03

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Special Feature

Muharraq. The Sarat project has successfully sold out and the secondary stage of its infrastructural work is well underway and nearing completion, in line with the project’s pre-forecasted date.

Al Qamra encompasses over 150 freehold residential plots tailored for affordable mid-range housing units along with dedicated retail and recreational areas. Over 85% of available plots have been sold since the project was officially opened to the public and sales for the first phase of Al Qamra started in June 2016. Further to the successful sale of the first phase, Diyar Al Muharraq launched the second and final phase of Al Qamra freehold residential plots in November 2016.

The Al Bareh Freehold Residential Plots are composed of three main products which include, sea front residential Plots dedicated to encompassing high-end villas that are easily accessible both by sea and by road, residential plots within walking distance to waterfront parks appropriately positioned in the heart of Al Bareh and residential investment plots overlooking the main road designated for the construction of multi-storey buildings. Following the high demand and subsequent successful sales witnessed following the launch of the First Phase of the Al Bareh freehold residential plots in December of 2015, Diyar Al Muharraq launched the sales for the Second Phase of the project.

The upcoming Al Naseem Mixed Use Canal Front Residential Project is a unique product which aims to offer ready to move in canal front villas and residential

apartments with waterfront views. This project stands alone in its offerings due to its star attraction; the presence of the water canal which enables its residents and visitors to navigate their way by means of water borne transportation, making Al Naseem all the more exquisite in its nature. Al Naseem is projected to become a fully integrated residential community of unprecedented high quality and a prominent tourist attraction in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Marassi Al Bahrain a joint venture between Diyar Al Muharraq and Eagle Hills Abu Dhabi, is set to become an extraordinary destination in the Kingdom; a smartcity for a future that combines tourism, business and community, echoing the grand vision imbued within the master-plan of Diyar Al Muharraq – a culture that propagates a seamless infusion of commercial and residential aspects to impressive effect.

Located on the Northern shores of Diyar Al Muharraq, the urban project will offer luxury hotels and restaurants, as well as 3,500 high-end residential apartments, all providing waterside living with fantastic views. Other features include business centres, shopping, leisure and entertainment venues, a cruise terminal, ample open garden areas and a traditional souq. The project will also include The Address and Vida Hotels integrated within a new 190,000 Square meters lifestyle mall offering high-end retail units, private residential facilities and a world-class waterfront boardwalk promenade.

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the mall, hotels and serviced apartments, beach and waterfront

promenades, will be finished in 2018.

Diyar Al Muharraq not only stands tall amongst its regional counterparts for its wide array of residential and tourist attractions but is fast becoming known as the leading commercial centre for trade and commerce in the region.

Dragon City is a pioneering $100 million project, the first of its kind in the region, which has transformed the wholesale and retail industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain and is proving to gradually revolutionize and augment the Kingdom’s tourism and economic sectors as well.

Within the scope of the development itself, Dragon City boasts Dragon Apartments, Dragon Mall and the Dining Village. The Dragon Apartments are up and running and Dragon Mall has a successful occupancy of 94% with $200 million worth of goods imported in 2016.

Dragon City has also introduced a seasonal Dragon City Night Market, a new concept attracting the public to one-of-a-kind wholesale and retail promotions, providing a great shopping experience allowing customers to find an extensive selection on Chinese collectibles and bargain fashion.

The Commercial Villa Plots are plots of land varying in sizes located in a specialized commercial strip allocated for non-residential use. The plots are ideal for businesses such as beauty salons, spas, offices, gyms, medical clinics and others requiring independent locations. Situated at a prime location within the Diyar Al Muharraq project, Phase 1 of the exclusive offerings was sold out in 2015 and its successful sale prompted Diyar Al Muharraq to fast-track the introduction of Phase 2 to early February 2017.

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04 Al Bareh freehold residential plots 05 Al Naseem 06 Diyar town center 07 Dragon City

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Commercial Showroom Plots: Available in various plot sizes ranging from 2300 to 2500 square meters, the showrooms are intended to create a promising new shopping district that will attract some of the big name brands, top tier large format retail and businesses such as car showrooms, furniture, clothing stores, electronic stores, computer stores, hardware and gardening.

The Light Industry/Logistics and Warehousing plots are available in a broad range of sizes, from 1640 to 2050 square meters, which serve to meet various commercial, strategic and marketing requirements. Located at Diyar’s Enterprise Zone, these plots are suitable for workshops, warehouses and other business activities. Residential Multi-Storey Building Plots: The plot sizes available for the Residential Buildings range from 1050 to 1200 square meters. The plots, dedicated to residential buildings that will comprise up to six floors each, are situated within one of the prime locations in Diyar Al Muharraq and are considered to be the ideal investment for real estate developers.

In its meticulous approach to its visionary plan of manifesting in a fully integrated community, Diyar Al Muharraq also has every amenity and facility to cater to both its inhabitants and visitors and tourists. With a number of schools, mosques, medical centres and other such amenities lavishly and adequately spread across throughout the development, Diyar Al Muharraq is a self-sustained project that harbours aspirations of great productivity and harmony.

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070

Fragrances

Opulent in fragrance and setting new benchmarks of quality, these scents were made to celebrate masculinity and men who define their own roles and lead their own paths.

Celebrating Masculinity

Le Gemme Collection BVLGARI Bulgari presents the new Le Gemme collection dedicated to men, a new revolutionary chapter in the story of the Roman jeweller. It was written in the DNA of the master of coloured gemstones that Bulgari would one day travel the roads of the world to seek, in order to reveal them, the secret correspondences between gemstones and fragrances. And thus in 2014, the first Le Gemme collection for women appeared, an olfactory tribute to four precious stones that are emblematic of the Roman jeweller. This twin voyage through the worlds of gemstones and scent recreates a legendary world of adventures along famous roads and across fabled regions from the Mediterranean Basin to the Far East. With Le Gemme collection dedicated to men, Bulgari draws a very contemporary and new map of masculinity of which 21st century man is the heir. www.bulgari.com

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Colonia Club Eau De Cologne Acqua di Parma An exclusive, unique dimension and a fragrance that gives full expression to its values, Colonia Club is an Eau de Cologne that reflects the classic soul of Colonia, reinterpreting its citrus structure with an unparalleled, refined freshness and energy. This fragrance embodies the fascinating expression of Italian lifestyle at its most contemporary. Acqua di Parma dedicates Colonia Club to its admirers in the new, iconic 180ml format. A perfect gift for you to enjoy every day, the fragrance now comes in an Art Deco bottle, in a sophisticated, deep green hue, symbolic of an exclusive club atmosphere, making it even more precious and striking. The characteristic citrus top notes of mandarin, lemon and bergamot combine at its heart with neroli, mint and essence of petitgrain to reveal an entirely innovative freshness, swiftly followed by aromatic notes of geranium, lavender and galbanol, all perfectly enhanced by the dry, woody base accents of Haitian vetiver, opulent notes of musk and ambergris accord. www. acquadiparma.com

Rosa and Tobacco Absolute Icons Molton Brown Molton Brown, London’s fragrance experts, welcome the new Rosa Absolute Sumptuous Bathing Oil alongside the Rosa and Tobacco Absolute Candles to their much-loved collections. Both fragrances have been flawlessly extracted in their purest, most concentrated form and romantically captured in coloured glass of rich, ruby red and deep, warm tobacco designed to set an intimate, alluring atmosphere this winter. The new icons make the perfect luxury Valentine’s Day gifts, creating a seductively decadent bathing ritual for her and him. Let their senses become immersed in a bath enriched with an elixir of Italian rose and argan oils, leaving skin feeling silky and sensually perfumed.

Surrounded by the flickering, potent aromas of the candles, blended with harmoniously layered notes. An experience beautifully wrapped in Molton Brown’s signature boxes. www.moltonbrown.co.uk

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Fragrances

Polo Supreme Cashmere Ralph Lauren Ralph Lauren Fragrances introduces Polo Supreme Cashmere, an effortlessly elegant Eau de Parfum that captures the soft hand of Ralph Lauren’s signature cashmere clothing.

Polo Supreme Cashmere is the beautiful blend of sensation and scent, offering a supremely powerful embodiment of sophistication. Polo Supreme Cashmere has been created for the most refined gentleman with a timeless style and discerning taste. The oriental Eau de Parfum is an enveloping sensation of softness and warmth using the finest ingredients, including top notes of Bergamot and Cardamom, mid notes of Orris and Incense, and base notes of Cashmeran and Myrrh. www.ralphlauren.com

Invictus Intense Paco Rabanne A trophy for our winner (a natural reward) in a Paco Rabanne-esque turn. The object of desire: a solid glass goblet topped with an exultant shining-metal cap.

Robustly pure. Athletic. The contrasts heighten through their balance. A base that plays it cool and a cap that goes for the force of detail: distinct and chiselled gadroons, architectural handles. A sculptural finish. The Intense version, an opportunity for the trophy to assert a new power. Darker, deeper - right down to the scent.

Varnished graduated transparent glass for the goblet, gunmetal cap and steel-blue liquid. Intensity takes over. www.pacorabanne.com

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Le Male Essence de Parfum Jean Paul Gaultier Quentin created Le Male Essence de Parfum. He says that Le Mâle is essentially sagebrush and cardamome (on top), lavender (in the middle), and Costus vanilla for the animal base. And that from here he had to decide what to keep and what to remove.

Or to change. He says that he started with the bottle. With the idea of undressing Le Mâle, now no longer hidden behind his sailors’ top. He says he saw the new body of Le Mâle, and he thought of skin, he thought of leather, he thought of «working perfume as if it were leather. He says he wanted leather that was suede-like and soft as velour. He says he wanted that we could almost smell skin. He says that he kept the cardamome top note, but brought in a woody aspect, something more natural. More Nature. He says he was drawn towards purity.

Something immediate and direct. He says he wanted to make “an essence with an ultra-chic soul. And he succeeded. www.jeanpaulgaultier.com

Euphoria Pure Gold Calvin Kelin Exotic and daring, pure gold euphoria for men is powerfully seductive with an enigmatic allure of opulent sophistication.

The fragrance awakens the senses with subtly spicy cardamom, bittersweet saffron, and bright woody cedar leaf for a uniquely modern opening. The heart is lavish and sensual, blending richly floral rose absolute with addictively sweet vanilla infusion and juniper, imparting a vibrant aromatic freshness to the fragrance.

The drydown exudes luxurious warmth and sensuality with a creamy musk base, deepened with patchouli, smooth sandalwood, and woody oud. www.calvinklein.com

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Fragrances

Intoxicating Aromas An eclectic mix of exotic fragrances, stimulating scents, and intoxicating aromas, this selection of fragrances for women are guaranteed to make a long-lasting statement and summon praise in every occasion.

Blossom Love Amouage International luxury brand, Amouage, introduces Blossom Love. This new fragrance is the most recent addition to its floral themed The Secret Garden Collection in which thoughts, feelings and experiences are freely explored without the complications of the contemporary world. “Blossom Love is inspired by the sassy nature and loyal heart of the vivacious modern woman. She defies conventions as she unabashedly lives for love, romance and new adventure,� explains Amouage Creative Director, Christopher Chong. Blossom Love will be available exclusively at all Amouage stores in Oman, GUM and TSUM in Moscow and Harrods in London starting February 1st, followed by all Amouage standalone stores worldwide in March and all other stockiest in April 2017. www.amouage.com

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Al Gheed LOOTAH LOOTAH, a creator of luxury fragrances and oud introduces its French fragrant oil Al Gheed. A single drop of this fragrant oil with top note soft Mandarin and middle notes of Rose and Spice mingle into a silky, strong scent that is enough to charm anyone. The leather and patchouli acting as the base notes give this wild aroma a trifling twist of sweetness. A leading perfumery giant in the country, LOOTAH provides the finest oriental and French perfumes, incenses, fragrant oud and luxury perfumed blended oils, and the finest agarwood curated and harnessed to their finest fragrance to cater to the GCC market. As a leading perfumery house since the 1950s, LOOTAH carries with it a wealth of perfume and incense knowledge that generates remarkable fragrances to enchant the senses. Now available at all Lootah Perfume boutiques. www.lootahperfumes.com

Classique Essence de Parfum Jean Paul Gaultier Daphne created Classique Essence de Parfum. She says that from the very beginning, Classique revolved around three notes: ginger (top), orange blossom (middle) and vanilla (base). She says that re-working the ginger was decisive in this new version. She says she wanted to keep the gingery, almost spicy dimension, but make it lighter, and add bite and burst. She says that to get the floral facette she wanted, she needed jasmine Sambac, that has a very particular orange note which appears as if from below. Like a surprise. She said that the «laboratory» idea behind this project gave her the inspiration for a scent that would succeed the challenge of being both experimental and gourmand. Without losing any of its succulence hence the vanilla and the chantilly. She also says if it’s gourmand, it’s irresistible.

And she’s right. www.jeanpaulgaultier.com

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Fragrances

Mademoiselle Azzaro l’Eau Très Belle AZZARO As a new opus in the “Mademoiselle Collection,” the Mademoiselle Azzaro l’Eau Très Belle bottle revisits the Mademoiselle bottle in lavender, a new color as feminine and stylish as ever, with a nod to the lavender-macaroon note in the fragrance. To provide a setting for this new eau de toilette, the campaign film, directed by Lisa Paclet, takes us on a romantic, Paris-style jaunt. Here, we once again encounter our sparkling Mademoiselle Azzaro: Chloé François, an actress and model. A true romantic, she indulges in childlike delights and gets lost in sweet daydreams on a merry-go-round, in the heart of Paris. This is one of the Capital’s many wooden merry-go-rounds scattered around the city, found from the foot of the Eiffel to Trocadéro and Montmar tre, that we love to come across, to experience a quiet touch of nostalgia. Her “Nectar” dress in satin and white silk chiffon, with a neckline embroidered in Swarovski crystals, is a made-to-measure creation signed by Azzaro Couture. www.azzaro.com

Russian Leather Memo Paris Fougère, frost, the call of the forest, lavandin, echo, large herds of reindeers, basil, no compass, pine needles, guided by the song of the thrush, running free, a carpet of rosemary, on the watch, clary sage, minus 48 degrees, courage, mint, ardour. A caravan suddenly looms on the distant horizon, tonka bean, without a sound, patchouli, sea of blue snow, palace of ice, tall cedars, burning light, hand hovering knife, lichen, ever ready for a fight, wolf leather, pride, a Siberian smile on my face. www.memoparis.com

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Olfactories Prada Prada Olfactories are potent concoctions of the unexpected, each provoking the surreal, cinematic experience of a partially remembered dream. Devised as collages of uncanny experiences, they embrace the spirit of mysterious juxtapositions: the feminine faces the masculine, the real encounters the imaginary, the mundane becomes precious. The ten distinct fragrances – Purple Rain, Nue au soleil, Tainted Love, Un chant d’amour, Cargo de nuit, Day for Night, Heat Wave, Double Dare, Pink Flamingos, and Mairenbad trigger the subconscious mind. United by a disregard for traditions, they are sensory fragments combining contradictory, counterintuitive elements to provoke fantastical thoughts.

The Parda Olfactories Collection is available in Bahrain exclusively in Saks Fifth avenue in City Centre Bahrain. www.www.Prada.com

L’Extase Rose Absolue nina ricc1 Since 2015, L’Extase has been on an imaginary journey.

Moving from audacity to revelation, it embraces a woman’s intimacy, so that her confidences can be transformed into fragrances. L’Extase Rose Absolue plunges into the voluptuousness of the night: it is a Parisian, enigmatic and sparkling night, in which dreams and reality interchange and melt into each other.

The starry sky reveals a rose in all its strength and mystery: sumptuous, sensual, and incandescent. Like the breath of a burning petal, the glimmer of gold on the skin, L’Extase Rose Absolue is the beating heart of a rose, a sensual trace, nocturnal magic. For the Maison Nina Ricci, Laetitia Casta embodies the mystery of beauty. Her enigmatic beauty lies at the heart of L’Extase Rose Absolue. This fragrance is inspired by her wild and sumptuous charm. In its sillage, the night becomes voluptuous, secrets bewitching, and dreams incandescent. www.ninaricci.com

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Travel

Historic Tourism

It may be better to ask what not to see when you’re visiting Athens, as the Greek capital’s overflowing historical richness will leave you pressed for time. There are no shortages of options and the city will have you in awe.

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thens offers everything a tourist could possibly want. Starting with its unrivalled history, you could explore the classical Greece emblem of Acropolis, follow in the footsteps of Socrates and Plato with a stroll through the ancient Agora, or visit the Benaki Museum, Greece’s oldest private showcase of everything from ancient sculpture to pistols owned by Lord Byron. You can gaze upon The Acropolis, the iconic citadel representing a beacon of bygone glory, stand where Socrates and Plato once discoursed at the ancient Agora and Monastiraki, or discover a wealth of preserved history in the Benaki Bounty, Greece’s oldest private collection, housed in Greece’s oldest museum, which has everything from ancient sculpture to modern art. 200 feet above the city is the Parthenon, its honey-color marble columns rising from a massive limestone base as you behold its architectural perfection, which has not been surpassed in 2,500 years.

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Areopagus, the site of the ancient Supreme Court, has a breathtaking view. Continue through Anafiotika and Plaka, making sure to stop at the Greek Folk Art Museum, the Roman Agora, with its Tower of the Winds, an enchanting water clock from the 1st century BC, and the Little Metropolis Church on the outskirts of the quarter. Detour to Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens’s most important Roman monuments. In Syntagma Square, watch the changing of the Evzones guards, and then head to Kolonaki, followed by a kafedaki on the slopes of Mt. Lycabettus at the café-restaurant that graces the peak, with its splendid panorama of the Acropolis and the sea. Dine in a local taverna, perhaps in Pangrati, the neighborhood near the Panathenaic Stadium, which is lit at night. This Roman arena was reconstructed for the first modern Olympics in 1896.

Visit the cradle of democracy, the fabled ancient Agora, with Greece’s best-preserved temple, the

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Hephaistion. Explore the Monastiraki area, including the tiny Byzantine chapel of Kapnikarea, which stands in the middle of the street.

Athens has yet more gems to offer, such as the legendary National Archaeological Museum, crammed with many of ancient Greece’s most spectacular sculptures. Swing through the city center, past the Old University complex, a vestige of King Otto’s reign, to the Cycladic Museum in Kolonaki, with the curious minimalist figurines that inspired artists such as Modigliani and Picasso. Stroll through the lovely National Gardens, and have a coffee in the romantic setting of the popular café by the grandiose Zappeion Hall. Complete the evening with a ballet performance or pop music show at Herod Atticus, a movie at a therino (open-air cinema), or, if it’s winter, a concert at the Megaron Concert Hall. However, it’s recommended that you plan your visit during the spring or fall season as Athens can be quite hot in the summer due to its lack of parks and the millions of cars being driven all around.

As for food destinations, the lush Zappeion Gardens have always been a tranquil green oasis where you can gaze at the distant views of the Parthenon and Temple of Olympian Zeus, catch an open-air cinema showing, or chill out at the landmark café Aegli Zappiou. Sharing the same premises as the café, this chic restaurant is luring fashionables, business people, and even families to enjoy their meals.

When it comes to accommodation, Durrah highly recommends planning a stay at the inviting and brand new Electra Metropolis hotel, which is located in the heart of Athens. The hotel is modern with a classical twist, with 216 modernly equipped rooms and suites and a unique sky-light Atrium at the center of the hotel and an exquisite Roof Garden. Electra Metropolis has everything you will need during your visit. 40’’ Samsung Smart LED TV, free Wi-Fi Internet connection, direct dial high tech telephone lines in room and bathroom, wooden floors, korres in room amenities, a minibar, a lap top

size safe box, a magnifying mirror in the bathroom and a climate Control system are a few of the details that make your stay luxurious.

To make sure your trip is enjoyable, we recommend booking through Aktina Travel Group, Greece’s leading travel group, which will cater to all your needs and offer highly competitive rates. They can help arrange a flight for you via Gulf Air. The Gulf Air Falcon Gold class offers 14 flatbed seats, and offers access to Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounges, where passengers are well taken care of with well laid-out business, dining, lounging facilities and TV areas in addition to the added facilities of the “Quiet Lounge”, which holds private sleeping rooms with comfortable beds, dimming lights and the ‘do not disturb’ option to rest in complete privacy. www.gulfair.com www.electrahotels.gr www.aktinatravelgroup.com

In Syntagma Square, watch the changing of the Evzones guards, and then head to Kolonaki, followed by a kafedaki on the slopes of Mt. Lycabettus at the café-restaurant that graces the peak 01 Parthenon temple with spring flowers on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece 02 To get to Athens, we recommend Gulf Air 03 An aerial view of the Electra Metropolis 04 Harbor marina on the island of Hydra, Greece 05 Evzones in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

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Travel 01 Dawn breaks through the clouds, casting its magenta rays on the villages 02 A view from Diana’s Point, named after the Princess of Wales’ visit in 1986 03 Our flight recommendation to this destination is Flydubai 04 A selection of traditional Omani knives (“khanajir”) at the Nizwa souq

Perched 3,000 metres above sea level, Al Jabal Al Akhdar is the highest point in Oman and the whole of eastern Arabia, making it a hotspot for the adventurous and a must-see on any visitor’s list.

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ne of the protected areas in the Sultanate of Oman, Al Jabal Akhdar (which means Green Mountain in Arabic), offers majestic mountain experiences and lets hikers enjoy cool temperatures throughout the year. As part of the Al Hajar Mountains range in Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate of Oman, this mostly limestone mountain forms the central section of the Al Hajar Mountains range, and is located around 150 km from Muscat.

The range is mostly desert, but at higher altitudes receives around 300 mm of precipitation annually, which makes it moist enough to allow the growth of shrubs and trees and support agriculture.

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It is this that gives the mountains their “green� name. Cool summers provide the visitor with fresh air surrounded by breath-taking views of the stony mountainsides.

The area is famous for its traditional rose water extraction, its fragrance primarily used to keep houses freshly scented, especially during festivities such as weddings and Eid celebrations. The fragrance is also said to add pep to the aroma of Omani coffee and halwa. The area is also known for its agricultural products including pomegranates, walnuts, apricots, black grapes and peaches. It is also the site of honey bee breeding for much of Oman.

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Since 2011, the mountain has featured as the principal climb in the Tour of Oman road bicycle race. In the area, several important rock art sites, with figures dating back to 6000 years ago, have been discovered and studied.

At the heels of the mountain, you could be excused for wondering why it was called the Green Mountain, for the surroundings are typically semi-arid features, largely rocky terrain and dusty soil.

The mountain is also home to a number of wild animals and birds. Of these, gazelles are said to be the most predominant. However, due to on-going construction work and the increasing human traffic on the mountain, most of the animals have been driven into the most obscure parts of the mountain.

All of this, along with the thrilling views from the mountain, as well as its balmy climate, are among the qualities that distinguish it as one of the top tourism spots in the Sultanate.

For the best travel experience, our flight recommendation is Flydubai, which operates six daily flights to Muscat and two flights a week to Salalah in Oman. Their business class seats are exceptionally comfortable and spacious, and the 12.1-inch touchscreens built into each seat has over 1000 hours of HD entertainment to make the flight duration seem even shorter. www.jabal-akhdar.anantara.com

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The area is famous for its traditional rose water extraction, its fragrance primarily used to keep houses freshly scented, especially during festivities such as weddings and Eid celebrations.

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05 Villages perched on a sheer canyon overlooking pomegranate and olive fields 06 Doorway of dreams: Balqees, a village resident, dreams of being a surgeon

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Masterpiece

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The Rite of Harmony Known for creating his own style of elegant figurative art, Aime Venel is an award-winning French painter and artist whose work is characterised by lyric compositions and noted for combining the best of symbolist painting and expressionism art. He is considered the heir to the great Symbolists of late 19th century and his work has been showcased in exhibitions around the world since 1975.

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Masterpiece 01 Roméo et Juliette (Romeo and Juliett) 02 Triptyque Central 03 Aimé Venel 04 Le Carnaval Impérial (The Imperial Carnival) oil painting on canvas

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Interview with Aime Venel When did you realise you were meant to be an artist?

At the age of eight, I fell in love with a cover illustration on a book showing a woman’s face with blonde hair framed with flowers and fruits. At that moment, I knew I would be drawing throughout my life. After my first show, I had the chance to become a student of the master portraitist Edouard MacAvoy, who had been a student of Bonnard and Vuillard and who had worked with Georges Braque. This was the turning point in my career as a painter.

Describe your process. How do you start with a new painting or sketch? Are there specific materials you prefer to use?

First, I decide on a theme, like for example, “Fairy Tales and Legends”. Much like a ballet master, I imagine a set of works as a staged production with its compositions, rhythms, and colours. I do as much research and as many pencil sketches as necessary. Then, each piece is produced using the methods of the old masters, with a complete drawing and assorted hues of ochre and brown. Then come the first layers of colour in oil paint and after that, the other layers that will influence one another over time.

There is a film directed by my son Ugo Venel which shows this process for a diptych on the theme of “Hommage à René Barjavel, La Nuit des Temps” (Tribute to René Barjavel, Night Time).

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Are there particular themes or messages you like to convey through your artwork?

I like to evoke stories to try to make them timeless. I would like Romanticism to last for ever. I like to revisit great themes such as “Legendary Love Stories”, “The Venetian Carnival”, “Fairy Tales and Legends”, “Music”, etc. I’m attracted to the great lyrical compositions, those whose stories or myths deal with adventure and bring out the best in man.

Do you have a favourite among your work?

Probably one of the legendary love stories such as “Romeo and Juliet”, “Sleeping Beauty”, or “Beauty and the Beast”. These are the types of dreamlike works that bring out my creative drive.

I have a soft spot for a major piece that I worked on for more than 10 years, a 12m X 3m triptych entitled “Pour le chant des oiseaux” (For the Singing Birds). The left panel evokes spirituality with the angels announcing the event and the creation of the birds, a symbol of freedom. The large central panel describes the aesthetic universe with two female characters paying tribute to the birds. Finally, the right panel shows the same characters who have become women in a material universe but who remember that they were once spirits.

Throughout your career, is there a decade or generation that you feel was more connected to the art world than the others? Do you think the art world is better now or was it better in previous years?

Each period in Art History has contributed to its development. The Renaissance has had a great effect on me, but without the Impressionists and the major cubist compositions of Braque or Picasso, pictorial art would never have offered so much freedom.

The success of a work of art depends on the degree of authenticity of its maker, as you cannot fool the inherent sensitivity of each person.

Which artists have had the biggest influence on you and your work?

They would be the great classic painters such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Velasquez, Mucha, and Klimt.

If you had to pick one work of art from any artist in the world as your favourite, what would it be and why?

It was when I discovered Sandro Botticelli’s work “The Rite of Spring” that I really found myself. It was as if I already knew this work and I was meeting it again, like an old friend.

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What do you believe is integral to being an artist? What is it that artists need to have for them to be called artists?

You cannot begin to create without passion, but passion also exists in many other activities. The difference is that the artist is accountable to no one. He is vassal to no master. He is only a servant to beauty and the search for its echo. But without this resonance, humanity cannot survive. Paul Claudel rightly said that “in a work of art there are two authors; its creator and the viewer.” If he’s too far ahead of his time, he will collide with the phenomenon of “cultural backwardness” and be misunderstood in his time. He must remain aware of his contribution to a culture which bridges different sensibilities, and make his work come into existence despite all these differences. It is the permanent challenge of wanting to touch the hearts of men.

Being an artist must occupy most of your time. Do you believe artists can dedicate that much time to art and still be active in other areas of life?

I know that when I am painting, my wife has to call me several times before I come to the table! This is awful because what she has been doing is creating as well! I have the impression that I will never have enough time to carry out all my ideas, and it is sometimes to the

05 La Belle Au Bois Dormant (Sleeping Beauty) 06 Virtuose (Virtuoso) oil painting on canvas

detriment of my family and friendships. But wanting to take care of the planet as an environmental advocate or promote peace is simply a duty.

What would you say are the most common challenges facing artists today?

I fear we are living at the end of an era. With continual pressure, people become obsessed with immediate survival and forget to build for the future.

The artist, in my opinion, has a cultural responsibility.

He must be the “spearhead” of new civilization, to give hope. For me, art is not simply decoration. A work of art is a permanent thought on a wall. The artist should have the desire to leave a positive trace of his passage, maintaining a belief in the utopian idea that beautiful things can alleviate suffering too.

In your opinion, what sets the French art world apart from others? What gives it its unique flair?

If French art has had powerful influences, it has also maintained its roots and enriched them. As a land of refuge, it has assimilated these influences not in opposition but rather in a search for harmony. I have the concept of a painting in which the colours are not made a priori to be put together, but which eventually harmonise. I look at myself as an example. My family is one of creatives and artists. My eldest daughter Ixia is a

How has your visit to Bahrain been so far? Have you been to any of the sites here yet?

Faisal and Judith Jawad invited me to exhibit in Bahrain after visiting my exhibition at l’Orangerie du Sénat in the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris. This is my first time in Bahrain and the Middle East. They have allowed me to live out a childhood dream in this magical country. I was impressed by the contrast created by the millennial culture and its architectural modernity. I had a dream that I walked in the Souq and admired the diversification of the spaces, structures, and the quality of works in the Bahrain National Museum.

If you were to give one piece of advice to a new artist, what would it be?

Unwanted interruption is the enemy of creation. My advice would be: keep going! www.aimevenel.com

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painter, my other daughter Aurélia is a creative for the Bloomi Mode label, my son Ugo is an actor and film director, and my wife Maguy was my favourite artistic agent! We are always discussing the arts. And even if we do not always agree on everything, it comes from a positive desire to move forward.

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Fashion

ETRO MENSWEAR COLLECTION - SUMMER SOLSTICE 2017

Kean Etro plunges into the line where the sea joins the sky, expanding his view of fashion into a void of soul-calming, infinite blue. The colours of the sea, from steely azure, to deep midnight, to brilliant sapphire, both envelop and guide this voyage, creating a new message of powerful subtlety.

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ere, the ultimate wardrobe for a modern man emerges by using the most classic of menswear colours, but reconceived in totally simple, all natural codes. For the first time, the Kean Etro collection is shown on Zero Kilometre models: a group of freedom seekers, song writers, tattoo artists, bohemians, father in loves, happy lawyers, biker brokers and poets all plucked from the family living rooms, artist studios and streets of Milan, showing that fashion is nothing without a chorus of individuals.

The Ikat print symbolises the season’s new tale, its watery, imperfect surface underscoring the collection’s

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uncertain, irregular quality. Like knotted clouds against a sky, the prints dissolve into infinite shades of deep indigo blues. The monochromatic colours allow patterned pieces to be mixed and matched simply and effortlessly. Stripes balloon from oversized to mini versions on woven suiting, or as blue ribbons stitched onto cotton tees, printed onto canvas jackets, or woven into fil coupe cotton trousers. Paisley appears with the slightest whisper of a printed overlay.

Garments possess the great patina of having been lived in. Every object is different. Most are frayed. Some are snagged. Many are marked by an intended impurity

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that renews traditions in menswear. Suits, marked by microscopic, painstakingly achieved impurities, bring slight uneven weaves to pin stripes. Madder, a deepdying technique, creates an irregularity in prints as well as a lived-in overlay on basket woven leather jackets with floral silk linings.

Materials remain deeply luxurious, from super buttery suedes, couture-quality denim, fil-a-fil shirts, and yet they whisper their import. The craft of these fabrics is immediately felt, as if they’ve been home woven with a rural touch. Origami folds cover the front of cotton tuxedo shirts, an indigo knitted thread cardigan has the feel of a fishing net. Deep indigo denim, meanwhile, is completely reconceived and elevated on kimono or bomber jackets and trousers; it is as light as silk, as razor sharp as a shapely satin.

The silhouettes this season have the loosened

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ease of a seaside fisherman’s uniform. The mood is resolutely relaxed, allowing an ease in the draping of fabrics. Small jackets, several in kimono style, have billowing volumes, layered over white cotton embroidered V neck t-shirts. Sleeves of impeccable fila-fil shirts are rolled, so too are the ankles of loose-fit, cropped pants worn with Goodyear-constructed lace up shoes, or barefoot.

A new personal message, sewn onto the tags inside each garment and composed straight from the heart, expresses the ethos of this intimate collection and its celebration of individuality: “Fatto a mano, con Amore, for You, on the Italian Peninsula.”

ETRO Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain ETRO UAE: The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates www.etro.com

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Fashion

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Sparkling Fashion W Sparkles, florals and blocks of color dominated the runway as Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain presented their Spring Summer 2017 collection at the Middle East flagship store in City Centre Bahrain.

ith over 250 guests, the Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain store was completely transformed from one of the most prestigious, luxury department stores into a glittering fashion catwalk, setting the tone for this season’s hottest trends. Fashion lovers, VIPs, trend seekers, and style influencers sat front row to catch the latest looks from some of the world’s most sought-after brands.

The inspiration for the Spring Summer 2017 fashion show was none other than sparkles, and oh how they “sparkled the runway” with gorgeous collections showcased on a glistening catwalk.

Secret Garden, Block Party and Metallic Moments were three themes that dominated the runway, showcasing everything from floral and animal inspired, to pops of color and shimmering metallic pieces. Fashion lovers feasted their eyes on various trends such as crystal jewels, denim, lace, stripes and polka dots, featuring an exciting range of styles to admire. Staying true to the theme, all cocktails were also coated in a sparkling sugar rim for guests to enjoy.

The show featured over 20 international designers and some key regional designers to highlight all that

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is fashion forward, such as Chloé, Herve Leger, Saint Laurent Paris, Tadashi Shoji, Balenciaga and Red Valentino, to name a few. Giorgio Armani makeup artists worked their magic on the models leaving them with a radiant glow, sparkling silver eyes and lush glossy pink lips, pairing perfectly with the show’s theme and season’s trends. Showcasing a strong menswear collection, the show displayed a variety of key looks with the perfect mix of street and smart, featuring designers such as Stella McCartney, Juun J, Valentino, Saint Laurent Paris and Z Zegna, amongst others.

The iconic “Saks” logo gave way to the creative design for the backdrop set-up, with moving lights and beating music for entertainment, making this show the most sought after fashion event of the season. The affair did not stop there, with an afterparty hosted at the Westin Hotel for an unforgettable night celebrating fashion.

The Saks Fifth Avenue Spring/Summer 2017 Collection is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain. www.saksme.com

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Special Event 01 Dr. Kassim and his family arrive at the awarding ceremony in style 02 Dr. Kassim receives the cheque from Mr. Sater

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Instant Millionaire Al Hayrat, BBK’s unique savings account continues to present exciting opportunities for customers to win prizes while they save.

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l Hayrat, BBK’s unique savings account continues to present exciting opportunities for customers to win prizes while they save. An elaborate handover ceremony was recently held in honour of the 2016 Al Hayrat Grand Draw winner of $1,000,000 plus one million air miles from Gulf Air. Dr. Azad Kareem Kassim, Al Hayrat’s Instant Millionaire, was escorted with his family in a Hummer to the Ritz Carlton Hotel.

He was welcomed by BBK Chief Executive Mr. Reyadh Sater in the presence of BBK management. While celebrating in style at the hotel’s private Island, Dr. Kassim received the cheque for the $1,000,000 and one million air miles.

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Speaking at the award ceremony, Mr. Sater said: “I am delighted to present the biggest single prize in Bahrain to yet another lucky winner. We developed the Al Hayrat Savings Account many years ago, and kept increasing the grand prize to become the life-changing one it is today. I would like to congratulate the winner on this astounding win and hope this prize will enable all his dreams to come true. Dr. Kassim is BBK’s fourth instant millionaire from Al Hayrat programme, and I’m happy to announce that there will be another Al Hayrat millionaire in May 2017 so best of luck to all Al Hayrat savers.”

The raffle draw of the 2016 Al Hayrat Grand Prize Millionnaire took place on February 1st, 2017 and under

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Special Event

the supervision of Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Consumer Protection Unit’s Mr. Shafi Al Bulooshi, as well as members of the top management of the Bank.

Immediately after the draw, Dr Kassim, a father of four and a Dermatology Consultant at the King Hamad University Hospital, received a call from Mr. Sater to inform him of the exciting news of his win.

“I was so shocked when I first heard the news.

I thought I was on some kind of candid camera show!” Dr. Kassim said. “I’m overjoyed! I had been thinking of transferring my savings of five years from Al Hayrat account as I had never won before, but the very welcoming and encouraging staff at BBK advised me to keep the deposit, so it was a very pleasant surprise to hear that I have indeed won. I immediately shared the news with my family

03 Dr. Kassim… instant millionnaire!

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who could not believe it either.”

When asked about his plans for his newfound wealth, he said: “I will definitely be using part of the money for my children’s education. My youngest daughter is planning to study medicine in college and this prize has made that possible for her. I will also be using some of the money to invest in property in Bahrain so my family can feel settled down for the future.”

He concluded by saying: “This win is surely due to God’s will and my patients’ good wishes and prayers, whom I treat with love and as my duty towards God Almighty. I wish all my friends, family and Muslims a thousand-fold of what I have received, and thank God Almighty for all his blessings.” www.bbkonline.com

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Immediately after the draw, Dr Kassim, a father of four and a Dermatology Consultant at the King Hamad University Hospital, received a call from Mr. Sater to inform him of the exciting news of his win.

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SPACIOUS LUXURIOUS SUITES,VALET PARKING, COMPLEMENTARY FAST INTERNET, FULLY EQUIPPED GYM, TEMPRATURE CONTROLLED SWIMMING POOL, STEAM ROOMS, SAUNA AND SPA POOLS, DIRECTLY CONNECTED TO SEEF MALL, IN THE HEART OF THE CITY.

E x p er ien c e t h e Lu x u r y.

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Architecture 01 Insider the Amber&Art flagship store 02 Beautiful jewellery on display 03 A unique shopping experience

The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.

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Amber&Art flagship Saint Petersburg The Russian brand of jewellery and objects, Amber&Art, opened its first flagship store in Saint Petersburg. The boutique – developed by Milanese Studio Piuarch – is located in the city center, inside the famous Antonov’s Merchant House, built in 1824 by architect Domenico Adamini. Overlooking the riverside at 1 Moika Embankment, a few steps from the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, Amber&Art is set to be a landmark for worked amber jewellery and artistic objects. www.piuarch.it 03

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Architecture

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Aston Martin at No. 8 Dover Street LONDON Aston Martin opened its first brand experience boutique in the heart of London’s Mayfair district. Located in one of the capital’s most sought-after streets ‘Aston Martin at No. 8 Dover Street’ is an intersection of the company’s products, experiences and brand collaborations. No. 8 Dover Street will also be a destination for design master classes, art exhibitions, dinner series and other exclusive events.

No. 8 Dover Street is an expression of the British marque’s Art of Living by Aston Martin concept, a

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carefully chosen portfolio of the finest artisan products and truly bespoke experiences that embody the Aston Martin spirit. Products from partners including Hackett London, Marma London, Quintessence Yachts, Emilia Burano, Silver Cross and FPM are available. Aston Martin at No. 8 Dover Street is open seven days a week from 10am until 6pm from Monday to Friday and from 11am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

04 Experience the Aston Martin brand in a whole new way 05 Aston Martin bags and merchandise 06 The exterior of the store 07 Fashion for car lovers

www.astonmartin.com

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Architecture

BONPOINT ON THE RIVE GAUCHE, PARIS The House of Bonpoint continues its expansion with the opening of a prestigious new address in the heart of Sevres-Babylone neighbourhood, essential shopping in the City of Lights. Located at 17 rue de Sevres, 75006, Paris, on the Rive Gauche, the 17th Parisian boutique opened its doors on November 11th 2016. A 160m2 of showcase, spread over two floors, it focuses on the very spirit and universe of the Bonpoint House of Couture.

All the collections designed by Artistic Director Christine Innamorato are presented here. On the ground floor discover the New-born, Baby, Girls, Couture and Jewellery lines, as well as Perfume and Beauty. Upstairs is devoted to the worlds of Boys’ Wear and YAM Bonpoint.

Fine Artist Else Blin has collaborated with the House of Bonpoint to create an ethereal world filled with lightness.

For this special occasion she has conceived two works of art: a shower of chandelier pendants in the midst of the staircase as well as a brass cloud directly opposite the entrance. Open from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 7pm.

Fine Artist Else Blin has collaborated with the House of Bonpoint to create an ethereal world filled with lightness.

www.bonpoint.com

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08 The House of Bonpoint’s newest address 09 Styles for the little ones 10 A selection of the brand’s latest

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Architecture

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11 The new MCM boutique 12 A view from the outside 13 Glamorous handbags at MCM 14 Highest quality leathers

MCM at Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Renowned German brand, Modern Creation München, also known as MCM recently commemorated the opening of its newest boutique in Dubai at Mall of the Emirates. Housed in Via Rodeo in the mall, MCM’s new boutique is UAE’s second after the first shop in the Dubai Mall and has been opened in collaboration with the brand’s luxury retail partners in the country, Al Fahim Avenue Group. The official inauguration took place on the 30th of November in the presence of select media and influencers. The occasion also served as the ideal platform for the brand to showcase its SS17 Punk Ethos collection for the guests present.

Founded in Munich in 1976, a time when the city

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was considered the home of the global jet-set, MCM prides itself on using the finest quality leathers and materials and has its craft rooted in its heritage and excellence in luggage. MCM manufactures superior quality bags and accessories that are stylish, functional and innovative both in material and design. To date, MCM’s rebellious, glamorous and pioneering spirit draws its inspiration from Munich in the time of its inception.

The MCM spirit is about the continuation of the age of travel in the jet set of the 1970s, and the global nomads of the modern day and the logo represents unparalleled craftsmanship. www.mcmworldwide.com

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Travel and Leisure

MANDARIN ORIENTAL PUDONG SHANGHAI Located on the Pudong waterfront, Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai is a masterpiece of contemporary luxury. The hotel’s launch marked the highly-anticipated debut of the award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in China’s cosmopolitan and commercial capital, and with its unrivalled location, legendary service, and world-class facilities, it is poised to be Shanghai’s most desirable address.

The 362-room hotel and 210 fully serviced executive apartments feature 318 spacious guestrooms and 44 suites designed by world-renowned architect Bernardo 01 Fort-Brescia of Arquitectonica, embodying both modern elegance and supreme comfort. Starting at 50 square 03 metres, guestrooms feature original artworks, guestcentric technology, and sweeping views over the Huangpu River, the Bund, and the Shanghai skyline. An experienced team of Mandarin Oriental butlers is on hand to provide 21st-century personalised service for every guest. Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai is also home to the largest and most expensive Presidential Suite in Shanghai, spanning 788 square metres with a sky garden terrace and magnificent river views. Mandarin Oriental’s Executive Apartments are Shanghai’s only fully serviced riverside residences. The 210 luxury furnished apartments, which range from studio to three bedrooms, are designed to offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Long-stay guests can look forward to experiencing Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service and facilities, including 24-hour concierge and butler services, plus all the pleasures and conveniences of home.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai offers guests Mandarin Oriental’s renowned signature therapies and advanced beauty and holistic wellness treatments within a soothing Zen oasis. The comprehensive range of massage and beauty treatments incorporates the latest techniques and products for anti-aging, body firming, and skincare therapies. In addition to 13 private spa and beauty suites, The Spa also features Shanghai’s first private spa consultation space offering Visia complexion analysis.

Offering the perfect combination of style, comfort, and world-class service, Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai exudes five-star luxury for an experience that is guaranteed to delight. www.mandarinoriental.com/shanghai

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Let Durrah be your guide to discovering the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.

02 Elegance throughout 03 A hotel porter transport guests’ luggage through the lobby 02

04 Luxury living 04

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The Lap of Luxury

01 The majestic presidential suite at the Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai

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Travel and Leisure

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W LAS VEGAS 05 A spacious living room at the W Las Vegas 06 Well stocked with refreshments 07 Innovative modern bedroom interiors 08 Dine in style 09 A few of one of the hotel’s lounge areas

Whether you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate or get your game on, you’re in the right place. Guests of W Las Vegas score exclusive access to FIT, a 24-hour fitness center and WET, a rooftop pool. Exclusively accessible to W guests, WET is seductively glamorous with a side of comfort. Soak up the Vegas sun while enjoying delicious cocktails, or cool off in a private cabana. Whatever you do, don’t forget to make a splash.

Meanwhile, the AWAY® Spa is your haven for rejuvenation. Indulge in its relaxation lounge, couples massage suite, herbal steam rooms, over-sized experience showers, and custom massage beds. Guests also have an in with the SLS Las Vegas, gaining access to their many features and amenities including 8 on-site restaurants and bars.

W Las Vegas’s award-winning collection of some of the best Las Vegas restaurants offers something for every taste and occasion. Featuring cuisine ranging from American to Mediterranean, pizza to sushi, the collection

of eateries includes Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, Katsuya, Cleo, Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book, 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, Northside Café and The Perq.

Home to a sweeping poolside lounge, a duo of premier nightclubs, a live entertainment venue, and exceptional bars and lounges, W Las Vegas is the place to be from dusk to dawn (and beyond). Its nightspots include The Foundry, Foxtail Nightclub & Pool, The Sayers Club, Monkey Bar and The Living Room.

Whatever you need, the W Las Vegas has got you covered. Craving some noodles at 2AM? Done.

How about tickets to the hottest event on the strip?

Piece of cake. Just push the WHATEVER/WHENEVER® button on your phone, and hotel staff will deliver whatever you desire directly to your guest room.

Whatever, whenever. www.wlasvegas.com

W Las Vegas’s award-winning collection of some of the best Las Vegas restaurants offers something for every taste and occasion.

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THE LANGHAM LONDON For over 150 years, The Langham, London has been delighting guests with its personalised service. As Europe’s first Grand Hotel, it not only takes its place in history as a true London icon, but is constantly adapting to the evolving tastes of its guests, winning awards and establishing an environmentally-friendly reputation to successfully reimagine its identity from one generation to the next.

The Langham, London opened in 1865 and immediately became London’s first purpose-built Grand Hotel, enchanting Victorian high society with comforts and luxuries that far exceeded their expectations. One of the most coveted addresses in London, the Langham is located in the worldrenowned West End, the perfect base from which to explore shopping in Regent Street, Bond Street, and Oxford Street, as well as cultural attractions such as the British Museum. It’s also a short driving distance from London Heathrow Airport and a mere fiveminute walk from Oxford Circus Underground Station.

The Langham, London offers the quintessential London experience. With 380 stylishly appointed rooms and suites that cleverly combine Victorian charm with discreet modern amenities, that evoke a welcoming, residential ambience, while offering the conveniences of the modern age for those with refined tastes. Guests also have the option of

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upgrading to a room or suite with Langham Club Lounge access, which offers a wide range of all-day privileges.

Known as the birthplace of traditional afternoon high tea, the Langham, London creates genuine culinary experiences for guests, as they can savour exquisite modern interpretations of classic French cooking from father and son Michelin chefs, Albert and Michel Roux Jr at Roux at the Landau. Discover exotic Oriental concoctions with a dash of classic and contemporary flavours at Artesian, voted the World’s Best Bar, and indulge in the elegant tradition of afternoon tea in the place where it all began, Palm Court. After sundown, Palm Court transforms into a jazz lounge so guests can unwind with a stylish cocktail on Friday and Saturday evenings.

For guests who are looking to stay fit, the Langham, London offers the use of a fully-equipped fitness centre with first-rate Technogym cardio and resistance equipment.

Defining the art of the stay, the Langham, London is a storied landmark that strikes the exact balance needed between prestige and accommodation, to ensure that guests enjoy a personalised experience and to elevate each visit. www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/london

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10 Grey marble interiors of one of the bathrooms 11 Regal elegance 12 Doorway to luxury 13 British hospitality awaits you 14 The Infinity Suit master bedroom

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Travel and Leisure

A total of 115 luxury rooms and villas, each featuring its own indigenous luxuries from custom-made Omani furniture to Amouage bath products.

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15 Enjoy Oman’s beautiful weather as you relax outside 16 An aerial view 17 A view of the mountainside 18 Al Burj Lounge

ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT OMAN Perched 2,000 metres above sea level, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is the highest luxury resort in the Middle East and one of the highest in the world.

A total of 115 luxury rooms and villas, each featuring its own indigenous luxuries from custom-made Omani furniture to Amouage bath products, overlook the dramatic canyon and tranquil gardens. The resort’s 82 Premier and Deluxe Rooms boast a spacious bedroom, amongst the largest in the country, each with views of the dramatic canyon, and a spa-like bathroom carved out of sustainable material from the local

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area, complete with a rain shower and separate bath alongside a balcony. Meanwhile, the 33 villas grant guests an intimate escape, each with personal villa host services and a private infinity pool overlooking the cliffs or hidden in an exotic garden. Guests have the choice of either one or two bedrooms or the exclusive Three Bedroom Royal Mountain Villa. Each villa features state-of-the-art interactive LED IPTVs and spacious walk-in dressing areas, all adding to a sense of sublime luxury.

With a selection of six restaurants and lounges to choose from, guests can indulge their senses with experiences ranging from a fine dining Arabian grill concept and poolside Roman inspired restaurant to an all-day international dining restaurant serving world classics and a rooftop shisha lounge, with the pleasant climate allowing for year-round alfresco dining.

Other highlights at the resort include a cliff-edge infinity pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a tennis court and the world-acclaimed Anantara Spa. Harnessing the essence of Arabia, the spa welcomes guests with ancient hammam rituals, five treatment suites, private outdoor relaxation areas and separate male and female indoor swimming pools. A separate kids’ and teens’ club offers fun-filled activities, and a lavish ballroom and extensive meeting facilities offer a range of memorable venues for events and weddings “on top of the world”. www.jabal-akhdar.anantara.com

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Spas

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

01 01 A sanctuary of luxury 02 Therapeutic experiences 03 Ultimate relaxation

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A true sanctuary of luxury and relaxation, this atmospheric spa offers an environment of holistic rejuvenation in a stylishly designed contemporary setting With decor influenced by the sophisticated style of 1930’s Shanghai, the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong encourages guests to embark on a personalised journey towards optimum wellbeing and relaxation.

The spa’s tranquil setting and sublime treatments have made it an institution which has been awarded five stars by the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide for 6 successive years Guests are invited to arrive 45 minutes before their appointment time to make the most of the spa’s heat and water facilities, which soothe muscles and loosen limbs to prepare the body for a deep

therapeutic experience. Upon arrival, you will take a symbolic step away from the outside world with the exchanging of shoes for slippers. Following a consultation with your therapist, your personalised treatment will then begin.

The spa features nine treatment rooms including two couples’ suites with private vitality pools and a new dedicated Thai Massage room, a tea lounge, an indoor swimming pool with current jet system, video wall, mood lighting, underwater sound system and electrical sunblind, a Chinese herbal steam room, experience showers for women and a jacuzzi and sauna for men. Women can also enjoy a Kneipp hydrotherapy pool with ice fountain. www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong/luxury-spa/

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Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation and transcend the stresses of everyday life with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.

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Tranquil Journeys

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04 Soothing waters 05 Some quiet time alone 06 Relax indoors or take in the sun 07 Stylish interiors 08 A treatment room

Anantara Spa, Anantara Resort Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman Experience luxurious pampering for beauty, relaxation and wellbeing. Enjoy our world class facilities at our luxurious spa in Oman and the expert touch of skilled therapists, who lavish you with personalised attention.

Let us take you on a sensual journey, steeped in some of the world’s oldest wellness cultures.

Timeless Arabian treatments revitalise with precious natural elixirs and trusted techniques. Step into a private hammam to indulge in ancient cleansing rituals. Celebrating Anantara’s Thai heritage, we bring you revered therapies still practiced in Thailand to enhance vital energy and invigorate the senses. While our signature treatments all use indigenous local ingredients for natural wellbeing.

Anantara Spa facilities include a private hammam suite with heated marble surface, five luxurious spa treatment rooms, including 2 couple suites, a hair and nail beauty salon at the Jasmine Lounge and separate male and female thermal suites each including Himalayan salt steam rooms, aroma infused sauna rooms, experience rain showers, private indoor relaxation bed chambers, outdoor relaxation patio with loungers, a wet area featuring heated vitality pool with a Jacuzzi and a health station with homemade nutritious snacks, fresh fruit, infused water and herbal teas. www.jabal-akhdar.anantara.com/spas.aspx

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Spas 09 An oasis of relaxation 10 Enjoy a private treatment 11 A lounge area

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Kempinski is proud to offer guests luxury spa facilities as well as a carefully curated menu of treatments, allowing you to relax in a way that suits you

Kempinski, DOHA A serene and welcoming environment invites you to relax and enjoy a truly unique experience. Whether it be with one of our signature treatments or simply a calming moment in one of the saunas, at a Kempinski spa your well-being is the first priority.

No matter where you are in the world, and whatever the reason for your trip, it’s always important to dedicate some time to yourself.

Whether your relaxation comes from a soothing visit to the steam room, unwinding in a bubbling Jacuzzi or by pampering yourself with a luxurious treatment, the spas at many of Kempinski’s hotels are fully equipped to take you from tense to tranquil.

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Kempinski is proud to offer guests luxury spa facilities as well as a carefully curated menu of treatments, allowing you to relax in a way that suits you. From therapeutic facials to restorative massages, as well as exfoliating scrubs, wraps, and – in some spas – definitive HydraFacial treatments for the whole body, its second-to-none facilities offer the luxury of choice through the capable hands of professional therapists. The only real question is, which treatment will you choose? www.kempinski.com/en/hotels/experiences-bykempinski/spa/

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Dining

There are elements about The Foundry that make it unique, such as the industrial-style interior and being laid out across three floors.

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Seasonal Delights Relying on a menu that’s based on seasonality and an ambience described as “industrial chic”, The Foundry stands out among the casual fine dining restaurants in Bahrain. Working hard to forge outstanding meals in a remarkable setting has proven to be a successful combination, attracting food lovers and loyal patrons, and winning praise for its founder, Mureed Nusseir .

Interview with Mureed Nusseir When did you first realise your love of food?

I have always had a passion for food. It’s something I inherited from my uncles, who all love to cook. To this day, whenever our family meets, it’s always around a meal that we have all cooked together.

What is your background? Have you been in the food and beverage business for long?

I’ve been in the F&B business for fifteen years. I started by working in a kitchen in Montreal for five years, then came back to Bahrain in 2006 and opened Sage and Sirloin in 2008. It started as a small delicatessen and butchery and grew over time. We started offering catering and then later the eatery, which serves burgers, salads, and deli sandwiches. I had an idea for a fine casual dining restaurant in 2013, found the best location a year later, and by 2016, I had opened The Foundry.

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How did you come up with the concept for The Foundry and what do you think makes it unique?

It was my always dream to open a restaurant. At the time, locations in Adliya were very difficult to find, so when the opportunity presented itself, we decided to take it. I wanted to create something different that would cater to the younger generation in Bahrain.

There are elements about The Foundry that make it unique, such as the industrial-style interior and being laid out across three floors. The style of the menu is also different. It’s a casual fine dining restaurant with a mix of American barbecue, French bistro, and gastro pub food.

What kind of clientele are you targeting with The Foundry?

Anyone who likes good, simple food will love The Foundry. Our meals are reasonably priced and the ambiance has a hip vibe to it, especially if you like loud

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Dining 01 The Foundry’s beautifully decorated lounge area 02 A feast for the eyes as well as the stomach 03 Delicious delights

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places. You can hear the chefs in the kitchen and the music is set to slightly louder than usual. Our dining area is loud but that’s all part of what makes the atmosphere so unique.

How is business? How often is your restaurant fully booked, and what do you think is the reason for this success?

Business is good! Weekends are usually our busiest days as we are always full. We also have regular customers who always come in during weekdays to have an early dinner and our lounge is packed throughout the week. Our food has always been our strongest asset, but I believe the atmosphere plays a big part in our success as well.

Can you give us an overview of the menu?

Our menu is short and straight to the point. It is only two pages long and we’re always changing

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04 Seafood on the menu 05 The upstairs dining area

items on a regular basis. It’s seasonal, which means when fruits, vegetables, and other food comes into season, then we introduce it to the menu. We also have a Specials board that we change every few weeks and replace with new items.

Who creates these dishes for you? Who is the chef?

All our dishes are created by me and my Head Chef, Viktor Csillag, who I have complete confidence in. Our food has been winning the praise of many of our customers and it has been a source of pride for both of us.

If there was one dish that you recommend that diners at The Foundry should try, what would it be?

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It would have to be our best-selling dish, which is our Steak Fites. I would also highly recommend the hot smoked salmon, grilled tuna and wild rice, angus beef short rib, and our 1.2 kg cowboy steak.

Who created the dĂŠcor for The Foundry?

And what kinds of materials are you using for it?

At the time, I wanted The Foundry to have an industrial style with specific elements. I was introduced to Nikos Lampaditis, who is a fantastic interior decorator, by his brother, a close friend of mine. Once he got on board, he simply took everything to a whole new level, going over minute details to design this amazing space. www.thefoundry2.saltid.com

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Indulge in the most delicious culinary creations from around the world as Durrah takes you on a journey with this selection of award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants.

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Yong Yi Ting, SHANGHAI 01 A view of Yong Yi Ting’s exquisite interiors 02 Service with style 03 Braised beef tail with chestnut and soy sauce in stone pot 04 Eight treasures rice with cheese ice-cream and glade osmanthus sweet potato

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Award winning Chinese restaurant, Yong Yi Ting has been awarded one Michelin star by the inaugural Michelin Guide 2017 for Shanghai, the first-ever Michelin Restaurant Guide in mainland China.

Unique amongst Shanghai hotel restaurants, Yong Yi Ting showcases Jiang Nan (south of the Yangtze River) cuisine, reflecting the diverse gastronomy of Shanghai and its neighbouring Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. Consultant Chef Tony Lu highlights delicate seasonal flavours and adds an enticing touch of modernity to the menu, which changes seasonally throughout the year.

Yong Yi Ting specialises in authentic Jiang Nan cuisine, which embraces the culinary styles of Shanghai and its neighbouring provinces, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. Jiang Nan cuisine heralds from the

southern Yangtze River region and is renowned for its delicate flavours, exquisite preparation and use of fresh seasonal ingredients.

Central to our restaurant is our traditional Jiang Nan dim sum lunch menu, which offers a wide range of mouth-watering baked, seared and panfried dim sum.

Celebrated chef Tony Lu has recently been appointed Chef Consultant at Yong Yi Ting, Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai’s signature Chinese restaurant. As Yong Yi Ting’s Chef Consultant, Chef Lu brings his refined Jiang Nan style cuisine and expert presentation to Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai. www.mandarinoriental.com/shanghai/fine-dining/ yong-yi-ting

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Dining

Cavalli Cafe, BAHRAIN The Porsche Club chooses Cavalli Cafe Bahrain for its gathering to meet in a classy yet comfy atmosphere that offers its club members an extraordinary selection of food and drinks prepared by a specialised Italian chef. The members expressed their admiration for the cuisine, which is presented in an authentic yet contemporary style.

Mr. Zeyad – one of the club members – commented on this gathering: “We are very pleased that the club is continuously working hard to make our gatherings fun with special activities and relaxed dining spaces such as this one. What is really unique is the

quality, variety, fresh, tasty and mouth-watering food and drinks they serve. The professional and friendly service by their dedicated staff has had a great impact on all and encouraged us to bring our family and friends with us next time.”

Cavalli Cafe serves breakfast daily from 9 to 12pm, with a wide selection of authentic Italian cuisine. The cafe is currently preparing to launch new offerings, using Cavalli premium chocolates for extensive flavours and delicious homemade cakes and pastries. www.cavallicafe.com

05 Eye catching terrace view 06 Relaxing atmosphere 07 Ragout di Vitello 08 Red Carpet Mocktail

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Dining

Al Sufra follows the festivals and seasons of the Levant, celebrating them with pride and insight into the traditions of this ancient cuisine

Marsa Malaz Kempinski Al Sufra, Doha Al Sufra means ‘the dining room’ in Arabic. This Levantinspired restaurant has a timeless charm. With a blend of traditional recipes and flavours from Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, Al Sufra follows the festivals and seasons of the Levant, celebrating them with pride and insight into the traditions of this ancient cuisine. With a coffee lounge, open terrace and a la carte dining, the restaurant can be visited any time throughout the day. www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

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09 One of Marsa Malaz’s many mouthwatering dishes 10 An exotic delight 11 A dessert item on the menu 12 A meet dish 13 Elegant interiors 14 Spoilt for choice

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For enquiries: Reception : +973 1711105 reservation: +973 17581144 / +973 36844022 email: reservation@hanihotels.com 136-137 Hani Group Advert.indd 136

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For enquiries: Reception : +973 17581100 reservation: +973 17581144 / +973 36844022 email: reservation@hanihotels.com 136-137 Hani Group Advert.indd 137

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Special Feature

Aesthetic Interpretations Founded more than fifty years ago, Carlo Moretti is known as one of the last few remaining “factory of originals� in Murano. Made of completely colourless and transparent Murano Crystal, each one of its creations is blown by mouth, hand-finished, signed, and dated to represent a timeless style in history and form.

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ounded on the 30th of October 1958 by Carlo and Giovanni Moretti, two brothers in their twenties from a Murano family with a background in the glassmaking industry, Carlo Moretti was acquired in 2013 by two determined managers and a Venetian holding company that operates in the world of fashion. Feeling that this unique Italian product should be promoted to the world, they set on a mission of developing and consolidating the brand’s presence on international markets, while still respecting the brand’s identity, giving it a deserving place as a piece of history in a modern context.

Carlo Moretti’s stylistic cypher is the constant search for new, clean, and essential lines, together with technical innovation and development of the most appropriate professional tools. This is how these

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pieces are born, confirming the endless magic of this material in which two contradictory natures, solid and liquid, can co-exist. With these creations, which often require the collective work of eleven people, under the guidance of a master glassmaker, it all starts with a drawing. From there the idea takes shape, thanks to the expertise and ability of the master glassmaker. Each piece, blown by mouth into a wild pear wood mould, is finished using the Flying hand technique and completed with the heated application of coloured canes, drops, murine and other elements, making each piece unique and recognisable.

Since 1990, Carlo Moretti has renewed its offer annually, with new colours, shapes and patterns for the Calici, Bottiglie da collezione (Collector’s Glasses and Bottles), the Diversi table glasses and the Piccoli small

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sized vases. Lastly, there are some Carlo Moretti pieces that go beyond design and production, such as the Minimax, a limited edition of 20 sculpture pieces, and the 1996 Monolite series, an authentic artistic creation, produced using a particular glass fusing technique in the kilns designed for the firm’s participation in the Aperto vetro exhibition at Palazzo Ducale in Venice.

For the 53rd edition of the International Milan Furniture Fair in 2014, the Duvetica store in Milan hosted an exhibition dedicated to these glass sculptures, which belong to the Moretti brothers’ private collection. It was curated by Ettore Mocchetti, Director of AD Italy and Giovanni Moretti. This continuous evolution of shapes and colours has resulted in the Moretti production of lightly coloured crystal and strongly coloured glass-paste, which have characterized most of the production since 2000. The Moretti coloured glasspaste pieces have revolutionized household objects, introducing contrasts, and audacious, and very refined colour combinations, which have contributed to the

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education of Italian and international market tastes.

The Carlo Moretti Murano Crystal objects have always been created by combining innovation and continuous research. Private collectors seek out these unique, numbered, and signed pieces for their recognizable style, which falls between industrial design and artistic creation. Most importantly, as confirmation of their quality and value, the Moretti pieces are included in the permanent collections of the most important Decorative Arts Museums of the world, such as the Berlin Staatliche Museen Preussischer Kulturbesitz Kunstgewerbemuseum, the Geneva Musée Ariana, the Helsinki National Board of Antiquities, the Prague Museum of decorative Arts, the London Victoria and Albert Museum, the New York Cooper-Hewitt Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, the Corning Museum of Glass, the Paris Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Lisbon Museo Do Design del Centro Culturale di Belém, and the Charleroi Musée du Verre, not to mention the Murano Museo del Vetro.

As confirmation of the new course undertaken by this Venetian artisan factory, in 2014, Carlo Moretti inaugurated two new retail outlets as well as the already existing store in Venice located in San Marco 2970. The first space, which spans 130 square meters on two floors, opened in April at Via della Spiga 48 in Milan, and the second opened in December at Vorderstadt 29, which is the main street of the Austrian city of Kitzbühel. In September 2015, a new single-brand store opened in Murano at fondamenta vetrai 82, the island where its headquarters are located, while in February 2016, the fifth single-brand store opened in Tokyo’s high-end area at 1F, Ginza MS Building 1-8, 5Chome Ginza Chuo-ku Tokyo Japan 104-0061, which also became the company’s flagship showroom for Japan. The sixth single-brand store opened in August 2016 in Singapore, situated on the ground floor of the Wisma Atria Isetan mall at 435 Orchard Road 02-01A.

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01 Diversi 02 Nakya 03 Single Flower 04 Furnace 05 Furnace

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The Carlo Moretti Murano Crystal objects have always been created by combining innovation and continuous research

The uniqueness of the Carlo Moretti production has always been appreciated, receiving widespread international recognition from the markets, critics and collectors. Main awards include the Internationalen Handwerksmesse-Munchen Gold Medal, Internationale Kunsthandwerk-Stuttgart Prize (1966), Macef Prize (1976), and Arango International Design Competition Glass that Works - Miami Fl. USA (1984). Carlo Moretti was also among the 1987, 1989 and 1991 Selezione Compasso d’oro for its cavo cono glasses, the ovale piede ovale glasses, and the soffio stem glasses, and also part of the Selezione ADI for the 2005 Japanese World Exposition in Aichi, again for the ovale piede ovale glasses.

Carlo Moretti is an example of Italian excellence, courage, perseverance, and innovation, but above all, a visionary undertaking that, with skill and farsightedness, continues to interpret modernity and inspire profound intimate emotions. www.carlomoretti.com

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Bon Appétit

Walking away from a promising career in architecture to pursue his passion of becoming a chef turned out to be one of the best decisions Chef Gerardo Vasquez Lugo ever made, as he ended up becoming one the most renowned culinary masters in the world and a Top 37 chef in Latin America. Beginning as the executive chef of his family’s own prestigious Nico’s Restaurant, which has been serving Mexico’s rich culinary heritage to customers for more than 50 years, he went on to establish an impressive global resume which now also includes showcasing his authentic Mexican cuisine for members and visitors at the Capital Club Bahrain.

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Mexican food is known for its diversity, not just in the menu selection, but in the origins of the ingredients, which are some of the most varied biologically and culturally.

Interview with Chef Gerardo Vasquez Lugo You left a career in architecture to pursue your passion as a chef. Was there a particular incident in your life that pushed you to make such a momentous decision?

It was in 1995, when I returned to Nicos, that I received a Mexican Food diploma while studying under the guidance of Chef Alicia Gironella. That was when I realised that a chef is what I wanted to be and our family business is where I belonged.

How was this change received by your friends and family at the time?

The funny thing is that it seems that everyone predicted I would give up my career in architecture and take over the reins at Nico’s from my parents. Everyone predicted it except for myself! So, they were obviously very supportive at the time.

You were appointed to the Diplomatic Corps of Chefs to serve as an ambassador of Mexican food. What does the role entail?

What are the challenges and the rewards of such a position?

As the Culinary Ambassador of Mexico, I promote the local cuisine of my country to different parts of the world, and I have been doing exactly that for 20 years through my job at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and the many events held by the Conservatory of Mexican Gastronomic Culture (CCGM) with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As a Mexican chef, I was already promoting my country’s cuisine to the world. This role just gave it an official title.

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How has your industry evolved over the six decades since you entered the profession?

Nico’s was originally focused on providing popular cuisine. At the time, fine dining in Mexico meant only having French and Spanish food. Nowadays, Mexican cuisine is considered avant-garde food that uses traditional techniques on popular ingredients. This helped make our food acknowledged as very unique and beloved around the world. Mexican food is now a worldwide heritage.

What advice would you give to a young person seeking to follow in your footsteps?

If you had to choose just one dish to showcase Mexican cuisine, what would it be, and why?

That would have to be the tamal, which is a traditional dish made of starchy dough and steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf. It’s an extremely popular dish that’s available throughout the local territories and can be found in any menu in Mexico.

Apart from Mexican food, what is your favourite cuisine and why?

Express the origin, the techniques, and the culture through your work.

I love Arabic, Chinese, and Indian food because they are traditional cuisines that reflect the fundamental culture and climate of their respective environments. They can also go well together because they share certain similarities.

What are the defining characteristics of Mexican cuisine? What makes it unique?

What kinds of foods do you cook for yourself at home?

Mexican food is known for its diversity, not just in the menu selection, but in the origins of the ingredients, which are some of the most varied biologically and culturally. The culture behind the food is linked to the land, and it is present throughout the process.

What I cook for myself at home is the same as what I have been cooking for my customers at Nico’s. I believe people will only respond to your cooking if you give their meals the same high standard you would want in your own meals.

You often see Mexican cuisine promoted as ‘Tex-Mex’. Do you think the popular perception of Mexican cuisine is the correct one?

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your career to date?

Tex-Mex is a completely new cuisine compared to authentic Mexican food. It was created in the United States as a form of street cuisine by the immigrants who only had access to the industrialized products available there. It’s basically a millennial cuisine based on popular and easily attainable ingredients.

By far, it is the new generation of Mexican chefs who credit me as an inspiration for pursuing their dreams and using my work to draw influence on theirs. I’m more proud of helping to shape Mexico’s culinary future than I am of anything else. www.capitalclubbahrain.com

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Sopa De Natas Ingredients Serves 90 • 1.2 Kilo Flour • 60 pcs Egg • 3 Liter Milk Sauce • 30 Kilo Tomato • 3.750 Kilo Cream • Salt to Taste • Chile Poblano Roasted • Cooked Chicken Breast Method The tomato is blended and strained then cooked until it becomes thick and reduced like a puree. When it reaches the consistency, the sauce has to be chilled and mixed with the cream then blended again. Before assembling, the sauce should be hot. For assembling, in a hot pan, put a layer of crepes, then a layer of sauce, then spread the shredded chicken breast and the Chile poblano around. Then start once more with a layer of crepes and so on. Finish with a thick layer of sauce and bake until it forms a crust.

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Jaibas en Michmole/ Water Mole Ingredients Serves 15 • 2 Kilo Green Tomato • 8 pcs Serrano (green) chilies • 450 grams onions (150 grams cooked, 300 grams just for two minutes) • 4 garlic cloves • 100 grams corn dough • Epazote leaves (can be changed to any green leaves) • Coriander • Salt

Method Mix everything in a blender to do green salsa.

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Guacamole Ingredients Serves 4 • 1 piece avocado • Pinch of salt • 30ml Olive Oil • 30 grams white onion brunoise (very small dice) • 30 grams Tomato brunoise • 10 grams Serrano or green chilis in fine brunoise • 5 grams cilantro chiffonad Method Inside a mortar and pestle, put oil and the salt and mix it together. Add onion, tomato and chile and mix it again. Cut avocado in half and take out the seed. Cut the avocado in dice and remove it with a spoon, adding it to the mixture and grounding everything gently. Toss in the cilantro.

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+973 77033333

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Lamborghini World 148

Experience

Whether you’re a diehard thrill seeker or on a constant journey for the ultimate in exclusivity, Durrah Experience is your guide to the truly extravagant and unique events guaranteed to give you that unrivalled rush and cherished memories.

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01 Cars lined up at the BIC track 02 Immerse yourself in the world of Lamborghini

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ith Lamborghini, there are no half-measures. So we knew that the Lamborghini Esperienza would be a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Esperienza, which is Italian for ‘experience’, is a dedicated track program designed in conjunction with the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) to initiate a driver into the Lamborghini world. It highlights the power, performance, and control that Lamborghini We choose from a line up of iconic Lamborghini super cars, including the Huracan LP610-4 and the LP 580-2, and put them through their paces. The BIC, with its signature sharp corners, is the ideal testing ground for these superlative driving machines. The

6.4 kilometre track has hosted nine Bahrain Grand Prix races and was used in 2010 to mark the 60th anniversary of Formula One. It demands absolute control and precision, which the car effortlessly delivers, and we truly get a feel for the intense driving sensations that only Lamborghini offers.

The star of the show, however, is the Huracan Super Trofeo LP620-2, shipped straight to Bahrain from the Super Trofeo World Final in Valencia, Spain. It is the first time ever that drivers in the Middle East have the opportunity to experience hot laps in this fierce race car which made its world debut in 2015, and we spend all day pushing it to its limits. The 5.2 litre V-10 engine 02

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Experience

delivers 611 horsepower, and goes from 1 to 100 km/h in about 3 seconds, which translates to an adrenaline rush unlike any other.

When we’re not on the track in the Lamborghinis, we enjoy the world-class facilities of the adjacent Bahrain International Karting Circuit. This state-of-theart karting track, designed to the highest international standards, is capable of hosting world championships under the Commission Internationale de KartingFederation Internationale de l’Automobile (CIK-FIA).

Specialised instructors guide us through driving manoeuvres that emphasise proper cornering techniques, controlling loss of traction, and sharpening reaction times. Afterwards, it’s time to put our learning to the test in a Karting championship.

To wrap up the day, a lavish dinner is held on the tarmac under starry open skies in another first for Lamborghini and the BIC, and our Karting champion is honoured. The intense driving programme, Lamborghini factory-trained instructors, quality driving time and unparalleled hospitality make this driving event unlike any other in the industry. www.lamborghini.com 03 04

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When participants are not on the F1 GP track in our Lamborghinis, they enjoy the Bahrain International Karting Circuit, a state-of-the-art, world-class facility 03 On the track 04 Power and elegance 05 Participants enjoy the experience 06 Socialising over a meal with fellow Lamborghini enthusiasts

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Automotive

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Full Throttle

From eagerly anticipated car launches to ground-breaking technology, Durrah brings you news from the automotive world’s luxury and supercar manufacturers. This issue we focus on recent offerings from Aston Martin, Maserati and Rolls-Royce.

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Automotive 01 The all-new Vanquish S with sharper styling, greater potency and increased athleticism 02 Naturally-aspirated 6.0 litre V12 engine, which now produces up to 600PS 03 Exterior features new exposed carbon fibre splitter and diffuser, plus striking new quad exhaust outlets 04 Personalised with a choice of new materials and finishes 05 The Vanquish evolves to S specification

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Aston Martin Vanquish S Super GT Aston Martin has turned up the heat on it’s ultimate Super GT to create the new Vanquish S. Sharper styling, greater potency and increased athleticism define this latest evolution of an illustrious model line that originated from Aston Martin’s legendary Works in Newport Pagnell and has proudly served as standard bearer for the marque’s sporting and stylistic values since 2001.

In this, the second generation Vanquish’s evolution to S specification, careful attention has been paid to the engine, chassis and aerodynamics to create a machine honed to deliver more intense thrills and even more scintillating performance.

Central to this is the naturally-aspirated 6.0 litre V12 engine, which now produces up to 600PS (up from 573PS) and enjoys sensational throttle response, thanks to a revised, freer-breathing intake system. These larger volume inlet manifolds allow a greater volume of air to flow into the engine at high revs, creating a relentless power delivery and a stronger feel all the way to the redline.

Building on this increased intensity, the calibration of the 8-speed Touchtronic III transmission has been revised to deliver faster gearshifts and greater refinement at low speeds for

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a greater sense of precision and immediacy.

Likewise, the suspension, damper internals, spring rates and anti-roll bar bushes have also been re-tuned to give the Vanquish S a keener edge in the more sporting suspension modes, without compromising its ability to deliver supple ride quality on demand.

Visually the Vanquish S can be readily distinguished by a new aerodynamic package.

Fashioned from exposed carbon fibre, this revised front splitter and rear diffuser combine to deliver a meaningful reduction in frontal lift with a minimal penalty in additional drag. Combined with visually striking new quad exhaust outlets, the Vanquish S has a more aggressive appearance, entirely fitting for Aston Martin’s most overtly sporting GT production model.

This look can be further enhanced with a range of new options. These include carbon fibre bonnet louvres, new forged 5-spoke diamond turned wheels, and a choice of striking painted graphics packs. A new Vanquish S badge sits proudly on the tailgate as the perfect piece of jewellery.

Inside, the Vanquish S can be further personalised with a choice of spectacular new

‘Filograph’ quilted leather and the use of new materials and finishes, such as the Satin Chopped Carbon Fibre fascia panel. Sumptuous Bridge of Weir Caithness leather offers an added touch of luxury and tactility, while Vanquish S embroidery on the headrests provides a crafted finishing detail.

Dr. Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President & CEO, said: “From the moment the original Vanquish was launched it became a modern icon. It propelled Aston Martin from an era of hand-built cars to one where craftsmanship and technology combined to create a new kind of great British GT. “In its second generation the Vanquish maintained that momentum with huge engineering advances such as its all-carbon fibre bodywork and compelling, contemporary styling. Now, the Vanquish S takes things a step further, confidently asserting itself within the Aston Martin range and distinguishing itself from the new DB11. A spectacular machine in every sense, the Vanquish S is a magnificent addition to our range.”

The Vanquish S is available in both Coupe and Volante. www.astonmartin.com

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06

Maserati Levante The Maserati Levante is a turning point in Maserati’s history. The brand new model, which made its World Premiere at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, enables the Trident to access the largest luxury segment in the world.

The Levante significantly contributes to the creation of the most complete product line-up in Maserati’s history.

The Levante name was inspired by a warm, Mediterranean wind that can change from mild to gale force in an instant, mirroring the character of the first Maserati SUV. The Levante is based on the evolution of the sedan platform, designed exclusively by Maserati. The car chassis has been specifically developed to offer unique on-road drivability and competitive off-road capability, with dayto-day comfort and practicality. The top notch Italian SUV was conceived around three main pillars: Design, Exclusivity and Performance. It represents the optimum blend of these three elements in the SUV world.

The Levante’s design is distinctive and attractive, embracing the most valuable aesthetic elements of Italian style. A central asset, its design brings a new concept to the SUV world, combining spaciousness and coupé lines while achieving the best aerodynamic efficiency in its segment with a Cx coefficient of just 0.31.

Its exclusivity stems from technical features like Air Suspension and the Q4 AWD system, which come as standard equipment, and the high level of customisation that includes two cutting-edge packages, Sport and Luxury. The result is a driving experience that is as unique as the Maserati brand and its customers.

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The thoroughbred on-road handling typical of all Maserati cars and solid off-road capabilities, as demanded in the SUV segment, describe the car’s overall dynamic. The Levante is here to excite any sports car driver counting on performance-oriented features, such as the extensive use of lightweight materials, ideal 50-50% weight distribution and its lowest in class centre of gravity, features that deliver unparalleled agility in the luxury SUV class.

The aluminium “double wishbone - five link” suspension layout comprises standard Air Springs and electronically controlled Skyhook shock absorbers. In cooperation with the intelligent Q4 All-Wheel-Drive system and the newly introduced Torque Vectoring system which deliver GT on-road behaviour and surprising - for a Maserati - off-road capabilities: the Levante was designed to deliver best in class comfort on rough roads and handling on snow and ice.

On a par with this, the off-road equipment completes a product made to surprise avid travellers and adventure lovers as well.

Engine-wise, the Levante is equipped with the latest evolution of the Maserati 3-litre V6 engines. The two versions of the twin-turbo petrol engine are globally acclaimed for their unique Maserati signature sound and for their exceptional performance.

The petrol Maserati V6 engine with latest GDI and twin turbo is available in two versions with different horsepower: the top of the range 430 hp and the exciting 350 hp. The most powerful Levante makes it to 100 km/h

in 5.2” and has a top speed of 264 km/h, while the figures for the 350 hp version are 6.0” and 251 km/h respectively.

Both petrol versions of the Maserati Levante adopt the eight-speed automatic ZF gearbox that provides seamless comfort and fast gear shifting, depending on the selected drive mode. The Levante driver can choose between four drive modes, “Normal”, I.C.E., “Sport” and “Off-road”. Each one constitutes a distinct car character intelligently altering engine, transmission, suspension and electronics features.

The Levante introduces several innovations to the current Maserati line-up; from safety to convenience options and through to the brand new Human Machine Interface and the dedicated cargo solutions. The range of equipment options is wider and more complete than ever.

The Levante has entered the SUV segment with a marked advantage in terms of new content. The innovative features of the car include: an Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, a Forward Collision Warning and Brake Assist System, Lane Departure Warning, a Surround View camera and a capacitive 8.4” Touch Screen display with brand new rotary control.

A new state-of-the-art production line was set up exclusively for the Levante in the historic Mirafiori plant, where high quality standards in every area, from design to development and from process controls to fabrication, are applied in full. Maserati’s 100-year tradition of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology guarantees outstanding quality right down to the tiniest of details. http://bahrain.maserati.com

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06 The Maserati Levante‌ a turning point in Maserati history 07 Power and comfort 08 SUVs with a difference

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Automotive

09 The striking, seductive, RollsRoyse Dawn 10 Gorgeous interiors 11 The new roof is an engineering highlight

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Rolls-Royce Dawn The new Rolls-Royce Dawn promises a striking, seductive encounter like no other Rolls-Royce to date, and begins a new age of open-top, super-luxury motoring. Dawn is a beautiful new motor car that offers the most uncompromised open-top motoring experience in the world. It will be the most social of super-luxury drophead motor cars for those who wish to bathe in the sunlight of the world’s most exclusive social hotspots. Quite simply, it is the sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built.

The new Rolls-Royce Dawn greets the observer with a striking yet elegant exterior design bearing classic RollsRoyce appearance and presence. It is the most vibrant Rolls-Royce yet with charming and alluring qualities that bring a new level of finesse, sophistication and refinement in a drophead coupé – a serene yet exhilarating sense of uncompromised freedom. It offers a new level of effortlessness and a relaxed sensory experience with an underlying exhilaration and dynamism. All this without a single compromise to comfort and space. This new Rolls-Royce embodies dynamic and social qualities that will attract a broader, younger and more socially-aware audience around the world. Contrary to media speculation, the new Rolls-Royce Dawn is not a Wraith drophead. 80% of the exterior body panels of the new Dawn are newly designed to accommodate an evolution of Rolls-Royce’s design language and to encapsulate highly contemporary, four-seat super-luxury drophead architecture. The aim was clear. To do what no other car manufacturer had achieved so far – make a car that looks as beautiful with its roof up as with it down. One could almost say that the result of the design team’s restless endeavours has been

to make the new Rolls-Royce Dawn two cars in one.

The Rolls-Royce Dawn maintains timeless Rolls-Royce design principles – 2:1 wheel height to body height, a long bonnet, short front overhang, a long rear overhang, an elegant tapering rear graphic and a high shoulder line.

The latent acceleration and tension in the surfaces are increased through completely new panels which evince curvature that creates a tighter surface and a more powerful silhouette which hints at what lies beneath.

Dawn’s powerful and striking front end gives it a sensuous yet edgy, almost masculine look whilst the bold sweeping shoulder line becomes more sensuous as it flows over the swell of the rear wheels, accommodating a wider track. A tapered ‘wake channel’ on the bonnet, emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy’s wings, evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail, hinting at the car’s dynamism.

With its high shoulder line, massive C-pillar and horizontally narrow side window aperture, when viewed from side-on and roof up, the car looks akin to a low-slung ‘hot rod’.

At the front, the grille is recessed by approximately 45mm whilst the lower front bumper has been extended 53mm compared to Wraith. This has been done to focus the eye on the jet air intake face and to make the car feel focused, even when standing still. The grille design helps accelerate the tension of the car towards the rear shoulders, again emphasising the unique elegance of Dawn.

Without question, the engineering highlight of the new Rolls-Royce Dawn is the new roof. To be a true RollsRoyce, Dawn had to deliver the hushed driving experience associated with all Rolls-Royces. At the same time the only choice for a Rolls-Royce was a fabric roof for reasons of

aesthetics, romance and brand appropriateness.

Working with a fabric roof configuration, the RollsRoyce engineering team set themselves a challenging goal which they were unwilling to compromise on – to make the quietest convertible car in the world today. This quest for silence applied to all aspects of the engineering of the new roof and by extension the new motor car. A perfectly smooth surface, combined with an innovative tailored ‘French Seam’ ensures that the air flow over the car with the roof up creates no noticeable wind noise. Inside, the Rolls-Royce Dawn is as silent as a Rolls-Royce Wraith – a first in convertible motoring. Operating in complete silence in just 22 seconds, and at cruising speeds of up to 50km/h this ‘Silent Ballet’ engages the majority of one’s senses as silence and seclusion are exchanged for the sounds, light and aromas of the outside world.

Of course, the beating heart and soul of any RollsRoyce motor car is the beloved twin-turbo 6.6-litre V12 powertrain. With a power output of 563bhp or 420kW @ 5,250rpm and a torque rating of 780Nm or 575 lb ft @ 1,500rpm, Dawn’s driving experience is exceptional.

This experience is enhanced by dynamic accelerator pedal mapping which delivers up to 30% increased response at medium throttle.

The result is that the new Dawn is Rolls-Royce’s most powerful full four-seat drophead motor car to date, and thanks to its advanced engineering, is lighter and more fuel efficient than the majority of compromised 2+2 convertibles in the market. www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

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LUXURY SUV OF THE YEAR Bentley Motors’ Bentayga, the fastest, most powerful SUV in the world, has been awarded the title of 2016 ‘Luxury SUV of the Year’ by EVO Magazine Middle East.

The accolade from EVO, the world’s leading sports, performance and premium car magazine, honours cars in a range of categories that have been launched in the region. It was presented to Bentley Motors for the Bentayga’s combination of unparalleled luxury and breath-taking performance.

Receiving the award, Robin Peel, Head of Marketing and Communications – International for Bentley Motors, commented: “From the outset, Bentley’s intention was to create an SUV that set a benchmark, redefining the segment for luxury SUVs. The Bentayga delivers on the levels of luxury and effortless power that have made it so desirable for discerning customers in the Middle East.”

Designed, engineered and built at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, the Bentayga pairs ultimate luxury with sporting performance, demonstrating its unqiue capabilities both on and off road. Boasting the

world’s finest automotive interior, with unrivalled levels of precision, the detailing in leather, metal and wood is only achievable thanks to the exceptional skill of Bentley’s craftsmen.

Bassam Kronfli, Editor-in-Chief at EVO magazine, said: “EVO’s annual awards celebrate excellence in motoring and the Bentayga earned its spot at the pinnacle of the Luxury SUV category. It proved luxurious and sublimely comfortable, yet demonstrated an almost inconceivable level of performance. The Bentayga simply does not compromise.”

With an all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine at the heart of the Bentayga, the mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque. The SUV delivers a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).

12 Putting the Bentayga to the test on desert terrain 13 Bentley Motors’ Bentayga… the fastest, most powerful SUV in the world

www.ahmedzayani.com

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15 14-15 The Ferarri 812 Superfast… power and precision

Ferrari 812 Superfast

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Ferrari has selected the 87th edition of the Geneva International Motor Show for the world premiere of the new 12-cylinder berlinetta, the 812 Superfast, the most powerful and fastest Ferrari in the marque’s history. This new car not only introduces a plethora of innovative features but is also particularly significant as the V12 series marked the official start of the glorious Prancing Horse story in 1947, 70 years ago this year.

Powered by a new 6.5-litre V12 engine that unleashes 800 cv, the 812 Superfast is the new benchmark in the mid-front-engined sports car segment, achieving maximum power output at 8,500 rpm, which translates to a specific power output of 123 cv/l. Figures that no other front-engined production car has ever even come near to delivering and which ensure the kind of thrilling top-end performance that is the exclusive characteristic of Ferrari’s noble V12 heritage.

The engine’s power is underscored by a full, rich exhaust sound that exploits the acoustic clout delivered by its increased displacement. Maximum torque is 718 Nm at 7,000 rpm, a significant 80% of which is already available at 3,500 rpm, improving both driveability and pick-up even at low revs.

These performance levels were achieved in part by adopting a 350 bar direct injection system for the very first time on a high-performance engine and pairing it with variable geometry intake tracts conceptually derived from those of naturally-aspirated F1 engines.

The 812 Superfast’s dual-clutch transmission has specific gear ratios which, combined with shorter up and down-shifting times between gears, sharpen throttle response still further.

It is equipped with leading-edge control systems and components, resulting in unparalleled handling and roadholding. It’s the first Ferrari to sport EPS (Electric Power Steering) which, in accordance with Ferrari’s uncompromising engineering approach, is used to fully exploit the potential of the car’s performance and, through the complete integration with all the electronic vehicle dynamics controls – including the latest 5.0 version of Ferrari’s patented Side Slip Control (SCC) make its powerful performance easier to handle and even more thrilling to exploit. www.ferrari.com Instagram/Facebook: @FerrariBahrain

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

HERVÉ STADELMANN The M.A.D. Gallery proudly presents an exceptional exhibit of robotic sculptures representing the very epitome of cool: virtuoso Hervé Stadelmann merges his gifted ability to work with his hands as a tinsmith with a keen eye for graphic design.

Born in 1978, Hervé Stadelmann is a native of Switzerland. Early in life, he found enjoyment in working with his hands as well as a love for graphic design. Taking the steps to formally develop these qualities, Stadelmann earned his certificat fédéral de capacité (CFC) in tinsmithing at the School of Arts et Métiers in Moutier in 1997. This was followed in 2005 by a CFC in graphic design at the art school in La Chaux-de-Fonds, which included an extraordinary opportunity for an internship in Moscow.

Stadelmann’s typography and drawings have been published in Swiss and Russian publications and his work has received awards in Europe and Switzerland. Merging his many artistic talents, Stadelmann began working independently in 2005 as well as working as graphic designer, communications manager, and artistic director for a diverse clientele. Today, he still works independently with a focus on design and sculpture. www.madgallery.net/geneva/en

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TREEPOD Standing firm thanks to its ingeniously engineered isostatic base, Treepod is both a design piece and a perfect fit for Phantom.

Connected thermally to Phantom, Treepod helps maintain optimum functioning conditions. The result of a flawless wood-turning craftsmanship, Treepod’s stands are made of massive beech assembled together with a hand-polished piece of foundry composed of a fine, ultra-resistant aluminium blend. The uncluttered and elegant conception of Treepod unveils Phantom’s silhouette, transcending it with the highest quality materials. Its minimalistic design is the perfect combination of form, function and technology. Treepod is assembled in Devialet’s workshops in France with wood sourced from sustainably managed forests. https://en.devialet.com/

DOLCE RADIO BAG This handbag from the Dolce Box line comes in a stereo inspired shape. Made of hand-painted wood, the model not only reproduces accurately all the details of a real stereo but it’s also fully functional thanks to the internal AUX cable that allows you to connect your personal device. Its features include a twist pad lockfastening tab at the top embellished with an enamelled flower, a top handle and adjustable and removable shoulder strap in Ayers leather, round stud details, and leather lining with a galvanised metal logo plaque and a little pocket with a customised “Dolce Bag” compact mirror. An external knob can be used to turn on and adjust the volume. It comes with an internal AUX cable (3.5 mm molded lead jack) and pocket with casing for batteries (AAA microlight batteries not provided). www.dolcegabbana.com

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JAPANESE WOODEN PLAYING CARDS Made in Japan from a single piece of mahogany, Dan & Dave have created a full deck of miniature playing cards.

Each card has been laser etched to ensure the highest form of precision, while each deck comes wrapped in a custom leather carrying case. Perfect for the naturalist gambler or the avid collector, these are not to be missed. www.dananddave.com

CHINESE GOLDEN ROOSTER COCK-ADOODLE-DOO! Vilebrequin welcomes the Year of the Rooster with an exclusive new design.

As the weather (finally) begins to cool, our thoughts turn to warmer locales and upcoming holidays spent lounging by the pool or sunning ourselves on the beach. New wardrobe items are a must for Chinese New Year, and Vilebrequin kicks off the festive season with a sophisticated new design that celebrates the Year of the Rooster. The special edition shorts are crafted in a rich navy blue hue and feature a hand-drawn rooster motif embroidered with sumptuous gold thread. Perfect as a gift for a loved one or as a treat for yourself for an upcoming beach holiday, these embroidered rooster shorts are equal parts chic and playful, transporting fresh and effortless style to the poolside. Share the festive spirit with the whole family! The special edition rooster shorts are available as swim shorts for men and boys and as shorties for women and girls. www.vilebrequin.com

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NAPOLÉON BUSTS As soon as the Consulate period started, Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) became aware of the importance of having his portrait shown to the French people. Thus, he initiated the edification of his own legend. All the supports were used, from sculptures to snuff boxes and fans. The multiplicity of objects bearing the effigy of the Emperor or representing imperial symbols constituted an extraordinary tool of propaganda for the Napoleonic legend.

During the Restoration, however, Bonapartists were forced to hide and prepare their revenge, spreading more and more seditious objects. The Emperor’s death in 1821 made him less dangerous in the eyes of Royalists and copies representing his main actions once again multiplied. The Second Empire (1852) made the imperial legend official with commissions of sculptures installed in public squares and paintings exhibited in museums. https://trudon.com/eu_en/collections/busts/napoleon.html

Cristallino Gold 24k Gold-Plated Limited Edition The table’s beauty is riveting and moving. A magnificent design object that knows no time, rising above fashions to speak to us in any era, any place. Featuring a tempered clear crystal structure, 9/16” thick, with beveled and cerium oxide-polished corners, this is a limited-edition model with the number engraved on a gold-plated plaque attached to the goal’s entrance. The playing field in laminated shatterproof crystal, with a molded sheet that slopes at the corners. It is available in transparent or smoked glass. The players are made of aluminium: one team in 24K gold plate, the other in dark nickel. Features shiny chromeplated brass handles and chrome-plated brass scoring units with embossed, 24K gold-plated numbers. The goals are made with polished stainless steel frames and handcrafted black nets. http://teckell.com/collections/calcio-balilla#crgle

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ROKKO DECORATIVE STATUE Rokko is a unique accessory for decorating your home with Versace’s incomparable style. Decorated with raised Barocco pattern, the porcelain, Italian-made item is hand-painted and measures 35x45 cm. www.versace.com/us/en-us/home-collection/

FIRE HEAD S.T. Dupont reinterprets its iconic design with “Fire Head” by drawing inspiration from the universal symbol: the triangle. Its six triangular facets are velvety to the touch, contrasting superbly with its geometrical precision.

“Fire Head” combines the ancient technique of guillochage, lacquering and engraving with cutting edge technologies to offer discerning connoisseurs a perfect fusion of the best of both worlds. Based on the Ligne 2 model, Fire Head lighters are available in two attractive versions: the first entirely engraved with guilloche work, then plated in yellow gold or palladium. The second combines the work of a Master Goldsmith and Master Lacquerer. www.st-dupont.com/en/lighters/firehead.html

PRADA ROBIN ROBOT TRICK KEY CHAIN The Prada men’s Robin robot key chain in saffiano leather and metal features the triangle logo plate at center front and a steel hook and split ring. It is 3.9” in height and 0.8 in width. Prada was founded in 1913 in Milan

by Mario Prada and was originally known as Prada Brothers. In 1978, Mario’s granddaughter Miuccia Prada led the company’s expansion into distinctive clothing that quickly became a favourite among celebrities worldwide.

Currently, Prada is one of the most influential clothing lines in the fashion industry, with an iconic collection that includes sunglasses, handbags, and shoes in addition to men’s and women’s clothing. www.prada.com

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SPORT HORIZONS Seef Mall +973 17 58 1 911 sporthorizons

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Origami bag, Purificación García Inspired by the millennial Japanese art of paper folding to create intricate and original designs, the Purificación García Origami bag with its geometric design and structure has become a brand reference. This season Origami will be available in new colors such as apricot, mint, dream blue or misty rose, together with new fantasies such as triangular patchworks and colorful studs. Founded in 1981, Purificación García, is an emblematic Spanish fashion and accessories designer. With three collections – ladieswear, menswear and accessories, Purificación García is a brand with innovative spirit, a contemporary aesthetic and effortless elegance. A frequent collaborator with artists and innovators, the brands’ identity, use of colour, geometry and sense of humour can be seen throughout its many collaborations. With a solid career behind her, PG is expanding at a rapid pace and can be found across 160 points of sales in 17 countries. Regionally, the stores can be found in Dubai Mirdif City Center, Jeddah’s Mall of Arabia and Riyadh’s Nakheel Mall. www.purificaciongarcia.com

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Globe-Trotter Synonymous with great British design, Globe-Trotter is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand producing handcrafted luggage and leather collections. Established in 1897, all Globe-Trotter suitcases and travel accessories are handcrafted in Hertfordshire, England by highly skilled artisans, in some cases using manufacturing methods and machinery that date back to the Victorian era. For 120 years the brand philosophy has remained unchanged: an uncompromising integrity of craftsmanship. Alongside the ‘Original’, ‘Centenary’ and special edition luggage collections, Globe-Trotter offers seasonal ‘Jet’ and ‘Propellor’ leather ranges. Inspired by the simplicity of Globe-Trotter suitcases and designed with today’s travel and business needs in mind, the ‘Jet’ collection includes functional bags and accessories. The ‘Propellor’ line of leather accessories features aspirational pieces with a strong seasonal personality. Globe-Trotter collections are available, along with a bespoke service, in the flagship stores located in Mayfair, London and Ginza, Tokyo and also online www.globe-trotter.com

Art of Masquologie, Nannette de Gaspé This set includes five of the brand’s cult waterless masques. Made from an innovative ‘Techstile’ fabric, each one releases a formula through a technologically advanced micro-delivery system to smooth, firm, brighten, lift and hydrate. Keep it for yourself or gift it to a friend. The Face Masque offers total coverage, for an overall smoother, tighter, more radiant complexion. Keep the Eye Masque tucked away in your carry-on for an instant pick-me-up after a long flight or before a big event. Reduce fine lines for a plumper lip contour area with the Mouth Masque. The Hands Masque diminishes age spots and evens skin-tone for one of the most overlooked areas in your beauty regimen. Use the Neck Masque to tighten and lift for a more sculpted profile. www.nannettedegaspe.com

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LA CLOCHE, Cire Trudon Throughout the 20th century, the wedding cloche progressively lost its symbolic function in the home and entered into the realm of a collectible or interior decoration. Since the opening of its boutique in Paris, Cire Trudon has utilised these traditional glass bells to display candles. These cloches have become part of an important house ritual, as they are carefully lifted to reveal the candle’s exceptional scents. Today, Cire Trudon makes these glass bells available to allow admirers of the brand to glorify their candles in their own interiors. The blown glass dome is decorated with the Cire Trudon logo and paired with a handcrafted and polished wooden base. Connected to the storied history of Cire Trudon, this luxurious object protects the candle and concentrates its perfume. https://trudon.com/eu_en/collections/accessories/la-cloche.html

MESEDIA CHAIR, versace The emblematic symbol of the 2016 Versace Home collection, this new chair is made of climate proof aluminum, shaped as the iconic Medusa.

As a First of its kind for Versace Home it is designed for outdoor living and available in five colors: haze, storm, cloud purple sunset and sunrise. www.versacehome.it

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Bonheur Fountain Pen Montblanc The Bonheur Collection design is rooted in the heritage of the 1920’s fashion revolution, epitomising elegance and freedom. While still feminine in shape, the pure and simple black and white precious resin, combined with platinum-coated fittings, stands for women freed from corsets, looking towards elegant yet functional and free clothing. It’s about black and white. Women and men. Elegance and function. The nib is inspired by the name BONHEUR and its talismanic association with a falling star design. http://www.montblanc.com

CHARMED CHARMED, links together seven of the most important female artists working today for a unique collaborative piece of jewelry-art: Laurie Simmons, Shirin Neshat, Barbara Kruger, Cindy Sherman, Rachel Feinstein, Mickalene Thomas, and Wangechi Mutu. www.ippolita.com/charmed/

35 carat ring, Samer Halimeh British Supermodel, Naomi Campbell, was spotted wearing a Samer Halimeh 35 carat ring worth 1.8 million USD at this year’s edition of the annual Golden Globe Awards in California. Samer was born in Beirut, Lebanon, during the height of the Lebanese Civil War and comes from what he describes as a “medical family”, Samer’s farfetched aspirations of being a diamond trader were no match for his war-torn surroundings or his pedigree yet today, Samer has made a name for himself as one of the world’s leading diamond traders.

His creations have been auctioned at Sotheby’s and Christie’s; other masterpieces have appeared on the red carpet and some are in the hands of royalty. Most notably, he unearthed one of the rarest diamonds in the world: the Ocean Blue Diamond. This find, along with the one-of-a-kind Vivo Per Lei diamond, has aroused an aura of convivial curiosity amongst industry experts who eagerly anticipate Samer’s next masterful creation. www.samerhalimeh.com

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trick giulietta key Chain Prada Steel snap-hook and split ring with triangle logo plate at center front.

Prada was founded in 1913 in Milan by Mario Prada and was originally known as Prada Brothers. In 1978, Mario’s granddaughter Miuccia Prada led the company’s expansion into distinctive clothing that quickly became a favorite among celebrities worldwide. Currently, Prada is one of the most influential clothing lines in the fashion industry, with an iconic collection that includes sunglasses, handbags, and shoes in addition to men’s and women’s clothing. www.prada.com

Zik 3, Parrot Resulting from collaboration with designer Philippe Starck, the Parrot Zik 3 is a wireless, hi-tech, stylish, ultra-intuitive audio headset, the latest addition to the range. It offers the best in sound and innovation, like its wireless charger, adaptive noise control, and proximity detector.

Compatible with modern equipment such as smart watches and induction charging stations (Qi), it offers multiple colours and materials. Add pop, rock, and more to your daily life! www.parrot.com

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IDEALLY LOCATED IN BAHRAIN’S CENTRAL BUSINESS AND COMMERCIAL DISTRICT. For reservations, please call:

+973 6631 0000

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Book Review

A Treasure for Car Lovers

99 Nicknamed Classic Cars, published by teNeues, is a visual feast that looks back at some of the greatest cars ever produced. Author Michael Köckritz and Helge Jepsen take us on a journey through time covering cars that have had a major impact on history, the automotive industry and pop culture.

N

icknames have to be earned.

They are tokens of appreciation given only when people have built a special relation to something (or someone). From the Chevrolet 3100 Pickup “Bubble Maker” and the Citroen DS “Goddess”, all the way back to Ford’s “Tin Lizzy”, 99 Nicknamed Classic Cars presents 99 classic cars and race cars, illustrated with great talent and affection by Helge Jepsen, and with informative texts cleverly penned by Michael Köckritz.

Just like the vehicles portrayed, this book will drive its way right into the heart of any car lover.

Starting as an idea for a niche series of articles in cars and culture magazine, ramp, authors Jepsen

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and Köckritz soon realized there was a wealth of nicknamed beauties out there that had the potential to morph into a complete book. A well-researched and lovingly illustrated encyclopedia, the selected nicknames run the gamut of every origin story you can think of, ranging from the well-earned accolades such as the Fiat S76’s “Beast of Turin”, befitting a vehicle built specifically to break performance records, to the pop-culture influenced, such as the DeLorean’s “Time Machine” from Back to the Future and Aston Martin DB5’s “Bond Car” named after the legendary franchise, to even the less flattering nicknames such as Austin Healy 3000’s “The Pig” and the British Racing Motors’

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© 99 Nicknamed Classic Cars by Helge Jepsen and Michael Köckritz, published by teNeues

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P83, wittily dubbed as the “British Racing Misery” after its poor racing performance.

Ominous nicknames can also be found, such as Bugatti Type 54’s “Widow Maker”, which earned that nickname after claiming the lives of Count Czaykowski and Georg Christian, Prince of Lobkowicz, who couldn’t handle its challenging drive and massive power, and Citroen Traction Avant’s “Gangster Limousine”, which was a favorite for mobsters in the 1930’s due to its groundbreaking front wheel drive system which enabled fast cornering and great escapes.

Packed with fun historical information and presented in a beautiful layout that makes reading a breeze, this book is a must-have for any true classic car lover. The illustrations are nothing short of gorgeous and the trivia included will keep readers coming back for more. www.teneues.com

Illustration © 2017 Helge Jepsen. All rights reserved

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Final Pearl

Final Pearl

Spring of 2017 Formula 1 Culture 2017 Bahrain Grand Prix

A T ll eyes will be on the Kingdom for the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the 13th running to be held at the Bahrain International Circuit.

The Bahrain Grand Prix will take place as the third Grand Prix of the season, and it will also for the fourth successive year to be held as a night race.

BIC’s state-of-the-art floodlighting system will be brilliantly illuminating all areas of the track. Apart from Formula 1 racing, there will also be plenty of action in the international support race programme.

Meanwhile, off the track, there will be loads of family entertainment located at the Formula 1 Village vending area. Children’s activities, carnival rides and games, theatre shows, live musical and dance performances, and a wide range of food and beverage stalls will be on hand.

The race will be held on the 16th of April, 2017.

Tickets are now available online. www.bahraingp.com

he 12th edition of the Spring of Culture has officially launched. A number of private sector organisations and foreign embassies are supporting and participating in this annual event, which will run for two months from February to April 2017.

The festival comes as part of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities’ year-long celebration of the archaeological heritage of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the year 2017, which is held under the slogan “Our Year of Archaeology”. Adopted when Manama was the Capital of Arab Tourism back in 2013, the starting date of the festival coincides with the occasion of Arab Tourism Day on February 25, which commemorates the anniversary of the birth of the famous Arab traveller Ibn Battuta.

The festival is jointly organized by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Economic Development Board, and the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research. It is being held in collaboration with Albareh Art Gallery, Al Riwaq Art Space, and La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. Tickets are now available online. www.springofculture.org

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F O U N D I N G M E M B E R O F T H E Q U A L I T Y F L E U R I E R C E R T I F I CAT I O N A N D PA R T N E R O F T H E F O N DAT I O N D E L A H A U T E H O R L O G E R I E

RÉCITAL 15

JUMPING HOURS RETROGRADE MINUTES

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